Best Oil for Frying Turkey

Peanut oil is the most recommended option for frying a turkey because it has a high smoke point and neutral flavor that produces crispy skin and juicy meat. Many professional chefs prefer peanut oil for achieving the best results when deep frying.

Alternative Oils

You don't have to use peanut oil—any frying oil with a smoke point above 425°F works well. Other suitable options include:

• Refined avocado oil - smoke point of 520°F

• Safflower oil - smoke point of 510°F

• Refined soybean oil - smoke point of 450°F

• Sunflower oil - smoke point of 450°F

• Canola oil - high smoke point, budget-friendly

• Vegetable oil - works if specifically labeled for deep frying

• Peanut and vegetable oil blends - combine high heat tolerance with affordability

Oil Quantity

You'll typically need 3 to 5 gallons of oil depending on your turkey's size and fryer pot capacity. To determine the exact amount, place the uncooked turkey in the fryer pot, fill with water until covered, remove the turkey, and note the water level—then replace with oil to that same mark.