How to Feed 20 People for Christmas: A Complete Guide for the Perfect Holiday Feast

Hosting Christmas dinner for 20 people may seem daunting, but with the right planning, it can be smooth and enjoyable. The holiday season is about sharing good food and creating memories, and a well-organized feast makes it even more special.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to feed 20 people for Christmas with ease. It covers menu planning, budgeting, prepping in advance, and setting a festive table. No matter your cooking experience, you’ll find practical tips to ensure a stress-free celebration. From portion sizes to cooking strategies and table decor, we’ve got you covered. By the end, you’ll be ready to host a memorable Christmas dinner with confidence and ease. Let’s get started!

Planning for a Crowd 

Assessing Your Guest List and Dietary Needs

When feeding 20 people for Christmas, the first thing you should do is assess who’s coming to the celebration. Beyond just counting heads, you need to consider the dietary preferences and restrictions of your guests. If you’re planning a Christmas dinner, it’s essential to cater to different tastes and needs to ensure everyone feels included and enjoys the meal.

Start by asking the following questions:

• Are there vegetarians or vegans? Some people prefer plant-based meals, especially around the holidays. Offering a hearty vegetarian main dish, like a lentil loaf or stuffed squash, can provide a delicious alternative to meat.
• Do any guests need gluten-free options? Christmas dinners often include rich and creamy foods like mashed potatoes, gravy, and stuffing, all of which can be made gluten-free with some adjustments.
• Any food allergies? It’s always a good idea to ask about any allergies, such as nuts, dairy, or seafood, to ensure no one has a bad reaction. Consider offering nut-free desserts, dairy-free sides, or even gluten-free rolls.

Once you’ve gathered this information, plan your menu to accommodate these different needs. For example, offer both meat-based and plant-based mains, like roast turkey and stuffed butternut squash, so that no one feels left out. Additionally, create allergen-free side dishes—for example, a dairy-free mashed potato recipe or a nut-free stuffing recipe.

If you’re unsure about what your guests prefer, don’t hesitate to ask them for their input or suggestions. This also helps you avoid making too much food that won’t get eaten. Lastly, consider doing a buffet-style meal where guests can pick and choose from different options, making it easy for them to avoid foods that they don’t want to eat.

Setting a Realistic Budget

Feeding 20 people for Christmas doesn’t have to break the bank. One of the key aspects of holiday meal planning is staying within your budget while still serving a delicious feast. Setting a realistic budget will help you decide which dishes to prepare, where to shop, and how much of each ingredient you’ll need.

Start by deciding how much you’re willing to spend on the entire meal. Consider the following components:

1. Main Courses: A turkey or a ham will usually be your most expensive item, but with careful planning, they can go a long way.
2. Side Dishes: You don’t need extravagant sides to feed a large group. Simple, affordable options like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and stuffing can fill your guests’ plates without costing a fortune.
3. Desserts: You can make a delicious Christmas pudding, cookies, or cakes without spending too much, especially if you bake from scratch.
4. Drinks: While you may be tempted to offer a range of beverages, consider sticking to a simple selection of water, juices, and maybe a punch or two. Non-alcoholic drinks are both more affordable and easier to manage when feeding a large crowd.

Once you have a total meal cost in mind, shop strategically to save money. Look for sales or discounts, and shop at places like Costco, which is great for buying items in bulk. Another way to save is by buying seasonal ingredients that are more affordable and abundant at this time of year, such as root vegetables, cranberries, and citrus fruits.

Portion Sizes for 20 People 

Knowing how much food you’ll need is one of the most important factors when feeding 20 people for Christmas. You don’t want to run out of food halfway through the meal, but you also don’t want to end up with mountains of leftovers. Calculating portions for a group of this size requires a bit of planning, but with a few simple guidelines, you can ensure that everyone gets a satisfying meal without over-preparing.

Meat: A general rule of thumb for serving meats is to allot about ½ to ¾ pound per person. This means you’ll need a 10-14 lb turkey for 20 people. A ham may weigh more, but you’ll need to account for both the bone and the meat, so a 12 lb ham should suffice for this number of guests.

Side Dishes: For side dishes, aim for about 1-2 cups per person, depending on the variety. If you’re serving multiple sides, you can scale back on the quantity of each dish. For example, 10 lbs of potatoes will make plenty of mashed potatoes for 20 people, while 2-3 pounds of carrots should be enough to serve everyone.

Desserts: Typically, one serving of dessert per person is enough, but it’s always nice to have a little extra if guests want seconds. If you’re serving cake, pudding, or pie, aim to have at least one serving per person.

When in doubt, overestimate rather than underestimate. Leftovers are always welcome at holiday gatherings, and having too much food is a good problem to have!

Creating a Christmas Menu  

Choosing the Perfect Main Dishes

The main course is the heart of any Christmas dinner, and with 20 people to feed, you’ll want a centerpiece that’s both delicious and practical. A roasted turkey is always a crowd-pleaser and can be easily scaled up to serve a large group. You could also opt for a honey-glazed ham or a roast chicken. However, if you’re catering to a vegetarian or vegan crowd, you can create a flavorful alternative like a stuffed squash or a vegetable wellington.

