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If you love fried food and want to enjoy it outdoors, you need a reliable and efficient outdoor propane deep fryer. Whether you want to fry turkey, fish, chicken, or vegetables, an outdoor deep fryer can help you cook delicious meals for your family and friends.
But how do you choose the best outdoor propane deep fryer? What are the features and factors that you should consider before buying one? And what are some of the best models available on the market today?
This article aims to provide answers to all of these questions and beyond. We will provide you with a comprehensive buyer’s guide that will help you find your next outdoor deep fryer. We will also review 8 of the best outdoor propane deep fryers we have tested and compared based on their performance, durability, safety, and customer feedback.
So, without further ado, let’s get started!
Finding Your Next Outdoor Deep Fryer: A Buyer’s Guide
Before diving into the reviews of the 8 best outdoor propane deep fryers, let’s first understand what an outdoor deep fryer is and the available types.
What Is an Outdoor Deep Fryer?
An outdoor deep fryer is a cooking appliance that uses hot oil to fry food. It consists of a large pot or vat that holds the oil, a burner that heats the oil using propane gas, and a basket or rack that holds the food to be fried. Some models also have a lid, a thermometer, a drain valve, and other accessories to make the frying process easier and safer.
Some significant distinctions exist between an indoor electric deep fryer and an outdoor deep fryer. First off, an outdoor deep fryer uses propane gas to operate instead of electricity. This suggests that there is no need to worry about power outlets or cords when using it outside. A second advantage of an outdoor deep fryer is that it can cook larger quantities and sizes of food compared to an indoor electric deep fryer. Because of this, it is ideal for concurrently frying large fish, whole turkeys, or lots of food. Third, an outdoor deep fryer may reach higher temperatures than an indoor electric deep fryer. Food cooks more quicker and becomes crispier as a result.
However, an outdoor deep fryer also has some drawbacks compared to an indoor electric deep fryer. For instance, an outdoor deep fryer requires more oil than an indoor electric deep fryer. This means you must buy more oil and dispose of it properly afterwards. Also, an outdoor deep fryer can be more dangerous than an indoor electric deep fryer if not used correctly. You must follow safety precautions to prevent burns, fires, or explosions.
Types of Outdoor Deep Fryers
There are four main types of outdoor deep fryers based on their design and functionality: open-pot fryers, tube-type fryers, ribbon fryers, and flat-bottom fryers. Let’s take a look at each type and see how they differ from each other.
Open-pot Fryers
Open-pot fryers are the simplest and most common type of outdoor deep fryers. They have a single pot or vat holding the oil and a single burner that heats it from below. The pot has a wide opening at the top, allowing easy access to food and oil. The pot also has a basket or rack that holds the food to be fried.
Open-pot fryers are easy to use and clean. They can handle a variety of foods, especially those that do not produce a lot of crumbs or sediment. However, open-pot fryers can also have some disadvantages. They can lose heat quickly due to the large opening at the top. They can also be prone to oil splashing or spilling due to the lack of a lid or cover.
Tube-type Fryers
Tube-type fryers are similar to open-pot fryers in terms of having a single pot or vat that holds the oil and a single burner that heats the oil from below. However, tube-type fryers have tubes or pipes inside the pot that evenly distribute heat throughout the oil. The tubes also act as filters that catch any crumbs or sediment that fall from the food.
Tube-type fryers are more efficient and durable than open-pot fryers. They can maintain consistent temperatures and prevent hot spots or cold zones in the oil. They can also handle foods that produce more crumbs or sediment, such as battered or breaded foods. However, tube-type fryers can also have some drawbacks. Tubes inside the pot can make it more challenging to clean. They can also be more expensive than open-pot fryers due to their complex design.
Ribbon Fryers
Ribbon fryers are another type of outdoor deep fryer with a single pot or vat holding the oil and a single burner that heats the oil from below. However, ribbon fryers have a ribbon or coil inside the pot, creating a circular motion in the oil. The ribbon also acts as a filter that catches any crumbs or sediment that fall from the food.
Ribbon fryers are more versatile and adaptable than tube-type fryers. They can handle different types and shapes of foods, such as curly fries, onion rings, or doughnuts. They can also adjust the speed and direction of the oil flow to suit different frying needs. However, ribbon fryers can also have some drawbacks. Cleaning can be more challenging because of the ribbon located inside the pot. They can also be more expensive than tube-type fryers due to their sophisticated design.
