Regardless of how often you host Thanksgiving, there’s always one big question to answer: Exactly how big of a turkey do I need to make? The size of the turkey matters because it determines how much will be left over for Thanksgiving leftovers as well as how big of a helping each guest receives.
Once you know the exact number of attendees, use this formula: Number of guests x 1. 25. Youll want to plan on about 1. 25 pounds of turkey per person. That means if youre expecting 12 guests, plan for a 15-pound bird.
We’ve put together a guide to help you choose the ideal turkey size for your Thanksgiving dinner menu in order to make things easier.
Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends and of course delicious food. But if you’re hosting a gathering this year, you might be wondering how big of a turkey to buy.
Fear not, fellow turkey enthusiasts! This guide will answer all your questions about determining the right turkey size for your Thanksgiving feast, specifically focusing on how many people a 12-pound turkey can feed.
How Many People Can a 12-Pound Turkey Feed?
A 12-pound turkey can comfortably feed 8-10 people, assuming you’re aiming for 1 pound of turkey per person. This accounts for bone weight and ensures everyone gets a satisfying portion of delicious turkey.
Factors to Consider When Determining Turkey Size:
- Number of Guests: The most crucial factor is the number of guests you expect. Use the following guideline as a starting point:
- 8-10 guests: 12-pound turkey
- 10-12 guests: 14-16 pound turkey
- 12-14 guests: 16-18 pound turkey
- Appetites: Consider the appetites of your guests. If you know you have some hearty eaters, you might want to err on the side of a larger turkey.
- Leftovers: Do you want leftovers? If so, you’ll need a bigger turkey. Aim for 1½ pounds per person if you want ample leftovers for sandwiches, soups, and other post-Thanksgiving delights.
- Side Dishes: If you’re planning a bountiful Thanksgiving spread with plenty of side dishes, you might not need as much turkey.
Additional Tips:
- Smaller Turkeys: If you’re hosting a smaller gathering, consider a smaller turkey, like an 8-10 pounder. These cook faster and are ideal for intimate Thanksgiving celebrations.
- Turkey Breasts: Turkey breasts are a great option for smaller gatherings or if you want to avoid dealing with a whole turkey. They typically weigh between 3-4 pounds and are relatively easy to roast.
- Brining: Brining your turkey before roasting is a fantastic way to ensure it stays moist and flavorful.
- Basting: Baste your turkey with butter or oil throughout the cooking process to keep the skin crispy and golden brown.
- Resting: Let your turkey rest for 15-20 minutes after it comes out of the oven. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bird.
Where to Buy Your Turkey:
- Grocery Stores: Most major grocery stores carry a variety of turkey sizes, including 12-pound turkeys.
- Butcher Shops: Local butcher shops often offer high-quality turkeys, including heritage breeds.
- Online Retailers: Online retailers like D’artagnan and Omaha Steaks offer a wide selection of turkeys, including organic and free-range options.
No matter where you buy your turkey, follow these tips and you’ll be sure to have the perfect Thanksgiving feast for your guests.
Happy Thanksgiving!
What if I’m feeding a large group?
Consider splitting up your family into two groups and purchasing two smaller birds rather than one larger one if you have a large family. This will allow them to cook faster and more evenly.
Make sure you have a substitute Thanksgiving main dish, like sweet potato tortellini or roasted pumpkin lasagna, if you are serving vegetarians or vegans.
If your loved ones just don’t eat turkey, you could cook a smaller bird along with another kind of meat, like a glazed pork loin or spiral ham.
How to Figure Out How Much Turkey Per Person
–Number of Guests – |
Turkey Weight– |
| 4 | 5lbs |
| 6 | 8lbs |
| 8 | 10lbs |
| 10 | 13lbs |
| 12 | 15lbs |
| 15 | 20lbs |
| 20 | 25lbs |
| 25 | 32lbs |
If you have a large number of kids coming, simply round down when calculating your turkey. The children usually devour the rolls and side dishes from the Thanksgiving charcuterie board, stuffing their faces with stuffing, mashed potatoes, and cheese and crackers.
How many people will a 12 pound turkey feed?
FAQ
How many people will a 13 lb turkey feed?
|
Number of Guests
|
Turkey Weight–
|
|
10
|
13lbs
|
|
12
|
15lbs
|
|
15
|
20lbs
|
|
20
|
25lbs
|
Is a 12 lb turkey enough for 8 people?
How much meat is on a 12 pound turkey?
What size turkey feeds 20 people?