Best Turkey Fryer Reviews

The Best Oil And Oil-less Turkey Fryers From The Top Brands You Trust

Imagine deep-frying a whole 14lb turkey or chicken in as little as 30 minutes? What if you could brew 2 gallons of your own craft beer recipe right in your backyard?

With the best turkey fryer in your hands, deep fried cuisine, craft beer, homemade syrup, or large batches of food are all possible. You can serve more guests in less time than it takes to cook on your stovetop or your oven. Best of all,a turkey fryer cooks and fries meat more evenly, resulting in juicier, crispier chicken, turkey, pork, halibut, and more.

Char Broil, Masterbuilt, King Kooker - our list of the best turkey fryer reviews include models from the best BBQ and kitchenware brands. All you have to do is choose.

Select your choice from the chart of the top 10 picks, or read a more detailed review of each turkey fryer further below.

In a Hurry? This was our Winner:

Editor's Pick Badge
Image of the Masterbuilt MB23010618 Butterball XL Electric Fryer Product

Masterbuilt MB23010618 Butterball XL Electric Fryer

Why is it better?

  • Perfect blend of safety, convenience and premium performance
  • Aesthetically pleasing stainless steel housing
  • 20 pounds capacity and quickly heats oil or water

98/100
our score


researched sources

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Last Updated: January 3, 2024

By William Clay: This article has been updated to reflect the most accurate information regarding turkey fryers available for those who want to cook a delicious turkey or chicken quickly. The best 9 available have changed, and information has been added to assist individuals in finding the best turkey fryer currently available on the market.

Best Turkey Fryer - Top 9 Picks

Best Oil-less Turkey Fryer

Best Turkey Fryer Reviews (Full)

Indoor or outdoor?

Oil or oil-less?

So many decisions must be made to choose the right brand, size, and type of turkey fryer. After considering dozens of Amazon top picks, researching manufacturers and comparing user feedback, our BBQ experts selected the top ten turkey fryers.

You’ll find a combination of different brands, sizes, and types (indoor vs outdoor), along with pros and cons for each review.


Best Professional Grade Indoor Turkey Fryer

Dimensions: 16.3 x 18.3 x 14.8 inches
Weight:
19.56 lbs
Type:
Indoor, Electric
Max Capacity:
20lb Whole Turkey

REVIEW

The number one pick for best turkey fryer overall has to be the Masterbuilt MB23010618 Electric Fryer. Large enough for a whole turkey, yet compact enough for your countertop, it’s the perfect blend of safety, convenience and premium performance.

Fry, boil, or steam, the professional grade Butterball XL Electric Fryer by Masterbuilt is another great example of Masterbuilt quality. Known among grilling enthusiasts for their premium grills and smokers, Masterbuilt is a brand you can rely on for quality and value.

The Butterball XL Electric Fryer is not your grandma’s turkey fryer. Designed for indoor use, the stainless steel housing is appealing and modern, perfect for any modern , SMART home decor. An aluminum strainer basket is included, along with a fry pot, lid and removable drain valve.

With a maximum cooking capacity of 20 pounds, the Butterball XL rapidly heats oil or water to the desired temperature in one quarter of the time it takes to oven roast. It also uses only a third of the oil typically required by other deep fryers, thanks to the quality stainless steel construction and sealed lid.

Few turkey fryers are as easy and hassle free to operate and maintain as the Butterball XL Electric Fryer. Dishwasher safe, removable components make it extremely easy to clean up after each use, compared to an outdoor turkey fryer. Even the heating element is removable.

Finally, a built-in drain valve allows for a more convenient way to remove excess oil or water from the aluminum fry pot safely. Deep fried cuisine in your home will never be the same again!