Flat-bottom Fryers
Flat-bottom fryers are the most different outdoor deep fryers from the other three types. They have a single pot or vat holding the oil and a single burner that heats it from below. However, flat-bottom fryers have a flat bottom inside the pot without tubes, ribbons, or filters. The flat bottom allows the food to float freely in the oil without being submerged or restricted.
Flat-bottom fryers are more suitable for delicate and irregular foods like fish fillets, chicken tenders, or cheese sticks. They can also create a lighter and fluffier texture in the food due to the gentle frying action. However, flat-bottom fryers can also have some drawbacks. They can be less efficient and consistent than the other fryers due to the lack of heat distribution and filtration. They can also be more prone to oil degradation and contamination due to the accumulation of crumbs and sediment at the bottom.
Safety Precautions
As mentioned earlier, outdoor deep frying can be dangerous if not done properly. Therefore, using an outdoor propane deep fryer, you should follow some safety precautions to prevent accidents or injuries. Here are some of the most important safety tips that you should keep in mind:
- Read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully before using your outdoor propane deep fryer.
- Choose a safe and stable location for your outdoor propane deep fryer away from flammable materials, children, pets, or bystanders.
- To prevent the oil from overheating beyond 375°F, it’s recommended to use a thermometer and monitor its temperature.
- Use gloves, aprons, and long-handled utensils to protect yourself from hot oil splashes or spills.
- Use only dry and thawed food for frying, and avoid adding any water or ice to the oil.
- Do not overfill or underfill your pot with oil or food; leave enough space for expansion and bubbling.
- Do not move or touch your outdoor propane deep fryer while it is hot or in use.
- Turn off the gas valve and disconnect the propane tank when you are done frying or not using your outdoor propane deep fryer.
- Let the oil cool down completely before disposing of it or storing it for later use.
- Clean your outdoor propane deep fryer regularly and thoroughly after each use.
Considerations for Buying Deep Fryers
Now that you know what an outdoor propane deep fryer is, the different types of outdoor deep fryers, and what safety precautions you should follow, let’s see what factors you should consider before buying one. Here are some of the most important considerations that you should keep in mind:
Longevity
One of the first things you should consider when buying an outdoor propane deep fryer is how long you want it to last. Outdoor deep fryers can vary in durability and quality depending on their materials, construction, design, and warranty. It would help if you looked for an outdoor propane deep fryer made of sturdy and rust-resistant materials, such as stainless steel or cast iron.
It would help if you also looked for an outdoor propane deep fryer with a solid and stable base, a strong and secure lid, and a reliable and efficient burner. Additionally, it would help if you looked for an outdoor propane deep fryer with a good warranty period and customer service from the manufacturer.
Light-duty
Another thing that you should consider when buying an outdoor propane deep fryer is how often you plan to use it and how much food you want to cook at once. Outdoor deep fryers can vary in capacity and performance depending on their size, shape, power, and features. It would help if you looked for an outdoor propane deep fryer that matches your frying needs and preferences.
If you only plan to use your outdoor propane deep fryer occasionally or for small batches of food, you may opt for a light-duty model. A light-duty model is usually smaller, cheaper, and easier to use than other models. It can handle up to 10 pounds of food per hour and has a power output of up to 30,000 BTU. A light-duty model is ideal for casual home cooks who want to enjoy fried food outdoors occasionally.
Medium-duty
If you plan to use your outdoor propane deep fryer more frequently or for larger batches of food, you may opt for a medium-duty model. A medium-duty model is usually bigger, more expensive, and more powerful than a light-duty model. It can handle up to 20 pounds of food per hour and has a power output of up to 50,000 BTU. A medium-duty model is ideal for serious home cooks or small catering businesses who want to fry food outdoors regularly.
Heavy-duty
If you plan to use your outdoor propane deep fryer very often or for large batches of food, you might opt for a heavy-duty model. A heavy-duty model is usually the largest, most expensive, and most powerful. It can handle up to 40 pounds of food per hour and has a power output of up to 100,000 BTU. A heavy-duty model is ideal for professional chefs or large catering businesses who want to fry food outdoors daily.
