1. Bayou Classic 200-440 44 Qt.
Bayou Classic 200-440 44 Qt.
Specifications
- Fuel: Propane
- Cooking Power: 65,000 BTUs
- Size: 44 Qt.
- Capacity: 25 lbs.
- Cooking Method: Oil
- Functions: 4
- Lid:
- Thermometer: 12” Stainless Steel
- Burner: 4” Cast Aluminum
Carefully designed and built to ensure the maximum of performance and safety, all doubled by a fair price and an
excellent 3-year warranty, Bayou Classic 200-440 44 Qt. is the best choice you can make at the moment. The kit
includes everything you need for a properly-cooked turkey: a performant burner, a spacious pot with lid, and a gas hose, which is equipped with a gauge so you can easily set the pressure of the gas.
Stainless-Steel Construction
When it comes to deep-frying, safety is the most important variable, as this cooking method implies extremely high temperatures and a pot filled with burning oil. For this purpose, only highly qualitative materials were used for this fryer. Therefore, both the pot and the stand are made entirely of thick stainless steel, while the 4-inch burner is made of cast aluminum. The stainless steel lid is vented, so the vapors produced during cooking can be safely evacuated. Additionally, the thermometer and seasoning injector complete the ensemble, being built of the same material.
Extra Large Capacity
With a volume of 44 quarts, which is more than generous for an outdoor fryer, it can cook a turkey weighing up to 25 pounds, being the perfect choice if you need to feed an extended crowd. Furthermore, the burner produces up to 65,000 BTUs, thus ensuring a quick and even cooking.
As this model is designed for larger birds, it comes with heavy-duty welded handles to help you maneuver the pot safely and with ease. Additionally, the perforated poultry rack ensures the proper circulation of the vapors inside the pot, increasing its efficiency.
Multiple Cooking Functions
It uses oil for frying and comes with a 12-inch thermometer, so you can easily monitor this activity. However, it is more versatile than you would think, as it is able to boil meat and vegetables, steam huge batches of dumplings or seafood, or even brew your home-made beer. Additionally, it features a-2 oz. seasoning injector that allows you to marinade the food at different cooking stages.
PROS
- XL cooking volume can accommodate larger turkeys
- Stainless steel construction ensures safety and durability
- Easy to maneuver due to the heavy-duty handles
- Includes a thermometer and seasoning injector for better control
- The lid is vented to prevent pressure building inside the pot
CONS
- It takes a while until it heats up
- Pot can be difficult to empty
Verdict
In a nutshell, this fryer comes with everything you need and is both performant and safe. One of the largest in its class, it will help you cook huge turkeys and keep your guests pleased. Furthermore, the sturdy construction is made to last, so you will be able to enjoy it for many years to come.
2. Masterbuilt 20100809
Specifications
- Fuel: Electric
- Cooking Power: 1,650W
- Size: Large
- Capacity: 18 lbs.
- Cooking Method: Oil-Free
- Functions: 4
- Lid:
- Thermometer:
You can cook an
18 lbs turkey without using a single drop of oil and without having to deal with propane tanks. The construction implies the merging of two stainless steel walls while the kit uses only the power of heat to thoroughly fry, boil, or steam cook large quantities of food. The
tempered glass lid is resistant to high temperatures that are usually involved when trying to brown a large bird.
Furthermore, an excellent set of accessories comes with this model, including a wood chip box, designed to add a smoky flavor to every single food item that is exposed to it, and a drip pan that collects the grease released by the meat, thus making everything easier to clean. Other accessories like a turkey rack or cooking basket will prove of real help when you will have to remove a huge steaming bird from the fryer.
The 1,650 watts electric elements heat the pot evenly, distributing the heat all around the food, therefore there won’t be any cold spots left and you can rest assured that your bird is well-cooked. Moreover, it comes with a meat thermometer, so you will know at any moment the cooking stage of your food.
PROS
- Lightweight, can be easily moved around
- The drip pan can be easily detached for quick cleaning
- Comes with a wood chip box for extra flavor
- Lid is resistant to high temperatures, keeping the cooking safe
- Easy to use, as it doesn’t require oil
CONS
- Temperature cannot be adjusted
- It cooks the turkey perfectly but won’t give it a crisp
Verdict
If you love fried turkey but you’ve decided to cut a bit on the calorie intake, this electric fryer could work miracles for you. It cooks completely without oil and drips the fat directly into a pan, so you will only get healthy food. Nevertheless, this doesn’t mean that you have to cut on the taste too, and this unit comes with a wood chip box to lend your turkey an amazing smoky flavor.
3. Cooper & Co Backyard Pro Deluxe 30 qt.
Cooper & Co Backyard Pro Deluxe 30 qt.
