Cookout Compass

The cookout planner

How much meat should you buy?

Tell us who is coming and what you are cooking. Get a shopping list with room for sides and second helpings.

Plan what to buy

The planner

Plan your cookout

Start with your guests. Choose meat cuts, recipes, or both to build your shopping list.

1 Count your guests

For older children with bigger appetites, count them as adults.

The appetite choice applies to meat cuts. Recipes use their own serving sizes.

2 Choose meat cuts if needed

Choose cuts you are serving separately from the recipes below. Leave these unchecked for a recipe only menu. We split the meat allowance equally across your selected cuts.

Trimming means fat or scraps you cut off before cooking. Not sure? We will use a starting estimate for that meat. Cooking loss is included separately, even when you choose none.

Prices are optional and in US dollars. The estimate covers the meat you price, before tax.

3 Add recipes to your menu

Loading recipe ingredients.

4 Finish your list

Recipe rolls are already included. Extra food applies to separate meat cuts, other sides, and extra buns. Recipe batches already round up for your guests.

Adjust child portions

Your list starts here

Headcount in.
Shopping sorted.

Choose meat cuts, recipes, or both. Your quantities and shopping checklist will appear here.

Buying a whole cut? Choose one that meets your estimated weight.

The amount you buy will be heavier than the meat you serve. We account for trimming and cooking separately.

Before you shop

Before you head to the store

How much brisket per person?

Choose a serving size and account for the fat you trim away.

How much pulled pork per person?

Plan plates or sandwiches using boneless pork shoulder.

How many sliders per person?

Turn small burgers and sweet rolls into a complete ingredient list.

The cookout checklist

Cover preparation, packing, and serving before everyone arrives.

Equipment for a bigger meal

Check your thermometer, trays, and serving space before buying more.

Beyond the main course

Build the rest of the spread

Ribs, smoky sides, and something sweet for the last plate. Find a recipe that fits your cookout, or start with our game day menu.

Explore the recipes
Tangy Southern Slaw Smoked Jalapeño Poppers Key Lime Pie