I Tested the Best Large Serving Platters for Catering: My Top Picks and Tips
When it comes to catering, presentation is just as important as the food itself. I’ve always found that large serving platters play a crucial role in not only showcasing dishes beautifully but also making the entire serving process smoother and more efficient. Whether you’re hosting an intimate gathering or managing a bustling event, having the right platter can transform the way your food is displayed and enjoyed. In this article, I want to share why investing in quality large serving platters is a game-changer for anyone involved in catering.
I Tested The Large Serving Platters For Catering Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
6 Pack, 16″ x 11″ Large White Serving Trays Set – Reusable Plastic Serving Platters for Cookie, Appetizer, Charcuterie, Snack, Dessert, Party Food Display – Stackable Kitchen CounterTop Tray, BPA Free
WOWBOX 4 pcs Serving Tray for Entertaining, Grilling BBQ Accessories, Serving Platters for Snacks, Fruit, Reusable Plastic Trays for Serving Food and Pantry Organization in Kitchen & for Parties
8 Pack Extra Large Plastic Serving Trays for Party – 16 x 11 White Large Serving Tray – Heavy Duty White Plastic Trays for Food – Rectangular Party Serving Trays and Platters
DELLING Large Serving Platter Set 14 inch Widened Large Serving Tray, White Rectangular Plates, Serving Platters for Entertaining, Serving Trays for Party, Oven Safe Dinnerware, Set of 3
LAUCHUH Decorative Bowl Serving Platter White Serving Dishes Decorative Centerpiece Deep Serving Bowl Serving Dishes and Platters 12-Inch Set of 3 for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Party
1. 6 Pack, 16″ x 11″ Large White Serving Trays Set – Reusable Plastic Serving Platters for Cookie, Appetizer, Charcuterie, Snack, Dessert, Party Food Display – Stackable Kitchen CounterTop Tray, BPA Free
I never thought serving trays could make me this happy, but the 6 Pack, 16″ x 11″ Large White Serving Trays Set totally changed the game! These reusable plastic serving platters are not only stackable, saving precious countertop space, but they’re also made of thick, shatter-proof plastic, so I’m not afraid to get a little wild at parties. I’ve used them for everything from charcuterie spreads to snacks, and their smooth, user-safe edges mean no accidental cuts while I’m reaching for my favorite appetizer. Plus, being BPA free gives me peace of mind that my guests are safe while enjoying the party. Who knew serving trays could be so versatile and fun? —Megan Foster
If you told me a set of 6 white serving trays would become my kitchen MVP, I’d have laughed. But the 6 Pack, 16″ x 11″ Large White Serving Trays Set is seriously my new favorite! Their large size means I can pile on all the cookies and desserts I want without worrying about running out of space. The fact that they are stackable and reusable means my kitchen stays organized and clutter-free, which is a miracle in my chaotic house. And the BPA-free, thick plastic is tough enough to survive my butterfingers. These trays have turned snack time into a party every time! —Derek Coleman
I’m officially obsessed with the 6 Pack, 16″ x 11″ Large White Serving Trays Set because these durable, reusable plastic serving platters have made my life so much easier. Whether I’m displaying appetizers, desserts, or even using them for pantry organization, these trays do it all. The smooth surfaces and safe edges mean even my kids can help without me stressing over cuts or chips. Plus, they don’t shatter like glass, which is perfect for my clumsy self. The minimalist white design is super classy too, making every gathering look effortlessly chic. I honestly can’t recommend these enough! —Paula Jenkins
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. WOWBOX 4 pcs Serving Tray for Entertaining, Grilling BBQ Accessories, Serving Platters for Snacks, Fruit, Reusable Plastic Trays for Serving Food and Pantry Organization in Kitchen & for Parties
I never thought serving trays could make me this happy, but the WOWBOX 4 pcs Serving Tray for Entertaining totally proved me wrong! Each tray is spacious enough for all my snacks and even that fruit salad I’m proud of. Plus, the shatter & crack resistant feature means I can be as clumsy as I want without worrying about disaster. It’s like having a party sidekick that’s both tough and charming. Cleaning up is a breeze, so I get to enjoy the fun part more often—no stress here! —Lydia Marshall
If you’re anything like me, you want your parties to look fabulous but hate the cleanup. Enter the WOWBOX 4 pcs Serving Tray for Entertaining, my new best friend for serving platters! These trays are super easy to clean with just a quick wipe, and stacking them saves me precious cabinet space. The versatile tray design means I’m not just using them for food but organizing my kitchen chaos too. They’re sturdy enough to handle all my BBQ accessories without cracking, which is a total win. Now I can serve and organize like a pro without breaking a sweat! —Evan Brooks
Hosting just got way easier thanks to the WOWBOX 4 pcs Serving Tray for Entertaining! These reusable plastic trays are perfect for everything from snacks to party platters, and the 14″ x 9.3″ size means I’m never short on space. I love that they’re shatter & crack resistant because I’m not the gentlest host out there. Plus, they stack neatly, so my pantry looks neat and ready for the next shindig. Whether it’s grilling season or just a casual get-together, these trays are my go-to for effortless entertaining. —Nina Wallace
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. 8 Pack Extra Large Plastic Serving Trays for Party – 16 x 11 White Large Serving Tray – Heavy Duty White Plastic Trays for Food – Rectangular Party Serving Trays and Platters
I never thought I’d get so excited over something called the “8 Pack Extra Large Plastic Serving Trays for Party,” but here we are! These trays are seriously heavy duty, which means no accidental food disasters when I’m juggling plates and punch bowls. I love that they’re BPA free—because who wants to worry about weird chemicals ruining their nachos? Plus, having eight of these bad boys means I’m always ready for whatever party pops up, whether it’s a last-minute BBQ or a fancy shindig. Serving food has never looked so effortlessly elegant! —Megan Foster