Pros

  • Durable stainless steel components and housing
  • Suited for multi-purpose applications such as boiling, deep frying or brewing (oil or water)
  • Oil Drain Valve for easy clean-up
  • Dishwasher safe components

Cons

  • Size may be too large for your countertop
  • Preheating time for oil is not as rapid as other brands of similar capacity
  • Short magnetic cord is not suited for use with an extension cord

Best Outdoor Propane Gas Turkey Fryer Package

Dimensions: 14 x 18.2 x 14 inches
Weight:
18.8 lbs
Type:
Outdoor, Propane Gas (33,000 BTU’s)
Size: 29 QT / 11 QT Aluminum Fry Pan
Max Capacity:
20lb Whole Turkey

Best Suited For: Outdoor only, residential or commercial use

REVIEW

Made exclusively for outdoor cooking, the King Kooker 1265BF3 Portable Propane Outdoor Deep Frying/Boiling Package has everything you need to safely and quickly fry a whole turkey. A large capacity aluminum fry pot and fry pan, basket, turkey rack and lifting hook
are also included to make your turkey frying easier.

Smaller and lighter than the top pick, the King Kooker is more like a standard outdoor deep fryer than the Masterbuilt Butterball XL. Powered by a 33,000 BTU cast iron burner, the adjustable regulator gives you better control of the flame than a charcoal grill. A deep fry thermometer is also included so you can test the oil for the ideal temperature.

Since there are no digital features for monitoring the temperature, or a timer for shutting it off, the King Kooker requires more attention and time to operate safely than an indoor fryer like the Masterbuilt ButterBall XL. Still, the King Kooker Portable Propane Outdoor Cooker heats oil more rapidly than most indoor fryers, and reduces your cooking time drastically.

With its 29 qt aluminum turkey pot and 2 additional fry pots, the King Kooker can be used to deep fry a whole game bird, large batches of fries, or for boiling crab, lobster, shrimp, and brewing in bulk. You can easily serve a demanding crowd of 20 or more guests, leaving your oven and stovetop free for other dishes.

Overall, the King Kooker Portable Propane Outdoor Deep Frying/Boiling Package would make a great gift for anyone who prefers an outdoor fryer with a large capacity.

Pros

  • Large 29qt cooking capacity can serve as many as 20 people per hour
  • Powerful 33,000 BTU burner heats oil rapidly
  • Food-grade aluminum steel components are dishwasher safe
  • Lightweight and portable

Cons

  • Requires labor-intensive manual cleaning
  • Requires propane gas tank
  • Cannot be used indoors
  • Lacks safety features

Best Large Portable Turkey Fryer For Outdoor Use

Dimensions: 14.2 x 14.2 x 17.3 inches
Weight:
15.4 lbs
Type:
Outdoor, Propane Gas (50,000 BTU’s)
Size:
30 QT Aluminum Pot
Max Capacity:
18lb Whole Turkey

Best Suited For: Outdoor only, camping, tailgating, or backyard cooking

REVIEW

If you’re considering a gift for someone you know who’s serious about deep-fried cooking, this next turkey fryer could be what you’re looking for.

Featuring a blend of aluminum, steel and cast iron components, the Chard 30 Qt. Aluminum Turkey Fryer Kit is another great package for anyone who enjoys more traditional outdoor cooking. This large, 30 quart, portable propane turkey fryer kit is all you need to fry turkey, chicken, lobster, shrimp, and more.

Camping, tailgating with friends, or in your backyard, the Chard 30 Qt. Aluminum Turkey Fryer Kit weighs only 15.4 pounds, with aluminum components that are easily assembled. A 17” inch steel tripod supports the 30 quart, aluminum steel fry pot. The 50,000 BTU cast iron burner sits directly below the fry pot, surrounded by a wind guard with ventilation gaps to help manage heat flow.

With 50,000BTU’s at your disposal, frying an 18 pound whole turkey takes only a third of the time it takes to roast one in your oven. Whatever your need, this large capacity outdoor turkey fryer can fry or boil more of it in less time. The Chard Aluminum Turkey Fryer can easily serve 18 - 20 people per hour with a steady supply of fried wings, french fries, wedges, onion rings, or brew 3 gallons of craft beer.

