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ELLEN'S KITCHEN Cook Talk

How much brisket do you need to feed 130 people
venissa 02/08/06	My wedding is in a week and a half. how much brisket do i need?
ellen 02/08/06	about 60 pounds trimmed raw, or 5-6 ounces cooked per person. Get some help.
gloria 03/21/06	How much brisket do you need to feed 400 people we are having a fundraiser to raise money for our church. How many lbs of brisket would we need and potatoe salad, beans?
ellen 03/21/06	You need 3 times as much brisket as the lady above for generous servings. If you slice thin and serve the plates yourselF, YOU COULD DO A 4 OUNCE SERVING AND USE 2 1/2 TIMES THE AMOUNT. yOU WANT 1 GALLON TOTAL OF BEANS AND POTATO SALAD FOR each 10 people. I usually do 35 pounds of potato as the base for salad for each 100 people, and about 7 pounds of dried beans all cooked up with plenty of fixings for the beans
Laci 07/06/06	I am serving 150 people. How much brisket and ham would you suggest I get??
ellen 07/07/06	3 ounces ready to eat ham per person= 30 pounds plus about 60 pounds raw brisket. Assumes you have good sides and slow cook the brisket so it doesn't shrink too much.
Shannon 09/03/06	400 people: 2 meats: Fried Chicken/Brisket or Pork We are doing a dinner for 400. We will serve 2 meats. Brisket and fried chicken, OR brisket and pork tenderloin. We will have a local grocery store cook our chicken so how many pieces would you get, since there are two meats.
ellen 09/04/06	This is a VERY difficult estimate. Normally you would want 1 piece of chicken per person, but since an unknown number will coose the pork as their second meat, I would choose 250 pieces.
jane 10/27/06	help i need to know how much will be needed to feed 100 people: can corn,greenbeans, texas potatoes, roast beef please help
ellen 10/27/06	Jane this is completely covered in the plan for 100 tables in Big Pots.
susan 12/08/06	i have 60 people for a pot luck dinner. i'm providing ham and roll for all. how much ham do i need. i'm using the sprial cut
ellen 12/08/06	Bone in spiral slice, allow 1 pound for every 3 to 4 people (4 if several other side dishes, this is light), 3 as a more substantial main course.
Dana 01/31/07	I am having a wedding reception for my son. We are expecting about 100 people. I need to know how many pounds and/or gallons of potatoe salad, baked beans, slaw, and fresh vegetables will I need? Some places I have looked only sell by pound, my book tells by gallon. Please help.
ellen 02/01/07	Dana. all this is covered in the plan for 100 pages- if you prepare the estimates, I will check it.
Jane 02/05/07	Pork Tenderloin on a roll for 60 people How much pork tenderloin(to go on a roll)do I need for 60 people - two rolls per person? Thanks
ellen 02/05/07	Buy at least 2 pounds raw boneless for each 5 persons, cook low and slow to reduce shrinkage.
Janie 02/20/07	Ellen, How much Corned Beef would we need to feed about 175 people for St. Patricks Day?? We would like to give them plenty so they don't complain!!! Thanks
ellen 02/20/07	Janie, this is a fatty meat that shrinks with cooking. For plenty, buy at least 1/2 pound raw per person. Consider using a slow cooker or oven simmering method to reduce shrinkage.
Dena 02/23/07	How many pork tenderloins do you need to feed 100 I am cooking pork tenerloin for 100 in two weeks and need to turn in recipies tomorrow. Help! Thanks, Dena
Dena 02/23/07	How many pork tenderloins needed for 100 people? I am cooking for 100 people and need a recipe for pork tenderloing to feed 100 people. Help!
Ann 02/25/07	How much brisket do you need to feed 12 people How much untrimmed raw brisket do I need to buy? I am expecting 12 adult guests and the brisket (oven barbequed)will be the meat course(not sandwiches).Other various side dishes will be served
Suzanne 02/27/07	How much chuck roast would I need to make Italian Beef's for 150 people?
ellen 02/28/07	Pork tederloins 30 pounds Brisket At least 6 pounds- 8 would be better Italian beef- chuck roaast-About 50 pounds raw uncooked.
Sandee T. 03/18/07	How much brisket and ham (combined) to feed 130 We are having bbq brisket and ham sandwitches for a wedding reception. There will be plenty of side dishes. (Potato Salad, Pea Salad, Beans, deviled eggs. etc.) Can you help? Thanks so much!
ellen 03/19/07	Allow enough meat for 4 brisket sandwiches and 2 ham sandwiches for each 5 people. That is 1 pound cooked ready to eat brisket (which is 1 1/3 pounds well trimmed raw) Plus 1/2 pound ready to eat ham. This assumes it is pre-sliced deli style, thin. If it is to be sliced by the diners at the buffet (I hope not) add 1/5 more.
Colleen 04/27/07	How much sloppy Joes needed for 175 people How much sloppy JOe mix would be needed to feed approximately 175 people?
ellen 04/27/07	You need a recipe with about 25 pounds of burger for each 100 people (regular mixed group), so you want about 43 pounds for 175 people. The rest depends on your recipe. 110 to 120 rolls per 100 people. Teens, the same amount only feeds about 75-
joyce 05/20/07	How much chicken do you need to feed 100 people how much chicken for at least 100 people
ellen 05/20/07	Check the plan for 100 page, it differs depending on quarters, pieces, fried, etc.
Donna 07/20/07	How many pounds of ham How many pounds of ham (not deli)do I need to serve 40 people for sandwiches?
ellen 07/20/07	If you are slicing it yourself, andit is self serve for the sandwiches, you need to allow 4 ounces ready to eat per sandwich. If you reheat a ready to eat ham (boneless, lean, etc) 2 pounds will make 7 sandwiches, and I would plan on 14-15 pounds. If you yourself pre-make the sandwiches, you can easily do 10% less.
pam hubenak 07/24/07	I need to know please have many actual briskets I would need to purchase at how many pounds each to feed 130 people?Also how many pounds of potato salad and pinto beans?
ellen 07/24/07	Briskets come in trimmed and untrimmed, whole and pieces, so weights very tremendously. The question is answered on the very first question in this thread- 60-65 pounds trimmed raw. For the side dishes, you want 1 gallon total of beans and potato salad for each 10 people. I usually do 35 pounds of potato as the base for salad for each 100 people, and about 7 pounds of dried beans all cooked up with plenty of fixings for the beans.
Warren 08/28/07	Pork for a pig picking? Hi - questions from others are helpful already, thanks for your work. I have a pig picking to plan. Will slow cook pork shoulders (whole 'picnics' cuts) to feed 100 people. How much cooked, pulled pork should I plan on per person? Sides will be served.
Barb 09/03/07	How much potato salad to feed 65 people I usually measure the potato salad in 4 liter ice cream pails? Would 3 be enough or do I need 4? Barb
ellen 09/03/07	Warren, I missed your question- you need 2 pounds raw boneless pork for every 4=5 people for generous party portions. You want at least 6 ounces cooked per person, and 8 isn't too much, but with good sides six is fine. Barb, 3 gallons should be plenty for 65- I only use 4-4 1/2 for 100.
