Chef Tested Deep Fryer

Deep-frying is a cooking method that has its perks — it cooks food with great flavor and texture. But it can also be messy and smelly. That’s why many people turn to electric fryers, which can be a convenient and cost-effective way to enjoy fried foods.

There are many options out there, from entry-level models that don’t have a lot of extra features to high-end workhorses with presets and customizable programming. The key is making sure the deep fryer you buy will heat up to a reasonable temperature and hold it.

Chef Tested Deep Fryer

For the best results, choose a fryer with an internal thermometer that is easy to read and accurate. Using a fryer with an inaccurate thermometer can result in food that’s too hot or cold and can cause burns.

The best fryers maintain temperatures well, which helps ensure evenly fried foods. Some even have automatic shutoffs that turn off the device if the oil gets too hot, so you don’t have to worry about overheating your food.

We also looked for a fryer that would withstand long, continuous frying. A few of the models we tested were designed with this in mind, but some were not, and that’s something to consider when purchasing a new unit.

A good fryer should last for years, so you’ll want to make sure the one you buy is built to last and will stand up to regular use. It should be easy to clean and maintain, and the oil pot and frying basket should be dishwasher safe.

In addition, your fryer should come with a removable heating element so that you can easily remove it and clean it. Most models also have a drip tray, so you can quickly empty the oil after frying.

We also considered whether the fryer had safety features, like a cord that could be removed for easy cleaning and a magnetic plug. Most of the models we tested have these, and we liked that they were all easy to remove from the unit for quick cleaning. Some models also have a drain port for easy cleanup, which is an added bonus.