An adjustable regulator with safety timer, hose, poultry rack, safety hanger and 12 Inch thermometer probe are all included with the Chard Turkey Fryer Kit, providing everything you could need for frying an assortment of seafood, turkey, chicken or potato wedges in the great outdoors.

Pros

  • Lightweight and portable construction assembles fairly easily for outdoor use
  • Powerful 50,000 BTU cast iron burner heats rapidly and cooks thoroughly in less time than a conventional oven
  • Versatile application - can be used for boiling and brewing as well as deep frying

Cons

  • Sensitive auto timer shuts off every 15 minutes, which can be annoying

Best Beginner Turkey Fryer Kit For Large Birds Up To 25lbs

Dimensions: 16 x 16 x 21 inches
Weight: 35 lbs
Type: Outdoor, Propane Gas
Size: 44 QT Stainless Steel Turkey Fryer Pot
Max Capacity: 25lb Whole Turkey

Best Suited For: Outdoor only, Frying, Boiling, Brewing, Large Capacity

REVIEW

Aptly nicknamed the ‘Big Bird Turkey Fryer Pot’, the Bayou Classic is truly oversized relative to the other top picks featured in this review so far. At 44 quarts, this stainless steel turkey fryer kit
can quickly fry a whole 25 pound turkey in as much time as it takes to bake a casserole. Bundled with some thoughtful accessories, it’s durability and performance are built to impress.

Designed for low profile use, the Bayou Classic Big Bird Turkey Fryer is versatile enough to fry, boil, stew, steam or brew whatever you need. Large or small gatherings, this commercial grade stainless steel turkey fryer uses a SS31 burner to achieve the perfect temperature for frying a whole turkey, or boiling 3 gallons of maple syrup, for example.

Supported by a stainless tripod, the low profile gas flame is shielded sufficiently from wind, while allowing for adequate air flow to the burner. A ventilated lid is included to help reduce splatter, as well an insulated glove and a thermometer for checking the temperature of your oil, water, beer, stew, etc.

The only real assembly required is attaching the three legs. A braided hose, regulator, aluminum perforated poultry rack and grab hook, thermometer, stainless seasoning injector and a standard connector are all included with the kit.

Pros

  • Durable 20 gauge stainless steel construction
  • Large capacity 44qt fryer pot can accommodate a 25lb whole turkey
  • Stainless steel propane gas burner heats rapidly
  • Low heat profile protects flame against wind

Cons

  • Weighs almost 2x more than other portable turkey fryers in this review

Best Turkey Fryer For Backyard Use

Dimensions: 15 x 15 x 19 inches
Weight: 23.6 lbs
Type: Outdoor, Propane Gas
Size: 30 QT
Max Capacity: 20lb Whole Turkey

Best Suited For: Outdoor only, Frying, Boiling, Brewing, Whole Turkey

REVIEW

Like entertaining for close family gatherings and outdoor cookouts with friends? This next turkey fryer review looks at the Stark Deluxe Aluminum Turkey Deep Fryer, one of Amazon’s best selling deep fryers.

Bundled with a poultry rack, a 30 quart pot, steel tripod burner stand, regulator, temperature thermometer, hanger, and sauce syringe, the Stark Deluxe is a fully equipped outdoor fryer package. Capable of 55,000 BTU’s, the rapid heating power and cast burner rivals that of some of the best BBQ gas grills.

Packaged as a six-piece set, the Stark Deluxe Turkey Fryer provides you with all the essentials for deep frying either a whole 20 pound turkey, or a ten pound batch of crispy fried chicken wings. The fry basket makes it easy and simple to deep fry, steam or boil a wide array of foods, including chicken, seafood, hush puppies, vegetables, beer, jambalaya or gumbo.

At just over 23 pounds, the Stark Deluxe isn’t the most lightweight outdoor turkey fryer, but it isn’t the heaviest. The burner sits low in the tripod frame design, shielded from wind, while the circular base offers further stability in the outdoors. You can easily set it up in your backyard, on the beach, or at your camping ground in just minutes.

