6 Best Extra Large Serving Platters for Holiday Entertaining

By Lauren Holland

Updated November 2026

Extra large serving platters solve one of the most common hosting problems: where to put everything. A 20-inch tray holds a full holiday turkey, a dozen cookies or a generous charcuterie spread without crowding the edges. This guide compares six options so you can match the tray to the food you plan to serve and the number of people you expect. The selection criteria were size and surface area, material (mostly melamine and BPA-free plastic), handle design, surface finish, dishwasher compatibility and the range of uses owners commonly mention. This is a research-based comparison built from manufacturer specifications and owner feedback patterns; none of these trays were tested by us.

Our Top Picks

ECOIOU Extra Large Serving Tray with Handles, 20×13 inch, Set of 2 Melamine Platters

ECOIOU Extra Large Serving Tray with Handles, 20×13 inch, Set of 2 Melamine Platters for Serving Food, Turkey, Cookie, Rectangular Trays for Eating, Raised Dots Matt Finished, Dishwasher Safe, White

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Best for: Overall use and holiday turkey

This set suits hosts who want two matching large trays that can handle a main dish on one and sides or desserts on the other. The 20 x 13 inch footprint is large enough for a whole turkey on most platters of this size, and the handles make carrying a heavy tray across a dining room more manageable.

Key specs

• Size: 20 x 13 inches
• Quantity: set of 2
• Material: melamine
• Finish: matte with raised dots
• Color: white
• Dishwasher safe, according to the listing

Pros

• Two matching trays give you flexibility for a main and a side course
• Integrated handles help when lifting a full tray
• Matte finish reduces glare under dining room lighting

Cons

• Melamine should not go in the microwave or oven
• Large size requires a sizable serving surface or buffet table

Bottom line: A strong all-around pick for hosts who want two large, versatile trays for holiday meals.

Lifewit 4 Pcs Extra Large Serving Trays for Party, 16″ x 12″ Food Platters

Lifewit 4 Pcs Extra Large Serving Trays for Party, 16" x 12" Food Platters | Reusable Plastic Trays for Dessert, Snacks, Fruit, Appetizers & Charcuterie, BPA-Free White Catering Dish for Party Supplie

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Best for: Small kitchens

Four lightweight trays are useful when storage space is tight. The 16 x 12 inch size fits many kitchen cabinets and stacks without taking over a counter, and it works well for appetizers, fruit and charcuterie boards.

Key specs

• Size: 16 x 12 inches
• Quantity: 4 pieces
• Material: reusable plastic, BPA-free according to the listing
• Color: white

Pros

• Four pieces give you options for several dishes at once
• Lightweight and easy to move between counter and table
• Stacks neatly for storage

Cons

• Plastic can show scratches over time with heavy knife use
• Smaller than the 20-inch options for a whole roast

Bottom line: A practical choice for hosts with limited storage who mostly serve appetizers and snacks.

Lifewit 4-Pack 16″ x 12″ Extra Large Plastic Food Serving Trays for Party

Lifewit 4-Pack 16" x 12" Extra Large Plastic Food Serving Trays for Party | White Reusable Platter for Fruit, Dessert, Appetizers & Charcuterie, BPA-Free Catering Tray for Buffet Display Party Supplie

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Best for: Budget-minded hosts

If you need several trays for a long buffet and want to keep the cost of the set low, this four-pack gives you coverage without a premium price tag. It suits casual gatherings, office parties and holiday open houses.

Key specs

• Size: 16 x 12 inches
• Quantity: 4-pack
• Material: reusable plastic, BPA-free according to the listing
• Color: white

Pros

• Good value for covering a long buffet
• Reusable and easy to wipe clean
• Works for both savory and sweet spreads

Cons

• Not as sturdy as melamine for heavy dishes
• Thinner edges may flex under a full load

Bottom line: The best fit for hosts who need many trays on a budget and are not serving very heavy foods.

