How To Order Catering Portions Without Overbuying

Ordering catering should be simple. However, getting the right portions can be challenging. Too much food leads to unnecessary waste, while too little leaves guests hungry. Striking that balance keeps your event running smoothly without overspending or scrambling for extra dishes.

Knowing how to order catering the right way comes down to understanding your guest count, event style, and how people eat. A little planning make sure that every plate is filled just right, without piles of leftovers or empty trays.

Let’s break it down so your next event hits the mark.

Factors That Affect Catering Portions

Getting portions right isn’t just about numbers. It’s about knowing your guests, the type of event, and how the food will be served. A few key details make all the difference between ordering just enough and ending up with a fridge full of leftovers.

• Event Type: A casual brunch has a different vibe than a formal dinner. Buffets let guests serve themselves, which means some might load up while others take small portions. On the other hand, a plated meal requires well-measured servings to make sure everyone gets their fair share.
• Guest List: A group of teenagers will eat way more than a crowd of grandparents. If your event is packed with food lovers, they’ll want to sample everything. Knowing your audience helps you fine-tune portions to fit their appetites.
• Time of Day: A light breakfast meeting won’t need as much food as an evening party where guests linger and eat more over time. The longer the event, the more food you’ll need to keep everyone happy.
• Menu Variety: If you’re offering a bunch of different dishes, guests will naturally take smaller portions of each. However, if the menu is limited, expect them to take larger servings of what’s available.

How to Order Catering Portions Without Overbuying

Getting catering portions right comes down to understanding standard serving sizes. Every event is different. However, knowing how much food is typically needed per person helps prevent overordering.

• Main Dishes: Plan for 6 to 8 ounces of protein per person for meats, poultry, or fish. If your menu includes a vegetarian entrée, 5 to 6 ounces per person should be enough.
• Side Dishes: For starchy sides like potatoes, rice, or pasta, 4 to 6 ounces per person is a good estimate. Vegetables should be around 3 to 4 ounces per serving to balance out the meal.
• Appetizers: If appetizers are served before a meal, guests typically eat 4 to 6 pieces each. For a cocktail-style event where appetizers are the main focus, plan for 6 to 8 pieces per hour per guest.
• Desserts: A single dessert option calls for one serving per person. On the other hand, if you’re offering multiple choices, 1.5 servings per person accounts for guests who want to try more than one.
• Beverages: Expect guests to drink 1 to 2 glasses of water each. Coffee and tea should be planned at one cup per person, while alcoholic beverages usually go at a rate of two drinks per person for the first hour, then one per hour after that.

A little planning with these estimates keeps your event running smoothly. Guests get enough to enjoy, and you avoid unnecessary leftovers.

Practical Tips to Avoid Overbuying

Ordering the right amount of food starts with knowing your guest count and choosing the right serving style. Buffets usually require less per person since guests take smaller portions of multiple dishes. Meanwhile, plated meals need carefully measured servings. Checking RSVPs helps prevent overordering, and if last-minute changes are common, adjusting the numbers slightly can make a difference.

A quick chat with your caterer can also help fine-tune portions based on experience. If minimizing waste is the goal, ordering just under the estimated amount keeps things balanced.

When offering a variety of dishes, slightly reducing portion sizes per item prevents excess without leaving guests hungry. Keeping these details in mind makes catering smooth, cost-effective, and stress-free.

Let’s Make Your Next Event a Hit

Getting catering portions right means happy guests, no wasted food, and a smooth event from start to finish. With a little planning, you can serve just the right amount without worrying about leftovers or running short.

If you’re looking for catering that brings bold flavors and scratch-made goodness to the table, The Sassy Biscuit Co. has you covered. Whether it’s a laid-back brunch or a full-on breakfast feast, our team knows how to portion the perfect spread.

Let’s talk about your event and craft a menu that fits just right. Get in touch today and let’s make it happen.