How Much to Serve Per Person at Your Thanksgiving Meal
Planning the perfect Thanksgiving meal can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to figuring out just how much food you need to keep everyone satisfied. After all, Thanksgiving is a day of indulgence, but no one wants to overdo it so much that food goes to waste—or worse, runs out! Here’s a guide to help you estimate how much to serve each guest at your Thanksgiving feast.
Thanksgiving Meal Portion Guide
These portion sizes are based on traditional Thanksgiving dishes and can help you prepare the right amount for each guest:
| Dish | Amount Per Person | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Turkey | 1 to 1.5 pounds | Whole turkey with bones; 1 pound if serving many sides, 1.5 pounds for generous servings. |
| Stuffing | 1/2 to 3/4 cup | Whether it’s traditional stuffing or dressing, this amount is just right for everyone. |
| Mashed Potatoes | 3/4 to 1 cup | Mashed potatoes are a favorite, so consider making a bit extra! |
| Gravy | 1/3 cup | For drizzling over turkey and potatoes. |
| Cranberry Sauce | 1/4 cup | Adds a tangy contrast to the savory dishes. |
| Green Beans | 1/2 cup | Green bean casserole or plain green beans are classic options. |
| Sweet Potatoes | 1/2 cup | Casserole or mashed; slightly more if topped with marshmallows or nuts. |
| Salad | 1 cup | A light, fresh salad with greens balances out heavier dishes. |
| Dinner Rolls | 1 to 2 rolls | Fluffy rolls with butter are always a crowd-pleaser. |
| Pie (Dessert) | 1 slice (1/8 of a 9-inch pie) | Pumpkin, apple, pecan, or any favorite holiday pie will do. |
| Whipped Cream | 2 tablespoons | Perfect with pie or other desserts. |
| Appetizers | 3-4 pieces | Cheese, nuts, veggies, or small bites to kick off the meal. |
Tips for Planning a Balanced Thanksgiving Meal
- Plan for Leftovers: Thanksgiving leftovers are one of the best parts of the holiday! If you’d like leftovers, consider increasing the portions by about 25-50%.
- Serving a Variety: If your menu has more dishes than the traditional Thanksgiving spread, you can reduce the serving sizes slightly since guests will have plenty of options to choose from.
- Consider Dietary Preferences: Offering a mix of dishes can help accommodate different dietary needs and preferences. A colorful salad, vegetarian stuffing, or gluten-free options ensure everyone has something to enjoy.
- Keep Kids in Mind: Kids tend to eat a bit less, so you may be able to adjust portions for younger guests.
- Include the Essentials: Some dishes like mashed potatoes, gravy, and stuffing are Thanksgiving essentials. Make sure you have enough of these crowd-pleasers, as they tend to disappear quickly!
Thanksgiving Recipe Ideas
Need some delicious recipes for your Thanksgiving feast? Here are some classic Southern-inspired dishes from SouthernKissed.com that are sure to make your meal unforgettable.
Main Dishes
- Smoked Turkey – A smoky twist on the traditional Thanksgiving turkey, this recipe adds depth of flavor that will wow your guests and become a holiday favorite.
- Slow Cooker Ham – This easy slow cooker ham is both juicy and flavorful, making it a perfect addition to your main course spread without taking up oven space.
Side Dishes
- Green Bean Casserole – This classic side dish, made with tender green beans and a creamy sauce, is topped with crispy onions for the perfect finishing touch.
- Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows – A sweet and comforting dish with smooth, spiced sweet potatoes topped with golden, gooey marshmallows.
- Corn Pudding – This creamy and slightly sweet corn pudding is a wonderful side that complements savory dishes beautifully and adds a touch of Southern charm to your table.
- Mac N Cheese – Rich, creamy, and perfectly cheesy, this mac and cheese is sure to be a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults alike.
- Black-Eyed Peas – A classic Southern side, black-eyed peas bring hearty flavor and tradition to your Thanksgiving meal.
- Pea Salad – Fresh and vibrant, this pea salad with a creamy dressing adds a nice balance to the heavier dishes on the Thanksgiving menu.
- Cauliflower Casserole – A creamy, cheesy cauliflower casserole that’s both comforting and delicious—a great low-carb alternative to traditional sides.
- Pan-Roasted Brussels Sprouts – These Brussels sprouts are caramelized and crisped to perfection, adding a savory, earthy touch to your Thanksgiving spread.
Breads
- Bread Machine Dinner Rolls – These soft, buttery dinner rolls come together easily in a bread machine, making them a great choice for your holiday table.
Desserts
- Mini Personal Pumpkin Pies – Perfectly portioned mini pumpkin pies give each guest a delightful dessert with all the cozy flavors of the season.
- Cherry-Topped Cheesecake – This creamy cheesecake topped with cherry pie filling is a deliciously sweet and tangy dessert that makes a beautiful and tasty addition to the holiday dessert table.
Make Your Thanksgiving Stress-Free
With these guidelines, you can prepare a delicious and satisfying Thanksgiving meal without the worry of running out of food or having way too much left over. Thanksgiving is about gathering, giving thanks, and sharing a meal with loved ones—so enjoy every moment, from the planning to the cooking to the gathering around the table.
Happy Thanksgiving!
