If you’re planning to host a fajita party, one of the essential things to consider is how much flank steak you’ll need. After all, you don’t want your guests to be left hungry or have too many leftovers.

So, how many pounds of flank steak per person do you need for fajitas? Let’s find out.

The General Rule

The general rule of thumb is to account for four to six ounces of cooked flank steak per person. That means if you’re serving eight people, you’ll need about 32-48 ounces (or two to three pounds) of cooked flank steak.

However, this rule may vary based on your guests’ appetites, the number of sides you’re serving alongside your fajitas, and whether you want leftovers.

Factors Influencing Serving Size

Your guests’ appetites play a significant role in how much flank steak they consume. If your guests are big eaters or have hearty appetites, it’s best to lean towards the higher end of the rule and serve six ounces per person.

On the other hand, if your guests are light eaters or watching their portions, four ounces per person should suffice.

The number of side dishes served alongside the fajitas also plays a role in determining the amount of flank steak needed. If you’re serving generous portions of rice and beans or other sides like guacamole and chips, then four ounces per person may be enough.

However, if your sides are minimal or light like a vegetable salad or coleslaw, then six ounces per person may be necessary.

Lastly, consider whether you want leftovers after the party. If yes, then plan for six ounces per person as this will provide enough meat for second servings and leftovers.

Calculations

Assuming an average serving size of five ounces (between four and six), here’s how much flank steak you’ll need per person based on the number of guests:

  • 4 guests: 1.25 pounds
  • 6 guests: 1.88 pounds
  • 8 guests: 2.5 pounds
  • 10 guests: 3.13 pounds

Tips for Buying Flank Steak

When buying flank steak, it’s best to select a cut that’s evenly shaped, with consistent thickness throughout. Avoid any steak that’s gray or brown as this could be a sign of spoilage.

Also, ensure the meat is well-marbled as this indicates good flavor and tenderness. For fajitas, you can opt for either skirt or flank steak, both of which are flavorful and tender when cooked correctly.

In conclusion, planning ahead for the amount of flank steak you’ll need for your fajita party is essential to ensure your guests leave satisfied without wasting food. Consider your guests’ appetites, the number of sides served alongside the fajitas, and whether you want leftovers to help determine how many pounds per person you’ll need.