Quick Answer
A 20-pound turkey will generally feed about 10 to 12 adults. This estimate is based on figuring around 1 to 1.5 pounds of turkey per person when taking into account bones and other waste. The exact number will depend on the appetites of your guests and how much other food you serve alongside the turkey.
Estimating Turkey Servings
When estimating how many people a turkey will feed, a common guideline is to allow 1 to 1.5 pounds of turkey per person. This accounts for the weight of the bones and any turkey that may be left over after the meal.
Here are some estimates for a 20-pound turkey:
| Pounds per Person | Number of Adults Fed |
|---|---|
| 1 pound | 20 |
| 1.25 pounds | 16 |
| 1.5 pounds | 12-13 |
As you can see, allowing 1.5 pounds per person would feed about 12 adults with a 20-pound turkey. This is a conservative estimate to ensure everyone gets enough meat. You may be able to stretch the turkey to feed a few more people if you allow just 1 to 1.25 pounds per serving.
Factors That Affect Turkey Servings
Several factors impact how far a turkey will go in feeding your crowd:
Turkey Size
Turkeys come in a range of sizes from 8 pounds to over 20 pounds. The bigger the bird, the more people it will feed. Make sure to account for the net weight of the turkey rather than the gross weight when purchasing. The net weight accounts for the weight of the bones and giblets which are not eaten.
Appetites of Your Guests
Consider your guests’ appetites when estimating turkey servings. If you are feeding a group of teenage boys, plan for larger servings – up to 2 pounds per person. For seniors or lighter eaters, you may be able to get away with 1 pound per person.
Side Dishes
Factor in the side dishes you will serve alongside the turkey. Mashed potatoes, stuffing, vegetables, and rolls all help to fill up your guests. With more generous sides, you may be able to stretch the turkey further.
Leftovers
Are you looking to send guests home with turkey leftovers? That will increase the amount needed. Allow an extra 1/2 to 1 pound per person if leftovers are expected.
Other Main Dishes
If you are also serving ham or other main dishes, you likely will not need as much turkey per person. Having other substantial meats and entrees will decrease the turkey amount required.
Turkey Cooking Time
An important factor when planning your menu is allowing enough time for the turkey to cook. Here are some general turkey cooking time estimates based on size:
| Turkey Size | Unstuffed | Stuffed |
|---|---|---|
| 8 to 12 pounds | 2.75 – 3 hours | 3 – 3.5 hours |
| 12 to 14 pounds | 3 – 3.5 hours | 3.5 – 4 hours |
| 14 to 18 pounds | 3.5 – 4.25 hours | 4 – 4.5 hours |
| 18 to 20 pounds | 4 – 4.25 hours | 4.25 – 4.75 hours |
| 20 to 24 pounds | 4.25 – 5 hours | 4.75 – 5.5 hours |
Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey reaches the safe minimum internal temperature of 165°F. Letting the turkey rest for 15 to 30 minutes before carving will allow the juices to reabsorb for maximum moisture and flavor.
Sample Menu for Feeding 10 Adults
Here is a sample menu for feeding 10 adults with a 20-pound turkey:
Main Dishes
– 20-pound roasted turkey
– 2 pounds of mashed potatoes
– 1 pound of stuffing
Sides
– Green bean casserole
– Cranberry sauce
– Dinner rolls
– Garden salad
Dessert
– Apple and pumpkin pies
To ensure leftovers, prepare about 2 extra pounds of mashed potatoes and stuffing. This menu allows approximately 1 1/4 pounds of turkey per person when taking into account approximately 4 pounds of bones and waste. With generous side portions and dessert, 10 adult guests should be well fed by this menu!
Buying Your Turkey
When purchasing your turkey, here are some tips:
– Buy 1 to 1.5 pounds per person if no leftovers are needed, or up to 2 pounds per person for lots of leftovers.
– Allow 1 pound extra for a bone-in breast or 1.5 pounds extra for a whole turkey.
– Shop for your turkey 1 to 2 days before Thanksgiving.
– Make sure your refrigerator is 40°F or below and can accommodate the size of the turkey.
– Choose frozen over fresh if you are buying more than 2 days in advance. A frozen turkey will need 3 to 5 days to thaw in the refrigerator.
– Opt for free-range, organic, heritage breed, or kosher turkeys for premium quality and flavor.
Carving the Turkey
Carving the turkey neatly and efficiently helps get everyone fed in a timely manner. Follow these tips:
– Let the cooked turkey rest 20-30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to be reabsorbed.
– Carve the turkey on a large cutting board, preferably with a channel or well to collect juices.
– Remove the legs and wings, then slice the breast meat into thin, even slices.
– Arrange slices neatly on a platter. Pour over any accumulated juices.
– Watch videos on proper turkey carving techniques for more guidance. With practice, you’ll be carving like a pro!
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Proper storage and reheating of leftovers keeps them safe to eat. Follow these guidelines:
– Allow turkey to cool completely, then refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking.
– Store turkey meat in shallow containers to allow rapid cooling.
– Use leftovers within 3-4 days. Freeze additional meat for longer storage.
– Reheat turkey to an internal temperature of 165°F. Bring sauces and stuffing to a boil before serving.
– Refrigerate stuffing separately from turkey.
– Discard any turkey or stuffing that has been left out over 2 hours.
With proper handling, you can safely enjoy delicious turkey leftovers for days after your feast!
Creative Ways to Use Leftover Turkey
Leftover turkey has many delicious applications beyond just sandwiches and casseroles. Consider these creative ideas:
– Turkey salad or wrap with cranberries, walnuts, and a tangy dressing
– Turkey tetrazzini or pot pie
– Turkey noodle, rice, or tortilla soup
– Turkey chili or barbecue sliders
– Breakfast hash with potatoes, spinach, and eggs
– Turkey enchiladas or quesadillas
– Croissant or baguette turkey sandwich
– Fajitas with turkey and peppers
– Stir fry with soba noodles or quinoa
The possibilities are endless for giving leftover turkey new life! Just remember to store and reheat it properly.
Conclusion
A 20-pound turkey can typically feed about 10 to 12 hungry adults for Thanksgiving dinner and leave some for leftovers. Allow 1 to 1.5 pounds of turkey per person, considering appetites, sides, and other main dishes. Cook your turkey thoroughly and let it rest before neatly carving and serving. Properly stored, the leftovers will allow you to get creative with turkey recipes for days after your feast. With these tips, your holiday turkey will be a delicious success!
