When it comes to hosting an event, the question of “How many pizzas for 20 people?” can seem as complex as solving a mathematical conundrum. Whether it’s a birthday bash, a game night, or a casual get-together, pizza invariably becomes the centerpiece of the feast. However, the challenge of ordering the perfect amount—ensuring every guest is satisfied without being left with a mountain of leftovers—can be daunting. With Americans consuming an average of 27 pounds of pizza per person each year, it’s clear that pizza is not just a meal; it’s a cultural phenomenon.
Our comprehensive guide is crafted by food enthusiasts and party planning experts who understand the intricacies of catering to a crowd. We dive into the nuances of pizza ordering, considering factors like pizza sizes, types, and guests’ appetites, to bring you a foolproof method for ordering pizza for 20 people. By navigating through our insights, you’ll discover not just the magic number of pizzas to order, but also how to customize your order to match the preferences and dietary needs of your guests.
As you read on, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to make informed decisions, turning a potentially stressful part of party planning into a seamless, enjoyable experience. Say goodbye to last-minute pizza runs and hello to a gathering where the pizza flows just right, and the only thing left over at the end of the night is the joy of a party well-hosted. Let’s embark on this delicious journey together, ensuring your next event is talked about for all the right reasons.
A Crusty Guide to Pizza Sizes
Not all pizzas are created equal. Here’s a comparison of the most common sizes and slice servings:
Personal Pizza (6 inches): 1-2 slices
Small (10 inches): 4 slices
Medium (12 inches): 6 slices
Large (14 inches): 8 slices
Extra Large (16+ inches): 10+ slices
See more : How Many Slices In A Large Pizza | Get Your Answers Here
Adjust servings for thick or thin crusts, deep dish, and non-circular pizzas. Square-cut, party-cut, and Chicago-style change the math too.
Contents
Appetite as the Wild Card
The problem with establishing serving sizes is that appetites vary hugely. Some people can put away three slices, while others tap out after one. Kids, teens, and adults often consume different amounts. And events like birthday parties or Super Bowl watch parties tend to spike consumption vs. more casual get-togethers.
Allergies, dietary preferences for vegan or gluten-free also decrease the pool of pizza eaters. The key is building flexibility into your order to accommodate diverse tastes and appetites.
Feeding a Crowd: Pizza Strategies
Okay, time to tackle a sample scenario: ordering pizza for 20 people. But first, consider the basics:
- Audience: More pizza will be required for teens than older adults.
- Dietary needs: Order a vegan pizza and/or gluten-free option.
- Budget: Look for deals like 2-for-1 specials or coupons to save money.
Now for the math. There’s an old pizza ordering rule: Get 3/8 of a pizza per person. For 20 people, that would be 8 pizzas. But with the variables above, erring on the side of extra is advisable. Start with 10-12 pizzas total. Get a mix of meat, veggie, and plain cheese.
Hacks for Pizza Success
See more : The Ultimate Guide to Understanding a 12 Inch Pizza’s Size
A few additional pointers for pizza ordering glory:
- Time of day: Appetites are smaller earlier in the day.
- Weather: Cooler weather amps up pizza consumption.
- Pair with sides: Add salads, wings, or breadsticks.
- Leftover plan: Donate or serve cold pizza the next day if over-ordering.
Experts also recommend ordering from restaurants with fast, reliable delivery. Having pizzas arrive hot and fresh is key to enjoyment and making sure there are quick replacements if an order gets messed up.
Advanced Pizza Party Prep
Once you’ve mastered pizza quantities, take your soiree to the next level with these pro tips:
- Reduce waste: Opt for recyclable boxes and plates. Compost napkins.
- Offer healthy options: Salads, veggie pizzas, and fruit make balance.
- Regional preferences: New Yorkers expect thin crust, while Chicagoans crave deep dish.
- Tools: Use online calculators to determine quantities.
- Budget: Get quotes from a few pizza places to compare pricing.
- Timing: Factor in delivery time so food arrives fresh and hot.
- Extras: Provide Parmesan, red pepper flakes, and garlic powder for customization.
Pizza Party Pointers in Action
Here are some real-world examples of pizza party perfection:
- For a kid’s sleepover with 10 guests plus parents, order 4 extra-large (16”) pizzas with at least half cheese. Offer wings, breadsticks, and salads on the side.
- For a Super Bowl party with 25 football-loving adults, order 20 medium pizzas with a selection of meat and veggie toppings. Finish with brownies and cookies.
- For a retirement party with 30 colleagues during a lunchtime celebration, order 24 small pizzas with diverse toppings. Include salads and finger sandwiches to supplement.
The Final Slice
We’ve covered all the angles on orchestrating a seamless pizza party: studying serving sizes, budgeting costs, coordinating logistics, meeting dietary needs, and incorporating special touches.
The most important detail: focus on fun and connection over food anxiety. Pizza brings people together, so enjoy the perfect party paired with perfect pizza orders thanks to your newfound expertise. Just be sure to save me a slice!
Chef Angelo Landi has been in the culinary industry for over 20 years, and he has spent the last six of those developing the menu for Coal Vines. His favorite pizza on the menu is the Spicey Meatball, which is made with spicy sausage, pepperoni, and calabrese salami. When he’s not in the kitchen cooking up a storm, Chef Angelo enjoys spending time with his wife and two young children.