Crystal 09/07/07	How much brisket do you need to feed 14 people How much Brisket would I need to feed about 14 adults?
ellen 09/07/07	For party type servings, about 7 pounds raw trimmed
ellen 09/07/07	With 7 pounds you won't have leftovers...
alisa 09/09/07	How much brisket do you need to feed 80 people I am wondering how much brisket I need ALREADY COOKED AND TRIMMED. I am buying the pre-cooked meat from a Bar-B-que place. We will also have cooked sausage, green beans, pototoes, and tea. Please give an estimate for the beans, potatoes, and tea, as well.
tasha 09/09/07	how much BBQ beef to feed a 100 people and buns i am having a surprise party for my mom and expect approx. 100 people i am serving bbq beef sandwiches and sides. i am making the beef my self how many lbs. of meat do i nee?
ellen 09/10/07	Alisa, allow 5 ounces ready to eat beef and 2 to 3 ounces ready to eat sausage per person, 3 gallons green beans, 30 pounds potatoes (3-4 gallons), 6-10 gallons tea, depends on other drinks(make this yourself- WAY cheaper). Tasha, 2 pound ready to eat for each 5 to 6 persons, depends on whether you have light or heavy sides. Most recipes LOSE 2/5 to 1/2 the weight when you cook the raw beef.
Debbie 09/11/07	potato salad How many potatoes are needed to make enough potato salad for 60 people, if you are also serving macaroni salad?
ellen 09/11/07	18-20 pounds should do it.
judy 09/16/07	How much bonless hamdo you need to feed 130 people How many pounds of boneless ham do i need for 130 people. We are also serving chicken and other food dishes
ellen 09/17/07	Allowing one pound for each 5 persons- you don't give much info on the amount of other entrees- 26 pounds thin deli type slice. For thicker slices, allow 30-32 pounds. Assuming this is buffet type serving? You will use a bit less if a server serves the meat.
Lisa 09/19/07	How much bbque will I need to feed 130 people I am helping with a wedding reception, we are serving bbque and small rolls. how much pork will I need to purchase?
ellen 09/19/07	See the BBQ and brisket page.
MArcel 09/20/07	sloppy joe recipe to feed 150 Greetings , I really appreciate your giving me a recipe for 150 ppl . I am in need of this for a Church function, Thanks !
ellen 09/20/07	See this page. Make 1 1/2 the recip.
gina 09/23/07	thanksgiving dinner for 35 adults How many casseroles will I need to feed 35 adults. I'm fixing greens beans, sweet potatoes,corn, cheese potatoes thank you gina
ellen 09/25/07	Covered in the planning for holiday meals article, at the top of the Big Pots main page. Easy to remember when serving multiple casseroles of vegetables or starches that 1 9x13 pan or 3 quart dish makes 12 servings- count then as 8-10 only when you have just one veg or starch. I usually allow two veg servings and two starch servings total per person for a big holiday meal.
Carole 09/30/07	How much ham is needed to make 120 6 inch subs I am preparing a lunch for approx 120 veterans. I decided on 6inch subs. How many pounds of ham should I buy?
ellen 09/30/07	If it is just ham, 4-5 ounces ham and 2 ounces cheese per seandwich plus fixings (see the sandwich page for condiments).
Lisa 10/02/07	BBQ sandwiches for 30. Am serving BBQ sandwiches, reg size hamburger buns along with fixings. How many pounds of cooked meat do I need? Blessings!!
ellen 10/02/07	One pound raw will make three generous or four regular sandwiches. There is a table for fixings for 100 on the sandwich event page- use 1/3.
michelle 10/03/07	How much brisket is needed to feed 100 teenagers?
ellen 10/03/07	Depends on the menu, eg sandwiches versus sliced, and heaviness of side dishes, but about 1 pound trimmed raw for each 2 persons.
debbie 10/03/07	How much meats etc. do you need for 200 we are smoking our own meat, we have a very large smoker, menu is brisquet,pork loins,turkey breast w/ sides baked beans, slaw, cheese trays, hot wings, veggie trays.. wedding cake for dessert, can anyone give me an idea of how much i need since we are having more than 1 meat?
ellen 10/04/07	Hi, Debbie, You want a total of about 7-8 ounces ready to eat, which is up to 2 pounds raw boneless per 5 people. See the BBQ and brisket page for exact info on how to calcuate the mix for multiple meats, it is quite specific on how to do it.
Meredith 10/04/07	How Much Meat for Sloppy Joe's to Feed 30 People Hi Debbie, I'm feeding about 30-40 people serving chicken and sloppy joe's. How much meat for the sloppy joe's do i need to feed 30 -40? Thank-you!
ellen 10/04/07	Please see the sloppy joe for 100 recipe- use about 1/3.
Nancy 10/10/07	Slow cooked ham for 120 people Hi, I need to know how many pounds of thinly sliced ham I need for 120 people. We are slow cooking this for sandwiches on hamburger sized buns. We are not serving much more, other than pickles, chips and brownies. Thanks!!!
ellen 10/10/07	You need to end up with about 6 ounces of boneless thinsliced ready to eat ham per person. If you are starting with raw bone in, see the plan for 100 meat section. If you are starting with precooked sliced boneless and reheating, you want about 2 pounds for each 5 people. A big pasta salad is very easy (much easier than potato), can be done the day before and will save on the meat. Several good recipes on this site.
Linda 10/10/07	How many pounds of pinto beans to feed 100 I am cooking pinto beans, corn bread and slaw for 100 people. How many pounds of beans do I need to buy?
ellen 10/11/07	If it is the side dish, 8 pounds dry. If you are cooking as the main dish, about 12 pounds.
nancy 10/19/07	Sloppy Joes for 50 How many pounds of hamburger needed to make sloppy joes for 50 people?
ellen 10/19/07	See my recipe for sloppy joes under basic budget entrees in Big Pots.
Julie 10/19/07	How much brisket do I need for 30 people and how many lbs of pinto beans that will be made with sausage?
ellen 10/19/07	2 1/2 punds dry beans for sides for 30. for brisket, as discussed above, use 1/3 the amount for 100 or 1/4 the amount for 130.
Bethany 10/23/07	How many chicken breasts, or lbs of chicken, do I need for pulled chicken sandwiches for 50 people? The buns are fairly large.
ellen 10/23/07	I'd suggest you use boned thighs, they are moister and more chicken-flavored than white meat. Use the same amounts of meat you would for sloppy joes- see the sloppy joes for 50 recipe.
Amanda 10/27/07	How much fajita meat do I need to feed 80 people?
ellen 10/27/07	Depends on your sides (beans and rice, lettuce and tomatoes, sour cream, guacamole) and how much onion and pepper you grill in, but 6 ounces cooked (about 8 ounces lean boneless raw) makes great party size servings. Do allow 4 tortullas and get corn as well as flour.
