Ribs with Mac and Cheese and Beans for 20 People
The ultimate BBQ platter. Smoky ribs paired with creamy mac and cheese and sweet baked beans make an unforgettable meal.
Perfect for: BBQ✓ Quick Answer
For 20 people, you'll need:
🍖
28 racks
🧀
11 cups
🫘
7 cups
Estimated cost: $435 - $879
Detailed Breakdown
How to Execute This Combo Smoothly
This combo is balanced around main, side, side, so guests can build full plates without over-consuming one item. For 20 guests, start prep same day + 12 hours ahead before service and stage food in 2 waves to keep quality high throughout the event.
- Wave 1: serve 45-50% of total quantities at start time.
- Wave 2: refresh with 30-35% at peak attendance.
- Wave 3: hold final 15-20% for late guests and second servings.
- Keep each item labeled by role so guests build balanced plates faster.
Calculate for Different Group Sizes
Ribs with Mac and Cheese and Beans Tips
- Start ribs 4-5 hours before serving
- Make mac and cheese the day before and bake at party time
- Baked beans can be made in a slow cooker
- Provide plenty of napkins and wet wipes
- Rest ribs 10 minutes before cutting for juicier meat
Food Safety Resources:
Frequently Asked Questions
How many ribs per person with sides?
With substantial sides like mac and cheese and beans, plan for 4 ribs per person. Without sides, you'd need 5-6 ribs per person.
How do I time everything to be ready together?
Start ribs first (4-5 hours). Put beans in slow cooker 3 hours before. Bake pre-made mac and cheese 45 minutes before serving.
Editorial Process and Sources
Last reviewed: February 19, 2026
Publisher: FeedMyGuests Editorial Team · Contact: contact@feedmyguests.com
This combo page is generated from item-level calculator data for each component food, then reviewed for formula consistency, role balance, and link integrity before publication.
Reference Sources
- USDA FoodData Central Retrieved: February 19, 2026
- FDA Food Safety Guidance Retrieved: February 19, 2026
- USDA FSIS Safe Food Handling Retrieved: February 19, 2026