Specifications
- Fuel: Propane
- Cooking Power: 55,000 BTUs
- Size: 30 Qt.
- Capacity: 20 lbs.
- Cooking Method: Oil
- Functions: 3
- Lid:
- Thermometer: 12”
- Burner: Cast Iron
Another excellent outdoor fryer, this model from Copper & Co is built of
high-quality aluminum and is designed to last to the extreme temperatures that are required for deep-frying. It comes with a strong cast iron burner that will deliver up to 55,000 BTUs, in order to cook a bird of
up to 20 lbs. as fast as possible. Apart from the burner,
the set includes:
- 1 30-quart pot with aluminum lid
- 1 Poultry rack
- 1 Hanger for the turkey
- 1 11-quart aluminum fry pan
- 1 Basket – which is provided with a heat-resistant handle
- 1 Sauce syringe
- 1 Thermometer
The burner connects to a propane tank through a hose, which is provided with a 5-psi regulator. Thus, it allows you to control the gas pressure and get the desired temperature, which will be further measured and displayed by the included thermometer.
Apart from frying, this model can also boil or steam food. Therefore, you can use it over the year for multiple purposes. You will be able to boil or steam large quantities of vegetables that could be later conserved. Furthermore, you can add extra flavor to your fried meat by injecting it with seasoning and marinade, all with a little help from the included syringe.
PROS
- Strong 18-gauge aluminum structure for quick heating
- High-power iron-cast burner increases efficiency
- Complete kit allows cooking out of the box
- Versatile – allows frying, boiling and steaming
- Comes with 3 skewers to optimally fixate the turkey on the rack
CONS
- Poor assembly instructions
- The paint on the base is not heat-resistant
Verdict
With its generous design and high-quality structure, this unit will be the star of your outdoor parties for many years to come. Not to mention that it includes everything, from the powerful iron cast burner to syringes for seasoning and skewers, all at an excellent price.
4. Masterbuilt MB23010618 Fryer, XL
Masterbuilt MB23010618 Fryer, XL
Specifications
- Fuel: Electric
- Cooking Power: 1,650W/5,630 BTUs
- Size: XL
- Capacity: 20 lbs.
- Cooking Method: Oil
- Functions: 3
- Lid:
- Thermometer: Built-in, Digital
If you thought that deep-frying a whole chicken inside was an impossible task, then you haven’t tried yet Masterbuilt’s MB23010618. Easier to use than a propane fryer, it goes directly into a regular household outlet and is ready to fry in minutes. The
extra-large volume can accommodate a turkey weighing up to 20 pounds, which we would say is a pretty serious load. Although it requires oil for frying, it uses 1/3 less than other fryers in its class, and it is provided with
2 measuring lines, one for 1.5 gallons and the other for 2.75 gallons, so you can pour enough oil for the meat to be properly cooked but not too much to turn it into a fire hazard.
Although the lid isn’t vented, an option that would have allowed the vapors to come out of the pot, thus reducing the pressure inside, you should know that it comes with a magnetic breakaway cord that allows you to easily disconnect it from the power source. Worthy to mention as well, the whole ensemble was built and tested for commercial use, so you can use it with trust, as it has passed multiple safety and performance tests. Plus, it comes with multiple smart functions, such as:
- Digital Timer
- Built-In Thermometer
- Indicator LED
- Built-In temperature regulator
The single inconvenience of an electrical appliance when compared with one that uses gas, is that the first usually delivers a smaller number of BTUs. Masterbuilt MB23010618 isn’t an exception, as its maximum cooking power doesn’t overcome 5,630 BTUs, thus resulting in a longer cooking time, which, however, doesn’t overcome an hour.
On the other hand, an electrical fryer could be easier to clean, and this model comes with an oil drain valve, so you will be able to easily and safely evacuate oil. Apart from that, most components, including the lid, pot, basket, and drain valve are dishwasher safe.
PROS
- Easy to use and clean
- XL volume accommodates bigger birds
- Can fry, boil, and steam food
- Uses less oil than competitors
- Provided with magnetic breakaway cord for extra safety
CONS
- Reduced power
- Extension cord is rather short
Verdict
In conclusion, if your accommodation doesn’t allow you to deep-fry your turkey outdoors, this model is the perfect solution. It is easy to use and clean, and you will be able to cook a whole bird in no more than an hour.
5. GasOne B-5155
Specifications
- Fuel: Propane
- Cooking Power: 65,000 BTUs
- Size: 24 Qt.
- Cooking Method: Oil
- Functions: 4
- Lid:
- Thermometer:
This kit includes a
large 24-quart aluminum pot with a lid and a 65,000 BTU burner, being suitable for frying medium to large birds. It easily connects to a propane tank through the steel braided hose, which includes a 5-psi regulator as well. These features, combined with its low 14.9 lbs. weight, turn this fryer into the perfect choice for camping or tailgating. Plus, it is rather compact and will easily fit in a regular car’s trunk.
