The Best Deep Fryers for Creating Crispy Dishes at Home

What to Look for in a Deep Fryer

By Sara Tane

Safety

Probably the most important thing to consider is safety, especially if you’re a novice fryer. Bringing oil to such a high temperature can not only be dangerous for you, but it also poses a higher risk for a fire than any other cooking technique. Regardless of which deep fryer you purchase, it’s imperative to familiarize yourself with the instruction manual before using it. For the most part, electric deep fryers are generally safer than propane fryers because there is less risk of oil splattering.

Always look for models that offer safety features, such as automatic shutoff, a cool-touch exterior, a splatter guard, a lid, or a magnetic break-off cord (so that you never have to worry about the hot oil spilling out of the machine). Choose a model that comes with an in-depth instruction packet with clear safety and usage instructions.

Size and Capacity

The size of your deep fryer will determine how much food can be fried at once. If you're typically cooking for large gatherings (or maybe frying your turkey for the holidays), look for a larger fryer with a roomy oil chamber. If you're cooking something on the smaller side, like fish or sides for yourself or a small family, you can sacrifice depth and go with a more compact fryer. Just make sure your kitchen can afford the counter space, even if you only have the device out when you’re using it.

Another thing to consider is the size of the baskets. Smaller baskets can be convenient when you’re frying different things at the same time; however, if you want to fry multiple foods at once in a large basket, you can simply remove something that’s done cooking by pulling it out with a pair of tongs.

Temperature Control 

Ideally, deep fryers should be able to reach 375 degrees. However, certain foods and preparation methods call for oil to be heated anywhere from 275 to 400 degrees, so you should be able to either manually adjust the temperature or use pre-programmed settings. It’s important to look at models that come with a built-in thermometer or consider buying a thermometer separately.

Oil Cleaning

Draining oil after the fryer cools down can be precarious. For this reason, some models offer safety features—a removable oil container, a scoop to remove food debris, or a pouring spout for dirty oil—that simplify the process. Many deep fryers also have a nonstick coating, or the frying basket, lid, heating element, and other parts are removable. This way, you can hand-wash or place the parts in the dishwasher. If you are planning to reuse the oil, find a model that includes a timely notification to tell you when to replace the oil.

Price

Your level of experience with deep-frying, your budget, and how frequently you’ll use the deep fryer are factors to consider. The more budget-friendly options tend to struggle to maintain heat and might not be as durable. If you simply want an appliance to experiment with deep frying, something on the cheaper end of the spectrum would be a great place to start. If you plan to deep-fry larger quantities of food on a more frequent basis, you’ll want a fryer that is reliable, sturdy, and maintains temperature.

Types of Deep Fryers

Propane 

Propane deep fryers are definitely a tool for an experienced home cook that is familiar with deep-frying. Because they offer fewer safety features, it’s important to understand how the fryer works and practice extreme caution when using one. They are typically bigger than an electric model, making them ideal for large cuts of meat (they're the only deep fryer you’ll fit your holiday turkey in). That said, it is best to use equipment like this outside, where it is safer, and there is more space.

Electric

This is the most common type of deep fryer in home kitchens. These models are typically on the smaller side and are not suitable for larger proteins. An electric fryer is ideal for someone new to deep-frying, as it's extremely safe (models are programmed with a slew of safety features to prevent any accidents) and fine to use indoors. 

Brands 

Cuisinart

For a sturdy, electric deep fryer that is going to suit someone who is deep-frying frequently, a Cuisinart is a great brand. While it may cost a bit more, this appliance will get the job done and last a long time. If you’re brand new to deep-frying, you might want to try out a cheaper deep fryer or deep-fry on your stovetop before investing in a Cuisinart.

Bayou Classic

If you’re in the market for an outdoor propane fryer to cook large proteins, this brand is the way to go. Known for quality deep fryers that are sturdy and long-lasting, Bayou makes a variety of higher-end, large deep fryers. If you’ve never deep-fried before, this is probably not the best option for you.

Presto

If you’re a total deep-fryer novice, this is the brand for you. Not only is it budget-friendly, but its fryers don’t require as much oil as others. While it does not offer temperature options, that may not be a huge loss if you aren't used to having them.

