How Many Pizzas for 20 People? The Ultimate Guide

Planning an event or party and wondering how many pizzas for 20 people you’ll need to order? This common catering question depends on several factors including pizza size, appetites, and what else you’re serving. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down exactly how to calculate the perfect amount of pizza to satisfy your group without over-ordering or running short.

Table of Contents

• Key Factors That Determine Pizza Quantity
• Standard Pizza Calculations for 20 People
• How Pizza Size Affects Your Order
• Accounting for Different Appetites
• Other Menu Items to Consider
• Pro Tips for Ordering Pizza for 20

Key Factors That Determine Pizza Quantity

When calculating how many pizzas for 20 people, these are the most important variables to consider:

• Pizza size (small, medium, large, or extra-large)
• Slice count per pizza (typically 6-8 slices)
• Appetite levels of your guests (light, average, or big eaters)
• Other food being served alongside pizza
• Event duration (longer events may need more food)
• Age groups (children vs. adults)

Standard Pizza Calculations for 20 People

The most common calculation for how many pizzas for 20 people follows this simple formula:

1. Assume each person eats 3 slices of pizza
2. Average large pizza has 8 slices
3. 20 people × 3 slices = 60 slices needed
4. 60 slices ÷ 8 slices per pizza = 7.5 pizzas

Therefore, the standard recommendation is to order 8 large pizzas for 20 people. This provides a little extra to account for big eaters and ensures no one goes hungry.

How Pizza Size Affects Your Order

Pizza size dramatically impacts how many pizzas for 20 people you’ll need. Here’s how different sizes compare:

Accounting for Different Appetites

Not all groups eat the same amount. Adjust your how many pizzas for 20 people calculation based on these appetite scenarios:

Light Eaters (Office Lunch, Mixed Ages)

• 2 slices per person
• 20 × 2 = 40 slices
• 40 ÷ 8 = 5 large pizzas

Average Appetites (Most Parties)

• 3 slices per person
• 20 × 3 = 60 slices
• 60 ÷ 8 = 7.5 (round to 8 large pizzas)

Big Eaters (Sports Team, Teenagers)

• 4 slices per person
• 20 × 4 = 80 slices
• 80 ÷ 8 = 10 large pizzas

Other Menu Items to Consider

If you’re serving additional food items alongside pizza, you can reduce your pizza order. Here’s how other menu items affect how many pizzas for 20 people:

• Appetizers/salads: Reduce pizza by 20-30%
• Desserts: Reduce pizza by 10-15%
• Full buffet: May only need 1-2 slices per person

Pro Tips for Ordering Pizza for 20

Follow these professional catering tips when ordering pizza for a group of 20:

1. Mix up toppings: Order 2-3 different varieties to please everyone
2. Consider dietary needs: Include vegetarian, gluten-free options if needed
3. Order extra cheese: Cheese pizzas are universally popular
4. Time your delivery: Schedule arrival 30 minutes after event start
5. Get par-baked: For longer events, order partially baked pizzas you can finish later

Final Answer: How Many Pizzas for 20 People?

After considering all factors, here’s the definitive answer to how many pizzas for 20 people:

For most situations: Order 8 large (14″) pizzas (assuming 8 slices each)
For light eaters: 5-6 large pizzas
For big appetites: 9-10 large pizzas

Remember it’s always better to have a little extra than to run out. Leftover pizza makes excellent next-day meals!

Conclusion

Calculating how many pizzas for 20 people doesn’t have to be stressful. By considering pizza size, your guests’ appetites, and other menu items, you can confidently order the perfect amount. The standard recommendation of 8 large pizzas works for most events, but adjust up or down based on your specific situation.

Ready to place your order? Most pizzerias appreciate advance notice for large orders, so call ahead when planning your event. Happy pizza party planning!