ClutchCalcs

Food & Kitchen

Cookout Planner Calculator

Plan a backyard BBQ or cookout for any guest count. Pick your proteins, sides, and drinks — get exact shopping quantities, plus all the supplies (cups, plates, napkins, ice). No more last-minute store runs.

Proteins

Pick all that apply. We'll split servings proportionally.

Sides

Each guest eats ~3-4 oz from each side, more if you pick fewer sides.

Drinks

Estimates 2-3 drinks per guest for a 4-hour event, scales with duration.

Cookout summary

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🍖 Proteins

    🥗 Sides

      🥤 Drinks + ice

        🧻 Supplies

          Pro tips

          • Always buy 10-15% extra protein. Better to have leftovers than run out.
          • Outdoor events in summer heat? Double the water and ice.
          • If serving food buffet-style, count 1.5x the per-person side amount — people pile their plates.
          • Have something for vegetarians even if you don't think you have any — surprise dietary restrictions happen.

          Common cookout quantities at a glance

          ItemPer personFor 20 guests
          Hamburger patties1.5 burgers30 patties
          Hot dogs2 dogs40 dogs
          Chicken thighs2 thighs40 thighs
          Pulled pork1/3 lb cooked~7 lb cooked (12 lb raw)
          Brisket1/3 lb cooked~7 lb cooked (14 lb raw)
          Each side3-4 oz4-5 lb total
          Drinks (4-hr event)3 drinks60 servings
          Napkins3-4 each70-80 napkins
          Cups3-4 each70-80 cups
          Ice1 lb each (warm day)20 lb

          FAQ

          Should I always have multiple proteins? +
          For 15+ guests, yes. Two proteins is the sweet spot — pick one fast-grill (burgers, dogs, chicken) and one slow-cook (pulled pork, brisket). For 30+ guests, three proteins keeps the line moving.
          How much beer should I plan for? +
          If beer is the main drink: 2-3 beers per adult guest for a 4-hour event. Mix beer + soda + water: drop to ~1.5 beers each. Always buy a case more than you think you need — leftovers keep.
          Why does the calculator increase quantities per hour? +
          People drink more the longer they're around. A 2-hour quick lunch needs ~1.5 drinks/person; a 6-hour all-day cookout needs 4+. Food scales much less than drinks with time.
          What about kids? +
          Kids eat ~half the adult portion. The "Light" appetite setting accounts for a family-heavy crowd. For a kid-dominant party, set Light + add juice boxes.
          Buying buns? +
          Buy hot dog and burger buns in the same count as the protein. Brioche buns hold up better with juicy burgers; potato buns are softer. Always grab a few extras — buns get squished.
          How much ice do I really need? +
          Plan 1 lb per guest for hot days (80°F+), 1/2 lb for cool weather. If you're chilling drinks in coolers vs ice for cups, that doubles. Bagged ice from a gas station is cheaper than grocery stores.