Less costly than other top picks, this turkey fryer package compares favorably with more expensive brands. While it isn’t commercial-grade quality, the Stark Deluxe is still a great value for the price that delivers consistent results for a variety of uses.

Pros

  • Fairly easy to assemble
  • Powerful 55,000BTU gas burner heats rapidly
  • Durable fry pot, lid, and strainer basket
  • Large 30 qt capacity

Cons

  • No instructions included for assembly (but not difficult to figure out)
  • Temperature must be monitored carefully since there is no timer or auto-shut off

Best Budget Turkey Fryer Kit

Dimensions: 15.5”H x 12.5”D
Weight: 26 lbs
Type: Portable, Outdoor, Propane Gas (55,000BTU’s)
Size: 30 QT
Max Capacity: 20lb Whole Turkey

Best Suited For: Outdoor only, Frying, Boiling, Steaming, Brewing, Large Capacity

REVIEW

Rolled aluminum steel components, a low profile gas burner and large 30 quart capacity, are just a few of the great features of this next turkey fryer, the Backyard Pro 30 Qt. Deluxe Aluminum Turkey Fryer Kit.

There isn’t a more complete turkey fryer package in this review for under $100. Frying, steaming, or boiling, this 30qt outdoor propane gas turkey fryer has more than enough BTU’s of heat to rapidly serve as many as 20 hungry guests per hour. Fish, whole turkey, clams, or french fries, the Backyard Pro has your back every time.

Equipped with both a 30qt fry pot and perforated steamer basket, the Backyard Pro Deluxe Package also includes a 10qt fry pot and steamer basket for smaller gatherings. The 12” inch thermometer probes makes it easier and safer to test the temperature of your oil or water, while the aluminum lid reduces splatter and keeps moisture and heat sufficiently sealed in the pot.

The steel stand is designed for low profile outdoor cooking, allowing for a more consistent flame and improved air flow. You can taste the difference in the amazing results, with meat that is thoroughly tender and juicy on the inside, crispy and golden brown on the outside.

Pros

  • Large capacity 30qt pot/steamer basket and 10qt accessory pot/steamer basket included
  • 55,000BTU gas burner
  • Lightweight aluminum construction
  • Priced lower than other top picks for those on a budget
  • Several accessories included

Cons

  • May need additional wind guard to protect gas flame
  • Burner stand may not sit level on the ground when used outdoors on an uneven surface
  • No timer to prevent overheating

Dimensions: 33” inch H x 13.5” inch D
Weight: 26 lbs
Type: Portable, Outdoor, Propane Gas (55,000BTU’s)
Size: 30 QT
Max Capacity: 20lb Whole Turkey

Best Suited For: Outdoor only, Frying, Boiling, Brewing, Large Capacity

REVIEW

An alternative to the Backyard Pro 30qt, this turkey fryer and steamer kit offered by Cooper & Co features many of the same features and accessories.

A 30 qt aluminum turkey pot, lid and basket turkey rack, as well as a convenient lifting hook, 11 Qt. aluminum fry pan and basket with heat resistant handles are all included. You also get a turkey hanger , sauce syringe and thermometer, which makes this the perfect father’s day gift.

Pros

  • Includes several fryer accessories for added convenience
  • 55,000 BTU cast iron burner
  • Steamer basket and turkey pot provides options
  • Straightforward design is easy to use

Cons

  • No timer on the regulator to prevent overheating oil or boiling over water
  • Aluminum pot lacks firmness of commercial grade stainless steel
  • Paint peels off the fryer stand while in use, releasing undesirable fumes

Best Oil-less Turkey Fryer Reviews


Best Oil-less Turkey Fryer Overall

REVIEW

Conspicuous for quality among the top BBQ grilling brands, Char-Broil is a brand and a community. Their gas and charcoal grills offer exceptional value, and their oil-less turkey fryer is no exception.