T-fal

If you’re nervous about cleaning out oil, this line of fryers is known for its easy-cleaning design. The dirty oil filters into a container below the fryer, which can then be removed for easy cleanup. While it might cost a few extra bucks, this brand makes fryers that heat well and offer a wide variety of features.

Maintenance

Oil Cleaning

When it’s time to clean out the dirty oil in your deep fryer, the most important thing is to make sure your machine is unplugged and that the oil has completely cooled. Remove the frying basket and place it in hot, soapy water. Sometimes baskets and other containers in the deep fryer are dishwasher-safe, so consult your manual before washing. Remove all the used oil (via an oil pump, if you have one) and transfer it to a storage container. Dispose of it in the trash can. While the fryer is empty, scrape down the sides to loosen up food particles. Use a soapy sponge or rag to clean the inside and rinse with hot water. Dry with a towel and allow to completely air-dry before refilling with fresh oil.

Accessories

Basket

While most deep fryers come with baskets, you might want to purchase additional ones to have more options. If you don’t want to pull all your food out of the fryer at once in a large basket, look for smaller baskets, which will allow you to cook multiple things at once.

Thermometer

Most fryers have a built-in thermometer that can adjust and maintain a temperature. It’s not a bad idea to keep a backup thermometer on hand to make sure your machine is reading temperatures correctly. If your machine doesn’t have a built-in thermometer, buying a separate one is highly recommended.

Oil Pump

Some fryers are not designed with cleaning in mind, so if that’s the case, you might need to look for an oil pump to carefully and safely drain dirty cooking oil. This will make the process of transferring oil to a storage container much easier.

Propane

If you opted for a propane burner, you’re going to need some propane to get it going. Sometimes the first tank is included. However, after that, you’ll need to stay on top of keeping it stocked.

FAQs

How do you use a deep fryer?

Always read the manufacturer’s instructions before use. Beyond that, plug it in, and pour your oil to the maximum fill line. Once filled, turn it on, set the temperature, and wait for it to heat up. Be sure whatever you are cooking is dry, and add it to the basket. Lower the basket into the hot oil, being careful of splatters. Let your item cook, and when finished, raise the basket and remove the food. 

What type of oil can you use in a deep fryer?

According to Keldgord of BakingHow, “The best oils to use for deep fryers are ones with a high smoke point (these can withstand temperatures of 400 to 450 degrees without smoking). My all-time favorite is vegetable oil because it works with any deep-fried item. If you don’t have strictly vegetable oil, peanut oil and corn oil also work.”

Can you keep oil in a deep fryer when not in use? 

The best way to store your oil for maximum shelf life is outside the fryer in an airtight container placed in a cool, dark space. It is also important to filter any food debris from the oil before storing it. Any food particles in the oil will hasten spoiling. If oil is properly filtered and stored, it can last up to three months.

If you want to leave your oil in the fryer, how often it is used dictates how long it lasts. Most oil needs to be changed after 10 uses.

How do you dispose of deep fryer oil? 

Do not pour it down the drain. Not only is this bad for your pipes, but some areas have ordinances against it. You have a couple of options to properly dispose of oil: It can be poured into a sealable bag and thrown in the trash, or some places have organizations that recycle cooking oil. 

Are there certain ingredients that don't deep fry well?

If you visit a state fair, you will realize anything can be deep fried, including lettuce. Texas State Fair food competitions brought the wonder of crispy fried lettuce balls with fresh cobb salad ingredients inside. The caveat with deep frying is to avoid foods with water on them, as it causes oil to pop, but if you have leftover cake batter, ice cream nearing freezer burn, or even some carrots lingering in your crisper, go for it. 

Why Trust The Spruce Eats?

Donna Currie is a cookbook author and writer for The Spruce Eats. She knows her way around frying. In addition to our top picks for deep fryers, Donna's also written roundups on the best turkey fryers, Instant Pots, and toaster ovens.

Carrie Honaker is a food writer who has an unnatural love for crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, homemade corn fritters. As a restaurateur and avid home cook, she knows the importance of safety when frying those golden-brown fritters out with minimal oil residue and maximum crunch. Her work has appeared in many publications, including Bon Appétit, Allrecipes, and Wine Enthusiast.