Planning food for a group can feel like a lot—different tastes, different appetites, and the pressure of getting it right. The good news: with a simple plan, you can choose catering meals confidently and keep everyone happy. This guide covers catering menu selection basics and practical catering menu ideas you can use when ordering from Steak-Out.
Start with the basics: headcount, timing, and serving style
Before you pick proteins or sides, lock in three details. They’ll guide every decision and help you order the right amount without overthinking it.
- Guest count: Confirm how many people you’re feeding and whether it’s adults, kids, or a mix.
- Timing: Decide when food will be served and how long it needs to hold before people eat.
- Serving style: Will guests grab and go, eat seated, or snack over time?
If your schedule is tight or you’re unsure what will hold best for your event, check with the local store for guidance on pacing your pickup and choosing items that serve well for your timeline.
Build your menu around crowd-pleasing categories
When you’re aiming for broad appeal, the easiest approach is to choose from familiar categories, then layer in variety. Steak-Out makes it simple to mix and match guest favorites like steaks, grilled chicken, grilled shrimp, burgers/sandwiches, and salads. Some locations may also offer soups seasonally.
These categories give you a reliable foundation for catering menu selection because they cover different preferences—hearty, lighter, and everything in between.
Choose 2–3 main options for balanced variety
A solid rule of thumb for most groups: pick two main options for smaller gatherings, and three for larger groups. This keeps ordering simple while still offering choice.
Example mix for balanced catering menu ideas:
Option A: a steak option + grilled chicken
Option B: grilled chicken + grilled shrimp
Option C: steak option + burgers/sandwiches + a hearty salad
Plan for dietary preferences without overcomplicating
You don’t need a separate menu for every person. Instead, include at least one lighter choice (like salads or grilled chicken) and one hearty choice (like steaks or burgers/sandwiches). If you expect specific needs—like guests who prefer lighter meals or those who want extra protein—build in variety by selecting multiple categories and letting guests choose what fits.
Don’t forget the “supporting cast”: sides, salads, and add-ons
Great catering meals aren’t just about the main item. Sides and salads can make the spread feel complete and help accommodate different appetites. Because side offerings can vary, stick to what’s available at your local Steak-Out and choose a mix that complements your mains.
If you’re including vegetables, opt for grilled vegetables for a fresh, crowd-friendly addition.
How to choose sides that work for groups
When selecting sides, think about:
Ease of serving: Items that portion well keep the line moving. Our individual side salads are a great option, then pair with an assortment of salad dressings.
Temperature tolerance: Some sides hold better than others, like our baked potatoes, especially for longer events.
Balance: Pair richer mains with lighter sides or salads so the menu doesn’t feel one-note.
Not sure what pairs best with your selected mains? Check with the local store—they can point you toward guest-favorite sides available at your Steak-Out.
Match the menu to the occasion
The best catering menu ideas fit the vibe of the event. Use the occasion to guide your choices and the overall mix.
Office lunch or team meeting
For workplaces, aim for variety and easy serving. A mix of grilled chicken, burgers/sandwiches, and salads typically works well because it covers different preferences without creating a complicated setup. If your group has a short break window, prioritize items that are straightforward to portion and serve.
Family gatherings and celebrations
Family events often include a wide age range and different appetites. Consider offering a steak option alongside grilled chicken, plus a salad and a couple of sides. This approach keeps the menu familiar while still feeling special.
Game day or casual get-together
Casual events are all about food that people can enjoy while socializing. Burgers/sandwiches are a natural fit, and adding grilled shrimp or grilled chicken can elevate the spread. Include a salad option for guests who want something lighter.
Portion planning: order with confidence
Portion questions are common, and the “right” amount depends on the event. A seated meal usually requires more food per person than a casual come-and-go gathering. The most reliable approach is to estimate your guest count, decide whether it’s a full meal or lighter fare, and then check with the local store for recommended quantities based on what you’re ordering.
If you’re feeding a mixed group, consider that some guests will prefer lighter portions while others will go back for seconds. Building in variety across categories helps everyone self-select what they want without you needing to over-order one specific item.
Add a simple dessert finish
Dessert can be the easiest way to make catering feel complete—without adding complexity. If you want a sweet closer, choose a classic option like NY Style Cheesecake or Death by Chocolate Cake. They’re familiar, shareable, and a great way to end a group meal on a high note.
Make it easy on yourself: a quick checklist before you order
Use this short checklist to finalize your catering meals quickly and avoid last-minute stress.
- Confirm headcount and whether it’s a full meal or lighter gathering.
- Pick 2–3 main categories (steaks, grilled chicken, grilled shrimp, burgers/sandwiches, salads).
- Add sides and salads for balance, including grilled vegetables if you want a veggie option.
- Decide on dessert (NY Style Cheesecake or Death by Chocolate Cake) if it fits the occasion.
- Plan pickup timing and serving setup—then confirm details with the local store.
Consider gift cards for hosts, teams, and thank-yous
If you’re organizing the event—or thanking someone who did—Steak-Out gift cards are a practical, appreciated option. Gift cards can be purchased online, making it easy to grab one for a host, a teacher, a coach, or a team member who helped pull everything together.
Ready to choose your catering meals?
With the right plan, catering menu selection becomes straightforward: start with headcount and timing, choose a few crowd-pleasing categories, and round out the order with sides, salads, and dessert if you’d like. When you’re ready, order online or check with the local store to confirm availability and get help tailoring your catering menu ideas to your event.