Thanksgiving Dinner Calculator
Thanksgiving is the ultimate cooking challenge - multiple dishes that all need to be hot at the same time, for guests with high expectations. Our calculator helps you plan the sides and extras that complement your turkey.
Popular in November
Quick Estimates for 20 Guests
Here's what you'll need if serving these foods together at your thanksgiving dinner:
Estimated total cost: $83 - $228
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Mac and Cheese Servings
11 cups
Est. $11-$28
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Salad Servings
21 cups
Est. $21-$63
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Baked Bean Servings
7 cups
Est. $4-$11
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Potato Salad Servings
7 cups
Est. $5-$14
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Cake Slices
14 slices
Est. $28-$70
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Cookies
28 cookies
Est. $14-$42
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Planning Timeline
1
2 weeks before: Plan menu, order turkey if fresh
2
1 week before: Shop for non-perishables, plan oven schedule
3
3 days before: Start thawing frozen turkey, shop for produce
4
2 days before: Make cranberry sauce, prep vegetables
5
1 day before: Make pies, prep stuffing, set table
6
Thanksgiving morning: Turkey in oven early, make sides, relax!
💡 Pro Tips
- • Most sides can be made 1-2 days ahead and reheated
- • Plan for oven space - you have limited room with the turkey
- • Guests always eat less than you think - everyone's saving room for pie
Thanksgiving Dinner Planning Tips
- Make sides ahead to reduce day-of stress
- Plan oven timing carefully around the turkey
- Have appetizers ready for early arrivers
- Use slow cookers to keep sides warm
- Prep vegetables and ingredients the day before
- Plan for 1.5 cups of total side dishes per person
Food Safety Resources:
Frequently Asked Questions
How much turkey per person for Thanksgiving?
Plan for 1 to 1.5 pounds of turkey per person (including bones). For 10 guests, a 12-15 pound turkey is perfect. This accounts for some leftovers, which everyone wants!
How many side dishes do I need for Thanksgiving?
Plan for 5-6 different side dishes for a traditional Thanksgiving: stuffing/dressing, mashed potatoes, gravy, cranberry sauce, a vegetable (green beans or salad), and rolls. Add mac & cheese for crowds with kids.
How much of each side dish per person?
Plan for about 1/2 cup of each side dish per person. For 10 guests: 5 cups each of mashed potatoes, stuffing, and vegetables. That's typically one large batch of each dish.