How big should my turkey be?

[mamamary]

Hi. Am planning on having between 11-13 people for Thanksgiving. I just went on the Butterball website and for that amount of people (with some leftovers) they recommend a turkey that weighs around 25 lbs. That seems awful big to me. I was thinking more in the 18lb range. Any recommendations? I actually don't want lots of leftovers - maybe just some meat for sandwiches later in the day.

Thanks.

 

[mrsv98]

Hi. Am planning on having between 11-13 people for Thanksgiving. I just went on the Butterball website and for that amount of people (with some leftovers) they recommend a turkey that weighs around 25 lbs. That seems awful big to me. I was thinking more in the 18lb range. Any recommendations? I actually don't want lots of leftovers - maybe just some meat for sandwiches later in the day.

Thanks.

Before I even saw the recommendation, I was thinking 25lbs. It may seem big but when you consider how much is bone, it really isn't that big. IMHO, it is SO much better to have leftovers than to be embarrassed by having too little. My DSIL whom I totally love is notorious for making weeny little turkeys (see my tag!) and there have been times when, by the time I help DD get her plate and her settled, there is only a piece or two left.

Also, unless you are getting fresh, you had better get it tomorrow and start thawing in your fridge. It will take quite a while to defrost a bird that big.

 

[mamamary]

Before I even saw the recommendation, I was thinking 25lbs. It may seem big but when you consider how much is bone, it really isn't that big. IMHO, it is SO much better to have leftovers than to be embarrassed by having too little. My DSIL whom I totally love is notorious for making weeny little turkeys (see my tag!) and there have been times when, by the time I help DD get her plate and her settled, there is only a piece or two left.

Also, unless you are getting fresh, you had better get it tomorrow and start thawing in your fridge. It will take quite a while to defrost a bird that big.

Thanks. I saw for a bird that size I would need to start defrosting tomorrow. Yikes.

 

[locolala]

If you have the room, I'd recommend getting two smaller turkeys. The problem with huge turkeys is that the inside will be perfect, but the outer stuff will be dry. You can also do a mediumish turkey and then get a single breast.

 

[PatsGirl]

I second the idea of two smaller birds (two 12# should be fine) for several reasons:

It makes the cooking easier
You can make two different kinds of stuffing
There is four of everything (wings, legs, breasts)
You get more crunchy, yummy skin
Easier to carve, transport to the dining table, and serve
If the group is split up at two tables, you now have your turkey center for both

 

[Luv Bunnies]

I've heard that a good rule of thumb is to plan for 1.5 pounds per person. This will give you leftovers and extra meat for sandwiches later in the day. I also think it would be a good idea to get two smaller turkeys (around 12 pounds each). They will be easier to cook and you won't have to deal with a monsterous birdzilla!!!