Kroger catering simplifies party planning, and their menu prices help you feed a crowd without overspending. Whether you need trays for a family reunion or platters for a work lunch, knowing the kroger catering menu prices upfront saves you time and stress. This guide breaks down every cost, portion size, and ordering tip so you can plan with confidence.
You don’t need to call every store or guess what things cost. We have the numbers right here. From sandwich trays to party platters, we cover it all in plain terms.
Why Choose Kroger For Catering
Kroger is a grocery chain you already trust for everyday shopping. Their catering department offers convenience without the premium price tag of dedicated caterers. You can order while you shop, and pickup is usually free.
Their menu covers classic party foods. Think subs, veggie trays, fruit platters, and deli meats. They also offer bakery items like cookies and cakes. Everything is designed to feed groups of 10 to 50 people easily.
One big advantage is the price. Kroger catering menu prices are often lower than restaurant catering. You get quality food without the fancy markup.
Kroger Catering Menu Prices
Here is the detailed breakdown of what you can expect to pay. Prices vary slightly by location, but these are accurate averages for most stores.
Sandwich And Sub Trays
Sandwich trays are the most popular catering item. They come in full and half sizes. A full tray serves about 15 to 20 people. A half tray serves 8 to 10.
- Full sub tray (assorted meats and cheeses): $34.99 to $44.99
- Half sub tray: $19.99 to $24.99
- Wrap tray (full): $39.99 to $49.99
- Pinwheel sandwich tray (full): $44.99 to $54.99
You can choose from turkey, ham, roast beef, or a mix. Bread options include white, wheat, and hoagie rolls. Most trays come with lettuce, tomato, and pickles on the side.
Party Platters And Trays
These are perfect for potlucks or casual gatherings. Kroger offers a wide variety of cold and hot options.
- Vegetable tray with dip (full): $29.99 to $39.99
- Fruit tray with dip (full): $34.99 to $44.99
- Cheese and cracker tray (full): $39.99 to $49.99
- Meat and cheese tray (full): $44.99 to $54.99
- Chicken wing platter (serves 12-15): $39.99 to $49.99
- Meatball platter (serves 12-15): $34.99 to $44.99
Most trays include a small container of dip or dressing. If you need extra, ask at the deli counter. They usually charge $1.50 to $3.00 per extra cup.
Bakery And Dessert Options
No party is complete without something sweet. Kroger’s bakery section can handle large orders.
- Cookie tray (24 cookies): $12.99 to $16.99
- Brownie tray (12 large brownies): $14.99 to $19.99
- Sheet cake (full, serves 48): $39.99 to $54.99
- Cupcake platter (24 cupcakes): $24.99 to $34.99
- Donut platter (24 assorted): $19.99 to $26.99
Sheet cakes come in chocolate, vanilla, and marble. You can request a custom message on top for no extra charge. Cupcakes are frosted and decorated nicely.
Hot Entrees And Sides
Kroger also offers hot food for larger events. These are typically sold by the pound or in large trays.
- Fried chicken (8-piece): $9.99 to $12.99
- Fried chicken (16-piece): $18.99 to $24.99
- Mac and cheese (large tray, serves 12): $19.99 to $25.99
- Mashed potatoes (large tray, serves 12): $14.99 to $19.99
- Coleslaw (large tray, serves 12): $12.99 to $16.99
- Baked beans (large tray, serves 12): $14.99 to $18.99
These items are often available from the deli or hot foods section. You can mix and match to create a full meal. Many stores offer a family meal deal that includes chicken, two sides, and rolls for around $29.99.
How To Order From Kroger Catering
Ordering is straightforward. You have three main options.
- In-store at the deli counter. Walk up and ask for a catering menu. The staff will write your order and give you a pickup time.
- Online via the Kroger website. Go to the catering section of your local store’s page. Select items, choose pickup time, and pay.
- By phone. Call your local Kroger deli. Give them your order details. They will confirm availability and pricing.
For online orders, you need a Kroger account. It is free to create. You can also use the Kroger app to place catering orders on your phone.
Always order at least 24 hours in advance. For large events (over 30 people), order 48 hours ahead. This ensures everything is fresh and ready.
Tips For Saving Money On Kroger Catering
You can get the best value if you know a few tricks. Here are practical ways to keep costs down.
- Order half trays instead of full. Half trays serve 8-10 people. If your group is smaller, you avoid waste and save money.
- Stick to classic options. Premium items like shrimp cocktail or specialty wraps cost more. Basic sub trays and veggie platters are budget-friendly.
- Check for weekly specials. Kroger often runs deals on party platters. Look at the weekly ad or app for discounts.
- Buy bakery items from the regular section. Sometimes sheet cakes and cookies are cheaper if you buy them from the bakery counter instead of the catering menu. Compare prices.
- Pick up yourself. Delivery is not always free. Some locations charge a fee for delivery. Pickup is always free.
- Use coupons. Kroger digital coupons sometimes apply to deli items. Check your account before ordering.
Another tip is to ask about the “party pack” deals. Some stores bundle a sub tray, veggie tray, and dessert for a flat price. This can save you 10-15% compared to buying each item separately.
Portion Sizes And Serving Guidelines
Knowing how much to order prevents running out or having too many leftovers. Here are general guidelines based on Kroger’s tray sizes.
