Planning a BBQ catering event for a small party should be exciting, not stressful. Whether you’re hosting a team lunch, a family celebration, or a casual get-together with friends, one of the first questions people ask is, “How much food do I actually need?”
At Peg Leg Porker, we’ve catered hundreds of small parties and lunch events across Nashville and Franklin. From office meetings to backyard gatherings, we’ve learned that the right portions make all the difference. Too little food leaves guests hungry, and too much can feel overwhelming.
The good news? Ordering the right amount of food for your catering event is easier than you think.
How Much BBQ Should You Order for a Small Party?
For most small party lunch catering events, a good rule of thumb is to plan for about half a pound of meat per person. BBQ guests love variety, so offering more than one protein is often a smart move, especially when feeding a mixed group with different tastes.
Pulled pork is always a safe choice and tends to stretch well for lunch catering, while chicken adds variety and works great for slightly heartier appetites. Many hosts choose a combination of both, which allows guests to sample without feeling overloaded. If your event runs longer than an hour or includes big eaters, it’s always better to round up slightly rather than cut it close.
Recommended BBQ Portions Per Person:
- Pulled Pork: ⅓ – ½ lb
- Half Chicken: ½ chicken per person (or ¼ if paired with pork)
What About Sides? How Many Do Guests Expect?
Scratch-made sides like mac and cheese, slaw, and other Southern favorites help balance the meal and keep everyone satisfied.
For small parties, two to three sides per person usually hits the sweet spot. Some sides, especially mac and cheese, tend to disappear faster than others, so it’s smart to plan generously.
Should You Include Dessert for Lunch Catering?
Even at lunchtime, dessert matters more than people expect. A sweet finish makes the meal feel intentional and memorable, especially for office lunches and family gatherings.
At Peg Leg Porker, we partner with local bakeries for some desserts, adding a true Nashville touch to every catered event. One dessert per guest is typically plenty.
What’s the Best Catering Option for Small Groups?
The best catering options for small groups depend on your event, your schedule, and how hands-on you want to be.
Our Delivery Drop-Off option brings freshly prepared BBQ straight to your location, hot and ready to serve, so you can enjoy a seamless catering experience without worrying about setup. For hosts who want a more hands-on approach or a flexible serving schedule, our Bulk Pick-Up option provides the same slow-smoked meats and scratch-made sides, making it easy to feed a group on your own timeline.
Why Peg Leg Porker Is a Top Choice for Small Party Catering in Nashville and Franklin
We’re more than just BBQ. Our meats are smoked fresh daily, our sides are made from scratch with love, and we proudly work with local bakeries for bread and some desserts. That commitment to quality, paired with genuine Southern hospitality, is what turns a simple meal into an event people remember.
Whether you’re planning lunch catering in Nashville or a small party in Franklin, our team is here to help you order with confidence and serve your guests well.
Let’s Make Your Next BBQ Catering Event One to Remember
From office lunches to family gatherings, Peg Leg Porker makes small party catering easy, delicious, and stress-free. If you’re planning an event in Nashville or Franklin and want BBQ done right, we’d love to help.
Browse our lunch and small party catering options, and let us take care of the food so you can enjoy your guests.