How Much Oil to Fry a Turkey? 16lb, 18lb, 20lb (Table)

Are you curious about how much oil you need to fry a turkey? This table will show you the weight of the bird and the corresponding amount of oil (and peanut oil).

You’ll be able to have a crispy, delicious turkey for your Thanksgiving feast! And can also enjoy the meal with your family.

While you are frying a Turkey, do keep in mind that you have to regularly check, as overcooking will turn the Turkey stiff, and tasteless.

What is the best type of oil to deep fry a Turkey?

The best type of oil to fry a turkey is peanut oil. It has a high smoke point and will result in a crispy-skinned bird.

Here are some other oils that can be used for frying turkeys:

Canola oil, vegetable oil, olive oil, corn oil.

For example, if you are cooking a 20-pound turkey, you will need 4 gallons of oil.

How many gallons of oil do I need to deep fry a Turkey?

The table below shows how many gallons of oil you’ll need to deep fry a turkey based on the weight of the bird. Fits for normal oil and peanut oil.

Weight of Turkey Amount of Oil Needed

• 16 pounds – 3 gallons
• 18 pounds – 3.5 gallons
• 20 pounds – 4-5 gallons

As you can see, you’ll need 4 gallons of oil to fry a 20-pound turkey. Be sure to have enough oil on hand before you start cooking!

How many gallons of peanut oil do I need to deep fry turkey?

The amount of oil is exactly the same as above. Even so, we will leave below some indications for those who want to use peanut oil.

Weight of Turkey Amount of Peanut Oil Needed

• 16 pounds – 3 gallons of peanut oil
• 18 pounds – 3 -4 gallons of peanut oil
• 20 pounds – 5-6 gallons of peanut oil

As you can see, you’ll need 5-6 gallons of oil to fry a 20-pound turkey. Be sure to have enough oil on hand before you start cooking!

How to deep fry a turkey? Step by step!

Ingredients:

• Turkey (12-16 pounds);
• Peanut oil (enough to fill your fryer or pot to the required level – see table above);
• 1 cup of flour;
• 1 tablespoon of paprika;
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder;
• 1 teaspoon of salt;
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper;
• 1/4 cup of water;
• 1 large egg.

Instructions:

1. Thoroughly clean and dry your turkey. Remove the giblets and neck from inside the cavity.
2. In a large pot or deep fryer, heat the oil to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the water and egg.
5. Dip the turkey in the flour mixture, then the egg mixture, and then back in the flour mixture.
6. Carefully lower the turkey into the hot oil. Fry for 3-4 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature of the turkey reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
7. Remove the turkey from the oil and let it drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Enjoy your delicious fried turkey!

Tips for frying a Turkey to perfection

First of all, choose the right turkey. Look for a fresh, not frozen, bird between 10 and 18 pounds.

1. Thaw the turkey properly. Place it breast side up on a rack in a roasting pan and allow 24 hours to thaw every 4 to 5 pounds.
2. Dry the turkey. Pat it down with paper towels, inside and out.
3. Season the turkey. Use a rub or injection of your choice.
4. Heat the oil. Use a deep fryer or Dutch oven filled with peanut or canola oil. Bring the oil to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
5. Lower the turkey into the hot oil. Do this slowly and carefully to prevent splattering.
6. Fry the turkey for 3 to 4 minutes per pound.
7. Remove the turkey from the oil and drain it on a wire rack or paper towels.
8. Let the turkey rest for 20 to 30 minutes before carving.

Some important tips:

• Wrap the turkey in cheesecloth soaked in your favorite marinade for added flavor.
• Try injecting the turkey with a flavorful mixture of garlic, butter, and herbs.
• For extra crispy skin, brush the turkey with melted butter or lard before frying.
• Make sure the oil is at the correct temperature before adding the turkey. The skin will be burnt if it’s too hot; if it’s not hot enough, the turkey will absorb too much oil.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the turkey is cooked through. The internal temperature should be at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
• If you don’t have a deep fryer, you can use a large stockpot or Dutch oven. Fill it with oil so that it’s at least 3 inches deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Be sure to keep an eye on the turkey while it’s frying. Use tongs to turn it occasionally so that it cooks evenly.
• If the skin starts to get too dark, lower the temperature of the oil.
• When the turkey is done frying, let it drain on a wire rack or paper towels before carving.

Leftover fried turkey can be reheated in a 350 degree Fahrenheit oven for 10 to 15 minutes.

Finally, if you want to save some oil, you can fry the turkey in batches. Fry the dark meat first, remove it from the oil and fry the white meat.

How long can fried Turkey be refrigerated?

Fried turkey can be stored in the fridge for up to four days. When reheating, make sure to heat it until it is steaming hot throughout to ensure food safety. So better if you are careful while storing, also it would be advised that it is taken fresh to sustain the taste.

A full-fried turkey is a better dinner or lunch?

A full-fried turkey is a better dinner or lunch is fully your option because it is juicier and more flavorful. You can have it any time.

When turkey is cooked properly, the juices from the bird drip down and baste the meat, making it more moist and tender. Additionally, the skin of a roasted turkey should be golden brown and crispy, adding a delicious layer of flavor to the dish.

What sweet dish would go well with fried turkey?

Candied yams, green beans, and cranberry sauce are all classic side dishes that go well with fried turkey.

For a sweeter option, you could try serving the turkey with a honey glaze or a fruit compote. Whatever you choose, make sure to balance out the flavors so that your dish isn’t too sweet or too savory.

Final Words

Fried turkey is a delicious and fun way to cook a holiday bird. By following these tips, you can fry a crispy turkey and be juicy on the inside. So get out your deep fryer and enjoy!

Interesting Tips & Tricks from HotSalty:

• How Long do you Deep Fry a 20Lb Turkey? (Recipe)
• How Many Cups in 12 and 8 Tablespoons of Butter? Table!
• 30 ml is How Many Tablespoons? And Teaspoons? Examples!
• The Best Temperature to Cook Steaks on Pellet Grill

How Much Oil to Fry a Turkey?

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4 Servings

Ingredients

  

• Turkey
• Peanut oil

Instructions

 

• 12lb of Turkey: You'll need 2.25 gallons of oil 
• 13lb of Turkey: You'll need 2.4 gallons of oil
• 14lb of Turkey: You'll need 2.6 gallons of oil
• 20lb of Turkey: You'll need 4-5 gallons of oil