Simple Deep Fried Turkey
Simple Deep Fried Turkey delivers juicy meat with a shatteringly crisp, golden skin using just salt, pepper, and hot peanut oil. It’s a straightforward, no-injection, no-baste approach perfect for Thanksgiving or any festive gathering. Resting after frying locks in moisture, giving you succulent slices with rich, roasted flavor and a satisfying crunch.
- Prep10 mins
- Cook35 mins
- Serves12
- DifficultyMedium
- 1
Heat the oil in a large stockpot or turkey fryer to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Make sure the fryer is set up outdoors in a safe area, ideally on dirt or pavement and well away from buildings, wooden decks, or other objects. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby, just in case.
- 2
Make sure the turkey is fully thawed. Trim any excess skin from the neck area and ensure the neck opening is at least 1 inch in diameter.
- 3
Pat the turkey completely dry with paper towels, then rub generously with salt and pepper on the outside and inside.
- 4
Place the turkey into a drain basket, neck-side first. Working slowly and carefully, gently lower the basket into the hot oil until the turkey is fully submerged.
- 5
Keep the oil at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C), and cook the turkey for 3 1/2 minutes per pound, about 35 minutes.
- 6
Carefully lift the basket from the oil and let the turkey drain. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh; the internal temperature must reach 180 degrees F (80 degrees C). Let the turkey rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
- Calories 9017.13 kcal High
- Protein 67.5 g Good Source
- Carbs 14.0 g Moderate
- Total Fat 1014.9 g High
- Saturated Fat 0.0 g Low Source
- Trans Fat 0.0 g Low Source
- Cholesterol 170.07 mg High
- Sodium 3326.5 mg High
- Fiber 0.42 g Low Source
- Sugar 0.0 g Low Source
- Added Sugar 0.0 g Low Source
- Calcium 4.99 mg Low Source
- Iron 4.99 mg Good Source
- Potassium 16.49 mg Low Source
- Vitamin A 1.25 mcg_rae Low Source
- Vitamin C 0.0 mg Low Source
- Vitamin D 0.0 mcg Low Source
Values are per serving. Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet.
- Peanuts 🥜