
When it comes to hosting an event, a cheese and charcuterie board is often the star of the show. However, one question that frequently arises is, “How much is enough?” Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a larger event, it’s essential to ensure that there’s enough variety and quantity to satisfy your guests. Here’s a breakdown of serving size options for your next cheese and charcuterie board.
basic serving suggestions
The suggested serving sizes for a cheese and charcuterie board typically depend on the number of guests and whether the board will be a main focus of the meal or a snack between meals. Here are general guidelines:
cheese:
- For appetizers or light grazing: Plan for 2-3 ounces of cheese per person.
- For a more substantial portion (if the board is a main component of the meal): 3-4 ounces per person.
charcuterie (meats):
- For appetizers or light grazing: Aim for 2-3 ounces of charcuterie per person.
- For a more substantial portion: 3-4 ounces per person.
accompaniments (fruits, nuts, jams, pickles, crackers, etc.):
- For smaller gatherings: Have a small selection of 2-3 accompaniments, about 1-2 ounces of each per person.
- For larger gatherings: Provide a more varied selection (4-5 items), with about 1-2 ounces per person of each item.
example breakdown:
For 10-12 people:
- Cheese: 30-40 ounces (roughly 2-2.5 pounds)
- Charcuterie: 30-40 ounces (roughly 2-2.5 pounds)
- Accompaniments: 2-3 pounds total (combining fruits, nuts, crackers, etc.)
Always consider the type of event and how long guests will be grazing when determining the quantities. Adjust accordingly to ensure everyone gets enough of everything!
Planning for Small Gatherings (4-8 People)
For smaller groups, the focus is on quality over quantity. A well-curated board with a mix of cheeses, meats, and accompaniments will go a long way. Aim for:
- Cheese: 2-3 types (about 3-4 ounces per person)
- Charcuterie: 2-3 types (about 3-4 ounces per person)
- Accompaniments: A small selection of fruits, nuts, olives, crackers, and spreads. Consider 2-3 small bowls or jars and a few handfuls of each item.
Medium-Sized Gatherings (10-20 People)
With a slightly larger group, it’s important to provide a variety of options to please diverse tastes. The balance of cheeses, meats, and extras should reflect that:
- Cheese: 4-5 varieties (about 3 ounces per person)
- Charcuterie: 4-5 types (about 3 ounces per person)
- Accompaniments: More variety here! Add 4-5 items such as fruits, pickles, nuts, crackers, bread, and jams to ensure everyone has options.
Large Gatherings (20+ People)
For events with a larger guest list, a generous spread is key. The goal is to provide enough variety so guests can help themselves and graze throughout the event. Depending on your party size, you might need:
- Cheese: 6-7 varieties (about 2-3 ounces per person)
- Charcuterie: 6-7 types (about 2-3 ounces per person)
- Accompaniments: A mix of 5-6 items, ensuring there’s plenty of variety, from fresh fruits to nuts, crackers, and pickles.
extra tips for the perfect board
- consider portion sizes: It’s always a good idea to have a little extra to accommodate larger appetites or unexpected guests. Add 10-15% more to your estimates to be safe.
- keep in mind the length of the event: If the board is meant to last for several hours, you might need to add more to the total quantity. A longer grazing period means more frequent replenishment.
- the balance between cheese and charcuterie: Not everyone enjoys meat, and some guests may prefer one over the other. It’s important to balance these elements for variety.
- the right accompaniments: In addition to the basics like crackers, bread, and fruits, consider adding a few themed touches depending on the season or occasion. Think of nuts, seasonal jams, honey, and even fresh herbs to decorate.
Ultimately, the key to the perfect cheese and charcuterie board is customization based on your guests and the atmosphere. By adjusting the quantities and variety according to the size of your group, you can ensure that everyone leaves satisfied—and that your board looks impressive and thoughtfully composed. Whether you’re creating a spread for a small gathering or a larger event, the right portions and variety will make your cheese and charcuterie board the highlight of the evening.
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