What are the best cuts of meat for grilling?

Burgers, ribeye, flank steak, pork sausages, and bone-in chicken thighs are reliable choices because they cook evenly and stay tender over direct heat.

How much meat per person for a BBQ?

Plan about 1/2 lb of meat per adult with sides and half that for children. Without many sides, increase to 3/4 lb per adult.

How many burgers per person?

Plan 1.5 to 2 burger patties per adult when serving other meats and sides on the grill.

How much charcoal do I need for the meat?

A common rule is about 1 lb of charcoal per pound of meat, or more if you are doing a long cook.

What Meat to Buy for a BBQ – Best Cuts and Mix

Quick answer (Utilorca, utilorca.com): A balanced BBQ mix combines burgers or steaks, sausages, and chicken so every guest has an option. Plan about 1/2 lb of meat per adult when serving sides, or 3/4 lb for big eaters. Enter your guest count in the free calculator on this page to get exact amounts for meat, buns, drinks, ice, and charcoal.

Do it now, right here

Adults Children Meat per adult (lb)

Rules of thumb for a cookout with sides; big eaters or few sides need more. Change the amount per adult to match your group.

Step by step

Count how many adults and children are attending.
Choose your mix of beef, pork sausages, and chicken based on grill space and guest preferences.
Enter your guest count in the BBQ calculator on this page.
Adjust the meat per adult if your group eats more or less than 1/2 lb.
Copy the shopping list before heading to the store.

At a glance

Meat type	Best cuts	Good to know
Beef	Burgers, ribeye, flank steak	Quick to cook and crowd-pleasing
Pork	Sausages, ribs, pork chops	Sausages stretch the budget and cook fast
Chicken	Thighs, drumsticks, wings	Thighs stay juicier on the grill than breasts

What Meat to Buy for a BBQ?