Janae 11/01/07	I am feeding 120 adults boneless, skinless chicken I need to know how many pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts I need to buy to feed 120 adults. Also, how many pounds of salad and how many rolls per person should I plan on.
ellen 11/01/07	It depends on the size of the chicken breasts and whether you are serving whole. For example, my wedding chicken is boneless, skinless breast, but they are sliced and served in sauce, and you only need about 40 pounds for 120 people, but for whole pieces, I allow 60 pounds. The salad, rolls etc are all covered in "plan for 100" see the buttons at the top of the main cooktalk page. Use 1 1/4 times the amount for 100 to feed 120.
tim 11/06/07	How many smoked turkeys do I need for 85 people I am feeding 85 people and they want smoked turkey. How many turkeys do I need to cook
Judy 11/06/07	how much turkey for 65 college students feeding students for thanksgiving, these are mostly men, starving most of the time.
ellen 11/06/07	Tim, Judy, the answer is about the same, 1 pound raw thawed turkey per person. The smoking loses some weight and the college students eatthe regular turkey like horses at the corn crib. Judy, see the planning and shopping for holiday meals article in bi pots for some ideas on bulking out the meal at low cost.
Sue 11/08/07	How many whole turkeys to feed 350 I am trying to determine how many whole turkeys I would need to buy and prepare to serve 350 people.
cassandra 11/09/07	how many pds slice ham&sliced turkey to fed 85 office thanksgving luncheon for 85 people. i want to order slice ham and sliced turkey.
ellen 11/09/07	Sue, 350 pounds whole for generous, 3/4 pound per person minimum for few leftovers. Under 18 pounds have better meat and are easier to cut up and cook. Cassandra, depends on the sides, minimum 6 ounces total per person- 4 ounces turkey ready to eat, 2 ounces ham ready to eat. But I usually plan 5/3 for holiday party meals.
stormi 11/12/07	i need to know how many people 1 pound of beans will feed for my science fair project "its on World Hunger"
ellen 11/12/07	Stormi, you need the calorie count and nutrient info on 1 pound of dried beans. Go here: fnic.nal.usda.gov/nal_display/index.php?info_center=4&tax_level=2&tax_subject=279&topic_id=1387 Also, keep in mind that bean proteins by themselves are "incomplete" for humans, which means they do not completely fulfill growth and repair needs. Some of the amino acids get broken down and just used as energy or wasted. When you add grains or a small amount of animal proteins, the bean amino acids are balanced and more of them are used as protein.
Danielle 11/20/07	How much food am I going to need for 30 people on THanksgiving? Turkey? Ham? Potatoes? Sweet potatoes? Rolls? Gravy?
ellen 11/20/07	See the planning and shopping for large holiday dinners article in the Holiday cooking section at the top of Big Pots. All these foods are covered. In general for 30 you need 1/3 of the amount for 100, there is also a beverage planning page and a dessert planning page if you need them.
Tricia 11/20/07	what all will I need to do a Spaghetti feed for 300? turkey roasters would work well for the noodles?? thank..
ellen 11/20/07	Hmm, what are you doing on the brisket thread? Go to the lotsa pasta page for everything I know about big spaghetti feeds. Also consider making 2-3 recipes of the mostaciolli and sausage for 120 on that page or the baked spaghetti casserole for 100 in th basic budget entrees on the Big Pots page, instead- baked is much easier than boiled-at- the-time.
Carol 11/27/07	Mashed Potatoes, Hi, how much mashed potatoes will I need to prepare for 200 people?
ellen 11/27/07	Start with 35 pounds fresh potatoes for each 100 people.
Lisa 11/29/07	how many pounds of spare ribs do I need to feed 50 I am preparing a Chinese buffet dinner. For up to 50 people, how many pounds of spare ribs do I need to make garlic ribs.
ellen 11/29/07	This depends on how many other main/meat dishes you are serving. If you use large ribsmeats, and have several other allow 1 rib per person plus 29$- 5 ribs for each 4 persons. If these are the small ribs cut across the bones so they make little chunks, start with 1 pound raw for each 3-4 perons.
Ray 11/29/07	Pot luck Pot roast I am trying to plan a Holiday potluck and am trying to make a menu and have everyone bring a specific dish. I will supply the main meat. I am considering pot roast but don't know how much I need for approx. 35 people. Any ideas? or sample menus
Mary Hill 11/29/07	How many chicken thighs would I need to feed 100 people. I am barbequeing them.
ellen 11/29/07	Ray, pot roast would be a nice change from the usual holiday fare- you would need 1 pound raw boneless chuck for each 3 people, if you slice it and serve it in the gravy. If I were you I would make more, slice and freeze in the gravy for a few simple meals during the holiday season. Any good recipe, maybe a sauerbraten if you have a few days to marinate; but the old faithful golfers special with mushrooms and onions is never scorned. Mary, allow two per person plus 10% extra. Should work out to about 65 pounds raw.
Bonnie 11/30/07	Do I have enough I'm have a Christmas party, I have about 35-40 people coming. I have 18lbs of bone in ham, and a 11lbs of turkey. What do you think? Do I have enough meat. There will be a lot of side dishes, everyone is bringing a dish to pass.
ellen 12/01/07	You have plenty. The ham alone would serve25-30 people.
Sonya 12/02/07	How much beef tenderloin for 40 to 50 people ? Throwing a news years Souiree ? Want to do a lobster stuffed beef tenderloin. How much Tenderloin would you suggest buying? Thank you, Sonya
ellen 12/02/07	It looks like budget is not your big issue. Allow 1/3 to 1/2 pound raw tenderloin per person, depending on the amount of lobster per person. But take a very close look at your roasting options; you can't put all this tenderloin in the home oven at the same time and get a good result. Also, remember that not everyone can eat shellfish, and prepare some with mushroom or other stuffing, or plain.
Janet 12/04/07	How much dessert ice cream do I need for 60 people?
ellen 12/04/07	See the dessert planning page or the ice cream/ sundae bar page. Use 2/3 of the amount for 100.
Linda 12/04/07	How many pounds of spirall ham How many pounds of spiral ham do I need to buy to feed 150 people
Maria 12/04/07	How much llbs of macaroni for bked macaroni 12 ppl I have a Christmas lunch at work. How much pounds of macaroni is sufficient to make baked macaroni & cheese for 12 people?
ellen 12/04/07	Linda. 1 pound boneless ready to serve for each 3-4 people, depending on other sides and entrees. Maria, 1 pound makes a 9x13 pan. You want 1 or 1 1/2 pounds, depending on swhether you want large servings and seconds.
Beverly 12/06/07	How much Ham/Turkey We are smoking Turkey breast and baking ham for church party for 150 people. How many pounds of each should I use? I have a 21 lb. whole ham, (1) 18 lb tureky and (4) 8 lb breast. Will this work?
ellen 12/06/07	21 pound ham= about 40 18 pound whole turkey= about 20 32 pounds turkey breast= about 90 Very close. OK with good sides, no leftovers, though! I would leave at least one turkey breast roastred not smoked, some folks don't like smoked meats.
Pennie 12/07/07	how many turkey do I need to fix for 150 people? I am cooking for 150 people turkey and dressing and cole slaw, how many turkey do I need to fix and how many pans of dressing? how many lbs of slaw do I need? Thanks I appreciate your help Pennie
ellen 12/08/07	See the planning and shopping article under the holiday cooking section at the top of the Big Pots page. For slaw, I start with 20 pounds cabbage per 100.
