Portion Size Calculator
Scale ingredient quantities for a dinner party or event from a standard per-person portion size and guest count.
Total food needed
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In pounds —
In kilograms —
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How it works
Total needed = per-person portion × number of guests, with a buffer for secondsFrequently Asked Questions
How much food should I plan per person for a party?
General guides: about 1 lb (450g) of main course per adult for a full meal, ½–¾ lb for a buffet with multiple dishes, and roughly 4–6 oz of appetizers per person over a 1-hour period before a meal.
Should I add extra for unexpected guests or seconds?
Yes — a 10–15% buffer covers larger appetites and no-shows evening out, without wildly overordering. This calculator includes an adjustable buffer percentage.
Does portion size change for kids vs adults?
Yes — children typically eat roughly half to two-thirds of an adult portion. If your guest list includes several children, reduce your total estimate proportionally rather than treating every guest as a full adult portion.