# Turkey Size and Cooking Time Calculator

URL: https://speedycalculator.com/calculators/food/turkey/
Last updated: 2026-10-25

> The turkey calculator estimates the size of turkey to buy for your guests and the approximate roasting time at 325 °F (163 °C), plus fridge thawing time, based on USDA guidance.

## Inputs

- Guests
- Weight per guest (lb, kg)
- Stuffed?

## Results

- Turkey size
- Approximate roasting time
- Fridge thawing time

## Formula

```
Size ≈ 1.5 lb per guest
Roasting ≈ 13–15 min per lb unstuffed at 325 °F
Thawing ≈ 24 h per 4–5 lb in the fridge
```

## Explanation

A whole turkey must reach 165 °F (74 °C) in the thickest part of the thigh, breast and stuffing for safety.

### How to use the Turkey Size and Cooking Time Calculator

- **Guests**
- **Weight per guest**
- **Stuffed?**

Results update as you type, and every field accepts the units shown in its menu.

### How it works

Guest numbers set the weight; weight sets roasting and thawing time. Always confirm with a food thermometer.

### Inputs explained

FieldWhat to enterGuestsA numberWeight per guestUnits: lb, kgStuffed?Choose one: Unstuffed, Stuffed

### What each result means

- **Turkey size** = [Guests]×[Weight per guest]
- **Fridge thawing time** = [Pounds]÷4.5

### Example values

How the main result changes when **Guests** changes and everything else stays at the example values above:

GuestsTurkey size (lb)57.57.511.2101512.518.71522.52030

## Worked example

Inputs — Guests: 10; Weight per guest: 1.5 lb; Stuffed?: Unstuffed.

Results — **Turkey size = 15 lb**; Approximate roasting time = 3 h 30 min; Fridge thawing time = 3.3 days.

## FAQ

**How do I know it is done?**
A food thermometer must read 165 °F (74 °C) in the thigh, wing and breast.

**Can I thaw a turkey on the counter?**
No; thaw in the fridge or in cold water changed every 30 minutes.

**What formula does the Turkey Size and Cooking Time Calculator use?**
Size ≈ 1.5 lb per guest.


## Sources

- [USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service – Safe minimum internal temperatures](https://www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation/food-safety-basics/safe-temperature-chart)