how much food

i'm hosting the family thanksgiving for the first time. i'm not sure how much stuffing, potatoes, turkey, etc. i should be looking to make for 10 people. anyone have any handy ways of estimating?

gotta start shopping!

Re: how much food

Found this online...hope it helps!


Here are some general guidelines to use in planning your menu and how much to serve.

Protein
This can include turkey, ham, duck, turducken or even tofurkey. Plan on a pound per adult or teenager and ½ a pound for each kid. This takes into account bones, skin, personal preferences, seconds and leftovers.

Vegetables
For starchy vegetables such as potatoes, yams or corn, provide 4 to 6 ounces or around 2/3 of a cup per person. For regular vegetables like green beans or broccoli, serve 2 to 4 ounces or ½ cup per person. If you are serving salad, make enough for each person to have 1 cup.

Grains
The amount of stuffing depends on the size of the turkey and whether you want leftovers. Follow package directions for how much to make or figure on 6 to 8 ounces or a cup per person. If you are serving rolls, plan on 2 per person.



Appetizer
If you are serving chips, veggie sticks and dips, olives or stuffed celery, don't make too much. You don't want people to fill up on these before dinner. If serving cheese and crackers, stick to 2 or 3 kinds of cheese, about 4 ounces each.

Sauces
This can include cranberry sauce, brown gravy, giblet gravy and salad dressing. Plan on ½ cup each per person.

Desserts
Allow for one serving per person, and then add some more. Everyone will make room for dessert.