Updated
Using Turkey size calculator
Plan a whole turkey at the USDA reference of one pound per person, with an optional extra allowance you choose.
Whole-turkey purchase weight, including bones. This is a shopping estimate, not a cooked serving weight, cooking time or food-safety check. Extra appetite and leftovers are your own allowance. Check the bird fits your equipment and use the separate thawing guidance.
A worked example
For people to serve = 12, extra allowance above the reference (%) = 0, whole turkey purchase weight (lb) = 12.
Before you use the result
Whole-turkey purchase weight, including bones. This is a shopping estimate, not a cooked serving weight, cooking time or food-safety check. Extra appetite and leftovers are your own allowance. Check the bird fits your equipment and use the separate thawing guidance.
Example results for people to serve
These examples use Extra allowance above the reference (%): 0. They are reference calculations, not recommended settings.
| People to serve | Whole turkey purchase weight (lb) |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6 |
| 12 | 12 |
| 24 | 24 |
Cite this page
ToolOctopus. “Turkey size calculator.” Updated 2026-09-29. https://tooloctopus.com/turkey-size-calculator.
Add an access date if your instructions require one.
Citation formatting uses citeproc-js by Frank Bennett and Citation Style Language styles. Licence and source code.