2 Pack Extra Large 17.5 Inch White Serving Trays, Reusable Melamine Platters

2 Pack Extra Large 17.5 Inch White Serving Trays，Reusable Melamine Platters | Melamine Tray for Snacks, Fruit & Cookies, Durable Food Serving Dishes for Entertaining, Pantry Organization & Kitchen Use

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Best for: Desserts, snacks and fruit

The 17.5 inch melamine surface gives cookies, cupcakes and fruit room to spread out. Melamine is generally more rigid than thin plastic, which makes it a good match for stacked dessert arrangements.

Key specs

• Size: 17.5 inches
• Quantity: 2-pack
• Material: melamine
• Color: white

Pros

• Melamine holds its shape under moderate weight
• Neutral white suits any table décor
• Also useful for pantry organization between events

Cons

• Not suitable for hot food or the microwave
• Two pieces may be limiting for a large buffet

Bottom line: A good choice for dessert tables and snack spreads where presentation matters more than heat resistance.

PEOUWNES 19″ x 12″ Extra Large Serving Tray with Handles for Turkey Food

PEOUWNES 19" x 12" Extra Large Serving Tray with Handles for Turkey Food | Set of 2 White Melamine Serving Platters with Raised Dots, Matte Finish, for Cookies, Cupcakes & Party Serving

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Best for: Large roasts and buffets

Hosts who regularly carry a heavy roast or a long row of dishes will appreciate the handles and the 19-inch length. The raised dot pattern helps keep food from sliding during transport.

Key specs

• Size: 19 x 12 inches
• Quantity: set of 2
• Material: melamine
• Finish: matte with raised dots
• Color: white

Pros

• Handles make it easier to carry heavier dishes
• Raised dots reduce sliding
• Set of two adds flexibility for multiple courses

Cons

• Not designed for oven or microwave use
• Slightly narrower than the 20-inch trays

Bottom line: A solid pick for buffet tables and roasts where handles and grip are the priority.

Extra Large 20″ x 13″ Serving Platters for Turkey, Party Entertaining

Extra Large 20" x 13" Serving Platters for Turkey, Party Entertaining | Raised Dots & Matt Finish, Serving Tray for Cookie, Cupcakes, Gift Ready Melamine Serving Tray with Handles, White

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Best for: Gift-ready presentation

This platter’s 20 x 13 inch size and matte finish give it a polished look for hosts who want the serving dish to look as good as the food. It can double as a gift if you pair it with a holiday basket.

Key specs

• Size: 20 x 13 inches
• Material: melamine
• Finish: matte with raised dots
• Color: white
• Includes handles, according to the listing

Pros

• Clean white look suits formal and casual tables
• Full-size surface for large mains
• Handles aid transport

Cons

• Sold as a single piece, so a second tray requires another purchase
• Not heat-safe for oven or microwave

Bottom line: Best for hosts who want one large, attractive platter for mains, cookies or gift presentation.

Buying Guide

Size and surface area

Measure your largest food item and your serving table before you buy. A 20-inch platter fits a standard holiday turkey with room for garnish, while a 16-inch tray is better for appetizers and snacks. Leave at least 2 to 3 inches of clearance around the food so guests can grab items without knocking things over.

Good picks for this: ECOIOU Extra Large Serving Tray with Handles, Extra Large 20″ x 13″ Serving Platters for Turkey

Material: melamine versus plastic

Melamine is typically more rigid and holds up better to heavy items and frequent use. Plastic trays are lighter and often cost less per piece. Check whether the manufacturer specifies BPA-free construction if that matters to you. Neither material should be used in the oven or microwave.

Good picks for this: 2 Pack Extra Large 17.5 Inch White Serving Trays, Lifewit 4-Pack 16″ x 12″ Extra Large Plastic Food Serving Trays

Handles and grip

Integrated handles make a real difference when carrying a loaded platter from kitchen to table. Look for handles that are molded into the tray rather than thin attachments, and check that there is enough room for a full hand grip.

