How to Deep Fry a Turkey? Temperature & Timing Guide

Deep frying a turkey makes the skin crisp and the meat juicy.

It is fast, tasty, and great for holidays.

But you must follow the right steps.

This guide makes it simple.

You will learn the best oil temperature, how long to fry, and how to stay safe.

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What You Need to Know Before You Fry

Deep frying a turkey is a high-heat process.

The oil is hot, and the turkey must be dry.

Water and oil do not mix; even a little water can cause a big splash.

Pat the turkey dry and remove any ice.

The best oil for frying a turkey is peanut oil because it stays stable at high heat.

You can also use canola oil or vegetable oil.

Best Temperature for Deep Frying a Turkey

The ideal oil temperature is 350°F.

Most cooks heat the oil to 375°F at the start; then let the temperature drop to 350°F when the turkey goes in.

Here is why:

375°F preheat:

The cold turkey lowers the oil temperature fast.

350°F cooking zone:

This range cooks the turkey all the way without burning the skin.

Keep a thermometer clipped to the pot so you can check the heat at all times.

If you want a quick guide for other smoking or cooking temps, you can also check the Smoking Times and Temps Cheat Sheet on Behind The Grill:

https://behindthegrill.com/blog/smoking-times-and-temps-cheat-sheet

How Long to Deep Fry a Turkey

A good rule is 3 to 4 minutes per pound.

Here is a quick timing guide:

• 10-pound turkey: 30–40 minutes

• 12-pound turkey: 36–48 minutes

• 14-pound turkey: 42–56 minutes

• 16-pound turkey: 48–64 minutes

Do not guess when it is done.

Always check the internal temperature.

The safe internal temp for turkey is 165°F in the thickest part of the breast and thigh.

Many cooks use a temperature chart to avoid over- or under-cooking.

If you want a simple way to check temps while you cook other foods all year long, the Easy Function Meat Temperature Magnet Guide can help because it shows the USDA temps right on your fridge or grill.

If you prefer reading temps in Celsius, you can also see this guide from Behind The Grill:

https://behindthegrill.com/blog/what-is-the-perfect-temperature-of-cooked-meat-in-celsius

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How to Lower the Turkey into the Oil Safely

Safety is the most important step.

Here is the best method in simple words:

• Turn off the burner before lowering the turkey.

• Use a strong hook or lifting rack.

• Lower the turkey very slow.

• When the turkey is fully in the pot, turn the burner back on.

This keeps you safe from flare-ups.

Wear heavy gloves, long sleeves, and shoes that cover your feet. 

Hot oil can splash.

How to Prepare the Turkey for Frying

Take the turkey out of the fridge for 30 minutes so it warms up a bit; this helps it cook even.

Remove the giblets.

Trim extra fat.

You can season the turkey with salt, pepper, or a dry rub.

Many cooks inject marinade into the meat for extra flavor.

Most important: Dry the turkey fully.

Oil and water cause dangerous splashes.

How Much Oil Do You Need?

A large pot (30-quart) is common for deep frying.

To know how much oil to use, place the turkey in the empty pot; then fill with water until the turkey is covered.

Remove the turkey.

Mark the water line.

That is your oil level.

Dry the pot well before filling it with oil.

Let the Turkey Rest After Frying

When the turkey reaches 165°F, lift it out of the pot and let it rest for 20 minutes.

This helps the juices settle.

The skin stays crisp and the meat becomes tender.

Place the turkey on a tray lined with paper towels or a rack so it drains well.

Clean-Up Tips After Frying

Let the oil cool for several hours.

You can strain and save it for another cook if it is still clear and clean.

If you grill or smoke food during the holidays, make sure to keep your grates clean as well.

For wooden grate cleaning, some people prefer a scraper instead of metal bristles.

If you ever need a natural option, the Easy Function Wood Grill Scraper fits many grill shapes and avoids stray bristles while you clean the grate before or after cooking.

Keep the pot dry and store it in a cool place until next time.

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Final Thoughts

Deep frying a turkey is fast, fun, and full of flavor.

Just follow the right temperature, timing, and safety steps. 

Keep the oil at 350°F, fry for 3–4 minutes per pound, and check for 165°F inside the meat.

If you want easy access to safe cooking temps, click the image to check out our products and explore the full Easy Function range.