Turkey: A 12-14 lb turkey is typically enough for 20 people, and it’s a great option because it can be prepared in advance, freeing up oven space for side dishes. A simple herb-butter rub can elevate the flavor, and the leftovers make excellent sandwiches the next day.

Honey-Glazed Ham: For something a little different, try a honey-glazed ham. It’s affordable, feeds a large crowd, and requires minimal preparation. A ham also pairs well with many sides, making it an excellent option for a diverse menu.

Vegetarian Option: For guests who prefer plant-based meals, a stuffed butternut squash or lentil loaf can serve as a filling and flavorful main dish. These dishes are nutrient-dense and can be prepared ahead of time.

By choosing one main dish and having a backup option, you can make sure your guests are satisfied no matter their dietary preferences.

Side Dishes Everyone Will Love

The side dishes are just as important as the main course, and there’s no shortage of tasty options for a Christmas feast. For a group of 20, aim to serve 3-5 side dishes, including some hearty, filling options and others that are fresh and light. Consider these ideas:

1. Mashed Potatoes: A staple at any Christmas dinner, mashed potatoes are easy to prepare in large quantities. You can make them ahead of time and reheat them on the day. Add garlic, cream, or cheese for extra richness.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Roasting seasonal vegetables like carrots, parsnips, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes is not only easy but also adds a lovely flavor. Toss the veggies with olive oil, salt, and rosemary, and roast them until they’re tender and caramelized.
3. Stuffing: Whether you prefer a meat-based stuffing with sausage or a vegetarian version with mushrooms and herbs, stuffing is a delicious way to make your meal feel festive and comforting. You can also prepare this in advance and bake it on the day.
4. Green Bean Casserole: A creamy green bean casserole is a classic side that’s perfect for a large group. It’s rich and satisfying, with a nice balance of crunch from fried onions and creaminess from the sauce.

Decadent Desserts for a Sweet Ending

End your Christmas meal for 20 people with a sweet treat. While the main course takes the spotlight, dessert is what people often look forward to the most. Offering a variety of desserts will satisfy different tastes, so consider these easy-to-make options:

• Christmas Pudding: This rich, traditional dessert is packed with dried fruits, spices, and a touch of brandy. It’s often steamed or baked, and while it takes some time to prepare, it’s well worth the effort.
• Yule Log Cake: A classic Christmas dessert that’s both impressive and delicious. Made with a chocolate sponge cake and filled with whipped cream or frosting, it’s a fun way to celebrate the season.
• Assorted Cookies: Bake a batch of Christmas cookies, such as gingerbread, sugar cookies, or shortbread. You can decorate them to add a personal touch and serve them alongside other desserts.
• Fruit Trifles: Layer sponge cake, custard, fruit, and whipped cream for a light yet indulgent dessert. Trifles are great for feeding a large group and can be assembled ahead of time.

Preparing and Cooking Ahead of Time

Make-Ahead Tips for a Stress-Free Christmas

One of the best strategies for feeding 20 people for Christmas is preparing as much as possible in advance. Cooking a large meal can be stressful, especially when you’re trying to juggle last-minute preparations. Fortunately, there are many dishes you can prepare ahead of time, giving you more time to enjoy the day with your guests.

Prepare the Turkey in Advance

While turkey is a holiday staple, it can also be time-consuming to prepare. To save time on the big day, consider preparing the turkey the night before. You can clean, season, and stuff the bird, then refrigerate it overnight, allowing the flavors to meld. On the day of the meal, simply roast it and carve it once it’s cooked through.

If you’re worried about the turkey drying out, consider roasting it using a slow-roast method or covering it with foil during the first phase of cooking. This allows the turkey to cook slowly and retain moisture, ensuring it stays juicy and tender.

Prepare Side Dishes Ahead of Time

Many side dishes, like mashed potatoes, stuffing, and casseroles, can be made the day before the event. You can prep all the ingredients for the dishes and store them in the fridge until it’s time to cook. For instance, mashed potatoes can be boiled, mashed, and stored in a casserole dish with a layer of butter on top. On Christmas Day, just heat them in the oven or microwave and give them a quick stir.

Casseroles and stuffing can be assembled and kept in the fridge overnight, ready to bake the following day. This reduces the stress of trying to juggle multiple dishes at once and ensures everything is ready when the guests arrive.

Desserts Made Easy

Desserts are an important part of any Christmas meal, and you can make most of them in advance. Yule log cakes, Christmas puddings, and pies all benefit from resting overnight in the fridge, as it allows the flavors to develop. You can even prepare individual servings of trifles or pudding cups the day before, which makes it easier to serve when you have a crowd to feed. For additional dessert inspiration, explore these global end-of-year desserts.

For cookies, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and freeze it. Simply roll the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet, then freeze until solid. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them in the oven—there’s no need to thaw.

Creating a Cooking Timeline for the Big Day

When cooking for 20 people, a well-organized timeline can make all the difference. On Christmas Day, you’ll have limited time to cook, so it’s crucial to plan ahead to ensure everything is hot and ready to serve at the same time.

