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Thanksgiving planner · free tool

Turkey Calculator

How big a turkey to buy, how many it feeds, and when to thaw and roast it.

Example values · replace them with yours

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Whole turkeys, 8–24 lb each. Times use your device’s local time.

Buy a turkey around–

    Oven at 325°F, times from the USDA chart. Done at 165°F in the thigh, wing joint and breast, whatever the clock says. See the official roasting chart.

    Next stepHow to Roast a Turkey: A First-Time Host's GuideThaw, season, roast, rest, carve: every step in order, with the times and temperatures.Read the guide →

    Gear that makes turkey day easier

    The four things people wish they had at 2 pm on Thanksgiving.

    • Roasting pan with rackCuisinart Chef's Classic 16 inch roasting pan with rack
      Check price
    • Instant read thermometerInstant read meat thermometer
      Check price
    • BasterOXO Good Grips angled turkey baster with cleaning brush
      Check price
    • Carving knife and forkCutluxe turkey carving knife and fork set
      Check price

    As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices change often, so check today's price and delivery date on Amazon.

    Frequently asked questions

    How much turkey per person?

    About 1.25 lb of whole turkey per person, or 1.5 lb if you want leftovers. Light eaters manage on 1 lb. Count young kids as half a person. A whole bird is part bone, so these amounts already allow for it.

    How many people does a turkey feed?

    Divide the weight by 1.25: a 12 lb turkey feeds about 9, a 16 lb turkey about 12 and a 20 lb turkey about 16. Divide by 1.5 instead if everyone should go home with leftovers.

    How long does a turkey take to thaw in the fridge?

    About 24 hours for every 4 to 5 lb, says the USDA. A 16 lb turkey needs about 4 days. The calculator plans 4 lb per day plus one spare day. Once thawed, a turkey keeps 1 to 2 more days in the fridge.

    Can I thaw a turkey faster?

    Yes, in cold water: keep it wrapped, submerge it in cold tap water, change the water every 30 minutes and allow about 30 minutes per pound. Roast it right after it thaws. Never thaw on the counter.

    How long do I roast a turkey at 325°F?

    The USDA chart says about 3 to 3¾ hours for 12 to 14 lb and 4¼ to 4½ hours for 18 to 20 lb unstuffed. Stuffed birds take longer. The turkey is done when a thermometer reads 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh, the wing joint and the breast.

    Should I let the turkey rest?

    Yes, about 20 minutes before carving so the juices settle. The timeline leaves 30 minutes between oven and table for resting and carving.

    What if I need more than 24 lb?

    Very large birds roast unevenly and may not fit your oven or fridge. Two smaller turkeys, or a turkey plus a bone-in breast, are easier. The calculator suggests a split above 24 lb.

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