Charcuterie Board Size Guide: How Much Do You Really Need Per Person?
One of the most common questions we receive at Artisan Bites is "How much should I order?" Getting the portions right ensures your guests are satisfied without breaking the budget or creating excessive waste.
The Golden Rules of Portioning
The perfect charcuterie board size depends on several factors: the occasion, timing, guest demographics, and what other food will be served. Let's break down the key considerations that will help you order exactly what you need.
Quick Reference Guide
Appetizer
2-3 oz
per person
Light Meal
4-6 oz
per person
Main Course
6-8 oz
per person
Breaking Down the Components
Understanding how much of each component to include helps you create balanced boards that satisfy without overwhelming:
Cheese Guidelines
- Appetizer serving: 1-1.5 oz per person
- Main course: 2-3 oz per person
- Variety rule: 3-5 different cheeses
- Texture mix: 1 soft, 1 semi-hard, 1 hard
Meat Portions
- Appetizer serving: 1-2 oz per person
- Main course: 2-3 oz per person
- Variety count: 2-4 different meats
- Balance: Mix mild and bold flavors
Accompaniments and Extras
Don't forget about the supporting players! Crackers, fruits, nuts, and spreads typically account for about 20-30% of your total board weight.
- Crackers: 2-3 pieces per ounce of cheese/meat
- Fresh fruit: 1-2 oz per person
- Nuts: 0.5 oz per person
- Spreads/jams: 1-2 tablespoons per 4 people
Occasion-Specific Guidelines
Cocktail Hour (1-2 hours)
Plan for 2-3 oz per person. Guests will be mingling and drinking, so lighter portions work well. Focus on easy-to-eat items that don't require cutting.
Tip: Increase portions by 25% if alcohol is served heavily.
Lunch Meeting (30-60 minutes)
Plan for 4-5 oz per person. Include heartier options like substantial cheeses and enough crackers for a light meal replacement.
Tip: Add more protein-rich items for working lunches.
Dinner Party Appetizer
Plan for 2-3 oz per person. This should complement, not compete with, the main meal. Focus on palate-opening flavors.
Tip: Avoid overly filling items if a large dinner follows.
Wedding Reception
Plan for 3-4 oz per person for cocktail hour, 6-8 oz if it's the main meal. Consider guest age demographics and drinking patterns.
Tip: Always order 10% extra for weddings—emotions make people hungry!
Special Considerations
Dietary Restrictions
When guests have dietary restrictions, plan for slightly larger portions of appropriate items. Someone avoiding gluten will eat more cheese and meat, while vegetarians will focus on cheese, fruits, and nuts.
- • Gluten-free guests: Add extra cheese and meat (1-2 oz more)
- • Vegetarian guests: Increase cheese and nut portions
- • Keto dieters: More meat and cheese, fewer fruits and crackers
Time of Day Matters
Appetite varies significantly by time of day. Morning events typically require smaller portions, while evening gatherings call for heartier amounts.
Morning (9-11 AM)
Reduce portions by 25-30%
Afternoon (2-5 PM)
Standard portions work well
Evening (6-9 PM)
Increase portions by 15-20%
Sample Size Calculations
Example: Cocktail Party for 20 People
Total needed: 3 oz per person = 60 oz (3.75 lbs)
- • Cheese: 20-25 oz (3-4 varieties)
- • Meat: 15-20 oz (2-3 varieties)
- • Crackers: 15-20 oz
- • Accompaniments: 10-15 oz
Board size recommendation:
One large board (24"x18") or two medium boards (18"x12") for easy access from different sides of the room.
Let Us Do the Math for You
Take the guesswork out of planning! Our team at Artisan Bites will calculate the perfect portions for your specific event, ensuring you have exactly what you need—no more, no less.