A charcuterie board is the easiest party food that looks impressive: a mix of cheeses, sliced meats, fruit, crackers and something sweet, arranged on a wooden board. This guide shows you how to build one step by step, and every meat we suggest is beef and turkey, such as beef bresaola, beef salami, smoked turkey and chicken.
It works for game day, the holidays or a cozy night in.
The Short Answer
Start with a large board, place 3 cheeses and small bowls first, fan out 2 or 3 beef and turkey meats, then fill the gaps with crackers, fruit, nuts and something sweet. Plan 2 to 3 oz of cheese and 2 oz of meat per person as an appetizer.
What to Put on a Charcuterie Board
- Cheeses (pick 3): one soft (brie), one aged (sharp cheddar or gouda) and one bold (blue cheese or herbed goat cheese).
- beef and turkey meats (pick 2 or 3): beef bresaola, beef salami or summer sausage, smoked turkey, pastrami-style turkey, or sliced roast beef.
- Crunch: crackers, breadsticks, toasted baguette slices.
- Fruit: grapes, apple and pear slices, figs, berries, dried apricots.
- Salty extras: olives, pickles, marcona almonds.
- Sweet extras: honey, jam, dark chocolate.
How to Build a Charcuterie Board, Step by Step
Step 1: Pick your board
A wooden board sets the look. Use a teak wood board for a crowd or a three-section acacia tray for a smaller spread.
Step 2: Place bowls first
Add small bowls for honey, jam and olives, spaced around the board.
Step 3: Add the cheeses
Set out the 3 cheeses, pre-slicing some of the hard cheese so guests dive in.
Step 4: Fan the meats
Fold slices into ribbons or fans next to the cheeses.
Step 5: Fill every gap
Add crackers, fruit and nuts until almost no board shows. Tuck in fresh herbs for color.
How Much to Buy Per Person
| Serving | Cheese | Meat |
|---|---|---|
| Appetizer | 2 to 3 oz | 2 oz |
| Main meal | 4 oz | 3 to 4 oz |
Serving Pieces That Help
- Wooden cheese and butter tray with glass cover: keeps soft cheese fresh.
- Ceramic sauce and snack dish set: for dips, honey and olives.
- Butter and cheese slicer: fast, even slices.
- Wooden divided tray: a mini board for 2.
Make It Warm
Add a small slow cooker of warm dip such as spinach artichoke or buffalo chicken dip next to the board.
Equipment I Used
- Wooden cutting board with handle: for slicing and serving right at the table.
New to slow cooking? The Easy Slow Cooker Recipes guide is a beginner-friendly collection of easy crockpot breakfasts and dinners.
Charcuterie Board FAQ
What goes on a charcuterie board?
Cheeses, sliced cured or cooked meats, crackers, fruit, nuts, olives and something sweet like honey or jam.
Can you make a charcuterie board without pork?
Yes. Use beef bresaola, beef salami, smoked turkey, chicken or roast beef, and check labels because many salamis contain pork.
How far ahead can I make a charcuterie board?
Assemble up to 2 hours ahead, cover and refrigerate. Add crackers just before serving so they stay crisp.
How long can a charcuterie board sit out?
Up to 2 hours at room temperature.