If you’re a fan of Char-Broil products, or it’s your first time hearing of them, the Big Easy Oil-less Liquid Propane Turkey Fryer is a great example of their quality. Capable of deep frying a whole 16 pound turkey in half the time it takes to oven-roast, the Big Easy is the ultimate propane gas turkey fryer for indoor or outdoor use.

Moist on the inside, crispy on the outside, your marinated turkey, chicken or pork will taste great in only minutes, with less cleanup than an outdoor fryer requires. The double-walled cylindrical cooking chamber seals in heat and moisture to rapidly achieve amazing results every time.

The Big Easy includes the cooker, fry basket, basket lifting tool, meat thermometer, quick start cooking guide, cool touch handles, rotary ignition and a removable drip tray. With stainless steel components that are dishwasher safe, you’ll want to use it again and again!

Pros

  • 16,000BTU propane burner
  • Infrared heat eliminates need for oil
  • Can accommodate a 16 pound whole bird 
  • Easy to clean, dishwasher safe components

Cons

  • Not designed for high demand use or large capacity crowds
  • Cooks slower than an outdoor turkey fryer

REVIEW

A favorite among grilling enthusiasts, Masterbuilt is a well-known brand in the BBQ world. Their impressive line of gas, charcoal grills, and smokers are among the most preferred by professionals, and with good reason.

The Masterbuilt MB23010809 Oil comes in a solid black finish, and operates as an electric fryer for your countertop use. A sturdy steel tripod base supports the 18 pound capacity cylindrical basket. The barrel design is ideal for frying a whole 18 pound turkey safely indoors or outdoors.

Versatile and relatively lightweight for its size, the Masterbuilt Oil Free Roaster Electric Fryer can also smoke meat by adding your favorite wood chips. No propane gas or oil is needed, allowing for a much safer cooking experience, and healthier results!

With a cooking basket and tempered glass lid for added convenience, the Butterball Oil-Free Electric Turkey Roaster and Fryer by Masterbuilt is reasonably priced and definitely worth considering.

Pros

  • Designed for outdoor use but works just as well indoors or in a garage, for example
  • Versatile applications - frying, smoking, boiling, brewing, roasting and steaming
  • Can accommodate a whole 18lb turkey
  • Oil free design

Cons

  • Temperature gauge does not provide precision control
  • Does not include an external thermometer for a more accurate reading

Turkey Fryer Buying Guide

Why Choose A Turkey Fryer
Let’s face it, a turkey fryer is not your everyday kitchen appliance. Mastering the art of deep-fried cuisine takes experience, but quality cooking tools can make your job a lot easier.

If you’ve had little success deep-frying on your stovetop, or you’re ready to try something other than roast, a turkey fryer is a smart investment.

Ideal For Large Gatherings Or High Demand Applications
Due to their large capacity, turkey fryers are the ideal cooking ware for serving hungry gatherings of 10 or more. A 30 - 50qt outdoor turkey fryer with 50,000BTU’s can serve between 20 - 30 people an hour.

Versatile Cooking Appliance
Fried food isn’t the only thing you can cook with a turkey fryer. Since the fryer pot is typically larger than anything in your kitchen, you can also use it to boil, steam, brew, or stew large batches of food such as:

  • Pastas
  • Craft Beer
  • Sauces
  • Maple Syrup
  • Clams
  • Jambalaya
  • Shrimp

Rapid Cooking With Even Results
There’s really no other way to fry a whole turkey, whole chicken, or game bird evenly than a turkey fryer. A whole turkey can be immersed in oil and sealed within the fryer pot, allowing for more evenly cooked results and more consistent texture that’s crispy and golden brown.

A turkey fryer also cooks more rapidly than a conventional kitchen oven or stovetop. You can fry, boil, brew, steam or stew more food in less time.

Additional Capacity
With a turkey fryer working for you, your oven and stove top can be used to prepare your side dishes. Bake your casserole in the oven while your whole turkey or halibut filets fry rapidly and evenly in the turkey fryer.

