How large a turkey to feed 6 people?

To determine the appropriate size turkey to feed 6 people, consider the following guidelines:

1. Serving Size: A typical serving size for turkey is about 1 pound of cooked meat per person. This allows for seconds, leftovers, and a bit of wiggle room.

2. Bone-In vs. Boneless: Bone-in turkeys tend to have a higher bone-to-meat ratio compared to boneless turkeys. If you're using a bone-in turkey, plan for about 1.25 pounds per person.

3. Cooking Method: The cooking method can affect the yield of cooked meat. Roasting usually results in a lower yield compared to other methods like smoking or deep-frying.

Based on these factors, here are some general recommendations:

1. Bone-In Turkey: If using a bone-in turkey, aim for a 10 to 12-pound turkey for 6 people. This should provide enough meat for everyone, including leftovers.

2. Boneless Turkey: If using a boneless turkey, a 6 to 8-pound turkey should be sufficient. Boneless turkeys have a higher meat-to-bone ratio, so you can afford to get a slightly smaller bird.

3. Other Factors: If some of your guests are particularly big eaters, or you want a lot of leftovers, you may want to consider a slightly larger turkey. Additionally, if you're serving other side dishes or appetizers that take up space on the plate, you can get away with a slightly smaller turkey.

Remember, these recommendations are just guidelines, and the actual amount of turkey you need may vary based on your specific preferences and the appetites of your guests. It's always better to have a little extra turkey than to run out.