With 20 people, you want at least 5 pounds of leftovers for yourself. That means a 20-pound turkey. Why? Because turkey soup, turkey pot pie, and turkey tacos are mandatory post-Thanksgiving activities. Plan for them.
WHAT SIZE TURKEY for 2-20 People: How Much Turkey Per Person Chart
Pro tip: freeze the bones. Make stock in December. Future you will be a genius.
What If You’re a Vegetarian Hosting Carnivores?
Buy a 16-pound turkey. Then roast a big squash or a whole cauliflower for yourself. Everyone wins. You get a centerpiece. They get meat. And you don’t have to touch raw bird guts. Respect.