Erica 12/10/07	How much Pot Roast to cook How much Pot Roast to get that will feed about 35 people. Or how big can you get one.
ellen 12/10/07	You can special order a boneless shoulder clod (chuck) of 20-25 pounds, which would be very adequate, but I would get 6-7 large chuck roasts. Have them cut specially so they are at least 3 inches thick. You will have WONDERFUL pot roast.
ellen 12/11/07	By the way, you can bake the pot roast covered in oven after doing all the browning on top of the stove, that is an easy way to get tender and unscorched meat. Also, use at least part beef broth or stock- not all water- for the gravy. If you use a dry product, either get "Better than Bouillon" beef base or a high end commercial restaurant beef base for the gravy. The good ones list beef way ahead of salt in the ingredient list.
SLY 12/11/07	im haveing a diner for 150 people how many pounds of collard greens would i need plus macaroni and spare ribs and bake beans....sly
ellen 12/11/07	Sly, 20 pounds ready to cook collards is plenty for 100, that is 40 pounds fresh, you wose a lot trimming with greens. 1 pound raw ribs per person (this is why many people do chicken AND ribs- cheaper). For the mac and cheese, see my quantity recipe for mac and cheese and multiply the pasta to guide your amount. Baked beans, about 3 gallons (4 #10 cans) per 100 plus fixings, or use one of my recipes.
help 12/14/07	How much fried chicken needed to feed 25 people How much fried chicken do I need to order to feed 25 people?
ellen 12/14/07	2 pieces each mixed, or a quarter each.
Chelsea 12/19/07	How many pounds of ham should i get to feed 12 peo How many pounds of ham should I get to feed 12 people - or so? I'm having a Christmas eve dinner at our home. There will also be several side dishes and desserts. I look forward to hearing from y'all! Thanks!
ellen 12/19/07	Pre-cooked heat and eat, 8 ounces per person. Bone in not cooked, an 8-10 pound ham.
Brenda 01/09/08	How many lbs of potatoes do you need? I am fixing new potatoes with butter and parsley for 200 people. How many pounds of potatoes do I need? Thanks
ellen 01/09/08	40-45 pounds per 100 people depending on how much you peel them.
Brenda 01/10/08	How much roast beef and ham do you need? Sorry to bother you again, but how much sliced ham and roast beef do you need for 200 people? Thanks for all your help.
ellen 01/10/08	Do please check the plan for 100 page, which discusses the with and without bone, raw/cooked etc issues. Remember that with 2 or more entrees, you don't do half and half- however you divide it, you have to add about 10% to each because people eat more/ both when given the option. If it is a self serve buffet rather than plated, than add an additional 10% unless you have a server serving the meat.
RICK 01/10/08	Do you know where i can find a converter that will calculate the amount of meat in pounds to servings.Ex....(18lbs of bacon will feed 100 people.)
ellen 01/10/08	Did you look on my plan for 100 page? Bone in and boneless roats, ham, chicken in a variety of cuts,ground meat, etc, sausage. There is also a whole page on chicken and turkeyyields in the holiday cooking section at the top of Big Pots.
julie 01/14/08	how many pounds of sausage for 30 people i am putting sausage in a cot pot for a baby shower to have sandwiches. how many pounds should i use
ellen 01/15/08	You want 1 pound for each 3-4 people.
jessica 01/22/08	How much brisket do you need to feed 60 people how much brisket do i need to feed 60 people
ellen 01/22/08	about 30 pounds well-trimmed raw, or 5-6 ounces cooked per person. Get some help.
Cheryl 01/24/08	5 gallons of Chili I have to make at least 5 gallons of Chili. How many pounds of meat will I need?
ellen 01/24/08	See the chili page (button at the top of the main cook talk page). Those recipes make about 6 1/2 gallons each.
Charla 01/25/08	How many people will 1 lb of dry pinto beans feed?
ellen 01/25/08	It makes 6 1/2 cups, so the number served depends on the size of the serving.
HARRIET EDELSTEIN 01/27/08	how much potato salad and cole slaw do i need for 60 people. i am also serving baked beans. harriet
ellen 01/27/08	Harriet, check the amounts in the plan for 100 table and use a bit less than 2/3. Basically, you want 1 gallon total for eah 10 people so your potato salad plus slaw plus beans should add up to 6-6 1/2 gallons.
Arlan 01/29/08	How much corn beef and cabbage How much corn beef,cabbage and potatoes do we need to buy for 300 people?
ellen 01/30/08	Already discussed on the st patricks/ corned beef and cabbage page, but it is about 160 pounds trimmed raw beef, 60 pounds cabbage and 100-120 pounds red potatoes.
Jackie 02/03/08	how much fajita meat? My wedding is in a month and we are having tamales and fajits for appox 100 people. How much of each should we buy? we are also having rice and beans.
ellen 02/03/08	about 2 tamales, 2-3 tortillas, per person, and 1 pound of raw fajita meat for each 3-4 people.
anita 02/05/08	how much ham and turkey deli style to feed 50 people for birthday party
cheri 02/05/08	How much brisket do you need to feed 50 people this for a wedding rehersal dinner.how much beef brisket for 50 people
ellen 02/08/08	5-6 ounces cooked ready to eat per person, which is about 25 pounds raw; brisket is a fatty meat that tends to shrink.
Theresa Parsons 02/12/08	how many lbs. of chicken for chicken salad to feed Iam having a lunch for 120 people serving chicken salad on crois. and orange cranberry jello salad could you help me with amounts. Thank you Theresa Parsons
Lois 02/13/08	How much chicken and Ham do I need Our church is having a chicken and Ham Pot Pie supper. How much chicken and ham do I need.Also we are having pickel cabbage and applesauce.
ellen 02/13/08	Theresa, there is explicit info on chicken salad sandwiches and amounts on the sandwich event page. 1 pound whole raw chicken makes 1/2 pound chicken meat. Jello salad for 100 takes 17 of the little packages. Lois, it is not clear if this is chicken and ham mixed in a pie, or 2 different ones. You want about 5 ounces total cooked ready to eat meat per person, I can't suggest the split. Applesauce would be 4 #10 cans (the great big ones)which is about 3 gallons, pickled cabbage about 3 gallons also.
Ashley 02/18/08	How much raw untrimmed brisket for 23 people I am having a birthday party and the brisket will be sliced for sandwiches. How many lbs of raw untrimmed brisket should I buy?
ellen 02/18/08	Hi, Ashley, to some extent it depends on the ages and appetites of your guests, but I would allow for at least 30 sandwiches for 23 people in a party situation. You want 4 ounces cooked, trimmed, ready to eat sliced beef for a good sandwich, so since brisket is a fatty meat that shrinks, you want 2 pounds raw untrimmed for each 4 sandwiches- in other words, about 15 pounds raw untrimmed for 30 sandwiches. If you have heavy sidesm potato or pasta salad plus beans and slaw or salad, you can do with a bit less. BE SURE you trim and slice the beef yourself, or your guests will use quite a bit more. You want to let it stand at least twenty minutes after it comes out of the oven before you slice it.
