Party Food Quantity Calculator

Works out how much meat, sides, drinks and ice to buy for a party, barbecue or family gathering from the number of guests. Every item and amount per person can be changed.

How to use

1. Enter the number of "Adults" and "Children", and how much of an adult portion one child eats.
2. Choose the "Length of the party", the "Type of meal" and "How generous"; the total for each item appears next to the form.
3. Under "Items and amount per person", change amounts and pack sizes, untick items you do not need, or use "Add an item".
4. If several mains are served, check the shares under "Less of each main when there are several", then copy or print the "Shopping list".

How it works

• Total = adult-equivalent guests × amount per person × meal type × generosity. Adult-equivalent guests = adults + children × child share.
• The amounts and factors are common rough estimates, not an official standard. Drinks and ice start from a first-hour amount and add half of it for each further hour.
• Packs to buy = total ÷ pack size, rounded up. The tool gives no allergy or food safety guidance.
• Your items and inputs are kept in this browser on this device. Default pack sizes, such as 454 g (1 lb), are common US retail sizes; change them to the packs sold where you shop.

Questions and answers

How much meat per person for a barbecue?

The default is 225 g (about 8 oz) of raw burger or steak meat per adult, with a rough range of 170 to 340 g. When chicken is also served, each main is reduced.

How much food for 20 guests?

Enter 20 adults and the page lists each item. With "Barbecue or grill" selected, pasta at 85 g dry per person comes to 1.7 kg, or 4 packs of 454 g.

How much ice do I need for a party?

The default is 225 g per guest for the first hour plus half of that for each further hour, so a 3-hour party needs about 450 g (1 lb) per guest.

How do I count children?

Each child counts as a share of an adult, 50% by default. Change the share to match the children's ages.