How Big Should You Buy a Turkey Breast? A Guide to Picking the Right Size

When it comes to cooking the perfect turkey breast for Thanksgiving or any special occasion, an important factor is choosing the right size. But with so many options at the grocery store, how do you know how big to go? Let’s look at how to determine the ideal turkey breast size based on your guests and meal plans.

Key Factors That Determine Turkey Breast Size

There are a few key elements that impact what size turkey breast you should buy:

• Number of guests – The number of people you are serving is the biggest factor. Allow around 1/2 pound per person.

• Leftovers – Do you want leftovers? Go bigger if you plan to use turkey for sandwiches, casseroles etc

• Appetites – Consider if you have extra hungry guests who may eat larger portions.

• White or dark meat – Will you serve both white and dark meat or just breast?

• Bone-in or boneless – Boneless breasts are 100% edible meat. Bone-in includes bones.

Keeping these elements in mind will help guide you in purchasing the optimal turkey breast size.

Average Turkey Breast Sizes

Turkey breast sizes available at grocery stores generally range from 2 pounds to over 16 pounds. Here are some common sizes:

• 2 pounds – Feeds 3-4 people
• 4 pounds – Feeds 6-8 people
• 6 pounds – Feeds 10-12 people
• 8 pounds – Feeds 12-16 people
• 10 pounds – Feeds 16-20 people
• 12 pounds – Feeds 20-24 people
• 16 pounds – Feeds 24-32 people

These are estimates assuming you have average appetites and want some leftovers. Adjust as needed for small or large gatherings.

Picking Bone-In vs. Boneless

Choosing between bone-in and boneless turkey breasts affects the calculation.

• Boneless contains 100% edible meat. A 5 pound boneless breast feeds 8-10.

• Bone-in includes bones weighing 25-30% of total. A 7 pound bone-in breast feeds 8-10 once bone is removed.

• Go boneless for simpler cooking. Bone-in imparts more flavor.

Allowing for Leftovers

• Leftover turkey makes great sandwiches, soups, casseroles and more.

• Allow 1 pound of turkey per person if you want ample leftovers.

• With an average appetite, 1/2 pound per person leaves some leftovers.

• For a big gathering, add 2-3 extra pounds to ensure sufficient leftovers.

Adjusting for Appetites

• Adult men and teenage boys often have bigger appetites than women and kids.

• Allow 1 pound per person for guests with larger appetites.

• Reduce to 1/3 pound for small children who eat less.

• Offer extra sides in case some are hungrier than expected.

Guidelines for Common Gatherings

Here are some turkey breast size guidelines for different gatherings:

• Friendsgiving for 6: 4 pound boneless turkey breast

• Extended family of 12: 8-10 pound bone-in turkey breast

• Large family of 20: 14-16 pound turkey breast

• Thanksgiving for 8 with leftovers: 6 pound boneless breast

• Office party for 30: 22-24 pound turkey breast

Adjust up or down depending on your group’s demographics and preferences. It’s better to have extra than run short.

Picking the Perfect Turkey Breast

Here are some final tips for picking the ideal turkey breast:

• Estimate 1/2 to 1 pound per person depending on leftovers.

• Add extra pounds if bone-in or guests have large appetites.

• Factor in if you’ll serve white and dark meat or just breast.

• Check your refrigerator capacity for safe storage.

• Allow time to thaw larger frozen turkey breasts.

With the right calculations, you’ll end up with the perfect turkey breast size to feed your guests while also having some leftover for turkey sandwiches and soups after the main event!