Turkey being put into deep fryer - familyguidecentral.com

How Much Oil to Deep Fry a Turkey (The Recipe, Time, and Fried Turkey Guide!)

If you’ve ever wondered how much oil is needed to deep-fry a turkey, you’re not alone. We’ve all been there, wondering if we have enough to finish cooking our Thanksgiving meal.

We’ve done the math for you.

Key takeaways

  • The ideal amount of oil for deep frying a turkey is 3-4 gallons, depending on the size of the turkey and the size of the pot. Make sure to measure the amount of oil required before heating it up.
  • Preheat the oil to the proper temperature, between 325-350 degrees Fahrenheit, to ensure the turkey cooks evenly and the skin crisps up as it cooks.
  • To make sure the turkey skin is crispy, dry the turkey thoroughly before deep frying, use a high-smoking point oil, avoid overcrowding the fryer, and cook the turkey at the proper temperature.
  • After deep frying a turkey, check the temperature and quality of the oil before using it to fry another turkey. If the oil is still suitable, filter it and store it properly to extend its shelf life.
  • An oil-less turkey fryer is a safe and healthy alternative to traditional deep frying. It does not use oil, is easy to clean and maintain, and can be used to cook other foods besides turkey.

How much oil is needed to deep-fry a turkey?

To deep fry a turkey, you will need enough oil to completely cover the turkey. In most cases, filling your pot to about 2/3 full with oil is probably going to be the maximum amount of oil you’ll ever need.

assuming you’re using a 30-quart pot. As a general rule, you will need about 24 to 26 quarts of oil for a turkey that weighs between 8 and 12 pounds and about 20 to 22 quarts of oil for a turkey that weighs between 12 and 16 pounds.

Oil requirement vs turkey-size table

Here is a table that shows the recommended amount of oil to use for deep frying a turkey based on its size:

Turkey WeightRecommended Amount of Oil (30-quart pot)
8-12 lbs24-26 quarts
12-16 lbs20-22 quarts
16-20 lbs16-18 quarts
20-24 lbs14-16 quarts
This table gives an estimate of the size of the turkey and the recommended amount of oil required to deep fry it.

Keep in mind that these are general guidelines, and the actual amount of oil you will need may vary depending on the size and shape of your turkey and the size of the pot you are using.

You need to measure the right amount of oil to use, as using too little oil can cause the turkey to be undercooked while using too much can be a safety hazard.

To measure the right amount of oil, you will need to consider the size of your turkey, the type of fryer you are using, and the size of the pot you are using.

A quick way to find out how much oil you need to deep fry a turkey

A general rule of thumb is to use 3 to 4 quarts of oil for each pound of turkey.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that this is just a starting point, and the amount of oil needed can vary depending on the size and shape of your turkey, as well as the type of fryer you are using.

How do you measure the perfect amount of oil?

To measure the perfect amount of oil for deep frying a turkey, you will need to consider the size of your turkey, the type of fryer you are using, and the size of the pot you are using.

Here are some steps to follow to measure the perfect amount of oil:

  1. Place the turkey in the pot or fryer that you will be using.
  2. Add water to the pot or fryer until the turkey is fully submerged.
  3. Remove the turkey from the pot or fryer and mark the water level on the inside of the pot or fryer.
  4. Pour out the water and dry the pot or fryer thoroughly.
  5. Add oil to the pot or fryer until it reaches the mark that you made earlier.
  6. I strongly urge you to fully dry the turkey before deep-frying it to avoid any accidents. If you add a wet turkey to hot oil, it can cause the oil to splatter and potentially burn you or start a fire.

To fully dry the turkey, you can either pat it dry with paper towels or you can let it air dry in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight. This will help ensure that the turkey is fully dry and ready to be deep-fried safely.

When deep frying a turkey, follow proper safety precautions to avoid accidents.

Use a turkey fryer with an automatic shut-off feature, keep a fire extinguisher close by, and never leave the fryer unattended as safety precautions.

Make sure that the oil is at the proper temperature, as using oil that is too hot can cause it to splatter or boil over.

