How Much Ham Per Person is Needed for Sandwiches?

Sandwiches are a classic meal for gatherings parties and potlucks. But determining how much deli ham to buy can be tricky when you’re feeding a crowd. This guide will walk you through how to calculate the right amount of ham per person for sandwiches.

Factors That Affect Ham Sandwich Servings

There are a few key factors that determine how much sliced ham you need per sandwich

• Type of ham – Boneless ham will require less per serving than bone-in. Deli ham needs 2-3 ounces per sandwich.

• Sandwich size – Small tea sandwiches need less ham than large 12-inch subs.

• Guest appetites – Big eaters will need more ham per sandwich than lighter eaters.

• Leftovers – Will sandwiches be the main dish or part of a larger meal?

• Other ingredients – Adding cheese, veggies, condiments affects ham needed.

By considering these aspects, you can estimate the right ham quantities for your event.

Calculating Bone-In Ham Servings

For bone-in cooked ham, plan on 1/2 pound of meat per person. A 10 lb bone-in ham serves about 20 people.

• Carve thin slices across the bone for sandwiches.

• Allow for some bone loss and trimming.

• Purchase a whole bone-in ham and carve what you need.

Boneless ham may take a little less per serving. For a group, plan on purchasing a 12-15 lb bone-in ham to have enough for seconds and leftovers.

Calculating Boneless Ham Servings

For boneless cooked ham, plan on 1/3 pound per person. A 5 lb boneless ham serves around 15 people.

• Slice the ham thick or thin depending on preference.

• There is no bone loss with boneless ham.

• Buy a whole boneless ham and slice the needed amount.

For a party, aim for 3/4 pound per person to allow for larger sandwiches and leftovers. Purchase a 10-12 lb boneless cooked ham for a group.

Deli Ham Serving Sizes

For sandwiches using deli-sliced ham:

• Order 2-3 ounces of meat per sandwich.

• One pound of deli ham makes 5-6 sandwiches.

• Cheese should be sliced thinner than the deli ham.

When making smaller tea sandwiches, 1-2 thin slices may be enough per sandwich. For large subs, pile on 4+ thick slices. Adjust amounts depending on sandwich size and preferences.

Tips for Buying and Serving Ham

Here are some useful tips for purchasing and serving party-sized ham:

• Buy an extra 1-2 pounds for mistakes and leftovers.

• Let guests assemble their own sandwiches buffet-style.

• Offer condiments like mustard, mayo, pickles and cheese.

• Use both wheat and white breads for variety.

• Add salad, chips or soup for a complete meal.

• Keep leftover ham chilled for up to 4-5 days after.

• Freeze sliced ham in portions to use later. Defrost in fridge overnight before using.

Sample Menu and Shopping List

Here is a sample menu and shopping list for a 25-person ham sandwich party:

Menu

• Deli ham sandwiches (3 oz meat per sandwich)

• Potato salad, coleslaw

• Chips, pretzels

• Assorted cookies

• Beverages

Shopping List

• 12-15 lb bone-in cooked ham OR 10 lb boneless cooked ham

• 3 lbs Swiss cheese slices

• 3 loaves soft white bread

• 2 loaves wheat bread

• Lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, onions, mayo, mustard

• Potato salad (2 lbs), coleslaw (3 lbs)

• Cookies, chips, pretzels, beverages

• Plates, napkins, cups, utensils

This menu provides a satisfying variety of food and should give most guests two or more sandwiches. Adjust amounts as needed for larger or smaller groups.

Have a Tasty Ham Sandwich Party!

Determining the right amount of deli ham per person ensures you have sufficient meat without overbuying. Consider the type of ham, sandwich size, appetites, and other ingredients. For a party, plan for 3/4 to 1 pound of bone-in ham per person, 1/2 pound of boneless ham per person, or 2-3 ounces of deli ham per sandwich. Follow these tips for a successful ham sandwich event that pleases the whole crowd!