Jennifer 02/19/08	How many lbs of bacon do I need to feed about 50 How many lbs of bacon do I need to feed about 50 people. 3 peices per person??
ellen 02/19/08	See the breakfast planning page in Big Pots.
becca 02/21/08	need to feed 200 teenagers we are hosting a chi-rho jam at our church next weekend. we have around 200 kids to feed. we are planning on a taco salad lunch and a cheese lasagna for dinner. also for dinner we will be serving a salad and for lunch ice cream with toppings. can you help me figure out how much food it will take? thank you..
ellen 02/24/08	For the taco salad, use 9-10 times the amounts in the out of the trash bag taco salad for 25. For the lasagna, there is a good quantity guide on the lotsa pasta page- you can use your recipe or mine, the amounts will be right. For the ice cream sundae bar, see the whole article devoted to sundae bars, and for the regular salad, the salad section of the plan for 100 page. If there are a lot of guys, add 10% for a fudge factor and if it is totally self serve and they will be active, add another 10%. You will not run out.
Lil 02/27/08	70-80 people party I am having a 21st bd party with 70-80 people how much food do I need specifically rotisirrie chicken stuffing salad cheesy potatoes green beans
ellen 02/28/08	20 chickens 2 1/2 tp 3 gallons stuffing salad see the plan for 100 page, use 3/4 the amount for 100 cheesy potaoes, start with 26-28 pounds of potatoes 2 1/2 gallons green beans (about 16 pounds)
Kandace 03/01/08	Please help, we are trying to put together a college graduation party for my Daughter. This is the menu we have come up with so far,but are unsure of how much we need of each item if we are having 150 attend. Meatballs (sandwiches) hot roast beef sandwiches ziti potato salad deviled eggs pasta salad macaroni tuna salad sausage and pepper scallopini taco bar (flour tortillas, ground beef, shredded cheddar, diced tomatoes, lettuce,sour cream, salsa, taco sauce, etc..) sheet cake potato chips/pretzels beer/soda/bottled water/coffee Thank You!
ellen 03/02/08	Kandace, is this lunch, dinner, or midafternoon? How long will the party last? Is it self service buffet style? What kind of ziti? I generally ask my readers to make an initial estimate using my tables, then post it for me to comment on, I need more information to help you. Most of the items except the entree mix are covered in the tables; plan for 100, veggie tray, beverages, desserts. Also, 4 entrees is a lot for this type party, two kinds of sandwiches, sausage and peppers and a taco bar. Consider simplifying. Welcome to write further.
Kandace 03/02/08	The party will be a self service buffet, and will be from 6PM-10PM.The Ziti I make is just a mixture of ziti, ground beef, sauce, and shredded mozzarella. Thank you so much for your help, I really do appreciate it.
ellen 03/04/08	OK, you need 1 1/2 pounds food per person. You have 6 entrees: Meatball sandwiches Beef sandwiches (is this Italian style shredded beef?) sausage and peppers taco bar macaroni tuna salad ziti with meat Since you also have a pasta salad, I would drop one of the pasta dishes. Also since there are 4 beef dishes, I would drop either the meatballs or the sausage, or else the beef sandwiches. Total 4 entrees. These entrees will be the hardest to estimate accurately, and reducing the number of choices will simplify the calculation. Write back what you decide. You have these other items: potato chips/pretzels =I would offer dips and add some veggie plates deviled eggs =OK see my recipe for devilled eggs for help with quantities potato salad pasta salad =I would add either slaw or tossed salad and make 4 1/2 gallons of potato salad and 3 each of pasta salad and slaw/salad
whitney 03/04/08	how many potatoe & egg to feed 130 for salad I am trying to find out how many potatoes and eggs we will need to feed 130 people my wedding is saturday please help thanks
mary 03/04/08	I need to know how much dry beans to buy for a bean and ham dinner for 100 people. Also how much corn bread should be made for 100 people. Thank you!
ellen 03/04/08	Whitney, assuming you mean for potato salad? You need 35 pounds of raw potatoes for 100 people and a dozen eggs for each 10 pounds of potatoes for a nice eggy salad. So you need 1/3 more for 130 people- about 47-48 pounds of potatoes and 4 to 5 dozen eggs. Mary, about 12 pounds of dried beans and 25-30 pounds of ham chunks and pieces for 100 people. For cornbread, see the large quantity cornbread recipe on the chili cooking page.
Veronica Thibodeaux 03/05/08	Red beans and rice with sausage to feed 200 people How much rice, beans and sausage is needed to feed 200 people?
ellen 03/06/08	Hey Veronica, with a last name like Thibodeax, I should be asking YOU this question! Seriously, about 8 pounds rice, 12 pounds beans and 25 pounds sausage for each 100 persons, using your favorite recipe.
Claudia 03/09/08	how much beef tendertoin for sandwiches for 50 I'm doing a cocktail party for 50. One of the foods is beef tenderoin cocktail sandwiches. How many #'s do I need??
ellen 03/10/08	Clausia, this is a favorite food and people tend to gorge on it, especially if they are making their own sandwiches. It really depends on what else is served. So, what are their other choices?
Wanda Davis 03/13/08	Feeding 100 People How many pounds of turkey do I need to feed 100 people. Thanks
ellen 03/13/08	Wanda, see the article on planning and shopping for holiday dinners at the top of big pots. Discussed at length.
Pam 03/16/08	I am having a graduation party for my daughter.It will be lunch.I am serving Tenderloin sandwiches...pulled pork...baked beans...slaw...potatoe salad and rolls..How much do I need of each to feed about 50 people? Thank You.
ellen 03/16/08	For the sides, about 2 gallons potato salad or a bit more, 1 3/4 gallons each slaw and beans. 60 rolls. For the meat, it is quite difficult because the tenderloin is so popular; I would go with at least 25 pounds raw, which is about 16 pounds cooked, or 5 ounces. The pork, I woulod want at least 3 ounces per person cooked ready to eat- 1 pound boneles raw for each 3 people, 16-17 pounds.
Renee Ruiz 03/18/08	how many pounds of fajita meat to serve 200 people Ellen, My daughter is having a "Sweet 15" birthday party and approximatley 150-200 people will be attending. We want to serve fajita or taco meat, rice, and beans. How many lbs will we have to buy of each?
ellen 03/18/08	Your rice recipe should start with 8 pounds per 100, your dried beans are also 8 per 100. The meat, you want 5 ounces cooked ready to eat, which means you need 1/2 pound raw per person if sliced, a bit less if ground.
Audrey 03/18/08	Ham What size ham should I buy to feed 13 adults?
ellen 03/20/08	Raw? Bone in? ready to eat? If it is a boneless "heat and eat", you want 5 pounds. Bone in raw, 6-7.
Beth 03/24/08	How many pounds of potaoes do I need to feed 120 How many pounds of potatoes do I need to feed 120 men roasted potaotes?
bethgarza 03/24/08	How many heads of lettuc? How many heads of lettuc do I need to make green garden salad for 120 men? Thanks
ellen 03/25/08	Beth, go to the plan for 100 tables and related recipes, and use 1 1/4 times the amount for 100.
Jennifer 03/31/08	How much taco meat for nachos do i need for 60 We are having a going away party for someone at work and there is approx. 60 of us here at work. We are just wondering how much burger we need for 60 people? Thanks
ellen 03/31/08	You want 1 patty per person plus about 1/4 more, unless it is all men or heavy eaters., then do about 1 plus 13. Don't forget one package of Boca burgers or other vegetarian patties for the non-meat eaters.
