Medium Party Planner
BBQ Calculator for 20 People: Burgers, Ribs & More
A BBQ for 20 people marks the transition from a small hangout to a real party. You'll need to ensure you have enough variety to please everyone. A mix of "fast" items like burgers/dogs and "slow" items like brisket or ribs works best to keep food coming steadily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much meat per person for a BBQ with 20 guests?
For 20 people, plan on about 10 lbs of raw meat (excluding bone-in cuts like ribs). A safe rule is 0.5 lb per person.
How many sides do I need for 20 people?
For a group of 20, you should have at least 2 different side dishes (e.g., coleslaw, potato salad, baked beans). Plan for about 4-5 ounces of each side per person.
How much charcoal or propane do I need?
For a 4-hour BBQ, have at least one full 20lb propane tank (plus a backup) or 20-30 lbs of charcoal. It's always better to have too much fuel than to run out mid-cook!