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Hosting a gathering can be exciting—but when it comes to feeding a crowd, things can get overwhelming fast. Hiring a caterer might seem like the easiest option, but it’s often expensive and more formal than your event needs. The good news? You don’t need one. With a few smart moves, you can serve up a delicious spread without the stress or cost of a caterer.
Cook in Big Batches
One of the easiest ways to feed a group is by cooking meals that stretch. Think pasta bakes, stews, curries or casseroles. These kinds of dishes are hearty, satisfying and simple to prepare in large quantities. You can make them ahead of time and reheat when needed, which means less last-minute rushing around. Plus, they often taste even better the next day.
Set Up a Simple Buffet
Instead of plating food for everyone, lay everything out on a table and let your guests help themselves. A buffet-style setup keeps things relaxed and takes the pressure off you. People can pick what they like and come back for seconds. It also saves you time during the event; you won’t be stuck in the kitchen while everyone else is enjoying the day.
Make the Most of Your Freezer
If you’re planning ahead, your freezer is your best friend. Many dishes freeze well and can be made days—or even weeks—in advance. For vegetables, consider blanching them first, as it helps preserve colour, texture and flavour when freezing. Just portion everything into containers, label them clearly, and stack them for easy access. Come party time, you’ll only need to defrost and warm things up.
Share the Load
If your gathering is casual, don’t be afraid to ask others to bring a dish. Most people are happy to contribute, and it adds a nice variety to the table. You could give a few suggestions to avoid everyone bringing the same thing. When everyone pitches in, it makes the day feel more connected—and gives you one less thing to worry about.
Prep in Advance
Doing a little each day leading up to the event makes a big difference. Chop your veggies the day before, mix sauces ahead of time, or set the table early. Even small tasks done in advance will save you energy on the day. That way, you can actually enjoy the gathering instead of racing around while your guests arrive.
Stick to Familiar Favourites
When feeding a group, it’s best to stick with dishes you know people love. You don’t need to get fancy—simple, comforting meals usually go down best. Things like pasta, roast chicken, rice dishes or homemade pies are always crowd-pleasers. Try to include a few vegetarian or gluten-free options if you know your guests need them.
Try Ready-Made Family Meals
If cooking isn’t really your thing, or you just don’t have the time, there’s nothing wrong with getting a hand from meal delivery services. Some providers, like Salad Servers Direct, even specialise in event-friendly meals with simple reheating instructions. The meals come cooked, fresh, and all you need to do is heat and serve.
Enjoy the Moment
Feeding a crowd doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive. With a bit of planning and a few clever choices, you can pull it off without needing a caterer. Whether you’re cooking, sharing the load, or getting help from a delivery service, the most important thing is that everyone feels welcome, well-fed and part of the moment.