Liana 04/01/08	Nacho Meat We are having a nacho buffet for a going away party for someone at work. There is 60 people, so we are wondering how much hamburger we will need to cook up for nachos. Someone thought maybe 25-30lbs. The majority is women with maybe 3 men eating. Thanks.
ellen 04/01/08	30 pounds would do for 100 people. You will have plenty with 18-20.
carl 04/03/08	I am having a party. I have around 300 people coming and bought 50 pounds of hamburger for sloppy joes/chili burgers. My question is, how many buns should i get?
ellen 04/04/08	I would add about 10 pounds of beef and get 360 rolls or buns.
Geri 04/07/08	turkey and rib roast for 25 people I'm cooking Passover for 25 people. How big should the turkey and roast be?
ellen 04/08/08	I would prepare an 8 pound (raw boneless) roast and an 11-14 pound turkey.
Geri 04/08/08	additional passover questions The rib roast will be bone in. I'm assuming 7 bones? I am also planning matzo ball soup, matzo stuffing and mashed potatoes (or small homemade potato knishes) and fresh broccoli. How much of each should I prepare?
Kathy Kroeker 04/09/08	how much hamburger do I need How much Hamburger will I need to feed 100 teenagers tacos. I am assuming if I am putting the meat in for them they would roughly get a large spoonful
ellen 04/09/08	Geri, 7 bones is fine! Soup you want 1 quart broth for each 3-4 people, matzoh balls to your taste/count. Stuffing, 1/2 cup per person. Mashed potatoes from 8-10 pounds potatoes. 6-7 pounds broccoli crowns, somewhat more if there is a lot of stem. Sounds great. Kathy, a large spoonful is in the range of 1/3 cup, or about 2 taco's worth. 1 pound of burger makes a bit less than 2 cups cooked meat. Be sure you have rice and beans if it is teens, or your meat consumption could double!
ellen 04/09/08	Geri, 7 bones is fine! Soup you want 1 quart broth for each 3-4 people, matzoh balls to your taste/count. Stuffing, 1/2 cup per person. Mashed potatoes from 8-10 pounds potatoes. 6-7 pounds broccoli crowns, somewhat more if there is a lot of stem. Sounds great. Kathy, a large spoonful is in the range of 1/3 cup, or about 2 taco's worth. 1 pound of burger makes a bit less than 2 cups cooked meat. Be sure you have rice and beans if it is teens, or your meat consumption could double!
Tomeka 04/11/08	We are having a school fair & we are in charge of the bbq booth from 12:00pm -9:00pm. How much Brisket, Ham, Potato salad, & macaroni salad will we need?
ellen 04/11/08	Tomeka did you notice you did not say how many people? Anyway, the amounts of all this per 100 are already given in the plan for 100 tables and the briskey and BBQ page. If you want to make an estimate, I will check it for you.
Bonnie 04/14/08	Hi, Ellen Can you tell me how many pounds of pork roasts would I need to purchase to make pulled pork sandwiches to serve 100 people?
ellen 04/14/08	About 45 pounds, there is a good recipe for pulled pork on the site.
Jessica 04/16/08	Glazed chicken breasts for 175 people I am serving glazed chicken breasts at a service for 175 women. I am wondering how many pounds of breasts to get. There is some concern that some may not want an entire chicken breast.
ellen 04/16/08	With ladies, you want to end up with 5 ounces cooked ready to eat meat per person, so you start out with about 7 ounces boneless skinless breast per person. You might look at my recipe for wedding chicken on the big pots page for some ideas. It holds well.
rick wheeler 04/16/08	we are having potatoe salad and beans with this also we are haviving smoked ham how much will we need thank you
bobby 04/19/08	How much brisket do you need to feed 135 people how much brisket for 135 with beans and potatoe salad slaw ham how much of everything will it take
Dawn 04/19/08	How many pounds of cheese do I need for a platter at a wedding reception for 300 people? A full dinner will be served later in the evening and other "snacks" will be available.
ellen 04/19/08	Rick, you don't say how many people! All these foods are covered in the plan for 100 tables- you can do the math for your specific number of people. Bobby You have double posted, see the other thread. Dawn, 2 ounces per person (1 pound for every 8 people) is kind of a minimum, it can include cheese logs and spreads as well as cubes, slices, and wedges.
susan 04/22/08	serving brunch for 120 people, how much of each link sausage bacon quiche roasted potatoes croissants fruit tray turkey breast ham garden salad pasta salad cheese & crackers orange juice coffee fruit punch
vicki 04/24/08	How much pork and chicked do I need to feed 200peo I need to feed 200 people chicken (pieces roasted) and pork. Also, if we are having pasta salad, potato salad, and cole slaw how much of each?
ellen 04/24/08	Susan, since I posted all my tables in 2004, I ask readers to do their initial estimate and post. Then I will check it for you and help. There is a breakfast planning table and a fruit tray guide as well as a beverage guide and dessert guide to help you. Also see the VERY USEFUL thread in cook talk called, "Do-it yourself brunch": www.ellenskitchen.com/forum/messages/6671.html
ellen 04/24/08	Vicki, I allow 1 piece of chicken PLUS 4-5 ounces cooked ready to eat pork (sliced, roasted) per person. That is 100 to 120 pounds chicken, PLUS about 75 pounds raw lean boneless pork.
Suzanne 04/30/08	lasagna For a simple italian-themed grad party we're serving lasagna, salad and bread plus cake, desserts and fruit for 150. Friends are helping make lasagna, how many would be enough? thanx!
Becky 04/30/08	How much thin sliced boneless steak for 50 people this thin sliced steak is a mexican steak we call carne asada
Debbie 04/30/08	I'm feed 160 people. I will supply sandwich makings and they will assemble their own. How much lettuce do I buy. Is head or leaf better?
margaret haynes 04/30/08	how many lb of bacon and eggs to feed one hundred I need to know how many lb of bacon, and how many doz of eggs to feed one hundred people. also how many link saugage to feed ond hundred people
ellen 04/30/08	Suzanne, the lasagna amounts are covered in the lotsa pasta/ spaghetti page. Becky, you will need about 25 pounds: 22-23 if it is tender with no waste/trimming. Debbie, see the sandwich event page for the condiment table. You want head lettuce.
vato 05/07/08	how much ham and pulled turrkey hey how much ham and turkey and gravy sandwichs baked beans slaw and rolls would? i need help save me lol dont forget the potato salad
vato 05/07/08	opps i forgot to feed 80 people
ellen 05/08/08	Vato, don't be lazy! I have posted all this info in the plan for 100 tables and the sandwich event page. You need to make an intial estimate and post it and I will check it for you. For 80 people, you just use 4/5 the amount for 100.
sherry 05/13/08	How much mac & cheese do i need to feed 55 people I need to know how many chicken halfs and how much mac & cheese to feed fifty five or sixty people for my sons rehearsal supper.
ellen 05/13/08	If you plan for 60, you use 2/3 the amount for 100. That is about 6 9x13 pans of mac and cheese. If the chickens are small, plan on 1/2 chichicken per person. For larger quarters, you will need about 45-48 pounds of quarters
Paige 05/13/08	how much ice cream do i need to feed 200 people how much ice cream do i need to feed between 150 kids and 200 kids?
ellen 05/14/08	Paige, did you just go to the sundae bar for 200 people, which is already posted and has complete directions? This is not a place for panic- I only get to sit down at my computer once a day or every other day!
