Thanksgiving Calculator
Build a stress-free Thanksgiving menu with precise shopping and prep quantities.
Total guests
14
Turkeys / turkey weight
14.5 lbs
Choose closest whole bird size or split into breasts + legs
Vegetarian mains
1
Individual vegetarian entrées suggested
Sides & savory items
- Mashed potatoes: 12.4 cups (~3.0 kg cooked)
- Stuffing/dressing: 10.8 cups
- Vegetable side: 7.8 cups
- Dinner rolls: 21 pieces
- Gravy: 11 cups
- Cranberry sauce: 7 cups
Desserts & beverages
- Pies: 2 total (mix pumpkin, apple, pecan, etc.)
- Wine: 3 bottles
- Sparkling cider / champagne: 5 bottles
- Non-alcoholic drinks: 9 L combined
How to Use This Calculator
Build your guest list
Include adults and kids separately so portion sizes account for appetite differences.
Set leftover goals
Choose whether you want no leftovers, some for sandwiches, or plenty for weekend meals.
Review shopping list
Use the turkey weight, side quantities, and beverage estimates to plan your shopping and prep schedule.
Formula
Turkey weight = (Adults × 1.25 + Kids × 0.75) × leftover multiplier
Side portions = Adults × 2.5 cups + Kids × 1.5 cups (split across dishes)
Example: 10 adults, 4 kids, moderate leftovers → turkey ≈ (10×1.25 + 4×0.75) × 1.15 ≈ 17.3 lbs.
Tip: Round turkey weight to the nearest bird size (e.g., 18 lb). For two smaller birds, divide weight by 2.
Full Description
Hosting Thanksgiving involves juggling multiple dishes, portions, and diets. This calculator consolidates the planning: it estimates turkey weight, side dish quantities, dessert counts, and beverage needs based on your guest list. Adjust leftover preferences to avoid running out of turkey—or to guarantee next-day sandwiches.
Vegetarian guests are accounted for with suggested alternate mains, while kids receive scaled-down portion sizes. Use the output as a shopping list and prep guide to stay organized leading up to the holiday.
Use this for
- Family gatherings, Friendsgiving meals, or office potlucks.
- Creating prep schedules and ingredient shopping lists.
- Balancing leftovers versus minimizing waste.
- Teaching culinary students about menu scaling and hospitality planning.
Remember to adjust for dietary restrictions (gluten-free, dairy-free) and consider a mix of pies and desserts to satisfy sweet tooths. Use the beverage recommendations as a baseline—add specialty cocktails or mocktails if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many appetizers should I prepare?
Plan 4–6 bite-size appetizers per person if your guests arrive more than an hour before dinner.
Can I substitute turkey with ham or roast?
Yes. Use the same per-person weight guidelines, ensuring you have at least ¾ lb cooked meat per adult.
How do I store leftovers safely?
Refrigerate within 2 hours. Consume within 4 days or freeze portions (label dates) for up to 3 months.
What about drinks like coffee or tea?
Add 1 cup coffee or tea per adult for dessert. Keep hot water, tea bags, and decaf options available.