Planning a BBQ or cookout for a crowd can be both exciting and a little daunting. Figuring out the right amount of food to buy is crucial, and ribs are often a centerpiece of such gatherings. Overestimate and you’re left with mountains of leftovers. Underestimate and you’ve got hungry guests. This guide will break down exactly how many ribs you need for 20 people, taking into account various factors to ensure your event is a delicious success.
Understanding Rib Types and Portion Sizes
Before diving into the numbers, let’s quickly review the different types of ribs you might be considering. This is vital as each type varies significantly in meat content and overall size.
Baby Back Ribs
Baby back ribs are known for their tenderness and lean meat. They come from the upper portion of the pig’s rib cage, near the spine. A rack typically weighs between 1.5 to 2 pounds. Due to their smaller size and higher bone-to-meat ratio compared to other types, you’ll generally need to allocate more per person. Baby back ribs are a popular choice for those who prefer a leaner, more delicate flavor.
Spare Ribs
Spare ribs are cut from the belly side of the pig, below the baby back ribs. They are larger, meatier, and tend to be more flavorful due to higher fat content. A rack usually weighs between 2.5 to 3.5 pounds. Spare ribs are a favorite among BBQ enthusiasts who appreciate a richer, more robust taste.
St. Louis Style Ribs
St. Louis style ribs are spare ribs that have been trimmed for a more uniform shape. The sternum bone, cartilage, and rib tips are removed, making them easier to cook and eat. This trimming process typically results in a rack weighing around 2.5 to 3 pounds. St. Louis style ribs offer a good balance between meatiness and ease of preparation.
Rib Tips
Rib tips are the cartilaginous section cut away to make St. Louis-style ribs. While not technically ribs, they are a popular BBQ item on their own and can be a budget-friendly addition. They are high in fat and connective tissue, making them incredibly flavorful when cooked low and slow.
Now, let’s discuss portion sizes. For ribs, consider these general guidelines:
- Light eaters: 1/2 pound of cooked ribs per person.
- Average eaters: 3/4 pound of cooked ribs per person.
- Hearty eaters: 1 pound of cooked ribs per person.
Keep in mind these are cooked weights, so you’ll need to adjust based on the raw weight of the ribs you purchase, accounting for shrinkage during cooking.
Calculating the Amount of Ribs Needed for 20 People
Now we get to the core question: How much raw ribs to buy to serve 20 people? The answer depends on several factors, including the type of ribs, your guests’ appetites, and whether ribs are the only main course.
The Basic Calculation: Ribs as the Primary Main Course
If ribs are the undisputed star of your BBQ, meaning there will be little to no other substantial protein options, you’ll want to plan for more generous portions. Let’s use the average eater portion size of 3/4 pound of cooked ribs per person as our starting point.
- 20 people x 0.75 pounds/person = 15 pounds of cooked ribs.
Since ribs lose weight during cooking (due to fat rendering and water loss), you’ll need to buy more than 15 pounds of raw ribs. A general rule of thumb is that ribs lose about 30-40% of their weight during cooking. Let’s assume a 35% weight loss for this calculation.
- To calculate the raw weight needed: 15 pounds / (1 – 0.35) = 15 pounds / 0.65 = 23.08 pounds of raw ribs.
Therefore, if ribs are the primary main course, you should purchase approximately 23 pounds of raw ribs to feed 20 average eaters. Always round up to be safe.
Adjusting for Different Rib Types
The calculation above provides a good starting point, but you’ll need to adjust based on the specific type of ribs you’re serving.
- Baby Back Ribs: Due to the higher bone-to-meat ratio, increase the raw weight by about 10%. So, 23.08 pounds + 10% = approximately 25.4 pounds. Plan on about 13 racks of baby back ribs (assuming each rack averages around 2 pounds).
- Spare Ribs: Since spare ribs are meatier, you might be able to slightly decrease the raw weight by about 5%. So, 23.08 pounds – 5% = approximately 21.9 pounds. Plan on about 7-8 racks of spare ribs (assuming each rack averages around 3 pounds).
