Holiday Dinner Calculator
Take the guesswork out of Thanksgiving and Christmas dinner planning. Calculate the perfect turkey size, get accurate cooking times, and know exactly how much of each side dish to prepare for your guests.
Holiday Dinner Calculator
Plan the perfect Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner
Turkey Size
16 lbs
Serves 10 meat eaters
4h 0m
oven
30 min
before carving
165°F
4 days
in fridge
Side Dish Quantities
Make from turkey drippings
Traditional bread stuffing
About 2 medium potatoes per person
Can be made a day ahead
Fresh or frozen both work well
Make fresh or use canned
Store-bought or homemade
Pumpkin, apple, and pecan are classics
Cooking Timeline
Start thawing turkey in refrigerator
Place on tray to catch drips
Prep vegetables, make cranberry sauce
Store prepped veggies in water
Make pies and casseroles
Refrigerate unbaked
Remove turkey from fridge, prep for cooking
Let come to room temp for 1 hour
Put turkey in oven
Cook at 325°F
Start side dishes, bake casseroles
Coordinate oven space
Remove turkey, let rest. Make gravy.
Tent with foil while resting
Carve turkey and serve
Have carving board and sharp knife ready
- -Use a meat thermometer - internal temp should reach 165°F in the thickest part
- -Let the turkey rest 20-30 minutes before carving for juicier meat
- -Prep and measure ingredients the day before to reduce stress
- -Accept help! Assign dishes to guests when they offer
How to Use This Calculator
Enter your guest count, distinguishing between adults and children since they eat different amounts.
Select your leftover preference. "Some leftovers" adds about 25% more food, while "lots of leftovers" adds 50% - perfect for turkey sandwiches the next day.
Choose whether you're using a fresh or frozen turkey and your preferred cooking method. The calculator adjusts thaw time and cook time accordingly.
Toggle the side dishes you plan to serve. The calculator provides quantities for each selected side.
Understanding Your Results
The turkey size is rounded to common weights available at grocery stores. If your calculated size falls between standard sizes, go larger.
Cook time is for an unstuffed turkey. Add 15-30 minutes if stuffing the turkey. Always verify doneness with a meat thermometer.
The cooking timeline helps you coordinate multiple dishes and ensures everything is ready at the same time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many pounds of turkey per person?
Plan for 1-1.25 pounds of turkey per adult and 0.75 pounds per child. This accounts for bone weight and provides generous portions. For leftovers, add 25-50% more. A 15-pound turkey serves about 10-12 people.
How long does it take to thaw a frozen turkey?
In the refrigerator: allow 24 hours for every 4-5 pounds. A 16-pound turkey needs 3-4 days. In cold water: 30 minutes per pound, changing water every 30 minutes. Never thaw at room temperature.
How long to cook a turkey?
At 325°F, unstuffed: 13-15 minutes per pound. Stuffed: 15-17 minutes per pound. A 15-pound unstuffed turkey takes about 3.5-4 hours. Always use a meat thermometer - internal temp should reach 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh.
Should I stuff my turkey?
While traditional, stuffing inside the turkey increases cooking time and food safety risks. Cooking stuffing separately (dressing) is safer and allows for crispier top. If stuffing, ensure the center reaches 165°F.
How do I make turkey gravy?
Use pan drippings: skim off excess fat, add flour (2 tbsp per cup of liquid), whisk constantly, add turkey or chicken stock until desired consistency. Simmer 5-10 minutes. Season to taste. Make 1/4 cup gravy per person.
What side dishes go with turkey?
Classic sides: mashed potatoes, gravy, stuffing/dressing, cranberry sauce, green bean casserole, sweet potato casserole, dinner rolls, roasted vegetables. Plan 3-5 sides plus bread and dessert. About 1/2 cup of each side per person.
How do I plan my cooking timeline?
Work backwards from dinner time. Turkey needs to rest 30-45 minutes after cooking. Calculate cook time, then add 1 hour for prep and resting. Casseroles can share oven space. Make pies and cranberry sauce a day ahead.
How do I keep turkey moist?
Brine turkey 12-24 hours before (or buy pre-brined). Butter under the skin. Start breast-side down, flip halfway. Baste every 45 minutes. Tent with foil if browning too fast. Most importantly: don't overcook! Use a thermometer.
Related Calculators
Found this calculator helpful?
Check out our other free calculators for everyday math problems.
View All Calculators