Image of a cooked turkey on a serving plate surrounded by thanksgiving memorabilia

Key Buying Considerations

Size / Cooking Capacity
A key consideration for the type or brand of turkey fryer you choose is the size. The size, of course, determines the cooking capacity, or the number of people you can serve per batch. If you’re serving fried food in a high demand environment, choose the largest capacity fryer pot.

To that end, you’ll want to pay attention to the size of the fryer pot, which is usually listed in quarts. Occasionally, the manufacturer will refer to the gallon capacity of the pot for those interested in brewing beer, for example, or preparing large batches of soup, pasta, sauce, etc.

Terms such as large and extra large are relative. They may give the product more appeal, but can be misleading. If you pay attention to the quart or gallon size, you’ll have a much better idea of the cooking capacity.

Here are the fryer pot sizes you’ll commonly find among the best turkey fryers:

  • 24 qt: Capable of frying a whole 14lb bird or fourteen pounds of meat
  • 26 qt: Holds a 16lb whole turkey or sixteen pounds of poultry/game bird
  • 30 qt: Typically 15.5” inches in height and diameter. Suitable for frying a whole 20lb turkey or 20lbs of chicken. Can also be used to prepare as much as 3 gallons of soup, stew, beer, maple syrup, etc. 
  • 32 - 36 qt: Suitable for frying a 25lb turkey
  • 40 - 50+ qt: Large enough to deep fry 30 - 32lbs of turkey, chicken, or pork. Can also be used to prepare or brew as much as 14 liters (3.8 gallons) of beer, pasta sauce, soup, stews or maple syrup

Indoor Or Outdoor
Deep frying with oil can be dangerous. As such, turkey fryers are designed with different features depending on whether they are outdoor or indoor.

Indoor Turkey Fryer

  • An indoor turkey fryer typically operates by electricity. A heating element achieves the appropriate frying temperature, and a built-in thermometer is included to help you monitor the temperature.
  • Some indoor turkey fryers include a thermometer probe. Safety features such as an auto shut-off, timer, and presets are also common features of the best indoor turkey fryer.

Outdoor Turkey Fryer

  • An outdoor turkey fryer, also known as an outdoor fish fryer, operates by propane gas. A regulator, hose, and connector are usually included with the fryer to allow for easy connection to a propane tank.
  • The exposed flame poses a problem when deep frying outdoors. Wind and humidity can make it difficult to keep the flame burning. As a result, you need a quality cast iron burner, and high BTU’s when working with an outdoor propane turkey fryer.

Overall, an outdoor fryer typically requires more work and attention than an indoor turkey fryer. However, an outdoor turkey fryer is the safest way to prepare large batches of food such as homemade brews, or fried turkey for 20 or more people.

Oil Vs Oil-less
An oil-less turkey fryer is the best option for those who need to reduce fried food from their diet. Anyone concerned about high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and other chronic conditions, might want to consider an oil-less turkey fryer.

An oil-less turkey fryer utilizes radiant heat to cook your turkey, fries, chicken, or other food to the desired temperature. The result is similar to true oil-fried food, but there is a noticeable difference in taste as well as texture.

Since radiant heat requires electricity, an oil-less turkey fryer is typically designed for indoor use, with a smaller cooking capacity than an outdoor fryer. And, while both oil and oil-less turkey fryers cook more rapidly than a conventional stovetop, an oil-less fryer takes longer to cook food than an oil turkey fryer.

Conclusion

Choose your turkey fryer based on the size, cooking capacity and sturdiness of the components. Consider whether you prefer indoor, outdoor, or a combination of both, and research each brand to ensure they meet your standards for quality and customer service.

A turkey fryer can be a great gift idea or a really awesome outdoor cooking appliance you’ll enjoy repeatedly. Either way, this buying guide has hopefully helped make your choice easier to make.

About the Author William Clay

William Clay is a BBQ enthusiast dedicated to sharing his grilling (and overall cooking) expertise with FireFoodChef's readers.