Due to the strong burner, the cooking is fast and even, and you can use the gas regulator to adjust the temperature according to the type of dish you are cooking. Moreover, frying isn’t the only cooking method known by this model. It can also grill, boil, roast, and even steam, as the kit includes an aluminum steamer and a stockpot, being ready to deliver some delicious seafood or dumplings.
It is built of high-quality materials and the stand is covered in heat-resistant paint, so it is ready to resist rust and corrosion. Furthermore, it is backed by a generous 1-year warranty and you can return it within 90 days if it doesn’t meet your standards.
PROS
- High cooking power reduces cooking time
- Complete seat, ready to use out of the box
- Large pot accommodates medium to large turkeys
- Compact and lightweight, easy to carry around
- Durable steel braided gas hose
CONS
- Poor assembly instructions
- The kit doesn’t include a thermometer
Verdict
This model is an excellent choice for camping enthusiasts, who cannot renounce their fried chicken or turkey, not even for a moment. Compact, light, and including everything you need, it is ready to follow you in your next adventure.
6. Chard TFP30A
Specifications
- Fuel: Propane
- Cooking Power: 50,000 BTUs(H)
- Size: 30 Qt.
- Capacity: 18 lbs.
- Cooking Method: Oil
- Functions: 4
- Lid:
- Thermometer: 12” Stainless Steel
- Burner: Cast Iron
Another compact model, Chard TFP30A comes with an aluminum pot and doesn’t weigh more than 15.4 pounds, being a
great choice for camping and tailgating. The tri-pod that incorporates the burner measures 17 inches in height and is built of steel, providing excellent support for the pan and ensuring the safety of the entire cooking operation. Additionally, the burner provides
up to 50,000 BTUs, which are more than enough for the optimal cooking of an
18 lb. turkey. The set includes all the necessary instruments, and, apart from the burner and pot, you will find in the package the following
accessories:
- 1 Aluminum lid
- 1 Gas regulator
- 1 Poultry rack
- 1 Safety hanger
- 1 12-inch thermometer
The 30-quart pot is suitable not only for frying but it can be used for boiling, steaming or brewing as well. Thus, you can adapt this set according to your seasonal needs and use it all year long. Furthermore, the safety is ensured by the auto shut off function, which is provided by the regulator in order to prevent gas leakage or overheating.
PROS
- Lightweight and compact, perfect for outdoor activities
- Large cooking volume
- Strong construction ensures safety
- Adjustable gas regulator with auto shut off function prevents accidents
- Versatile and affordable
CONS
- The aluminum in the pot is rather thin
- It can be difficult to empty it
Verdict
Overall, this is a great buy for the money. It is powerful and safe and comes with a huge pan to accommodate your 18 lb. turkey. Not to mention that it can boil soup and steam veggies, being the perfect tool for every host who needs to rapidly feed a crowd.
7. Masterbuilt 20020107
Specifications
- Fuel: Propane
- Cooking Power: 35,000 BTUs
- Size: 30 Qt.
- Capacity: 18 lbs.
- Cooking Method: Oil
- Functions: 3
- Lid:
- Thermometer:
- Burner: Cast Iron
This model was thought to be simple and practical, so you won’t find any complicated functions in it. However, it does what it is supposed to do with outstanding performance and within a very decent price range. The set includes the
15” stand, which incorporates the 35,000 BTU iron cast burner, and a
large 30-quart pot, built of aluminum and provided with a lid. Additionally, a gas hose is included, so you can easily connect it to the propane source, and a gas regulator to help you adjust gas pressure, and thus, temperature.
The accessories aren’t many, as it only includes a lifting hook, designed to ease the maneuvering of the food. The thermometer is missing as well. However, it comes with an auto shut off function, which has the purpose to cut the gas is the pressure is too high or the fryer overheats. It requires you to press a button every 15 minutes or it will turn off the frying operation. Moreover, the pot is large enough to accommodate a nice bird weighing up to 18 pounds, and you can use it either to fry, boil or steam food.
PROS
- Affordable
- Simple construction makes it easy to use and clean
- Auto shut off function reduces the risk of overheating
- Quite versatile
- Compact design
CONS
- The auto shut off function can be a little annoying as it requires you to check on your pot every 15 minutes
- It can only accommodate small turkeys
Verdict
All in all, this fryer will do an excellent job if you are a beginner. The assembling instructions are straightforward, it is simple, and comes with a reliable safety option. Plus, you won’t have to pay a fortune for it.
8. Char-Broil Big Easy Oil-less 17102065
Char-Broil Big Easy Oil-less 17102065
Specifications
- Fuel: Propane
- Cooking Power: 16,000 BTUs
- Capacity: 16 lbs.