Location
Another thing that you should consider when buying an outdoor propane deep fryer is where you want to use it and how easy it is to transport and store it. Outdoor deep fryers can vary in portability and convenience depending on their weight, dimensions, shape, and features. It would help if you looked for an outdoor propane deep fryer that suits your location and mobility needs.
Choose a type that is reasonably light, compact, and simple to set up and take down if you intend to use your outdoor propane deep fryer in your backyard or patio. It would be beneficial if you also looked for a model that was simple to transport and store away, such as one with wheels, handles, or legs. Choose a portable, foldable, lightweight outdoor propane deep fryer if you intend to use it in a park, camping, or tailgate party. A model with a solid and stable base, a tight-fitting lid, and a tough burner that can survive outside circumstances would be beneficial.
Modern Options and Controls
Another thing you should consider when buying an outdoor propane deep fryer is the features and options you want it to have. Outdoor deep fryers can vary in functionality and versatility depending on their controls, accessories, and extras. It would help if you looked for an outdoor propane deep fryer with the features and options you need.
Some of the most common features and options that you might find in an outdoor propane deep fryer are:
- Oil filtration system: This feature allows you to filter the oil after each use and reuse it for later frying. This can help you save money on oil and reduce waste and pollution.
- Programmable controls: This feature allows you to set the temperature and time of the frying process according to your preferences. This can help you achieve consistent and optimal results every time.
- Energy efficiency: This feature allows you to reduce the amount of gas and oil you use for frying. This can help you save money on fuel and oil and reduce your environmental impact.
- Multiple baskets: With this feature, you can cook different varieties of food together or individually. This can help you save time and space and cater to different tastes and preferences.
- Thermometer: This feature allows you to monitor the temperature of the oil during the frying process. This can help prevent overheating or underheating the oil and ensure safe and delicious results.
- Drain valve: This feature allows you to drain the oil from the pot easily and safely after each use. This can help you avoid spills and messes and make cleaning easier.
8 Best Outdoor Propane Deep Fryer
Now that we have covered the basics of what an outdoor propane deep fryer is, what are the different types of outdoor deep fryers, what are some safety precautions that you should follow while using one, and what are some factors that you should consider before buying one, let’s move on to the main part of this article: the reviews of the 8 best outdoor propane deep fryers that we have selected for you.
We have tested and compared these 8 models based on their performance, durability, safety, customer feedback, price, warranty, pros, cons, features and options. We have also provided you with a summary of each product, a link to the product page, and a table showing each model’s main specifications. For your convenience, we have compiled a list of the top 8 outdoor propane deep fryers after careful selection.
1. CreoleFeast TFS3010 Propane 30 Qt. Turkey and 10 Qt. Fish Fryer Boiler Steamer Set,
Features
- Versatile and multifunctional outdoor propane deep fryer that can fry, boil, and steam food
- Comes with a 30-quart pot that can fry up to a 20-pound turkey and a 10-quart pot that can fry up to 5 pounds of fish
- Comes with a steamer basket, a lid, a thermometer, a turkey rack, and a marinade injector
- Has a powerful 50,000 BTU burner that can heat the oil quickly and evenly
- Has a sturdy and stable tripod stand that can support the weight of the pots and the food
- Has an adjustable regulator that can control the temperature and pressure of the gas
- Has a safety timer that can shut off the gas automatically after 15 minutes of inactivity
- Has a drain valve that can drain the oil from the pots easily and safely
- Has a detachable hose that can connect to any standard propane tank
- Has a durable and rust-resistant construction that can withstand outdoor conditions
- Has a large capacity that can cook enough food for a large group of people
Specifications
| Specification | Value |
| Type | Open-pot |
| Capacity | 30 qt + 10 qt |
| Power | 50,000 BTU |
| Weight | 36 lbs |
