Perhaps the most important decision any Thanksgiving host has to make is what size bird to get. That answer relies on how much turkey per person you need. It’s true that some uncles bogart more turkey than is fair or that there are vegetarians who only eat vegetable side dishes, but overall, it’s best to estimate generously so that your guests will be fed and you’ll have enough leftover turkey for later. Check out our best turkey sandwich recipes and our guide on how to reheat turkey when you’re ready for round two the following day.
And Thanksgiving wouldn’t be the same without all the traditional sides. We also tell you how many side dishes to anticipate:
Ah, Thanksgiving. A time for family, friends, and of course, mountains of delicious food. But with all the planning and preparation, one question often arises: how much turkey breast per person should you actually buy? Fear not, fellow turkey enthusiasts, for this guide will help you navigate the turkey-buying process with ease.
The Simple Calculation:
We’ve all been there, staring at the grocery store shelves, wondering how much turkey breast to grab. The answer is actually quite simple: 0.5 pounds of turkey breast per person. So, for a gathering of 8, you’d need a 4-pound turkey breast. Easy peasy, right?
But Wait. There’s More:
Now, this is just the basic formula. There are a few factors that can influence your decision:
- Bone-in vs. Boneless: Bone-in turkey breasts are heavier due to, well, the bones. So, for these, you’ll want to double the amount (1 pound per person). Boneless breasts are lighter, so the 0.5-pound rule applies.
- Appetites: We all know that some people have bottomless pits for stomachs, while others are more delicate eaters. Consider your guests’ appetites and adjust accordingly. For big eaters, bump it up to 1 pound per person (1.5 pounds for bone-in). Leftover lovers? Go for 1 pound per person (1.5 pounds for bone-in) and enjoy those delicious turkey sandwiches the next day.
- Kids: Little ones typically eat less than adults. For children under 6, consider 0.25 pounds per child. For older kids, use the adult calculation.
Handy Charts for Quick Reference:
Bone-in Turkey Breast:
- 4 people – 3 lbs
- 6 people – 4.5 lbs
- 8 people – 6 lbs
- 10 people – 7.5 lbs
Boneless Turkey Breast:
- 4 people – 2 lbs
- 6 people – 3 lbs
- 8 people – 4 lbs
- 10 people – 5 lbs
Pro Tip: It’s always better to have too much than not enough. Leftover turkey is a culinary goldmine, perfect for sandwiches, soups, and more. So, don’t be afraid to round up!
Beyond the Basics:
Now that you know how much turkey to buy, let’s talk cooking methods. Whether you’re a fan of classic oven roasting, the convenience of the Instant Pot, or the smoky allure of the grill, there’s a perfect method for everyone.
Bonus: Check out these amazing side dishes for turkey breast to complete your Thanksgiving feast:
- Classic mashed potatoes
- Creamy green bean casserole
- Sweet potato casserole
- Cranberry sauce
- Stuffing
Remember:
- Brining your turkey adds extra flavor and moisture.
- Turkey marinades and seasonings can take your bird to the next level.
- Don’t forget to check the internal temperature of your turkey to ensure it’s cooked through.
With this guide and a little planning, you’ll be the Thanksgiving hero, serving up a perfectly cooked turkey that will have your guests singing your praises. So, go forth and conquer that turkey!
How much turkey per person do I need?
It is advisable to allocate one pound of turkey per person or ½ pound of boneless turkey breast per person. If youre buying a bone-in turkey breast, figure on 3/4 pound per person.
- Whole turkey (8 lbs)
- Dry mix stuffing (12 oz)
- Potatoes (4 lbs)
- Sweet potatoes (4 lbs)
- Canned cranberry sauce (two 14-oz cans)
- Pie (1–2)
- Brussels sprouts (1.5 lbs)
- Green beans (2 lbs)
- Whole turkey (16 lbs)
- Dry mix stuffing (24 oz)
- Potatoes (8 lbs)
- Sweet potatoes (8 lbs)
- Canned cranberry sauce (three 14-oz cans)
- Pie (2–3)
- Brussels sprouts (3 lbs)
- Green beans (4 lbs)
What if I’m serving a large crowd?
Of course, every rule has an exception. Purchasing a 12- to 14-pound turkey and a breast is a better option if you’re cooking for a crowd larger than 16, as larger turkeys tend to dry out before they’re fully cooked. Prepare and bake the entire turkey on the top rack and the breast on the bottom rack of your oven.
- Two turkeys, one 12- to 14-pound whole and one 6- to 10-pound bone-in breast
- Dry mix stuffing (36 oz)
- Potatoes (10 lbs)
- Sweet potatoes (10 lbs)
- Canned cranberry sauce (four 14-oz cans)
- Pie (3–4)
- Brussels sprouts (4.5 lbs)
- Green beans (6 lbs)
How do you cook a 3 pound Butterball turkey breast?
FAQ
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