How many people are you feeding and how hungry are they?
$15
16
$81
14
| Item | Qty | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Burger Patties | 28 patties | $42 |
| Hot Dogs | 28 dogs | $17 |
| Buns | 56 buns | $22 |
| Item | Qty | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Coleslaw | 56 oz | $28 |
| Corn on the Cob | 14 ears | $11 |
| Potato Salad | 70 oz | $42 |
| Watermelon | 28 slices | $14 |
| Item | Qty | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Soda/Water | 42 cans | $21 |
| Lemonade | 28 cups | $8 |
| Item | Qty | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Condiments & Supplies | 1 set | $15 |
| Charcoal | 1 bag | $12 |
| Protein | Grill Time | Temp |
|---|---|---|
| Burgers | 4-5 min/side | 160°F internal |
| Hot Dogs | 5-7 min total | 165°F internal |
| Chicken | 6-8 min/side | 165°F internal |
| Ribs | 3-4 hours low & slow | 225°F grill |
| Pulled Pork | 1.5 hours/lb | 225°F grill, 200°F internal |
Inputs
Result
With 18 effective guests (16 adults + 4 half-portions), you need 36 burger patties and 36 hot dogs plus 72 buns. Including default sides (coleslaw, corn, potato salad, watermelon) and drinks, the total is $290.70 — about $14.54 per person versus $360 for catering at $18/head.
Inputs
Result
Heavy appetites (1.3x multiplier) with 7 effective guests means 19 burgers, 19 hot dogs, 19 chicken pieces, and 5 rib racks. Ribs at $14.99/rack drive the meat cost to $163.30. The premium four-protein menu pushes per-person cost to $34.14.
Inputs
Result
With 27 effective guests, you need 54 burger patties, 54 hot dogs, 9 lbs of pulled pork, and 117 buns. Two bags of charcoal cover the 30-person headcount. At $483.06 total ($16.10/person), it still saves $56.94 compared to $540 for catering at $18/head.
Plan for about 1/3 to 1/2 pound of cooked meat per adult guest. For a mixed-protein BBQ with burgers and hot dogs, budget 2 burger patties and 2 hot dogs per person. Children typically eat half an adult portion. Add 10-15% extra for heavy appetites.
Plan for 3 cans of soda or water and 2 cups of lemonade per adult for a 3-4 hour BBQ. For hot weather, increase by 25%. Children drink slightly less. Always have extra water on hand regardless of other drink options.
Classic BBQ sides include coleslaw (4 oz/person), corn on the cob (1 ear/person), potato salad (5 oz/person), baked beans (4 oz/person), and mac & cheese (6 oz/person). Serve 3-4 sides total for variety without overwhelming your prep list.
| Side Dish | Per Person | Cost per Serving | Prep Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coleslaw | 4 oz | $0.40 | 15 min |
| Corn on the cob | 1 ear | $0.50 | 5 min |
| Potato salad | 5 oz | $0.60 | 30 min |
| Baked beans | 4 oz | $0.35 | 10 min |
| Watermelon | 2 slices | $0.30 | 5 min |
A DIY backyard BBQ with burgers, hot dogs, sides, and drinks costs roughly $8-12 per person in 2026, depending on your menu. That compares favorably to catering at $15-22 per person. Buying in bulk at warehouse stores can reduce your per-person cost by 20-30%.
One standard 15-pound bag of charcoal is enough for about 20 guests. For a longer cook with ribs or pulled pork, plan for an extra half bag. A full chimney starter holds about 5 pounds and provides 45-60 minutes of high-heat grilling.
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Last Updated: Mar 9, 2026
This calculator is provided for informational and educational purposes only. Results are estimates and should not be considered professional financial, medical, legal, or other advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making important decisions. UseCalcPro is not responsible for any actions taken based on calculator results.