- Cooking Method: TRU-Infrared Oil-less
- Functions: 2
- Lid:
- Thermometer:
- Burner: Stainless Steel
If you are a big fan of deep-fried food, but you are looking for a way to eat healthier, avoiding oil could be a viable solution. Luckily, this is now possible with the
TRU infrared technology, which allows you to brown a whole bird without using a single drop of oil. The method is rather simple: the emitter plate captures the infrared heat of the flames and radiates it back to the food, thus reducing the existence of cold and hot spots to zero and providing food that is juicier and tastier.
Oil-less cooking is not only healthier for your health but it reduces the risk of accidents that are usually caused by hot oil. Moreover, a cooker that doesn’t use oil is easier to clean and you won’t have to think about ways to get rid of the used oil.
As a matter of fact, this fryer might just be the best compromise between a healthy lifestyle and tasty food. And you will be able to put it to work as soon as it arrives, as the kit includes everything you need:
- Cooker
- Cooking basket + Lifter
- Meat thermometer
- Lid
- Cooking guide
Designed to thoroughly cook whole birds, it is equipped with a 16,000 BTU burner, which provides a cooking time of maximum 8 to 10 min per lb. Plus, the cooking begins the moment you start the fryer, as there’s no oil that needs to heat up.
PROS
- Oil-less cooking is healthier and risk-free
- Easy to use, perfect for beginners
- Includes a cooking guide
- TRU infrared technology ensures uniform cooking
- Includes a drip tray for easy cleaning
CONS
- No directions for assembly provided
- Cooking is a bit slow
Verdict
It is able to fry and roast, all without using oil or other types of grease. Thanks to the TRU infrared technology, the meat is crispy and brown on the outside and soft and juicy on the inside, exactly as every perfectly-cooked turkey should be.
Conclusion
Today, getting the best fried turkey in no longer a question of skills only, but more of a combination of skills and technology. And we guarantee, that if you choose the right tool, you will get an excellent result, even if your mastery is still at a beginner’s level. With this purpose in mind, we have presented you only with high-quality products that fulfill the safety standards and provide efficient and clean cooking. Nevertheless, if you are still not sure what to pick, we suggest you take a second look at the following products, which differentiated themselves among the other through some specific features:
Best Overall Turkey Fryer:
Bayou Classic 200-440 44 Qt.
It has an outstanding cooking capacity, being able to accommodate a bird that weighs up to 25 pounds. The strong burner is built of cast aluminum and delivers a maximum of 65,000 BTUs of heat, thus ensuring the proper temperature for a well-coked bird. The pot is made entirely of thick aluminum and is provided with heavy-duty handles that ease maneuverability and increase safety during utilization.
It has a 44-quart volume, therefore it can be used not only for frying but for steaming large quantities of seafood or dumplings, or boiling vegetables. Plus, you can even brew beer in it if you like.
Editor’s Choice:
Masterbuilt MB23010618 Fryer, XL
An electric model, Masterbuilt MB23010618 is incredibly easy to use and clean. Provided with indicators that show you the minimum and maximum amount of oil that need to be used, it is an excellent choice if you are just starting to unravel the mysteries of deep cooking. Plus, it comes with many smart functions like a digital timer or led indicators, so you can easily keep track of your food’s cooking stage.
Best Turkey Fryer for the Money:
Cooper & Co Backyard Pro Deluxe 30 qt.
Highly versatile, this kit will allow you not only to fry your large turkey but to boil or steam different food items. Built of strong aluminum, it rapidly heats up and keeps the oil hot throughout the entire cooking process, thus reducing the cooking time. Moreover, it includes a complete set of accessories like a sauce syringe, meat thermometer, frying pan, and skewers, all at an excellent price.
Best Turkey Fryer for Outdoors:
GasOne B-5155
This is a complete set, ready to put to work out of the box. The pot is made of aluminum and has a volume of 24 quarts, being able to accommodate a pretty large bird that will be cooked in no time thanks to the ultra-powerful 65,000 BTU burner.
Besides being highly performant, this unit is lightweight and relatively compact, so if you are looking for a fryer to take with you on your camping or fishing trips, we are pleased to announce that this model will go into a regular car’s trunk without a problem.
Best Oil-less Turkey Fryer:
Masterbuilt 20100809
It comes with a complete set of accessories, including a turkey rack and a cooking basket, and can cook an 18-pound bird to perfection without using a single drop of oil. A wood chip box is included with the fryer to add extra flavor and deliver one of the tastiest oil-free roasted and smoked food. Furthermore, the double-wall structure and tempered glass lid trap the heat inside and provide uniform cooking without causing any accidents, as they are designed to resist high heat and pressure.