| Dimensions | 18 x 18 x 26 inches |
| Warranty | 1 year |
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Easy to use and clean
- Versatile and multifunctional
- Powerful and efficient
- Sturdy and stable
- Safe and reliable
- Large capacity
Cons
- Heavy and bulky
- No lid for the smaller pot
- No oil filtration system
2. GasOne B-5155-RED Burner with Steamer Pot
Features
- Versatile and multifunctional outdoor propane deep fryer that can fry, boil, and steam food
- Comes with a 32-quart pot that can fry up to a 20-pound turkey or boil up to 70 tamales
- Comes with a steamer rack, a lid, a thermometer, an injector needle, an aluminium perforated basket, and an aluminium perforated strainer basket
- Has a powerful 65,000 BTU burner that can heat the oil rapidly and consistently
- Has an adjustable regulator knob that can control the flame intensity from low to high
- Has a heat-resistant paint coating that can prevent rust and corrosion
Specifications
| Specification | Value |
| Type | Open-pot |
| Capacity | 32 qt |
| Power | 65,000 BTU |
| Weight | 19 lbs |
| Dimensions | 15.75 x 15.75 x 18.5 inches |
| Warranty | 1 year |
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Easy to use and clean
- Versatile and multifunctional
- Powerful and consistent
- Durable and sturdy
- Large capacity
Cons
- No drain valve
- No safety timer
- No oil filtration system
3. Bayou Classic 700-701 4-gal Stainless Bayou Fryer
Features
- Tube-type outdoor propane deep fryer that can fry food with efficiency and quality
- Comes with a 4-gallon pot that can fry up to 25 pounds of food per hour
- Comes with two stainless steel mesh baskets, a lid, a thermometer, a drain valve, and a high-pressure regulator with a stainless braided hose
- Has a powerful 40,000 BTU burner that can heat the oil quickly and evenly
- Has four stainless steel tubes inside the pot that distribute the heat throughout the oil and catch any crumbs or sediment that fall from the food
- Has a V-bottom design that keeps the oil temperature lower at the bottom of the pot where the crumbs or sediment accumulate
Specifications
| Specification | Value |
| Type | Tube-type |
| Capacity | 4 gal |
| Power | 40,000 BTU |
| Weight | 54 lbs |
| Dimensions | 38.5 x 14.5 x 11.5 inches |
| Warranty | 1 year |
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Easy to use and clean
- Efficient and quality
- Powerful and even
- Durable and rust-resistant
- Oil filtration system
Cons
- Heavy and bulky
- No safety timer
- No programmable controls
4. King Kooker Propane Outdoor Fry Boil Package
Features
- Open-pot outdoor propane deep fryer that can fry and boil food
- Comes with two pots: a 29-quart pot that can fry up to a 20-pound turkey and a 10-quart pot that can boil up to 15 pounds of seafood
- Comes with two baskets, a lid, a thermometer, a turkey rack, and a lifting hook
- Has a powerful 33,000 BTU burner that can heat the oil or water quickly and steadily
- Has an adjustable regulator that can control the temperature and pressure of the gas
- Has a timer that can shut off the gas automatically after 15 minutes of inactivity
Specifications
| Specification | Value |
| Type | Open-pot |
| Capacity | 29 qt + 10 qt |
| Power | 33,000 BTU |
| Weight | 28 lbs |
| Dimensions | 18 x 18 x 16 inches |
| Warranty | 1 year |
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Easy to use and clean
- Versatile and multifunctional
- Powerful and steady
- Durable and sturdy
- Large capacity
Cons
- No oil filtration system
- No programmable controls
- No energy efficiency
5. Outdoor 50,000 BTU 18 Qt Propane Gas Dual Basket Tailgate Party Fun Deep Fryer
Features
- Open-pot outdoor propane deep fryer that can fry food with fun and convenience
- Comes with an 18-quart pot that can fry up to two different types of food at the same time using two separate baskets
- Comes with a lid, a thermometer, and two handles
- Has a powerful 50,000 BTU burner that can heat the oil quickly and evenly
- Has an adjustable regulator that can control the temperature and pressure of the gas
Specifications
| Specification | Value |
| Type | Open-pot |
| Capacity | 18 qt |
| Power | 50,000 BTU |
| Weight | 35 lbs |
| Dimensions | 26 x 20 x 16 inches |
| Warranty | N/A |
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Easy to use and clean
- Fun and convenient
- Powerful and even
- Durable and rust-resistant
- Large capacity
Cons
- No safety timer
- No oil filtration system
- No programmable controls
6. CreoleFeast TFS3010 Propane 30 Qt. Turkey and 10 Qt. Fish Fryer
Features
