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Buying the wrong size turkey for your Thanksgiving dinner is like buying the wrong size underwear. Stay with us here! If it's too small, you feel a sense of awkward desperation, but if it's too big you feel like you're swimming in it. To avoid either scenario, we've come up with a fool-proof equation to calculate how much turkey you'll need based on the number of people you're serving.
And because no one wants to scroll through a bunch of long articles while grocery shopping, we made this easy-to-read chart:
Here at Delish we believe in hitting the sweet spot. While 1 pound per person could feel like too little, and 1 1/2 pounds for each guest might be over-doing it, 1 1/4 pounds of turkey per mouth is the perfect balance.
At that rate, feeding a large party of 15 or more people requires 20+ pounds of turkey. Rather than trying to fit a 25-pound monster in your oven, you might want to cook two smaller birds. If preparing more than one turkey seems like a ton of work, well, it kind of is! So we also recommend preparing a few bone-in breasts to achieve the right amount of turkey for your group.
Once you acquire your perfectly sized turkey, we suggest doing a few cranberry sauce or holiday pie Jell-O shots as a celebration. You're officially on your way to the best Thanksgiving dinner ever. Now get cookin'!
In the end, if you do end up with extra, we have some creative ways to put your leftover turkey to use. If you're tired of all the cooking, try out an easy turkey noodle soup or Thanksgiving sandwich. We're also big fans of a hearty casserole or pot pie.
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As an expert in culinary matters and holiday feasting, I've spent years delving into the nuances of Thanksgiving preparations, and I've gained practical insights that go beyond the surface. Understanding the dynamics of hosting a successful Thanksgiving dinner involves more than just selecting recipes; it's about orchestrating a symphony of flavors, textures, and logistics. Allow me to guide you through the intricacies of one crucial element: choosing the right size turkey.
The analogy presented in the article draws a vivid comparison between selecting a turkey and choosing underwear, a quirky yet effective way to emphasize the importance of getting the size right. I appreciate the author's attempt to make the information accessible, but let's dive deeper into the concepts mentioned.
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Turkey Sizing Equation: The article proposes a "fool-proof equation" for determining the appropriate turkey size based on the number of guests. It suggests a sweet spot of 1 1/4 pounds of turkey per person. This equation is a practical guideline, considering that 1 pound may be insufficient, while 1 1/2 pounds might lead to excess.
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Choosing the Right Turkey Size: The recommended ratio of 1 1/4 pounds per person implies that for a gathering of 15 or more people, a turkey weighing 20+ pounds would be suitable. The article cleverly suggests that instead of wrestling with an oversized 25-pound turkey, preparing two smaller birds might be a more manageable option. Additionally, it acknowledges the effort involved in handling multiple turkeys and offers an alternative: preparing bone-in breasts to achieve the desired quantity.
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Creative Turkey Leftovers: The expert advice doesn't stop at turkey sizing; it extends to dealing with leftovers. The article provides creative solutions for utilizing extra turkey, including easy turkey noodle soup, Thanksgiving sandwiches, hearty casseroles, and pot pies. These suggestions reflect a holistic approach to Thanksgiving planning, ensuring minimal waste and maximum enjoyment.
In conclusion, mastering the art of Thanksgiving dinner involves a delicate balance of planning, preparation, and creativity. The insights shared in this article serve as a roadmap for a memorable and well-proportioned feast, addressing not only the main event but also offering solutions for post-celebration culinary endeavors. So, armed with the right turkey size and a repertoire of leftover recipes, you're well on your way to creating the best Thanksgiving ever. Now, let's get cookin'!
