How many pizzas do you need for 50 people? Order 19-20 large pizzas for 50 adults, or 15-16 large pizzas for a mixed crowd of adults and children. Feeding 50 people requires careful planning—this guide covers everything from bulk ordering discounts to logistics for large events.

Quick Answer: Pizza for 50 People

Pizza Quantities for 50 Guests

All Adults (moderate appetite): 19-20 large pizzas
Mixed Adults and Children: 15-16 large pizzas
Mostly Children: 13-14 large pizzas
Hungry Adults (sports event): 22-25 large pizzas
Light Eaters (buffet style): 15-16 large pizzas

The Math for 50 People

For 50 adults with average appetites:

50 people × 3 slices = 150 slices needed
150 slices ÷ 10 slices per large = 15 pizzas minimum
Add 4-5 for buffer and variety = 19-20 large pizzas

For large events, the buffer is especially important. Late arrivals, unexpected guests, and varying appetites mean you should always have extra. Running out of food at a 50-person event is a hosting nightmare!

Recommended Variety: 20 Pizza Breakdown

8 Cheese Pizzas (40%): The safe, universal option
6 Pepperoni Pizzas (30%): Always popular
4 Veggie Pizzas (20%): For vegetarians and variety
2 Specialty Pizzas (10%): Meat lovers, BBQ chicken, or Hawaiian

This variety ensures everyone finds something they like while keeping ordering manageable.

Budget for 50 People

Estimated Costs (20 Large Pizzas)

Little Caesars: $140-$180
Domino's: $200-$280 (look for bulk deals)
Pizza Hut: $240-$320
Papa John's: $280-$360
Local Pizzeria: $300-$440

That's $4-$9 per person—excellent value for catering!

Bulk Ordering Tips

Call ahead: Many chains offer 15-25% off for orders of 10+ pizzas
Ask about catering packages: Often include plates, napkins, and drinks
Consider multiple locations: Split your order if one store can't handle it
Order 2-3 days in advance: Guarantees availability and may get better pricing
Schedule delivery in waves: Half at start, half 1-2 hours later for freshness

Planning a Large Event?

Our calculator handles groups of any size with precision.

Try the Pizza Calculator

Logistics for 50+ Person Events

Timing

1 week before: Finalize headcount, contact pizzeria
3-4 days before: Place order, confirm bulk discount
1 day before: Confirm order and delivery time
Day of: Prepare serving area, plates, napkins

Serving Setup

Set up 2-3 serving stations to avoid lines
Keep boxes stacked to retain heat
Have warming trays if event runs 2+ hours
Label pizzas clearly (especially veggie/specialty)

Real-World Scenarios

Company Party

Group: 50 adults, office setting

Order: 18 large pizzas

Breakdown: 8 cheese, 5 pepperoni, 3 veggie, 2 specialty

Cost: ~$220 from Domino's with corporate discount

School Event

Group: 30 kids, 20 adults

Order: 15 large pizzas

Breakdown: 7 cheese, 5 pepperoni, 2 veggie, 1 supreme

Result: Perfect amount, minimal leftovers

Super Bowl Party

Group: 50 hungry adults

Order: 24 large pizzas + wings and sides

Breakdown: 8 pepperoni, 8 cheese, 4 meat lovers, 4 specialty

Result: All consumed over 5-hour event

Frequently Asked Questions

How many large pizzas for 50 adults?

19-20 large pizzas for adults with average appetites, providing about 3-4 slices per person.

Do I get a discount for ordering 20+ pizzas?

Usually yes! Most chains offer 10-25% off bulk orders. Call ahead and ask—don't rely on online pricing alone.

Can one pizza location handle 20 pizzas?

Most can, but call ahead. During peak hours, consider splitting between two locations or ordering earlier in the day.

How do I keep pizza warm for 50 people?

Stack boxes (heat rises), use warming trays, or order in two waves 1-2 hours apart. Never microwave—use a 200°F oven to reheat if needed.

Key Takeaways

Order 19-20 large pizzas for 50 adults
For mixed groups, 15-16 large pizzas is sufficient
Budget $140-$440 depending on the chain
Always call ahead for bulk discounts (10-25% off)
Order 2-3 days in advance for large events
Consider staggered delivery for longer events

How Many Pizzas for 50 People? Large Event Guide