LookHow the party food calculator works
Kids count as half an adult. Choose appetizers only, a buffet, a sit-down dinner or Thanksgiving turkey mode, then read pounds or pieces for each course. These are planning estimates for shopping, not plated service.
- Appetizers only: about 4 pieces per adult-equivalent per hour.
- Buffet dinner: 4 appetizer pieces, 0.5 lb main protein, 0.375 lb sides, 1.5 rolls and 1.5 dessert servings per adult-equivalent.
- Sit-down dinner: slightly smaller course amounts than a buffet (0.375 lb protein, 0.25 lb sides).
- Thanksgiving turkey: 1.5 lb whole turkey per guest, or 2 lb with leftovers, plus sides, bread and dessert.
Stock the bar with the party drinks calculator. Set the table with Thanksgiving table decor or read How to set a Thanksgiving table.
Buffet shopping amounts by guest count
Three-hour buffet, adults only. Use the calculator above to add kids, change the length or switch to sit-down or Thanksgiving.
| Guests | Appetizers | Main (lb) | Sides (lb) | Bread | Dessert |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 32 | 4 | 3 | 12 | 12 |
| 12 | 48 | 6 | 4.5 | 18 | 18 |
| 20 | 80 | 10 | 7.5 | 30 | 30 |
| 30 | 120 | 15 | 11.5 | 45 | 45 |
Shop the look
Once the menu is set, dress the table from an existing party or holiday plan.
Party food: common questions
How much food do I need for 12 adults at a buffet?
For a three-hour buffet, plan about 48 appetizer pieces, 6 lb of main protein, 4.5 lb of sides, 18 rolls and 18 dessert servings. Kids count as half.
How much turkey per person for Thanksgiving?
About 1.5 lb of whole turkey per adult-equivalent, or 2 lb if you want leftovers. Ten adults need about 15 lb, or 20 lb with leftovers.
Do kids count the same as adults?
No. Kids count as half an adult for every course. Two kids add one adult-equivalent to the shopping list.
Are these exact portions?
No. They are planning estimates for shopping. Appetites, leftovers and package sizes vary — round up when you want a buffer, and confirm store weights before you buy.
Planning estimates for shopping only. Confirm package weights, dietary needs and leftovers before you buy.