How Many Briskets to Feed 150: A Culinary Conundrum and the Art of Overthinking BBQ

How Many Briskets to Feed 150: A Culinary Conundrum and the Art of Overthinking BBQ

When it comes to feeding a crowd of 150 people, the question of how many briskets to prepare is not just a matter of math—it’s a philosophical debate, a logistical puzzle, and a test of one’s ability to resist overthinking. Briskets, the crown jewel of BBQ, are as much about flavor as they are about feeding the masses. But how do you ensure that everyone gets their fill without ending up with a mountain of leftovers or, worse, a line of hangry guests? Let’s dive into this smoky dilemma with a mix of practicality, humor, and a touch of absurdity.

The Math Behind the Meat

First, let’s tackle the numbers. A standard brisket weighs between 10 to 16 pounds before cooking. After accounting for shrinkage during the smoking process, you’re left with about 60-70% of the original weight. That means a 12-pound brisket might yield around 7-8 pounds of edible meat.

Now, the general rule of thumb is to allocate about 1/2 pound of cooked meat per person. For 150 people, that’s 75 pounds of cooked brisket. If each brisket yields 7 pounds, you’d need approximately 11 briskets. But wait—what if some guests are big eaters? What if there are vegetarians in the crowd? What if a raccoon sneaks into the smoker and steals a brisket? (Unlikely, but not impossible.) To account for these variables, it’s wise to round up to 12 briskets. Better to have too much than not enough, right?

The Art of Brisket Estimation

Of course, estimating brisket quantities isn’t just about cold, hard numbers. It’s also about understanding your audience. Are you feeding a group of competitive eaters who can devour a brisket in minutes? Or is this a more refined crowd that might nibble politely while discussing the nuances of dry rubs versus wet marinades?

If it’s the former, you might want to bump that number up to 15 briskets. If it’s the latter, you could probably get away with 10. But then again, what if the refined crowd suddenly discovers their inner carnivore and goes full caveman on the brisket? It’s a risk you’ll have to weigh.

The Side Dish Factor

Let’s not forget that brisket is rarely served alone. There are sides to consider—coleslaw, baked beans, cornbread, and the like. These can help stretch the brisket further, allowing you to reduce the number of briskets needed. If you’re serving a hearty spread of sides, you might be able to get away with 9 or 10 briskets. But beware: if the sides are lackluster, guests might compensate by piling their plates high with brisket. It’s a delicate balance.

The Leftover Paradox

Ah, leftovers—the bane of every BBQ host’s existence. On one hand, you don’t want to run out of food. On the other hand, you don’t want to be eating brisket sandwiches for the next two weeks. (Although, let’s be honest, that’s not the worst fate.) The key is to strike a balance between abundance and excess. If you’re hosting a one-time event, err on the side of caution and prepare a little extra. If it’s a recurring gathering, you can adjust based on past experience.

The Emotional Element

Let’s not underestimate the emotional aspect of brisket preparation. There’s a certain pride that comes with serving a perfectly smoked brisket to a crowd. Running out of brisket could be seen as a failure, while having too much might be viewed as overkill. It’s a tightrope walk, and the pressure is real. But remember: at the end of the day, it’s just meat. (Okay, it’s not just meat—it’s brisket. But you get the point.)

The Final Count

After considering all these factors, the answer to “how many briskets to feed 150” is… it depends. But if you’re looking for a safe bet, aim for 12 briskets. That should give you enough to feed the masses, account for variables, and leave you with a manageable amount of leftovers. And if all else fails, just remember: there’s no shame in ordering pizza as a backup.


Q: Can I prepare fewer briskets if I serve other meats?
A: Absolutely! If you’re serving a mix of brisket, pulled pork, and chicken, you can reduce the number of briskets needed. Just adjust the quantities accordingly.

Q: What if I’m cooking for a mix of adults and children?
A: Children generally eat less than adults, so you can reduce the total amount of brisket needed. A good rule of thumb is to allocate 1/3 to 1/2 pound per child, depending on their age and appetite.

Q: How do I store leftover brisket?
A: Leftover brisket can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 3 months.

Q: Can I cook the briskets in advance?
A: Yes, you can smoke the briskets a day or two in advance and reheat them before serving. Just be sure to store them properly and reheat them slowly to retain moisture.

Q: What if I don’t have a smoker?
A: No smoker? No problem! You can cook brisket in the oven or even a slow cooker. It won’t have the same smoky flavor, but it’ll still be delicious.