How Big of a Turkey Should You Buy? A Detailed Guide to Picking the Perfect Bird

As Thanksgiving approaches, one of the biggest decisions is determining what size turkey to buy. With so many options from small birds to massive 25-pounders, it can be tricky to figure out exactly how big of a turkey you need This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about picking the perfect turkey size for your Thanksgiving meal.

Factors That Determine Turkey Size

Several key factors go into choosing the right size turkey:

• Number of guests – The more people attending your Thanksgiving dinner, the larger your turkey needs to be. Make an accurate guest list before shopping.

• Wanting leftovers – Do you want leftovers? Plan for 1-1.5 pounds per person if so. Get 1 pound per person for just enough.

• Big eaters – Guests with hearty appetites need more turkey per person Scale up if attendees tend to have second helpings

• Ages of guests – Kids eat smaller portions. Stick to 1-1.25 pounds per child and scale down as needed.

• Other main dishes – Adding ham or other entree? You may need less turkey with a second main dish.

• Appetizers – Lots of filling apps means guests may eat less turkey. Account for appetizers in your calculations.

Pounds of Turkey Per Person

The general rule of thumb is 1 to 1.5 pounds of turkey per person. This includes parts of the bird that don’t get eaten. If you want plenty of leftovers, plan for 1.5 pounds per guest. For just enough, do 1 pound per person.

Here is a handy chart to determine how many pounds of turkey you need based on your guest count:

So for example, if you are having 12 guests, plan for a 15 pound turkey (12 x 1.25 = 15).

Turkey Breast vs Whole Turkey

If you prefer white meat, turkey breast is a great option. Go with skin-on, bone-in turkey breasts for maximum flavor and juiciness. You will need around 1 to 1.5 pounds of turkey breast per person.

Cooking a whole turkey can be tricky to cook evenly. Smaller birds (12-15 lbs) tend to cook more evenly. You can also spatchcock or break down the turkey into parts.

Leftover Turkey

Even with careful calculations, you’ll likely have leftover turkey. Here’s how to make the most of it:

• Let guests take home leftovers. Have containers ready.

• Prioritize eating leftover white breast meat within 3-4 days. It dries out fastest.

• Use extra dark meat in casseroles, pot pies, sandwiches, etc. It holds up better.

• Make bone broth from the carcass for future soups or gravy.

Other Tips

• For a crowd, buy 2 small turkeys rather than 1 huge tricky-to-cook bird.

• Supplement with ham or other meats if not everyone loves turkey.

• Make extra white or dark meat if your guests prefer one over the other.

• Let your turkey recipe determine the size. Check pan size and cook times.

• Cook stuffing outside the turkey for food safety.

• Thaw turkey in the fridge 1 day for every 4 pounds.

Choosing the Best Turkey

When shopping for your holiday turkey, look for:

• A well-rounded shape with a plump breast, which indicates juiciness.

• Avoid turkeys with flat or irregular spots, which may have been refrozen.

• Fresh, clean packaging without tears.

• Pick a reputable grocery store with high product turnover for the best selection.

• Check the use-by date and pick the turkey with the latest date.

Handling Raw Turkey Safely

Raw poultry can contain harmful bacteria. Follow these tips when handling raw turkey:

• Wash hands and surfaces after handling raw turkey. Avoid cross-contamination.

• Thaw turkey in the fridge, not on the counter. Place it on a rimmed baking sheet to catch drips.

• Cook turkey to an internal temperature of 165°F as measured in the thickest part of the breast and thigh.

• Do not rinse raw turkey. This can spread bacteria.

• Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours. Reheat thoroughly later.

Delicious Roast Turkey Recipes

Once you’ve selected the perfect turkey size, it’s time to choose a great recipe. Here are a few of our favorites:

• Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast – An easy roasted turkey breast flavored with rosemary, thyme and sage. Perfect for a smaller gathering.

• Cider-Brined Turkey – Cider-brining ensures a flavorful, juicy turkey. The apple flavor pairs perfectly with Thanksgiving.

• Grilled Turkey – Fully grilling a turkey frees up your oven for sides. Infuses delicious smoky flavor too.