- Full sub tray: 15-20 people (if served as a main dish)
- Half sub tray: 8-10 people
- Full veggie tray: 15-20 people (as a side)
- Full fruit tray: 15-20 people (as a side or dessert)
- Cheese and cracker tray: 10-12 people (as an appetizer)
- Full sheet cake: 48 people (2-inch by 2-inch slices)
- Half sheet cake: 24 people
If you are serving multiple items, you can reduce portions. For example, if you have a sub tray, veggie tray, and fruit tray, each tray will serve more people because guests eat a bit of everything.
A good rule is to plan for 1.5 to 2 pounds of food per person for a full meal. For appetizers only, plan for 0.5 to 1 pound per person.
Dietary And Allergy Information
Kroger catering can accommodate some dietary needs. You just need to ask.
- Vegetarian options: Veggie trays, fruit trays, cheese trays, and some wraps are vegetarian. Ask for no meat on sub trays.
- Gluten-free options: Kroger offers gluten-free wraps and some salads. However, most sub trays and bakery items contain gluten. Check labels or ask staff.
- Nut allergies: Some bakery items may contain nuts. Kroger labels allergens on their products. Always inform the deli staff about allergies.
- Dairy-free: Vegetable trays and fruit trays are dairy-free. Avoid cheese trays and creamy dips.
Kroger does not guarantee that their food is completely free of cross-contamination. If you have severe allergies, talk to the store manager before ordering.
Comparing Kroger Catering To Other Options
How does Kroger stack up against other grocery store catering? Here is a quick comparison.
| Store | Sandwich Tray (Full) | Veggie Tray (Full) | Fruit Tray (Full) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kroger | $34.99 – $44.99 | $29.99 – $39.99 | $34.99 – $44.99 |
| Walmart | $29.99 – $39.99 | $24.99 – $34.99 | $29.99 – $39.99 |
| Costco | $39.99 – $49.99 | $34.99 – $44.99 | $39.99 – $49.99 |
| Publix | $44.99 – $54.99 | $34.99 – $44.99 | $39.99 – $49.99 |
Kroger sits in the middle. They are cheaper than Publix but slightly more expensive than Walmart. However, Kroger often has better quality and more variety than Walmart. Costco requires a membership, which adds to the cost if you don’t already have one.
For the price, Kroger offers good value. Their trays are fresh, well-presented, and consistent across locations.
Seasonal And Holiday Catering Options
Kroger changes their catering menu for holidays. You can order special items for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, and the Fourth of July.
- Thanksgiving: Pre-cooked turkey breast, mashed potatoes, stuffing, gravy, and pumpkin pie. A full meal for 10 people costs around $79.99 to $99.99.
- Christmas: Honey ham, prime rib, or spiral ham. Sides include green bean casserole and sweet potatoes. Prices range from $89.99 to $129.99.
- Easter: Glazed ham, deviled eggs, and spring-themed desserts. A family meal for 8 people is about $69.99.
- Fourth of July: BBQ platters with pulled pork, chicken, and coleslaw. Prices start at $49.99 for a platter serving 12.
These holiday meals require advance ordering. Some stores start taking orders two weeks before the holiday. Check with your local Kroger for exact dates.
How To Pick Up And Serve Kroger Catering
Pickup is simple. When you arrive, go to the deli counter. Tell them you have a catering order. They will bring it out or hand it to you.
Most trays come in disposable aluminum or plastic containers. They are stackable and easy to transport. If you need serving utensils, ask at pickup. Some stores include them for free.
For hot items, Kroger usually packs them in insulated bags if you request it. Otherwise, plan to serve within two hours of pickup. Cold items should be refrigerated until serving.
If you are serving outdoors, keep cold trays on ice. Hot trays can be kept warm in a slow cooker or chafing dish. Kroger does not rent equipment, so you need to supply your own.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum order for Kroger catering?
There is no strict minimum. However, most catering items are designed for groups of 8 or more. You can order a single half tray if you want.
Can I order Kroger catering online for same-day pickup?
Some stores offer same-day pickup for small orders. It depends on availability. For best results, order at least 24 hours in advance.
Does Kroger deliver catering orders?
Delivery is available at select locations. There is usually a fee of $5 to $15 depending on distance and order size. Check with your local store.
Are Kroger catering prices the same at every store?
Prices vary slightly by region and store. The prices listed here are averages. Always confirm with your local Kroger before ordering.
Can I customize a Kroger catering tray?
Yes. You can request specific meats, cheeses, and breads for sub trays. For veggie and fruit trays, you can ask for certain items to be included or excluded. Customization may affect the price slightly.
Final Thoughts On Kroger Catering
Kroger catering is a solid choice for feeding a crowd without breaking the bank. Their menu is straightforward, the prices are reasonable, and the food is reliable. You can order quickly and pick up with minimal hassle.
Remember to plan ahead. Order at least 24 hours in advance. Check your local store for specific prices and availability. Use the tips in this guide to save money and avoid waste.
Whether you need lunch for a meeting or dinner for a party, Kroger has you covered. Their catering menu prices make it easy to stay within budget while still serving good food. Next time you are planning an event, give Kroger catering a try.
You now have all the information you need. Go ahead and place that order with confidence. Your guests will be happy, and your wallet will thank you.