- St. Louis Style Ribs: The calculation for spare ribs generally applies well to St. Louis style ribs too. Aim for around 22 pounds of raw St. Louis ribs or approximately 7-8 racks.
Ribs as Part of a Larger Spread
If ribs are just one part of a larger BBQ spread with other substantial options like burgers, chicken, or pulled pork, you can reduce the amount of ribs needed. In this case, consider the light eater portion size of 1/2 pound of cooked ribs per person.
- 20 people x 0.5 pounds/person = 10 pounds of cooked ribs.
Adjusting for the 35% weight loss during cooking:
- 10 pounds / 0.65 = 15.38 pounds of raw ribs.
In this scenario, you’d need approximately 15 pounds of raw ribs. Adjust upwards or downwards based on the popularity of ribs among your guests and the abundance of other options.
Considering Your Guests’ Appetites
Think about your guest list. Are they generally light eaters, average eaters, or do you have a group of hearty eaters? If you know you have a group that tends to eat a lot, err on the side of caution and plan for closer to 1 pound of cooked ribs per person, adjusting the raw weight accordingly.
- 20 people x 1 pound/person = 20 pounds of cooked ribs.
- 20 pounds / 0.65 = 30.77 pounds of raw ribs.
For a group of hearty eaters, plan on purchasing approximately 31 pounds of raw ribs.
Accounting for Leftovers
Do you want leftovers? Many people love having leftover ribs to enjoy the next day. If you want a reasonable amount of leftovers, increase your raw weight calculation by 10-20%. This will ensure there’s enough for everyone to have their fill during the event and still have some extra for those who want seconds or for a tasty meal the following day.
Beyond the Ribs: Complementary Sides and Drinks
Don’t forget that ribs are best enjoyed with a variety of complementary sides and drinks. Providing a well-rounded menu will enhance the overall dining experience and potentially reduce the amount of ribs your guests consume, influencing how much to buy.
Some popular BBQ side dishes include:
- Coleslaw
- Potato salad
- Macaroni and cheese
- Corn on the cob
- Baked beans
- Green salad
- Cornbread
Offer a variety of these sides to cater to different tastes. Also, ensure you have plenty of refreshing drinks available, such as iced tea, lemonade, soda, and beer.
Tips for Buying and Cooking Ribs
- Buy from a reputable butcher or grocery store: Choose ribs that look fresh and have good marbling (intramuscular fat). Avoid ribs that appear dry or discolored.
- Consider buying in bulk: If you’re buying a large quantity of ribs, ask your butcher if they offer a bulk discount.
- Plan ahead: Ribs typically require several hours of cooking time, so plan accordingly.
- Use a reliable recipe: There are countless rib recipes available online and in cookbooks. Choose one that suits your taste and cooking style.
- Cook low and slow: For tender, juicy ribs, cook them at a low temperature (around 225-250°F) for several hours.
- Use a meat thermometer: A meat thermometer is essential for ensuring your ribs are cooked to the proper internal temperature. For ribs, aim for an internal temperature of around 190-203°F.
- Rest the ribs before slicing: After cooking, let the ribs rest for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender product.
Putting It All Together: A Quick Reference Guide
Here’s a summary of the recommendations for purchasing ribs for 20 people:
- Ribs as the main course, average eaters: Approximately 23 pounds of raw ribs.
- Ribs as the main course, baby back ribs: Approximately 25.4 pounds of raw ribs (around 13 racks).
- Ribs as the main course, spare or St. Louis style ribs: Approximately 22 pounds of raw ribs (around 7-8 racks).
- Ribs as part of a larger spread: Approximately 15 pounds of raw ribs.
- Hearty eaters: Approximately 31 pounds of raw ribs.
Remember to adjust these figures based on your specific circumstances and preferences. Buying slightly more than you think you need is always a safer bet than running out of food. Enjoy your BBQ!
How much raw rib weight should I buy for a gathering of 20 people?
