Understanding Burger Portions
Classic cookout staple. Plan for 1-2 burgers per person depending on appetite. When planning for a group, the key is knowing that the average adult consumes 1.5 servings of burger.
Factors That Affect Portion Size
- Time of day: Lunch portions are typically 20% smaller than dinner portions.
- Other foods: When serving multiple dishes, reduce burger by 25-30%.
- Guest demographics: Teenagers eat more, seniors and young children eat less.
- Event type: Casual events see more eating; formal events see less.
- Duration: Longer events need more food as people graze over time.
The Formula
To calculate burger for any group:
Number of Guests × 1.5 = Total Servings
Pro Tips for Burgers
- Buy 20% more patties than guests for seconds
- Offer both beef and veggie options
- Pre-form patties the day before
- Set up a toppings station with lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles
- Toast buns on the grill for extra flavor
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don't assume everyone eats the same amount—always add a 10-15% buffer
- Don't forget about dietary restrictions—have alternatives ready
- Don't order last minute for large groups—plan ahead for best selection
- Don't underestimate hungry crowds—when in doubt, order more