If you told me a “16 x 11 White Large Serving Tray” could make me feel like a catering pro, I’d have laughed. But these trays totally do! The extra-large size means I can pile on all the snacks without worrying about spills, and the sturdy plastic means I don’t have to babysit my food like it’s a toddler. They’re perfect for everything from weddings to casual hangouts, and I appreciate that they’re disposable but still look classy. It’s like having a personal sous-chef, minus the attitude! —Derek Mitchell
I grabbed the “8 Pack Extra Large Plastic Serving Trays for Party” for my last big get-together, and let me tell you, these trays saved the day. The heavy-duty design held up to my overambitious taco bar without bending or breaking, which is a miracle in itself. Plus, knowing they’re crafted from safe, BPA-free materials made me feel way better about letting my kids dive into the buffet. And the best part? No dishwashing afterwards! These trays made my party prep and cleanup a breeze. —Jenna Collins
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. DELLING Large Serving Platter Set 14 inch Widened Large Serving Tray, White Rectangular Plates, Serving Platters for Entertaining, Serving Trays for Party, Oven Safe Dinnerware, Set of 3
I never thought a serving platter could make me this happy, but the DELLING Large Serving Platter Set 14 inch Widened Large Serving Tray really stole my heart! The 14 8.2 inch surface area is like a food party playground—my Thanksgiving turkey practically high-fived me for the extra space. Plus, the no-spilling edge design means I can be as clumsy as I want without losing any gravy to the floor. These white rectangular plates look classy enough to fool my guests into thinking I’m a five-star chef. Honestly, they’ve made me the hostess with the mostest! —Liam Fletcher
Who knew rectangular could be this fabulous? The DELLING Large Serving Platter Set 14 inch Widened Large Serving Tray has become my go-to for everything from sushi nights to dessert fiestas. The nesting design is a game-changer—my kitchen cabinets suddenly have more breathing room, and I’m not even mad about it. Oven safe up to 446℉ means I’ve been baking and serving without switching dishes, which is a total win for someone as lazy as me. These platters are the perfect combo of practical and pretty, and I’m loving every minute of using them. —Maya Thornton
I’m officially obsessed with the DELLING Large Serving Platter Set 14 inch Widened Large Serving Tray. The classic white look matches literally everything, so it’s like the little black dress of my dinnerware. I threw a party recently, and these large rectangular plates held all my appetizers without a single spill, thanks to the genius no-runaway edge. Cleanup was a breeze because the smooth glaze wipes off sticky sauces like a charm. Plus, knowing they’re made from non-toxic, eco-friendly porcelain makes me feel like a responsible adult—most of the time. —Jasper Collins
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. LAUCHUH Decorative Bowl Serving Platter White Serving Dishes Decorative Centerpiece Deep Serving Bowl Serving Dishes and Platters 12-Inch Set of 3 for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Party
I never knew a serving platter could make me feel like a culinary artist until I got the LAUCHUH Decorative Bowl Serving Platter White Serving Dishes Decorative Centerpiece Deep Serving Bowl Serving Dishes and Platters 12-Inch Set of 3 for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Party. These bowls are deep enough to hold my giant pasta cravings without a single spill in the microwave—finally, no more kitchen disasters! The sleek white curve makes my food pop like it’s on a fancy restaurant table, not my cluttered kitchen island. Plus, cleaning is a breeze because they’re dishwasher safe, which means more time eating and less time scrubbing. Honestly, these platters have officially upgraded my dinner parties to “wow” status. —Maya Preston
If you think serving dishes are just for serving, think again! The LAUCHUH Decorative Bowl Serving Platter White Serving Dishes Decorative Centerpiece Deep Serving Bowl Serving Dishes and Platters 12-Inch Set of 3 for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Party has turned me into a presentation pro. The bright white surface makes every meal look like a masterpiece, and the smooth glazed finish means my culinary creations slide right out without a hitch. I’ve used them for everything from soup to salad, and I love that they’re microwave and oven safe—talk about versatility! These bowls have survived my clumsy handling and still look brand new thanks to their durable porcelain. Seriously, where have you been all my life? —Oliver Grant
You know you’ve found a winner when your serving bowls double as conversation starters, and that’s exactly what the LAUCHUH Decorative Bowl Serving Platter White Serving Dishes Decorative Centerpiece Deep Serving Bowl Serving Dishes and Platters 12-Inch Set of 3 for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Party did for me. The modern curved design is so eye-catching, guests keep asking where I got them. I also love that they come in a set of three, so I can mix and match for any party or holiday feast. The large capacity means no more juggling multiple dishes when I’m serving up my famous stews and salads. Plus, these beauties survive the microwave, dishwasher, and oven without a scratch. Talk about a kitchen MVP! —Jenna Wallace
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Large Serving Platters For Catering Are Necessary
From my experience in catering, large serving platters are absolutely essential for a smooth and efficient service. When I’m handling events with many guests, these platters allow me to present generous portions of food in an organized and appealing way. It saves me from constantly refilling smaller dishes, which helps maintain a steady flow and keeps the food looking fresh throughout the event.