Good picks for this: PEOUWNES 19″ x 12″ Extra Large Serving Tray with Handles, ECOIOU Extra Large Serving Tray with Handles

Surface finish

Matte finishes reduce glare under bright lighting and make photos look better. Raised dots or texture help hold food in place when the tray is moved. Glossy surfaces show smudges more readily.

Good picks for this: Extra Large 20″ x 13″ Serving Platters for Turkey, PEOUWNES 19″ x 12″ Extra Large Serving Tray with Handles

Quantity and sets

Multi-piece sets let you serve several courses or cover a long buffet. A single large tray is enough for a small group, but for 12 or more guests, two or four trays often work better than one oversized piece.

Good picks for this: Lifewit 4 Pcs Extra Large Serving Trays for Party, Lifewit 4-Pack 16″ x 12″ Extra Large Plastic Food Serving Trays

Dishwasher and care

Check the care instructions before buying. Most melamine and plastic trays are labeled dishwasher safe, but high heat cycles can dull finishes over time. Hand washing with warm water and mild detergent extends the life of matte surfaces. Avoid abrasive pads that can scratch the surface.

Good picks for this: ECOIOU Extra Large Serving Tray with Handles, 2 Pack Extra Large 17.5 Inch White Serving Trays

Use case: what you plan to serve

Think about the foods you will serve most. Hot items need heat-tolerant serveware and should be transferred to a platter only after they have cooled slightly. Cold items like charcuterie and fruit work on any tray. Dessert spreads benefit from a smaller footprint that leaves room for stands and decorations.

Good picks for this: 2 Pack Extra Large 17.5 Inch White Serving Trays, Extra Large 20″ x 13″ Serving Platters for Turkey

FAQ

What size is considered an extra large serving platter?

There is no industry-wide definition, but trays around 16 inches and larger are generally considered large, and 19 to 20 inches is typically treated as extra large. Always compare the listed dimensions rather than relying on the label.

Can melamine platters go in the microwave or oven?

No. Melamine is not designed for microwave or oven use, and manufacturers generally advise against heating it. Transfer food to a heat-safe dish first if you need to warm it.

Are plastic serving trays safe for food?

Many reusable serving trays are labeled BPA-free. Check the product listing for that claim and follow the manufacturer’s guidance on temperature and cleaning. Plastic should not be used for very hot food.

How many guests does a 20-inch platter serve?

It depends on the food and how it is arranged. As a rough guide, a 20 x 13 inch tray can hold a sliced turkey or a large appetizer spread for a dozen or more guests when paired with side dishes on other trays.

Should I buy a set or a single tray?

A set is more useful for buffets and multi-course meals. A single large tray works well for a focal-point main dish or a small gathering where you only need one serving surface.

How do I clean matte finish serving trays?

Wash with warm water and mild dish soap, and dry thoroughly to avoid water spots. If the manufacturer says the tray is dishwasher safe, use a gentle cycle and avoid harsh detergents that can dull the finish.

Do I need handles on a serving platter?

Handles are helpful when a platter is heavy or when you need to carry it a long distance. For light items like cookies or fruit, handles are less important than surface size and stability.

Conclusion

For most hosts, the ECOIOU set offers the most flexibility with two large melamine trays and handles. If storage space is limited, the Lifewit four-piece set in 16 x 12 inches is a practical choice. Budget-focused hosts covering a long buffet will find the Lifewit four-pack useful, while the 17.5-inch melamine pair suits dessert tables. The PEOUWNES set is a good fit for heavy roasts and buffets where handles matter, and the 20 x 13 inch matte platter works well when presentation is the priority. Measure your largest dish and your table space, then choose the size and quantity that match your guest count.

Sources

• Food contact materials and safe use guidance for serveware and food-contact plastics (fda.gov)
• Consumer product safety information and recall alerts for household items (cpsc.gov)
• Food safety guidance on keeping hot and cold foods at safe temperatures during serving (usda.gov)

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About Lauren Holland

Lauren Holland is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our holiday hosting guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.