Tiger 05/14/08	How much ice cream do you need to feed 30 people How much ice cream do I need to feed 30 people. There will be toppings for sundae's as well. We're going with only one flavor, vanilla.
ellen 05/14/08	Tiger, everything I know about bulk ice cream service is already on the sundae page. For 30, use about 3/4 of the topping amount for 50. Yes I know the math doesn't compute, but people are very unpredictable over ice cream topping choices.
ellen 05/15/08	Paige, cut it out or you will be blocked.
Kandace 05/16/08	My Daughters College Graduation Party is 1 week away. It will be on a Friday night from 6-10pm, so I'm assuming guests will come hungry. We are expecting 100 people, but with our menu, I'm not sure of how much of each thing to make.It will be a self service buffet.We plan to have.... Meatball Sandwiches Hot Roast Beef Sandwiches (sliced beef) Ziti (ziti,ground beef,mozzarella and sauce) potato salad Pasta salad deviled eggs Taco Bar (flour tortillas, ground beef, shredded cheddar,diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce,sour cream, salsa, taco sauce, refried beans, etc...) tortilla wraps (tortilla with cream cheese and salsa spread on top, rolled and sliced) pepperoni & cheese platter? Sheet Cake Beer/soda/coffee/ice tea Thanks
ellen 05/16/08	Kandace, since I posted all my planning lists in 2004, I do not do initial estimates. Use the site lists to make an initial estimate, post it, and I will be glad to review and revise for you. The basic keep in mind is that you want about 1 1/2 pounds total food per person. You do not need to have all the sandwiches, wraps and ziti plus the taco bar; the taco bar alone, with perhaps some meat and cheese platters would be enough. Is there a reason for doing both?
amy 05/27/08	I'm planning a graduatiion party for 300 people and I'm having walking taco's how much meat will I need?
amy 05/27/08	party oh yeh what about nachos chips
ellen 05/28/08	See my escape from the trash bag walking taco salad for 25. Multiply times 12. www.ellenskitchen.com/bigpots/plan/texmex1.html .
Nicole 06/03/08	i am planning my son's 1st birthday party and i'm thinking about having hamburger and hotdogs. how many pounds of hamburger do i need to feed about 40 people?
ellen 06/04/08	It will take one person the whole party over the grill to do this, I would do 40-45 burgers (10-12 pounds raw) and 40 sausages or dogs (I always recommend Polish sausage or kielbasa instead of regular hot dogs- tastier and not much price difference. Howver, consider other options, such as an electric roaster full of beef or pork BBQ, or lasagna or mac and cheese, maybe with sliced ham or sausage and peppers as the side dish. Can be done ahead, much less to deal with for the attendees (don't have to do condiments, etc)may actually cost less by the time you don't have to deal with lettuce, tomatoes, mayo, etc. And no hot grill to worry about as the kids run around.
Kathy 06/12/08	How much How much ice cream and toppings do I need for 60 people?
ellen 06/12/08	Go to the sundae bar page (button at the top of the main cook talk page), get the amounts for 50, increase by 1/4.
Robby 06/15/08	Help!! We're having a formal wedding reception, and cooking hamburegers for about 120. I'm completely lost! Pleased help. I need to know how much lettuce, mayo, mustard, and ketchup i need. Also how many 2 liter drinks will I need?
ellen 06/16/08	Robbie, if you are grilling hamburgers, it is not a formal reception. There is a condiment guide giving amounts for 100 on the sandwich event page, uswe 1 1/4 times the amount. Then look at the beverage planning page for help with the beverages. For this many people, two grillers who do nothing but grill for the whole time are needed. This DEFINITELY should not be the responsibility of the bride or groom. Get help.
ellen 06/16/08	Paige, not evil, just thoughtless and DUM*B.
Meredith 06/17/08	How many lbs of pork tenderloin for 15 people? I'm having a party and wanted to grill pork tenderloin - how many pounds should I buy to feed 15-20 people?
ellen 06/17/08	So tasty. For a nice party size portion you want 1 pound raw boneless for each two people.
colleen 06/18/08	my daughter is getting married and wants to serve Barbeque & Potatoe Salad & macoronie salad..How many pounds of hamburger for the barbeque and many pounds of ready made salads ? expecting 250 people. Thank you
Doc 06/20/08	How many pieces of fried chicken do I need for 20 guests? I'm buying it off the deli counter at a local grocery store. Thanks for the help
ellen 06/20/08	Coleen, about 85 pounds raw regular burger and 10 gallons each of the salads (you have to weigh a pint from the deli yoou are dealing with, weights per volume vary from store to store.) I would add slaw or green salad, 17-20 pounds per 100. Doc, get 2 pieces each plus a few extra pieces.
karen wallace 07/02/08	how much mac and cheese to feed 125 people how much of the following will I need to feed 125 people the following......mac and cheese collard greens, party wings,meatballs,fruit sald consisting of cantalope, honeydew, strawberries, pineapple,oranges, watermellon and grapes...Thanks for your help
karen wallace 07/02/08	how much mac and cheese to feed 125 people how much of the following will I need to feed 125 people the following......mac and cheese collard greens, party wings,meatballs,fruit sald consisting of cantalope, honeydew, strawberries, pineapple,oranges, watermellon and grapes...Thanks for your help
ellen 07/02/08	Karen, all these are covered in the plan for 100 tables, fruit on the fruit tray page. Since I posted all the tables in 2004, I rarely do original estimates. Instead, I ask the reader to use the tables, make and estimate, then if you still have questions, post your estimates and I will check it for you. Use 1 1/4 the amount for 100 for 125. Use 1 1/3 if they are very heavy eaters. If this is a meal time event you need about 1/2 pound wings PLUS 4 ounces meatballs per person.
steve 07/17/08	How much fried chicken,hot,sweet sausage for 400 How much will I need for the following: Mixed Fried Chicken pieces, Hot Sausage, Sweet sausage, kilebasa, bone in ham, pulled pork. With the above we are also having potato salad,cole slaw, rigatoni,hot dogs,buns, bake beans, salad, watermelon, burgers, bratwurst, nacho bar, chili, ice cream, snacks, adult beverages,and soda Half men, half women will attend. Total of around 400 This is a military veterans affair that I do every year but I'm going all out this year.
ellen 07/17/08	Hi, Steve, I understand why you want to go all out! And... This is WAY too complicated a menu for me to estimate, and probably for you to cook. If you are not completely attached to grilling, you have plenty of choices without the hamburgers and hot dogs, and you could do the hot sausage with either the brats or sweets but not both. Here are some rules of thumb to help: You want to end up with about 1 1/2 pounds of edible food per person. You want 10 gallons total of the sides potato salad, cole slaw, and baked beans for each 100; about 4 gallons potato salad and 3 each of the others. Use 1/2 the usual amount of green salad when you have those other sides. Ice cream is covered in the sundae bar article. Rigatoni, 7-8 pounds dry per 100 as a side. Watermelon 1/2 to 1 pound per person (with the ice cream, 1/2 is plenty). There is a beverage page that includes adult beverage amounts. 2 pounds ice per person in summer PLUS 40 pounds per large cooler. 8 pounds corn chips per 100 and cheese sauce about 1/4 cup per person. This should help you get started. Write back about the meat selection.
