How Many Tacos for 12 People?

Plan 2–3 tacos per person for a taco bar — call it 2.5. With 2 oz of seasoned meat per taco, a pound of raw ground beef makes about 8 tacos.

A taco bar hides shortages well: when meat runs low, guests fill up on rice, beans, and toppings. Always more tortillas than you think — they double as plates.

Adjusting for your crowd: kids eat about two-thirds of adult portions; knock 25% off any single item when several mains share the table; add 25% for teenagers and big appetites. When in doubt, round up on the cheap items (buns, chips, ice) and stay exact on the expensive ones.