The Day Before:

• Prep the Turkey: Clean, season, and stuff the turkey, and refrigerate it overnight.
• Prepare Side Dishes: Assemble casseroles, stuffing, and mashed potatoes, and store them in the fridge.
• Make Dessert: Prepare pies, cakes, and cookies, and refrigerate them overnight.
• Set the Table: Arrange your Christmas table settings, including plates, glasses, napkins, and decorations. This will save you time on the day of the meal.

Christmas Morning:

• Start the Turkey: Aim to put the turkey in the oven early, allowing ample time for it to cook. If you’re using a slow-roast method, set the oven at a lower temperature (around 275°F) for a more gradual cooking process.
• Prepare the Sides: Begin cooking your side dishes. If they’ve been prepped ahead of time, it will be a matter of reheating them in the oven or on the stovetop.
• Prepare Drinks: Set up any non-alcoholic drinks like punch or juice in pitchers or bowls, ready for serving.

Closer to Meal Time:

• Reheat or Finish Cooking Sides: Finish cooking and reheating side dishes. Keep an eye on the timing so everything is ready at the same time.
• Set Out the Appetizers: If you’re offering appetizers, lay them out on the counter so guests can snack while the main course is being served.
• Carve the Turkey: Once the turkey is cooked, allow it to rest for 20-30 minutes before carving. This ensures the meat stays juicy and tender.

A solid timeline can prevent any last-minute scrambling and allow you to enjoy the day. Don’t forget to enlist some help from your guests—many people will be happy to lend a hand with serving, setting the table, or making sure drinks are topped off.

Creating a Festive Atmosphere

Setting a Beautiful Christmas Table

While the food is undoubtedly the star of the show, a beautifully set table adds to the festive atmosphere and makes your gathering feel even more special. When feeding 20 people for Christmas, a well-decorated table creates an inviting environment that enhances the overall experience. Here are a few ideas to help you create a stunning Christmas table:

Choose a Color Scheme

A cohesive color scheme ties everything together. Popular Christmas color schemes include:

• Classic Red, Green, and Gold: These colors evoke traditional Christmas vibes and are easy to incorporate with tablecloths, napkins, and centerpieces.
• Winter White and Silver: A more elegant, frosty theme, perfect for a winter wonderland-inspired setting.
• Rustic and Natural: Combine natural elements like pinecones, greenery, and wooden accents for a warm, rustic look.

Table Settings

For a large group, consider using long tables or several smaller ones. When arranging the table, make sure there’s enough space for everyone to sit comfortably. You can create personalized place settings with name cards or even little holiday-themed favors.

Ensure that each setting has the basics:

• Plates: A festive charger plate can elevate the look of your dinnerware.
• Silverware: Use cloth napkins for an extra touch of elegance.
• Glasses: Have a glass for water and a separate one for wine or juice.

Centerpieces and Decorations

A centerpiece is a great way to add a festive touch to your table. Consider using:

• Fresh Greenery: A garland of pine, eucalyptus, or holly is perfect for adding a fresh, natural element.
• Candles: Candles in glass holders can create a cozy, warm glow during dinner.
• Holiday Ornaments: Cluster ornaments or use them to decorate the table runner.

Creating the Right Ambiance

The right ambiance can elevate the meal and make the evening memorable. In addition to the table setting, think about the overall atmosphere. Dim the lights slightly, play soft Christmas music in the background, and add candles or fairy lights to create a warm, welcoming environment.

FAQ’s About how to feed 20 people for Christmas

What is the best way to save time when feeding 20 people for Christmas?

The best way to save time is by preparing as much as possible ahead of time. This includes pre-cooking side dishes, baking desserts in advance, and prepping the turkey the night before. With a solid timeline in place, you’ll reduce last-minute stress.

How much food should I prepare for 20 people?

A typical guideline is to plan for 1 to 1.5 pounds of food per person. For a main dish, like turkey, aim for 12-14 lbs. For side dishes, consider offering 3-4 sides, with each dish serving about 1-2 cups per person.

Can I make Christmas dinner for 20 people without a catering service?

Absolutely! With some planning and organization, it’s entirely possible to make Christmas dinner for 20 people on your own. The key is preparation: plan ahead, make use of make-ahead recipes, and get assistance from your guests when possible.

What are some vegetarian options for Christmas dinner?

For vegetarian guests, consider a hearty main dish like a stuffed butternut squash, vegetable wellington, or a savory lentil loaf. Pair it with a variety of vegetarian-friendly sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, and stuffing.

Conclusion

Feeding 20 people for Christmas is an exciting challenge that can become a truly memorable holiday event with the right preparation. By carefully planning your menu, considering portion sizes, and preparing ahead of time, you can ensure that your gathering runs smoothly. From the appetizers to the desserts, and from the beautiful table setting to the festive ambiance, every detail contributes to the joy and celebration of the holiday season. For dessert inspiration, explore these festive dessert recipes. So roll up your sleeves, put on your apron, and get ready to make Christmas dinner an unforgettable experience for everyone at your table.