Make-ahead appetizers for a crowd: cold trays that need no oven, priced for 40
Make-ahead appetizers for 40 guests, 230 pieces from four trays, cost $272 before tax. No oven, no last-minute assembly, just set them out.
By the Upper Crust Catering kitchen
Make-ahead appetizers for a crowd are the ones you do not cook on party day. For 40 guests over two hours, we plan about 2 to 3 pieces per guest per hour, which is 160 to 240 pieces. Four cold trays cover it with 230 pieces for $272 before tax: Antipasto Kabobs, Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus Spears, Pinwheel Sandwiches and Bruschetta with Garlic Toast Points. You can make your own ahead, or let us make the cold ones.
The honest case for ordering them
Home-made make-ahead appetizers still take an afternoon: cutting, rolling, skewering, chilling. By the time the doorbell rings you are tired. Our answer is the cold platter. It is made in our Yorkville kitchen and ready to set on the table, with nothing to bake or assemble. You pick it up, or ask for quoted delivery, and you spend party day on the guests.
Four cold trays for 40 guests
- Antipasto Kabobs, 50 pieces, $74
- Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus Spears, 60 pieces, $74
- Pinwheel Sandwiches, 60 pieces, $79
- Bruschetta with Garlic Toast Points, 60 pieces, $45
That is 50 + 60 + 60 + 60 = 230 pieces, for $74 + $74 + $79 + $45 = $272. Add 9.25% sales tax. The planning range for 40 guests over 2 hours is 160 to 240 pieces, so 230 sits near the top, which is a good place to be if guests will linger. For a shorter party of one hour, two trays are plenty.
The asparagus is gluten-free. The bruschetta is vegetarian. If you have both kinds of guests, each tray gives them a choice.
Add one hot tray without much work
A hot tray is the one thing that needs attention. A chafing dish at $17 per hot dish keeps it warm, and it is yours to keep. Cocktail Meatballs are 100 pieces for $64. With the chafing dish that is $81 on top of the cold trays, for $353 in all.
How to run the day
- Day before: Count your guests, clear fridge space for the trays and plan where each platter will go.
- Morning: Pick up the trays, or take the delivery. Keep cold dishes cold until you set them out.
- An hour before: Set out plates and napkins. Disposable Appetizer Plates & Napkins are $0.99 a person, so $39.60 for 40.
- At the start: Put the cold trays out, then the hot one last.
We need three days' notice. Trays have no minimum.
If you want to make some yourself
Mixing homemade and ordered is a good plan. Make one dip or one sweet thing the night before, and order the trays that need assembly. That way the work is spread out. For more tray options by price and count, see our appetizer list and the how many appetizers per person guide.
Call (630) 553-9533 or send a quote request with your date and headcount.
Questions
How many make-ahead appetizers do I need per person?
Plan 2 to 3 pieces per guest per hour. For 40 guests over two hours, 160 to 240 pieces.
Which of your appetizers are cold?
The platters: Antipasto Kabobs, Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus Spears, Pinwheel Sandwiches, Bruschetta, Jumbo Chilled Shrimp and the cheese trays. The hot appetizers are listed separately on the platters and appetizers menu.
How do I keep food safe at a party?
Keep cold dishes in the fridge until you serve them, and put hot dishes in a chafing dish. Ask us when you order if you are unsure.
How far ahead do I order?
Three days for standard orders.
