Party checklist
Backyard BBQ and cookout checklist
Enter the day of the cookout and the number of guests. The list counts what goes on the grill and on the table, switches between gas and charcoal tasks and adds what you need if it runs past sunset.
Two weeks before
Grill tools
For the grill
Sides, dessert and drinks
Table and garden
On the day
Tips for the cook
- Cook in waves. Sausages and chicken take longest, so start them first and put burgers on when the first guests have a drink in hand.
- The counts assume most people eat one burger and one sausage. They are planning estimates: a crowd of hungry teenagers needs more, an afternoon with many small children needs less.
- Set up the drinks away from the grill. It splits the crowd and keeps people out of the cook's way.
- If guests bring the sides, your shopping drops to the grill food, drinks and tableware. Switch the option and the salad bowls leave the list.
Questions
How many burgers and hot dogs do I need for a cookout?
This list counts one burger patty for each guest plus three, and one sausage or hot dog for each guest plus two, with the same number of buns and rolls. Enter your guest number to see the totals; they are estimates to shop from.
What is different between the gas and charcoal lists?
Gas adds checking the bottle, a spare and turning it off afterwards. Charcoal adds bags of fuel counted from your guest number, a starter, an ash bucket and lighting it early.
How far ahead should I plan a backyard BBQ?
Two weeks is enough for invitations and borrowing chairs. Most of the shopping falls in the last three days, and the dates appear once you enter the day of the cookout.
Does the list cover drinks?
It counts two cold drinks for each guest plus six, water and ice. It does not suggest amounts of alcohol; that is for you and your guests to decide.