Are you planning a backyard BBQ party and wondering how much pulled pork you need to make for 50 guests?
It can be a daunting task to estimate the amount of meat needed, especially if you’re not used to cooking for large crowds. But fear not, we’ve got you covered!
In this article, we’ll break down the calculations and give you some tips on how to ensure everyone leaves satisfied and full.
So grab a cold drink, sit back, and let’s dive into the world of BBQ sliders and pulled pork!
How Much Pulled Pork For BBQ Sliders For 50?
The general rule of thumb for pulled pork is to estimate about 1/3 pound of cooked meat per person. This means that for 50 guests, you’ll need approximately 16-17 pounds of cooked pulled pork.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that during the cooking process, the meat will shrink about 40-50%, losing about half of its weight in moisture and fat as it cooks. This applies to all cooking methods, including smoking, grilling, roasting the meat, and even in a slow cooker.
So, to get the required amount of cooked pulled pork, you’ll need to start with approximately 32-34 pounds of raw pork. This calculation assumes that you’re using boneless pork shoulder or Boston butt. If you’re using bone-in pork, you’ll need to add some extra weight to account for the bones. Generally speaking, bone-in pork will lose about 40% of its weight when cooked and shredded.
If you’re serving BBQ sliders, keep in mind that each slider typically uses about 2.5 ounces of meat. This means that you can get approximately six generous sliders per pound of pulled pork. So for 50 guests, you’ll need around 8-9 pounds of cooked pulled pork to make enough sliders.
Calculating The Amount Of Pulled Pork Needed
Calculating the amount of pulled pork needed for your BBQ sliders for 50 guests can seem daunting, but it’s actually quite simple. To start, you’ll need to estimate about 1/3 pound of cooked pulled pork per person. For 50 guests, this means you’ll need approximately 16-17 pounds of cooked pulled pork.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that during the cooking process, the meat will shrink about 40-50%, losing about half of its weight in moisture and fat as it cooks. This means that to get the required amount of cooked pulled pork, you’ll need to start with approximately 32-34 pounds of raw pork.
If you’re using boneless pork shoulder or Boston butt, this calculation should be accurate. But if you’re using bone-in pork, you’ll need to add some extra weight to account for the bones. Generally speaking, bone-in pork will lose about 40% of its weight when cooked and shredded.
It’s also important to consider the serving size for your BBQ sliders. Each slider typically uses about 2.5 ounces of meat. This means that you can get approximately six generous sliders per pound of pulled pork. So for 50 guests, you’ll need around 8-9 pounds of cooked pulled pork to make enough sliders.
Choosing The Right Cut Of Pork
When it comes to making pulled pork for BBQ sliders, the best cut of pork to use is the pork shoulder or Boston butt. These cuts are ideal for slow cooking and will result in tender, juicy meat that shreds easily.
When choosing your pork, look for a cut that is well-marbled with fat, as this will help keep the meat moist and flavorful during the cooking process. The meat should also be a bright pink or reddish color, and should feel firm to the touch. Avoid any cuts that appear gray or discolored, as this can indicate that the meat is past its prime.
If possible, opt for boneless pork shoulder or Boston butt, as this will make it easier to shred the meat once it’s cooked. However, if you do choose a bone-in cut, be sure to factor in the weight of the bones when calculating how much raw pork you’ll need to buy.
Tips For Preparing The Meat In Advance
Preparing pulled pork for 50 guests can be a daunting task, but with a little planning and preparation, it can be a breeze. Here are some tips for preparing the meat in advance:
1. Buy the right cut of meat: The best cut of meat for pulled pork is a boneless pork shoulder or Boston butt. Make sure to buy enough meat to feed your guests, keeping in mind that the meat will shrink as it cooks.
2. Season the meat: Rub your pork shoulder or Boston butt with your favorite dry rub or marinade at least 24 hours before cooking. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat and create a delicious crust on the outside.
3. Cook the meat low and slow: Slow cooking is the key to tender, juicy pulled pork. Set your oven or smoker to 250 degrees Fahrenheit and cook the meat for 6-8 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 195-205 degrees Fahrenheit.
4. Let the meat rest: Once the meat is cooked, remove it from the oven or smoker and let it rest for at least 30 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it even more tender and delicious.
5. Shred the meat: Use two forks to shred the meat into small pieces. Be sure to remove any excess fat or gristle as you go.
6. Store the meat properly: If you’re not serving the pulled pork right away, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze it for up to six months.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to prepare delicious pulled pork in advance that’s sure to impress your guests at your next BBQ slider party!
Serving Suggestions And Accompaniments
When serving pulled pork sliders for a crowd, it’s important to have a variety of accompaniments and sides to round out the meal. Here are some serving suggestions to consider:
1. Slider Buns: Choose soft and fluffy slider buns that can hold up to the juicy pulled pork. Consider offering a mix of regular buns and mini brioche buns for variety.
2. Coleslaw: A classic coleslaw is the perfect side dish for pulled pork sliders. The crunchy texture and tangy flavor complement the rich and savory pork.
3. BBQ Sauce: Offer a selection of BBQ sauces for guests to choose from. You can make your own or provide store-bought options.
4. Pickles: Pickles add a tangy and refreshing element to the sliders. Offer both dill and sweet pickles for variety.
5. Chips: Serve up a variety of chips, such as kettle chips, tortilla chips, or potato chips, as a crunchy side dish.
6. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is another classic accompaniment to pulled pork. Serve it warm with butter on the side.
7. Baked Beans: Hearty baked beans are a filling and flavorful side dish that pair well with pulled pork.
8. Mac and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese is always a crowd-pleaser. Consider offering a variety of toppings, such as bacon bits or breadcrumbs.
9. Salad: A light salad can balance out the richness of the pulled pork. Consider serving a simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing.
By offering a variety of sides and accompaniments, you can create a well-rounded meal that will satisfy all your guests’ cravings. Don’t forget to label each dish so guests know what they’re eating!
How To Adjust The Amount For Larger Or Smaller Crowds
If you’re cooking for a larger or smaller crowd, you can adjust the amount of pulled pork needed accordingly. The general rule of thumb of 1/3 pound of cooked pulled pork per person still applies, but here are some calculations to help you adjust the amount needed:
For 5 people: You’ll need approximately 1.5 pounds of cooked pulled pork, which means you’ll need around 3 pounds of raw pork.
For 10 people: You’ll need approximately 3.5 pounds of cooked pulled pork, which means you’ll need around 7 pounds of raw pork.
For 25 people: You’ll need approximately 8.5 pounds of cooked pulled pork, which means you’ll need around 17-18 pounds of raw pork.
For 100 people: You’ll need approximately 34 pounds of cooked pulled pork, which means you’ll need around 68-70 pounds of raw pork.
Remember, these calculations are just estimates and can vary depending on how much meat your guests typically consume and what other sides or dishes you’re serving. It’s always better to have a little extra than to run out of food, so consider adding an extra pound or two of raw pork just in case.
Additionally, keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the size and type of your cut of meat. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure that your pulled pork has reached an internal temperature of at least 195°F to ensure that it’s tender and safe to eat.
