How Much Bacon Should You Buy to Feed a Large Group
When it comes to breakfast gatherings, bacon is a universal favorite that disappears in the blink of an eye. Deciding how much bacon to buy for a large group can be challenging, but fear not – we’ve got you covered. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the art of purchasing, cooking, and serving bacon to ensure everyone gets their fair share.
Buying Bacon for Your Group:
Determining the right amount of bacon depends on the size of your group and the serving style. As a general rule, plan for at least one pound of uncooked bacon for every three to four people. This translates to roughly three slices per person, considering that bacon tends to be a breakfast favorite.
For precise quantities, refer to this table:
- 10 Guests: 2.5 lbs (30 slices)
- 15 Guests: 3.75 lbs (45 slices)
- 20 Guests: 5 lbs (60 slices)
- 25 Guests: 6.25 lbs (75 slices)
- 30 Guests: 7.5 lbs (90 slices)
- 35 Guests: 8.75 lbs (105 slices)
- 40 Guests: 10 lbs (120 slices)
Remember, it’s better to round up when buying bacon to avoid running out.
Buffet Style vs. Serving Size:
If you’re opting for a buffet-style breakfast, plan for each guest to consume about a third of a pound of bacon. This means you’ll need approximately one pound of bacon for every three guests. Here’s a breakdown:
- 10 Guests: 3.33 lbs
- 15 Guests: 5 lbs
- 20 Guests: 6.66 lbs
- 25 Guests: 8.33 lbs
- 30 Guests: 10 lbs
- 35 Guests: 11.66 lbs
- 40 Guests: 13.33 lbs
While serving bacon buffet-style requires more quantity, it ensures everyone gets their desired share. However, keep in mind that bacon can be expensive, so you might want to strike a balance between quantity and cost by limiting serving sizes.
Choosing the Right Cut:
Opt for less taste-specific flavors, such as Applewood bacon, to cater to a broader audience. Additionally, consider the cut of bacon – thick-cut bacon tends to go further than thin-cut. If you choose thick-cut, adjust your quantities accordingly:
- 10 Guests: 1.66 lbs (20 slices)
- 15 Guests: 2.5 lbs (30 slices)
- 20 Guests: 3.33 lbs (40 slices)
- 25 Guests: 4.16 lbs (50 slices)
- 30 Guests: 5 lbs (60 slices)
- 35 Guests: 5.83 lbs (70 slices)
- 40 Guests: 6.66 lbs (80 slices)
However, keep in mind that thin-cut bacon is generally preferred by more people.
Cooking for a Crowd:
To efficiently cook bacon for a large group, consider baking it instead of frying. This not only saves time but also ensures even cooking and easier cleanup. Check out this recipe for baking bacon from House of Nash Eats.
Making Bacon Go Further:
Extend the life of your bacon by serving it alongside other dishes. Consider cutting the bacon in half, providing the illusion of a larger portion. If serving buffet-style, place the bacon at the end of the line to encourage moderation.
Conclusion:
With these tips, you’re well-equipped to master the art of serving bacon for large groups. Whether you’re hosting a family brunch or a church breakfast, your guests are sure to leave with smiles and satisfied stomachs.
