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How Much BBQ Meat Per Person?
BBQ portions can be tricky because bone-in meats weigh more but yield less. The standard rule: 1/2 pound of cooked meat per person for a meat-focused BBQ with sides, or 1/3 pound if serving multiple proteins or heavy sides.
Meat Guide
Pulled Pork: Buy 1/2 lb raw per person (shrinks to 1/3 lb cooked). A 10 lb pork shoulder feeds 20-25 people.
Brisket: 1/2 lb raw per person (shrinks to 1/3 lb). Brisket has significant fat loss.
Ribs: 1 lb per person (bone-in). Half rack per adult, 1/3 rack per child.
Chicken: 2 pieces per person (1/2 to 3/4 lb per person).
BBQ Party Tips
Start your smoker early - brisket takes 12-16 hours, pork shoulder 8-12 hours. Ribs need 4-6 hours. Cook to temperature, not time. Rest meats before serving. Have backup proteins in case cooking takes longer than expected.