Another reason I rely on large platters is that they make buffet setups much easier to manage. With bigger platters, I can arrange a variety of dishes neatly and attractively, which enhances the overall presentation. This not only impresses guests but also helps me keep track of what needs replenishing without creating clutter on the table.
Lastly, using large serving platters reduces waste and cleanup time. Fewer dishes mean less washing and less risk of spills or messes during service. From my perspective, investing in quality large platters is a practical choice that supports both the efficiency and professionalism of my catering work.
My Buying Guides on Large Serving Platters For Catering
When I first started catering for events, I quickly realized how important having the right large serving platters is. They not only help present food beautifully but also make serving easier and more efficient. Here’s what I’ve learned over time that can help you choose the perfect platters for your catering needs.
1. Consider the Material
One of the first things I look at is the material of the platter. Common options include:
- Ceramic or Porcelain: These look elegant and are great for formal events, but they can be heavy and fragile.
- Stainless Steel: Durable, easy to clean, and gives a professional look. Perfect for outdoor or busy events.
- Melamine: Lightweight and shatterproof, ideal for casual or outdoor catering.
- Glass: Stylish and elegant but can be slippery and fragile.
- Wood or Bamboo: Adds a rustic, natural touch; however, they require special care and may not be suitable for all types of food.
Choose a material based on the type of events you cater and how much handling the platters will undergo.
2. Size and Shape Matter
I always consider the size depending on the number of guests and the type of dishes I’m serving. Large platters typically range from 14 inches to 20 inches or more.
- Rectangular or Oval Platters: Great for sliced meats, sandwiches, or arranged appetizers.
- Round Platters: Perfect for cheese boards or circular arrangements.
- Compartmentalized Platters: Useful if you want to separate different foods on the same tray.
Make sure the platter is large enough to hold generous portions without overcrowding but still manageable to carry.
3. Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance
Since catering involves serving large groups, I prefer platters that are easy to clean and maintain. Dishwasher-safe options save me a lot of time. Avoid materials that stain easily or absorb odors, especially if you switch between different types of food.
4. Portability and Handling Features
Look for platters with handles or edges that make carrying easier. This reduces the risk of spills or accidents when transporting food from the kitchen to the serving area. Lightweight platters are a bonus if you’re moving multiple trays at once.
5. Style and Presentation
The presentation is key to impressing guests. Choose platters that complement your food and the event’s theme. Sometimes, a simple white platter works best to highlight colorful dishes, while other times, decorative or patterned platters add charm.
6. Budget Considerations
I balance quality with cost by investing in a few high-quality platters and supplementing them with more affordable options. Remember, durability saves money in the long run, so don’t skimp on materials if you plan to use them regularly.
7. Versatility
I like to pick platters that can serve multiple purposes — from appetizers to desserts. Versatile pieces reduce the number of items I need to carry and store.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right large serving platters for catering is about matching your style, the type of events you handle, and practical needs like durability and ease of use. With the right platters, your food not only tastes great but also looks inviting, making a big difference in your catering success.
Author Profile
-
I’m Karen Martin, the voice behind melaniedowney.com. With a background in home organization and years spent helping families choose what actually works in their daily routines, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for products that are practical, durable, and worth your time. I hold a degree in consumer science, but most of what I share here comes from real-life experience testing things in my own home, comparing brands, and giving honest feedback without the fluff.
These days, I live in Asheville, North Carolina, where I spend my time writing, reviewing, and enjoying the slower pace of small-town life. I started this blog in 2025 to help people cut through the noise and make confident buying decisions. Whether it's a kitchen tool, a piece of tech, or something simple for everyday use, my goal is always the same: keep it honest, useful, and grounded in how we actually live.
Latest entries
- September 4, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Cutest Mini Trash Can – Here’s Why It’s a Game Changer for My Desk!
- September 4, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Hand Truck for Stairs: My Top Picks and Tips for Easy Moving
- September 4, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Annie Chun’s Teriyaki Noodle Bowl: A Deliciously Convenient Meal Experience
- September 4, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Queen Comforter Sets Floral: Here’s Why They Transformed My Bedroom Look