- Versatile and multifunctional outdoor propane deep fryer that can fry, boil, and steam food
- Comes with a 30-quart pot that can fry up to a 20-pound turkey and a 10-quart pot that can fry up to 5 pounds of fish
- Comes with a steamer basket, a lid, a thermometer, a turkey rack, and a marinade injector
- Has a powerful 50,000 BTU burner that can heat the oil quickly and evenly
- Has a sturdy and stable tripod stand that can support the weight of the pots and the food
- Has an adjustable regulator that can control the temperature and pressure of the gas
- Has a safety timer that can shut off the gas automatically after 15 minutes of inactivity
Specifications
| Specification | Value |
| Type | Open-pot |
| Capacity | 30 qt + 10 qt |
| Power | 50,000 BTU |
| Weight | 36 lbs |
| Dimensions | 18 x 18 x 26 inches |
| Warranty | 1 year |
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Easy to use and clean
- Versatile and multifunctional
- Powerful and efficient
- Sturdy and stable
- Safe and reliable
- Large capacity
Cons
- Heavy and bulky
- No lid for the smaller pot
- No oil filtration system
7. GasOne B-5155-RED Burner with Steamer Pot Turkey Fry & Tamale with High-Pressure Propane Regulator and Hose, Red QCC
Features
- Versatile and multifunctional outdoor propane deep fryer that can fry, boil, and steam food
- Comes with a 32-quart pot that can fry up to a 20-pound turkey or boil up to 70 tamales
- Comes with a steamer rack, a lid, a thermometer, an injector needle, an aluminium perforated basket, and an aluminium perforated strainer basket
- Has a powerful 65,000 BTU burner that can heat the oil rapidly and consistently
- Has an adjustable regulator knob that can control the flame intensity from low to high
- Has a heat-resistant paint coating that can prevent rust and corrosion
Specifications
| Specification | Value |
| Type | Open-pot |
| Capacity | 32 qt |
| Power | 65,000 BTU |
| Weight | 19 lbs |
| Dimensions | 15.75 x 15.75 x 18.5 inches |
| Warranty | 1 year |
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Easy to use and clean
- Versatile and multifunctional
- Powerful and consistent
- Durable and sturdy
- Large capacity
Cons
- No drain valve
- No safety timer
- No oil filtration system
8. Bayou Classic 700-701 4-gal Stainless Bayou Fryer
Features
- Tube-type outdoor propane deep fryer that can fry food with efficiency and quality
- Comes with a 4-gallon pot that can fry up to 25 pounds of food per hour
- Comes with two stainless steel mesh baskets, a lid, a thermometer, a drain valve, and a high-pressure regulator with a stainless braided hose
- Has a powerful 40,000 BTU burner that can heat the oil quickly and evenly
- Has four stainless steel tubes inside the pot that distribute the heat throughout the oil and catch any crumbs or sediment that fall from the food
- Has a V-bottom design that keeps the oil temperature lower at the bottom of the pot where the crumbs or sediment accumulate
Specifications
| Specification | Value |
| Type | Tube-type |
| Capacity | 4 gal |
| Power | 40,000 BTU |
| Weight | 54 lbs |
| Dimensions | 38.5 x 14.5 x 11.5 inches |
| Warranty | 1 year |
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Easy to use and clean
- Efficient and quality
- Powerful and even
- Durable and rust-resistant
- Oil filtration system
Cons
- Heavy and bulky
- No safety timer
- No programmable controls
FAQs
Using outdoor propane deep fryers indoors is not recommended due to ventilation and safety concerns.
For best results, change the frying oil after 4-6 uses, depending on the type of food cooked.
Yes, most outdoor propane deep fryers are designed for easy cleaning, with removable parts and non-stick surfaces.
Cooking times vary depending on the dish, but propane deep fryers generally offer faster cooking than traditional methods.
Yes, many propane deep fryers are specially designed for frying large cuts of meat, including turkey.
Conclusion
This article has helped you find your next outdoor propane deep fryer. We have provided you with a comprehensive buyer’s guide that covers everything you need to know about outdoor deep fryers, such as what they are, what are the different types, what are some safety precautions, and what are factors to consider before buying one. We have also reviewed 8 of the best outdoor propane deep fryers we have tested and compared based on their performance, durability, safety, customer feedback, price, warranty, pros, cons, features, and options.
We hope you enjoy your outdoor deep frying experience with your new outdoor propane deep fryer. Happy frying!
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