Planning meals for large groups can be a daunting task, especially when you need to feed 50 people. It requires a lot of preparation, patience, and creativity.
One of the biggest challenges is coming up with meal ideas that are not only delicious but also easy to prepare and serve.
Fortunately, we’ve got you covered with 42 easy meals that will surely satisfy a crowd, without breaking the bank or your back.
42 Easy Meals for 50 People
1. Build-Your-Own Taco Bar
Everyone loves tacos, and setting up a taco bar is an excellent way to feed a large group while allowing them to personalize their meals.
All you need are taco shells, seasoned beef or chicken, cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and salsa.
2. Spaghetti and Meatballs
A classic favorite, spaghetti with meat sauce is an easy meal to prepare for a crowd. You can make the sauce ahead of time, and all you need to do is boil the pasta before serving.
3. Baked Potato Bar
Similar to the taco bar, you can set up a baked potato bar with toppings such as butter, sour cream, cheese, bacon bits, chives, and broccoli.
4. BBQ Pulled Chicken
Slow-cooked chicken in barbecue sauce, perfect for sandwiches or sliders.
5. Veggie Stir-Fry
A healthy and colorful dish with plenty of vegetables and tofu or meat for protein.
6. Chicken Alfredo
Creamy Alfredo sauce served over fettuccine with grilled chicken for a comforting meal.
7. Baked Ziti
A simple yet satisfying pasta dish with layers of cheese and sauce.
8. Beef Chili
A hearty stew loaded with ground beef and beans, perfect for feeding a hungry crowd.
9. Chicken Fajitas
Sizzling platters of grilled chicken and vegetables with tortillas for everyone to assemble their own.
10. Pasta Salad
A versatile dish with a mix of pasta, vegetables, and your choice of dressing.
11. Taco Soup
All the flavors of tacos in a comforting, hearty soup that’s easy to make in large quantities.
12. Vegetarian Lasagna
Layers of pasta, vegetables, and cheese in a satisfying dish that’s perfect for vegetarians.
13. Stuffed Peppers
Stuffed peppers are a classic comfort food that can be made with a variety of fillings.
They’re typically made with bell peppers, which are hollowed out and then filled with a mixture of cooked meat, rice, vegetables, and cheese. The peppers are then baked in the oven until they’re tender and the filling is cooked through.
14. Homemade Pizza
Set up a pizza-making station with various toppings, sauces, and dough for a fun DIY meal.
15. Mediterranean Platter
Serve hummus, falafel, tabbouleh, and pita bread for a fresh and tasty spread.
16. Hot Dogs and Hamburgers
A classic and crowd-pleasing option for outdoor gatherings.
17. Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Slow-cooked pulled pork served on buns with coleslaw.
18. Baked Tacos
An easy way to make a big batch of tacos by baking them in the oven.
19. Macaroni and Cheese
Creamy and comforting, a favorite among both kids and adults.
20. Beef and Vegetable Skewers
Grilled skewers with a variety of vegetables and marinated beef.
21. DIY Sushi Rolls
Offer a sushi-making station with rice, nori, seafood, and veggies for a unique and interactive meal.
22. Chicken and Rice Casserole
A one-pot dish with chicken, rice, and vegetables, perfect for a large group.
23. Baked Chicken Drumsticks
Seasoned and baked chicken drumsticks for a simple and tasty meal.
24. Shrimp and Vegetable Skewers
Grilled skewers with shrimp and a variety of colorful vegetables.
25. Eggplant Parmesan
Layers of breaded and baked eggplant with marinara sauce and cheese.
26. Vegan Chili
A hearty and flavorful meatless option that’s satisfying for all.
27. Pancake Bar
Set up a pancake station with various toppings and fillings for a fun and customizable breakfast or brunch.
28. French Dip Sandwiches
Sliced roast beef on rolls served with au jus for dipping.
29. Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
A comforting and creamy soup, perfect with grilled cheese sandwiches.
30. Beef Stew
A rich and hearty stew with tender pieces of beef and vegetables.
31. Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo
A creamy Alfredo pasta dish with chicken and broccoli.
32. Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Boil
A spicy and flavorful dish with shrimp, sausage, and an assortment of veggies.
33. Caprese Salad
A fresh and simple salad with tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and balsamic glaze.
34. Baked Ham
A glazed and succulent ham for an easy yet impressive main dish.
35. Teriyaki Chicken and Rice
A sweet and savory dish with tender teriyaki chicken served over rice.
36. Vegan Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
A classic Italian pasta dish with garlic and olive oil, vegan style.
37. Chicken Quesadillas
Easy-to-make quesadillas with chicken, cheese, and various fillings.
38. Shepherd’s Pie
A comforting dish with ground meat and mashed potato topping.
39. Egg Fried Rice
A simple and flavorful fried rice dish with veggies and scrambled eggs.
40. Chicken Shawarma Wraps
Seasoned and grilled chicken wrapped in flatbreads with tahini sauce.
41. Sweet and Sour Meatballs
Tangy meatballs served with a sweet and sour sauce.
42. Potato Pancakes
Crispy and savory potato pancakes served with sour cream or applesauce.
Final Thoughts,
Cooking for a large group of people can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. With these 42 easy meal ideas for 50 people, you can simplify your meal prep while still serving delicious and satisfying dishes.
Whether you opt for a taco bar or a classic like spaghetti with meat sauce, these meals will ensure that your guests leave happy and full.
