Planning a barbecue party and wondering how much meat to buy per person for delicious BBQ sandwiches? Getting the right amount of meat is key to keeping your guests satisfied and avoiding wasted food. Here are some tips on how much meat per BBQ sandwich guest to help you out.
Introduction
When hosting a backyard barbecue, BBQ sandwiches are always a hit. But determining the right amount of meat per person can be tricky. You want to make sure you have enough so everyone gets their fill, without spending too much and having leftovers. The amount needed often depends on the type of meat, size of the crowd, and other menu options. Follow these guidelines to get the perfect meat-to-guest ratio for your next cookout.
How Much Meat Per Sandwich
A good rule of thumb is 4-6 ounces of raw meat per sandwich. This accounts for the fact that meat will shrink during cooking. Here is a breakdown per meat type:
Hamburgers
- 1/4 pound (4 ounces) of ground beef per burger patty
- Figure 2 patties per sandwich
- So allow 8-12 ounces of uncooked ground beef per person
Hot Dogs
- 1 standard sized hot dog per sandwich
- Allow 2 hot dogs per person (8-10 ounces total)
Chicken Breast
- Estimate 6 ounces raw chicken per sandwich
- Allow for 2 sandwiches per person = 12 ounces raw chicken per person
BBQ Pulled Pork
- Estimate 5-6 ounces of raw pork per BBQ pulled pork sandwich
- Allow for 2 sandwiches per person = 10-12 ounces raw pork per person
BBQ Pulled Chicken
- Estimate 4-5 ounces raw chicken per sandwich
- Allow 2 sandwiches per person = 8-10 ounces raw chicken per person
Number of BBQ Sandwiches Per Person
Portion sizes will vary depending on the size of your buns and personal preferences. Here are some estimates:
- Adult men – 2-3 sandwiches each
- Adult women – 1-2 sandwiches each
- Teen boys – 2-3 sandwiches each
- Teen girls – 1-2 sandwiches each
- Kids (aged 5-12) – 1 sandwich each
- Toddlers (aged 2-4) – 1/2 sandwich each
When planning your meat quantities, factor in whether you will be serving any sides or appetizers as those can help fill people up. Also account for if you want any leftover meat. Some extras can be used for topping baked potatoes or salad later in the week.
Lean Meat Options
For healthier BBQ sandwiches, consider using leaner cuts of meat:
- 93% lean ground turkey instead of beef for burgers
- Skinless, boneless chicken breasts
- Pork tenderloin or boneless pork chops
- Sirloin beef tips
- Lean ground beef (90/10 or 85/15 blend)
Vegetarian/Vegan BBQ Sandwich Options
If catering to vegetarian or vegan guests, meatless options could include:
- Grilled portobello mushroom caps
- Veggie or black bean burger patties
- Grilled eggplant or zucchini slices
- Seitan or tempeh
- BBQ jackfruit
Generally allow 1-2 meatless patties or 4-6 ounces of veggie-based protein per sandwich.
Tips for Serving BBQ Sandwiches
- Have plenty of sandwich buns – allow 2 per person
- Don’t skimp on toppings – have lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, cheese, condiments
- Use recipe to determine cook times for each meat
- Start cooking before guests arrive so meat is rested and ready
- Keep cooked meats warm in a slow cooker or chafing dish
- Let guests build their own sandwiches for customized options
Conclusion
Providing 4-6 ounces of uncooked meat per sandwich and allowing 1-3 sandwiches per person is a good estimate for BBQ sandwich parties. Adjust quantities based on the type of meat, size of buns, and your guests’ appetites. Having a variety of meats, veggie options, and toppings will ensure everyone goes home happy after eating their fill.
FAQs About How Much Meat Per Person for BBQ Sandwiches
Q: How much BBQ meat should I have for 10 adults?
A: For 10 adults allow about 15 pounds of raw meat total. This would break down to around 3 pounds of ground beef for burgers, 3 pounds hot dogs, 4 pounds chicken breast, 3 pounds pork shoulder, and 2 pounds of veggie burgers or other non-meat options.
Q: How many pounds of brisket do I need for 20 people?
A: Estimate 1/3 pound of raw brisket per sandwich, and allow 2 sandwiches per person. For 20 people this would be 20 x 2 = 40 sandwiches x 1/3 pound = 13 pounds of brisket.
Q: How much BBQ chicken should I cook for a party of 50?
A: For a party of 50 plan on providing 2 chicken BBQ sandwiches per person. With 4-5 ounces raw chicken per sandwich, you’ll need 50 x 2 = 100 sandwiches x 5 ounces = 500 ounces = about 31 pounds of raw chicken.
Q: How many racks of ribs should I cook for 25 guests?
A: Estimate about 1 pound of ribs per person. So for 25 people plan on having 25 pounds of ribs, which is about 5 racks if racks are around 5 pounds each.
Q: How much pork for pulled pork for 30 people?
A: Allow 10-12 ounces raw pork per person, with about 2 sandwiches each. For 30 people that’s 30 x 12 ounces = 360 ounces or 22.5 pounds of raw pork for pulled pork.
Conclusion
The right amount of meat for a BBQ sandwich buffet comes down to the type of meat, number of guests, and how many sandwiches per person you want to provide. In general having 1/3 to 1/2 pound of uncooked meat per sandwich and allowing 1-3 sandwiches per adult will leave you with plenty for happy guests. Don’t forget the buns, toppings, and some vegetarian options too. With the guidelines above you’ll get the meat quantities just right for your next successful barbecue sandwich party.