Generally, you should plan on about 1/2 pound (8 ounces) of raw ribs per person if you’re serving other substantial side dishes. However, if ribs are the main focus and your guests have healthy appetites, aiming for 3/4 pound (12 ounces) to 1 pound (16 ounces) per person is a safer bet. Remember, this is raw weight, which will decrease during cooking due to fat rendering and bone weight.
Therefore, for 20 people, you’ll need to purchase between 10 pounds (20 x 0.5 lbs) and 20 pounds (20 x 1 lb) of raw ribs. Consider your guests’ appetites, the number of side dishes, and the type of ribs you’re serving (beef ribs tend to be larger and more filling than pork ribs) when making your final decision.
What types of ribs are best for feeding a crowd of 20?
For a large group, pork spare ribs or baby back ribs are often popular and cost-effective choices. Spare ribs are larger and meatier, offering more bang for your buck. Baby back ribs are leaner and more tender, appealing to a wider audience. Consider offering a combination of both for variety.
Beef ribs, like beef short ribs or back ribs, can also be delicious but are typically more expensive and require longer cooking times. If your budget allows and you’re comfortable with the cooking process, they can be a impressive and flavorful option, but ensure you are experienced with cooking them at scale.
How do I calculate the number of rib racks needed for 20 people?
The number of racks needed depends on the type of ribs and their size. A typical rack of baby back ribs weighs around 2 pounds and contains approximately 10-13 ribs. A rack of spare ribs usually weighs between 2.5 and 3 pounds, containing about 11-13 ribs.
Based on the 1/2 pound per person estimate, you’d need roughly 10 pounds of ribs total. This translates to about 5 racks of baby back ribs (10 pounds / 2 pounds per rack) or 3-4 racks of spare ribs (10 pounds / 2.5-3 pounds per rack). If you’re aiming for the 1 pound per person estimate, double those numbers.
What side dishes complement ribs when feeding a large group?
Classic BBQ side dishes that complement ribs perfectly include coleslaw, potato salad, baked beans, and corn on the cob. These offer a variety of flavors and textures, balancing the richness of the ribs. Consider offering a green salad or a vegetable platter to provide a lighter, refreshing option.
For a larger gathering, consider also providing cornbread, mac and cheese, or even a hearty chili to add more substantial options. Remember to cater to dietary restrictions by offering vegetarian or gluten-free choices. A good balance of flavors and textures will ensure a satisfying meal for everyone.
How can I efficiently cook ribs for a large gathering?
Cooking ribs for a large group requires planning and efficient methods. Consider using multiple cooking surfaces, such as multiple grills or a combination of grilling and oven baking. Slow cooking methods, like smoking or using a slow cooker, can be ideal for achieving tenderness and flavor.
Batch cooking is also a helpful strategy. Cook the ribs in stages, storing them in a warm oven or insulated container until ready to serve. Prepping the ribs in advance, such as trimming and applying a dry rub the night before, will save time and streamline the cooking process. Utilizing equipment like a smoker or multiple grills can also greatly expedite the process and allow for even cooking.
How do I keep ribs warm before serving to 20 people?
Keeping ribs warm without drying them out is crucial for a large gathering. The best method is to wrap the cooked ribs tightly in foil and place them in a warm oven (around 200°F or 93°C) or a warming drawer. This will maintain their temperature without overcooking them.
Another option is to use a large insulated cooler. Line the cooler with foil and towels, then place the wrapped ribs inside. The insulation will help retain the heat for several hours. Avoid using chafing dishes, as they can dry out the ribs if not carefully monitored. Always ensure the ribs maintain a safe internal temperature to prevent foodborne illness.
How can I estimate costs and stay within budget for a rib feast for 20?
Start by researching the current prices of different types of ribs at your local grocery stores or butcher shops. Compare prices per pound to determine the most cost-effective option. Don’t forget to factor in the cost of other ingredients, such as dry rub, sauce, and side dishes.
Create a detailed shopping list and stick to it to avoid impulse purchases. Consider buying in bulk to save money, especially for items like dry rub ingredients or sides that can be made in large quantities. Also, explore options like hosting a potluck where guests contribute side dishes or desserts, which can significantly reduce your overall expenses.