Turkey Size Calculator
Never guess at the grocery store again—order the right turkey or parts with confidence.
Total guests
12
Cooked meat needed
7.5 lb
120 oz total
Leftover setting
Moderate
Whole turkey recommendation
Purchase a 14-pound turkey.
Whole birds yield ~55% cooked meat once bones and juices are accounted for. Choose the next size up if brining adds weight.
How to Use This Calculator
Fill in your guest count
Adults and kids are counted separately so portion sizes match appetite.
Choose your turkey format
Select whole bird, breasts only, or a mix of parts depending on your menu and equipment.
Set your leftover plan
Decide how much extra meat you want for sandwiches or soups—the calculator adjusts automatically.
Formula
Cooked meat needed = (Adults × 10 oz + Kids × 6 oz) × leftover multiplier
Whole bird weight = Cooked meat ÷ 0.55
Example: 8 adults + 4 kids, moderate leftovers → (8×10 + 4×6) × 1.15 ≈ 138 oz → 8.6 lb cooked → 15.6 lb whole turkey.
Tip: Round up to the next whole pound. It’s better to have extra than to run short.
Full Description
Choosing the right turkey size prevents waste and ensures satisfied guests. This calculator estimates how much cooked meat you need, then converts it into whole turkey weight or singular cuts like breasts and thighs. Adjust for leftovers with a single dropdown and let the tool handle the math.
Whole turkeys are efficient for classic feasts. Breast-only options suit smaller gatherings or guests who prefer white meat. Mixed parts allow you to roast different cuts to perfection or use alternative cooking methods (smoking, sous vide, grilling).
Use it to
- Order the right turkey size from your butcher or grocery store.
- Plan menus for multiple gatherings or scaled celebrations.
- Split orders between white and dark meat to satisfy preferences.
- Teach culinary students about yield conversions and portioning.
Combine this size planner with the cooking time and thawing calculators for a seamless turkey workflow. Track actual leftovers to fine-tune your assumptions year after year.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much extra weight does brining add?
Wet brining can add 5–8% weight. Choose the next size up or subtract brine weight when measuring cooked portions.
Can I mix whole turkey with extra breasts?
Yes. Use the cooked meat target to split between a smaller bird and supplemental cuts if needed.
What about boneless roasts or turkey crowns?
Boneless roasts yield ~80% cooked meat. Divide the cooked meat requirement accordingly for the weight to purchase.
How many leftovers do I need for sandwiches?
Each sandwich uses roughly 4 oz cooked turkey. Multiply by desired servings and add to the cooked weight target.