How to deep fry a turkey with the right amount of oil

Here are some steps to follow to deep fry a turkey:

  1. Choose a high-quality, high-smoking point oil, such as peanut oil or vegetable oil.
  2. Measure how much oil you need using the method explained above.
  3. Add oil to the pot or fryer until it reaches the mark that you made earlier.
  4. Heat the oil to the recommended temperature, between 325 and 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
  5. Carefully place the turkey in the pot or fryer, making sure it is fully submerged in the oil.
  6. Fry the turkey for about 3-4 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
  7. Carefully remove the turkey from the oil and place it on a wire rack or paper towel to drain any excess oil.
  8. Let the turkey rest for at least 20 minutes before carving and serving.

What to consider when adding oil for deep frying a turkey

When adding oil to deep fry a turkey, there are a few things to keep in mind to make sure the cooking goes well and is safe:

Oil temperature

To make sure the turkey is cooked to the right temperature, heat the oil to the right temperature, between 325 and 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Using oil that is too hot can cause it to splatter or boil over while using oil that is not hot enough can result in an undercooked turkey.

Turkey size

The size of the turkey will determine how much oil you will need.

As a general rule, you will need about 24 to 26 quarts of oil for a turkey that weighs between 8 and 12 pounds, 20 to 22 quarts of oil for a turkey that weighs between 12 and 16 pounds, 16 to 18 quarts of oil for a 16 to 20-pound turkey, and 14 to 16 quarts of oil for a 20 to 24-ppound turkey.

Oil type

It is recommended to use a high-quality, high-smoking point oil for deep frying a turkey, such as peanut oil or vegetable oil.

These oils have a high smoke point, which means they can withstand high cooking temperatures without breaking down and producing a burnt or off flavor.

Turkey fryer

When choosing a turkey fryer, take note of the size of the turkey and the size of the fryer to ensure that it is large enough to accommodate the turkey.

It is also a good idea to choose a fryer with an automatic shut-off feature for added safety.

Safety precautions

Deep-frying a turkey can be a hazardous activity, so it is also important to take proper safety precautions.

Use a turkey fryer with an automatic shut-off feature, keep a fire extinguisher close by, and never leave the fryer unattended as safety precautions. Make sure that the oil is at the proper temperature, as using oil that is too hot can cause it to splatter or boil over.

What kind of turkey fryer should be used to deep-fry a turkey?

There are several different types of turkey fryers that can be used to deep fry a turkey, including pot-style fryers, basket-style fryers, and oil-less fryers.

Pot-style fryers

Pot-style fryers are designed to be used with a large pot that is filled with oil. These fryers typically come with a basket or rack that is used to lower the turkey into the oil.

Pot-style fryers are a good choice for people who want to use their own pot and oil, as they are relatively inexpensive and can be used with a variety of pots.

Basket-style fryers

Basket-style fryers are self-contained units that come with their own pot and heating element.

These fryers are typically more expensive than pot-style fryers, but they are easier to use and offer more stability and safety features, such as an automatic shut-off feature.

Oil-less fryers

Oil-less fryers use infrared technology to cook the turkey, so they do not require the use of oil.

These fryers are a good choice for people who want to avoid the mess and potential hazards of using oil, but they may not produce the same crispy, fried texture as a traditional deep-fried turkey.

What temperature should the oil be when frying a turkey?

The oil temperature should be between 325 and 350 degrees Fahrenheit when frying a turkey.

I suggest that you use a cooking thermometer to check the oil’s temperature and make sure it is at the right level.

Using oil that is too hot can cause it to splatter or boil over while using oil that is not hot enough can result in an undercooked turkey.

To heat the oil to the proper temperature, you will need to use a heating element, such as a propane burner or an electric heating element.

Let the oil warm up slowly to the right temperature so that it doesn’t get too hot and burn.

Once the oil has reached the proper temperature, you can carefully place the turkey in the fryer, making sure it is fully submerged in the oil.

How do you ensure that the turkey is fully cooked?

