How Much Turkey and Ham Per Person for the Holidays?

The holidays are a time for gathering with family and friends over delicious feasts The centerpieces of many holiday meals are often turkey and ham But how much of each should you plan for each person attending your holiday feast? This can be a tricky question to answer when cooking for a crowd. Follow this simple guide to determine just how much turkey and ham to buy per person for your next memorable holiday meal.

Count Your Guests

The first step is taking a headcount of who will be attending your holiday dinner. Send guests RSVPs 4-6 weeks in advance and follow up for final numbers 2-3 weeks beforehand. Be sure to ask if attendees have any dietary restrictions.

Once you have a fairly solid guest list it’s time to start planning your turkey and ham quantities.

Turkey Buying Guide

Whole Turkey

The general recommendation is 1-1.5 pounds of whole turkey per person. This accounts for bones and other waste. A 12 lb turkey would feed 8-12 guests. For 13+ people, allow 1.25 lbs per person.

• 8 guests: 12 lb turkey
• 12 guests: 18 lb turkey
• 16 guests: 20-24 lb turkey

For less than 8 guests, get a 10-12 lb bird. For over 16, get two smaller 12-14 lb turkeys.

Boneless Turkey

With boneless turkey, estimate 1/3 – 1/2 lb per person. There is less waste without bones.

Bone-in Turkey Breast

For bone-in breasts, plan for 3/4 lb per person.

Get extra white meat if you have guests that prefer it.

Ham Buying Guide

Boneless Ham

Plan for 1/4 lb boneless ham per person.

• 8 guests: 4-5 lbs
• 12 guests: 6-8 lbs
• 16 guests: 8-10 lbs

For under 8 guests, get a 4-5 lb ham.

Bone-in Ham

Allow 1/2 lb bone-in ham per person. The bone adds weight.

• 8 guests: 6-8 lbs
• 12 guests: 10-12 lbs
• 16 guests: 12-14 lbs

Spiral sliced bone-in hams are easiest for serving.

Thawing and Cooking Times

Thawing

Turkeys need 4-7 days to thaw depending on size. Place in refrigerator in a pan to catch juices.

Hams come thawed or pre-cooked.

Cooking

• Whole turkeys: Roast at 325°F for 13-15 minutes per lb.

• Boneless hams: Heat through at 325°F, 10-12 minutes per lb.

Use a meat thermometer. Turkey should reach 165°F and hams 130°F internally. Let turkey rest 30 mins before carving.

Handling Leftovers

Don’t let leftovers go to waste! Save turkey bones for soup stock. Refrigerate carved meat within 2 hours. Freeze leftovers in meal-sized portions. Create fun creations like turkey pot pie, sandwiches, casseroles, soups, and more!

Extra Tips

• Brine the turkey 1-2 days beforehand for juicier meat. Rinse and pat dry before roasting.

• Cook stuffing separately to ensure it reaches a safe temperature.

• Place disposable pan under turkey to catch drippings for gravy.

• Let turkey rest before carving so juices redistribute.

• Glaze your ham every 30 minutes while heating.

With this handy holiday turkey and ham cooking guide, you’ll know just how much to purchase per guest. Now you can relax and enjoy time with loved ones, confident that you have the perfect amount of turkey and ham for your festive feast.