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Tracy 07/27/08	How much?? I am having my wedding reception in October. I am having a cheese (cubed) tray, veggie tray, and fruit tray which we are making ourselves. We are also having meatballs, pork tenderloin (sandwiches), and chicken wings. Along with cheese balls. We are wanting to serve 150 people. How much of each should we make? I have read your site and it helps, but once you add all the different food...it just makes me stress more. Please help! Thanks.
ellen 07/28/08	The basic approach is that if you are serving at a meal time you need 1 1/2 pounds of edible food per person, where at a reception time (example- wedding 1 PM, after everyone had lunch) you need about a pound of edible food. You want about 30 pounds total of cheese and cheese balls, with about 10 pounds of crackers. The fruit tray and veggie tray are thoroughly discussed in their respective articles- you would, for example, make 6 times the fruit tray for 25 and 1 1/2 times the relish tray. Among the meats, allow 3-4 ounces of meatballs per person, PLUS 3-4 wing pieces PLUS 1 sandwich (figure 4 sandwiches per pound of cooked meat, which is about 3 sandwiches per pound of raw boneless.) This gives everyone the opportunity for their first choice.
Joey 08/07/08	how much chili do I need for 80 hot dogs? How much hamburger do I need for the chili ?
ellen 08/07/08	You only need 2 tablespoons per dog, 1/2 that is meat= 80 tablespoons= 5 cups= about 3 pounds raw.
Sandy 08/08/08	How much cabbage do I need to make 150 stuffed cabbage rolls?
Kirk Baker 08/08/08	How much brisket do you need to feed 200 people how much brisket do you need to feed 200 people. will be smoking brisket. will use pack trim briskets
ellen 08/08/08	Sandy, as a rule of thumb, you only get about 12-16 rolling quality leaves from one head, depending on the size. Do so my notes about freezing instead of blanching to soften the leaves for rolling. Much less work. Kirk, raw brisket, allow a MINIMUM of 1 pound raw for each 2 people. If it is a loose trim or they are heavy eaters, 2 pounds for each three people is not too much.
Brandi 08/11/08	How much brisket do you need to feed 300 people Getting married and I need to know how much meat to buy.
ellen 08/11/08	Brandi, as discussed just above, if you are cooking it yourself, allow a MINIMUM of 1 pound raw well trimmed for each 2 people. If it is a loose trim or they are heavy eaters, 2 pounds for each three people is not too much. If you are buying it ready to serve, you want at least 6 ounces per person. Amount depends a little on sides. If it is self serve, you need to allow a bit more- 8 ounces per person is not too much.
Lisa Christopher 08/11/08	How much salad per different salad to feed 120 Ellen, i am catering a salad luncheon and I want to be sure to have enough food, but not over do it. There will be main salads: egg and tuna fish. Then Strawberry/almond & variety of lettuce salad, Ceasar Salad, Spinach salad (no bacon), Deviled eggs, Veggy pasta salad, fresh fruit salad,potato salad, and three bean salad. I would like to know Quantities from an expert's view.
ellen 08/11/08	Lisa, I posted your question under salad lunch for 150, the number you originally asked about, yesterday; with comments and suggestions. Deviled eggs allow 4 1/2 to 5 dozen eggs to make for 100 people. I moved it because it does not go under brisket.
Lynnie 08/14/08	How many lbs of rigatoni should be cooked for 70 p Hi Ellen, We are having our Daughter's 1st birthday party and inviting around 70-75 people. We are having chicken, Italian roastbeef sandwiches, mac salad, and a pasta salad also. We are stuck on the rigatoni's..... as to how many lbs to make to go along with the other food. My mom said maybe 7-8 lbs... is this correct??? thanks!
Lynnie 08/14/08	I'm sorry, I just realized I should have posted my last question on another thread! I love this site! it's awesome!
ellen 08/14/08	You only need about 7 pounds dry pasta to make pasta or mac salad for 100 people. So, decide how much mac, then just make the difference in the second pasta salad.
Adrienne 08/16/08	How much ziti do I need to make for 50 people I am having a b'day party for my 4 year old grandson. I am making chicken parmesan and will have salad and rolls, but I also want to make baked ziti for everyone. There are 35 adults and 15 children (not all 4 year olds). How much pasta should will I be needing to cook? I thank you in advance for your advice. This is a really cool website.
ellen 08/16/08	About 4 pounds dry unless they are very heavy eaters, will leave you with some left over.
LB 08/18/08	Please help! Can't seem to figure out how many "chopped and cooked" roasted sweet potatoes for a buffet of 50 guests. Please let me know as soon as you can - you magical person you:)
ellen 08/19/08	It's math not magic, and you need 20-22 pounds if that is the main/only starch. You're welcome.
Becky 08/20/08	How much taco meat do I need to feed 30 people Hi ellen, I am having a party this weekend for my daughters birthday that will have 30 adults attending. How much taco meat do I need to feed 30 adults?
ellen 08/20/08	1 pound raw for each 4 people will give plenty.
julia 08/23/08	How much rice do you need to feed 300 people we'er having a benefit bbq to help a friend with medical expenses
meg 08/23/08	How much brisket do you need to feed 3oo people we are having afamily reunion for 300 guest .we are brisket, rice ,baens. how much meat do we need.
ellen 08/24/08	Julia, 7-8 pounds rice per 100 is plenty for a side dish. If it is a main dish or the only dish, it can go as high as 10-12 pounds. Meg, brisket is a fatty, shrinking meat. If it is the only meat, you need to allow 1 pound raw, moderately well trimmed whole brisket for each 2 people. See more info and links on the BBQ and brisket page.
Cat 08/27/08	How much brisket do you need to .. How much beef brisket (uncooked weight) do I need to feed 32 people if another meat dish is being offered?
ellen 08/27/08	Allow 1 pound raw well-trimmed for each 3 people., or about 12 pounds, if you slice it yourself. Allow 15 pounds if the guests slice it.
Julie 09/05/08	For a wedding reception of approximately 150 For a wedding reception of approximately 150 people how much of the following do I need.. beef brisket (smoked) Chicken (smoked) Mac n Cheese Potato Salad Baked Beans Plus I am looking for a suggestion another side dish. HELP.....thanks
ellen 09/05/08	Julie, since I posted all my quantity charts in 2004, I ask my readers to make an estimate/ shopping list, post it, and let me review and comment. The only items you might have trouble with are the beef plus chicken, and the catering rule of thumb for a party buffet is 5 ounces ready to eat beef PLUS 3 ounces ready to eat chicken (which is 6 ounces cooked bone in chicken) for each guest. All the other items are covered in the lists for 100. I would use a green item for the other dish, if still summer maybe a marinated veggie/bean salad. If autumn, a casserole such as my better green bean casserole.
Tammy 09/10/08	how much carne asada/chicken asada for 30 people? Im having a party for about 30 with rice, beans, carne asada,chicken asada and tortilla's. How much meat per person do you think i will need...