To ensure that the turkey is fully cooked when you fry it, you need to use a cooking thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey. The internal temperature of the turkey should be at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit when it is fully cooked.

When checking, simply insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the turkey, being careful not to touch the bone, and wait a few seconds for the reading. If the internal temperature of the turkey is at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit, it is fully cooked and ready to be removed from the fryer.

Also, make sure to check the turkey’s temperature in several places to make sure it’s cooked all the way through. If the turkey isn’t done, you can keep frying it for a few more minutes and check the temperature every so often until it gets to the right temperature.

Once the turkey is fully cooked, you should carefully remove it from the fryer and place it on a wire rack or on paper towels to drain any excess oil. Let the turkey rest for at least 20 minutes before carving and serving.

What type of thermometer can be used to measure the oil temperature?

There are several types of thermometers that can be used to measure the temperature of the oil when deep frying a turkey:

Deep-frying thermometer

This type of thermometer is designed specifically for deep frying and has a long, heat-resistant stem that can be inserted into the oil to measure the temperature.

These thermometers typically have a temperature range of 100–400 degrees Fahrenheit and are accurate to within a few degrees.

Digital instant-read thermometer

This type of thermometer is designed to give a quick and accurate reading of the temperature of liquids and solids. To measure the temperature of the oil with a digital instant-read thermometer, just stick the probe into the oil and wait a few seconds for the reading.

These thermometers are easy to use and convenient, but they might not be as accurate as a thermometer for deep-frying.

Dial thermometer

This type of thermometer is similar to a deep-frying thermometer, but it has a dial face instead of a digital display. To use a dial thermometer, just put the stem into the oil and wait a few minutes for the temperature to stay the same.

These thermometers are generally less expensive than digital thermometers, but they may not be as accurate or as easy to read. They can read between 50 and 450 degrees Fahrenheit.

How long does it take to deep-fry a turkey?

The time it takes to deep fry a turkey will depend on the size of the turkey and the temperature of the oil.

As a general rule, it will take about 3–4 minutes per pound to deep fry a turkey. For example, a 12-pound turkey will take about 36 to 48 minutes to fry.

What type of oil should be used to deep fry a turkey?

It is recommended to use a high-quality, high-smoking point oil for deep frying a turkey, such as peanut oil (450 F) or vegetable oil (400 F). These oils have a high smoke point, which means they can withstand high cooking temperatures without breaking down and producing a burnt or off flavor.

Other oils that can be used for deep frying a turkey include canola oil (400 F), corn oil (450 F), and grapeseed oil (420 F). Choose an oil with a high smoke point to ensure that it can withstand high cooking temperatures without breaking down.

Consider the flavor of the oil when choosing one for deep-frying a turkey.

Some oils, such as peanut oil and canola oil, have a neutral flavor that will not affect the taste of the turkey. Other oils, such as olive oil and coconut oil, have a strong flavor that may affect the taste of the turkey.

What safety precautions should be taken when deep-frying a turkey?

  • Use a turkey fryer with an automatic shut-off feature: A turkey fryer with an automatic shut-off feature will turn off the heating element if the oil becomes too hot or if the fryer is tipped over. This helps prevent the oil from overheating or boiling over, which can be a safety hazard.
  • Keep a fire extinguisher nearby: It is a good idea to keep a fire extinguisher nearby when deep frying a turkey, in case of a grease fire. Make sure the fire extinguisher is rated for grease fires and that you know how to use it.
  • Never leave the fryer unattended: Stay near the fryer at all times when it is in use to ensure that the oil does not boil over or the fryer does not tip over. Do not leave the fryer unattended, even for a short time, as this can be a safety hazard.
  • Use caution when handling hot oil: Hot oil can cause burns, so use caution when handling it. Use oven mitts or tongs to carefully lower the turkey into the oil and remove it from the fryer.
  • Keep children and pets away: Try to keep children and pets away from the fryer to prevent accidents and injuries.
  • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions: Read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your turkey fryer to ensure that you are using it safely.

