Here’s the magic number: 1.5 pounds per person. That’s the sweet spot for leftovers and happy bellies. For 20 people, do the math: 20 x 1.5 = 30 pounds.
Yes, a 30-pound turkey is a beast. It’s the Arnold Schwarzenegger of birds. Don't be scared. Embrace the girth.
If your crowd is full of light eaters (the weirdos who skip dark meat), go with 1.25 pounds per person. That gives you a 25-pound bird. Still huge. Still glorious.
The "Leftover Lover" Formula
Leftovers are the real goal of Thanksgiving. Admit it. You want turkey sandwiches at 2 AM. You want turkey pot pie on Friday.
For maximum sandwich potential, bump it up to 2 pounds per person. That’s a 40-pound monster. You’ll need a crane and a bigger oven. Worth it.
Or, buy two smaller turkeys. A pair of 14-pound birds is easier to handle. Plus, you get two drumsticks to fight over. Winning.
