Thanksgiving Calculator

Plan your perfect Thanksgiving dinner with our comprehensive calculator. Get exact portions and ingredients needed for any number of guests, including options for leftovers and dietary preferences.

Why Use This Calculator?

• Precise Planning: Get exact quantities for all ingredients
• Guest Management: Account for adults and children separately
• Leftover Planning: Option to include extra portions for next-day meals
• Complete Menu: Covers all traditional Thanksgiving dishes
• Cost Estimation: Get approximate total cost for budgeting

How to Use It

1. Enter number of adult and child guests
2. Select whether you want leftovers
3. Choose dietary preferences and restrictions
4. Get detailed shopping list and portions

Traditional Thanksgiving Portions

Main Course

• Turkey: 1-1.5 lbs per adult, 0.5-0.75 lbs per child
• Stuffing: 0.5 cups per person
• Gravy: 0.25 cups per person

Side Dishes (per person)

• Mashed Potatoes: 0.5 cups
• Sweet Potatoes: 0.25 cups
• Green Bean Casserole: 0.25 cups
• Cranberry Sauce: 0.25 cups
• Dinner Rolls: 1-2 rolls

Desserts

• Pies: One 9-inch pie serves 6-8 people
• Other Desserts: 1-2 portions per person

Planning Timeline

1 Week Before

• Order turkey if not yet purchased
• Plan menu and make shopping list
• Purchase non-perishable items
• Start thawing frozen turkey (if applicable)

2-3 Days Before

• Purchase fresh ingredients
• Make cranberry sauce
• Prepare pie crusts
• Start brining turkey (if desired)

Day Before

• Prepare stuffing ingredients
• Make pies
• Prep vegetables
• Set table
• Chill beverages

Thanksgiving Day

• Cook turkey (allow 15-20 minutes per pound)
• Prepare side dishes
• Warm dinner rolls
• Make gravy
• Heat prepared items

Tips for Success

1. Turkey Tips:

   • Allow 1-1.5 pounds per adult
   • Add 30% more for leftovers
   • Start thawing early (24 hours per 4-5 pounds)

2. Side Dish Strategy:

   • Prep vegetables the day before
   • Use oven space efficiently
   • Consider make-ahead dishes
   • Keep some dishes simple

3. Dietary Considerations:

   • Offer vegetarian options
   • Label dishes with allergens
   • Include some healthy options
   • Consider gluten-free alternatives

4. Leftover Planning:

   • Have storage containers ready
   • Plan leftover meals
   • Know food safety guidelines
   • Consider sending guests home with portions

Technical Notes

• Calculations include standard portion sizes
• Adult portions are full-size
• Child portions are calculated at 50%
• Leftover calculations add 30% to main dishes
• Cost estimates based on average US prices

Remember: These are guidelines based on average portions. Adjust based on your guests’ preferences and appetites. It’s better to have a little extra than not enough!