Why deep-fry a turkey?

Faster cooking time

Because the high heat of the oil quickly cooks the turkey from the outside, deep-frying it can cook it faster than roasting it in an oven. This can be especially appealing if you need to cook a large turkey in a short amount of time.

Moist and juicy meat

Deep-frying a turkey can produce moist and juicy meat, as the high heat of the oil seals in the juices and cooks the turkey quickly.

Crispy skin

Deep-frying a turkey can produce crispy and flavorful skin, as the high heat of the oil crisps the skin and seals in the natural juices of the turkey.

Flavorful

Deep-frying a turkey can add flavor to the meat and skin, as the oil can infuse the turkey with flavor as it cooks.

Traditional

Deep-frying a turkey has long been a traditional cooking method, especially in the southern United States, and is a popular way to prepare a turkey for Thanksgiving and other special occasions.

How do you make sure the turkey skin is crispy?

  • Dry the turkey thoroughly: Before deep frying the turkey, dry it thoroughly, both inside and out. This will help the skin crisp up as it cooks. You can pat the turkey dry with paper towels or let it air-dry in the refrigerator for several hours.
  • Use a high-smoking point oil: Use a high-smoking point oil for deep frying a turkey, such as a peanut oil or vegetable oil, as these oils can withstand high cooking temperatures without breaking down and producing a burnt or off flavor.
  • Preheat the oil: Preheating the oil to the proper temperature, between 325-350 degrees Fahrenheit, will help the skin crisp up as the turkey cooks.
  • Avoid overcrowding the fryer: Avoid overcrowding the fryer when deep frying a turkey, as this can cause the oil temperature to drop and can prevent the skin from crisping up.
  • Cook the turkey at the proper temperature: Cook the turkey at the proper temperature to ensure that the skin crisps up as it cooks. Use a cooking thermometer to monitor the temperature of the oil and the internal temperature of the turkey to ensure that it is cooked to the proper temperature.

What should you do with the oil if you want to deep-fry another turkey?

  • Check the temperature of the oil: Before using the oil to deep fry a second turkey, check the temperature of the oil to make sure it is still at the proper temperature, between 325-350 degrees Fahrenheit. If the oil has cooled down too much, you will need to heat it back up to the proper temperature before using it to fry the second turkey.
  • Check the quality of the oil: After deep frying a turkey, the oil may have absorbed some of the flavors and odors of the turkey. If you want to use the oil again, check its quality to make sure it can still be used to cook. If the oil has a burnt or off-flavor, it should be discarded and replaced with fresh oil.
  • Filter the oil: If the oil is still suitable for cooking, it is a good idea to filter it to remove any bits of food or debris that may have accumulated during the first frying. You can use a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth to filter the oil.
  • Store the oil properly: Once the oil has been filtered and is ready for reuse, store it properly to extend its shelf life. Store the oil in a clean, airtight container and keep it in a cool, dry place, away from heat and light.

What is an oil-less turkey fryer?

An oil-less turkey fryer is a type of cooking appliance that is designed to cook a turkey without using oil. Instead of using oil, an oil-less turkey fryer uses infrared technology to cook the turkey by radiating heat directly onto the surface of the turkey.

Oil-less turkey fryers do not use oil to cook the turkey, so the finished product is lower in fat and calories compared to a turkey that has been deep-fried in oil.

As the name implies, they do not use oil, so there is no risk of a grease fire or oil spill.

Oil-less turkey fryers also do not produce any oil or grease, so they are easier to clean and maintain compared to traditional oil fryers

Finally, they can be used to cook other foods in addition to turkey, such as chicken, pork, and vegetables.

Do you need to add more oil if you want to deep-fry a second turkey?

If you want to deep fry a second turkey using the same oil, it is generally not necessary to add more oil. If you’ve removed the first turkey and only a small amount of oil has been lost due to evaporation or absorption into the first turkey, it is generally not necessary to add more oil to the pot.

Chances are there’s still plenty of oil left in the pot to submerge the second turkey, as long as it is approximately the same size as the first one.

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