For 8 people, aim for a turkey around 8–10 pounds (3.6–4.5 kg) if you want generous servings with plenty of leftovers, or 6.5–8 pounds (3–3.6 kg) if you prefer leaner portions with fewer leftovers. Most guidance suggests roughly 1 to 1.5 pounds of turkey per person, depending on appetites and whether you want leftovers. Guidelines to pick a size
- Without leftovers: about 1 pound per person. For 8 people, 8 pounds (3.6 kg) is a solid baseline.
- With leftovers: about 1.25–1.5 pounds per person. For 8 people, 10–12 pounds (4.5–5.5 kg) provides extra portions.
Practical tips
- If you have a small oven or want faster roasting, a 6–8 pound bird is easier to handle and will still serve 8 with side dishes.
- Consider having a backup protein or extra sides if appetite levels are variable among guests.
- If you’re buying a multi-bird setup (two smaller birds), you can customize cooking times and still feed 8 with ample leftovers.
Would you like help choosing between specific weights based on your crowd’s appetite and your oven limitations, or tips for roasting and portioning to maximize leftovers?
