Complete shopping list for the big feast.
Turkey: 1-1.25 lbs per person for bone-in (about 50% is bone and waste). A 12-14 lb turkey serves 8-10 comfortably with leftovers. Two smaller turkeys cook faster and more evenly than one monster bird. Mashed potatoes: ½ lb per person (about 1 medium potato). Stuffing: ¾ cup per person. Cranberry sauce: 3 oz per person (one 14-oz can serves 4-5). Plan 2 rolls per person. Pies: one 9-inch pie serves 6-8. Offer 2 varieties (pumpkin + pecan or apple). Start thawing a frozen turkey 3-4 days before (24 hours per 4-5 lbs in the fridge). Prep what you can the day before: brine turkey, make pie, prep vegetables, set the table.