How many pounds of potatoes needed to feed 500 people?

The amount of potatoes needed to feed 500 people depends on several factors, including the serving size, the type of dish being prepared, and whether other side dishes or main courses will be served. Here are a few general guidelines:

1. Whole Boiled or Mashed Potatoes: If serving whole boiled or mashed potatoes as a main side dish, you can estimate about 1 pound of potatoes per person. This would mean approximately 500 pounds of potatoes for 500 people.

2. Potato-Based Dishes: If you're preparing a dish that heavily incorporates potatoes, such as a potato gratin or shepherd's pie, you might need more potatoes. Plan for about 1.5 pounds of potatoes per person for such dishes, which would be around 750 pounds for 500 people.

3. Smaller Serving Sizes: If you anticipate smaller appetites or have other substantial dishes on your menu, you could adjust the potato quantity downward. Consider about 0.75 pounds of potatoes per person, resulting in a need for approximately 375 pounds of potatoes for 500 people.

4. Appetizers or Snacks: If you're serving potatoes as an appetizer or snack, the amount needed will be less. Estimate around 0.5 pounds of potatoes per person for this purpose, meaning you would need about 250 pounds for 500 people.

5. Potato Varieties: Different potato varieties may have varying yields, so consider this when calculating your quantities. Russet potatoes, for instance, tend to produce more servings per pound compared to some specialty potato varieties.

It's important to adjust these estimates based on your specific recipes, the cooking methods employed, and the preferences of your guests. To ensure you have enough potatoes, consider purchasing slightly more than the estimated quantity to account for any spoilage or waste during preparation.