Gathering calculator
How Much Turkey Per Person?
Estimate the turkey weight to buy for adults, children and the leftovers you want.
Plan your turkey
Your result
Recommended thermometer
ThermoMaven Sub-1G Wireless Meat Thermometer
A two-probe thermometer with a dedicated display, designed to monitor food and cooking temperature without requiring a phone app.
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How much whole turkey to buy
USDA holiday planning guidance uses about 1 pound of whole turkey per person. This calculator begins there for adults, counts a child as 60% of an adult, then increases the amount when you request leftovers. It rounds up to the nearest half pound.
| Plan | Whole turkey per adult-equivalent | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Little or none | 1 lb | A meal with several sides |
| Some leftovers | 1¼ lb | Sandwiches the next day |
| Plenty | 1½ lb | Multiple leftover meals |
Worked example
Eight adults and two children equal 9.2 adult-sized portions in the calculator. With some leftovers, that is 11.5 pounds, so the result rounds to a 11½-pound whole bird. Buying a 12-pound turkey is a practical store-size choice.
Adjust for your table
Round up when turkey is the only main dish, guests are hearty eaters or you specifically want stock and leftovers. Round down when another main course is served. Boneless breast needs much less raw weight because there is no carcass.
Store leftovers safely
Refrigerate cooked turkey within two hours, use shallow containers and eat refrigerated leftovers within three to four days, or freeze them.
Primary references: USDA turkey planning and USDA leftovers guidance.