Free tool

Holiday dinner calculator

Enter your guest count and see what size turkey to buy, how long to thaw it in the fridge, roughly how long to roast it, and how much of the sides to make. Times follow USDA guidance. Nothing is stored.

Buy a turkey of about

18 lb

Thaw in the fridge: About 5 days
Roast at 325°F, unstuffed: 4¼ to 4½ hours
Potatoes: 6 lb
9-inch pies: 2

For about 12 servings, get a turkey of about 18 lb. Start thawing it in the fridge about 5 days ahead, and roast until a food thermometer reads 165°F. Plan on 18 rolls too.

Thawing uses about 24 hours per 4 pounds in the refrigerator. Roasting times are USDA estimates for an unstuffed turkey; ovens vary, so always check that the thickest part of the breast, thigh and wing reach 165°F. Estimates only.

Plan the week

Spread the work. See the make-ahead timeline.
Turkey questions? See turkey basics.
After the meal. See leftovers, safely.