Still overwhelmed? Here’s the breakdown for ten adults, based on hunger levels:
What size turkey should I buy? | easyFood
Light eaters (lots of apps, wine, and sides): 12 pounds.
Average eaters (the standard crew): 14 pounds.
Heavy eaters (football players or your uncle from Texas): 16 to 18 pounds. Yes, I said 18. Don’t laugh—you’ll need it.
And here’s a pro tip: turkeys with heritage breeds have less meat-to-bone ratio. So if you’re buying a fancy free-range bird, add an extra pound to your usual number. Otherwise, you’re basically serving a chicken.
What About The Turkey’s Shape?
You might think size is all that matters, but shape matters big time. A long, skinny turkey will cook unevenly and look sad on the platter. You want a thick, compact bird that roasts like a dream.
Ask your butcher for a “broad-breasted” turkey. It’s not a vanity thing—it’s about getting the most meat per pound. And it carves beautifully, which makes you look like a pro even if you’re secretly panicking.
