The perfect basket deep fryer can turn your kitchen into a personal bistro, delivering that irresistible crispy texture and golden-brown finish that’s hard to achieve with other cooking methods. Whether you’re preparing a batch of french fries for a family movie night or frying chicken wings for a game-day gathering, having a dedicated appliance makes the process cleaner, safer, and more consistent.
From compact models ideal for smaller households to high-capacity fryers built for entertaining, the right choice depends on your specific needs. This roundup explores ten of the best basket deep fryers available, highlighting key features like oil filtration, precise temperature control, and innovative designs to help you find the ideal match for your culinary adventures.
Our Top Picks for Home Deep Fryers
- T-fal 3.5L Stainless Steel Deep Fryer with Oil Filtration
- Secura 1700-Watt Stainless-Steel Triple Basket Electric Deep Fryer
- All-Clad Electric Deep Fryer with Basket and Lid
- Presto 05411 GranPappy Electric Deep Fryer
- Cuisinart CDF-200P1 Professional Deep Fryer, 1 Gallon
- Hamilton Beach 35032 Professional Style Electric Deep Fryer
- De’Longhi Livenza Deep Fryer with EasyClean System
- Waring Pro DF280 Professional Deep Fryer, Brushed Stainless
- Oster DiamondForce Nonstick XL 5 Quart Digital Air Fryer
- Secura Stainless Steel Triple Basket Deep Fryer
T-fal 3.5L Stainless Steel Deep Fryer with Oil Filtration
This T-fal model stands out with its advanced oil filtration system, which automatically filters and stores oil in a sealed container after use. This feature not only simplifies cleanup but also allows you to reuse oil multiple times, making it a cost-effective option for regular use. The sealed container helps contain cooking odors, keeping your kitchen fresher.
You have full command over your cooking with precise temperature control, adjustable from 300°F to 375°F. The built-in thermostat maintains consistent heat for reliable results and that perfect golden-brown exterior. With a 3.5-liter oil capacity capable of handling 2.65 pounds of food, this fryer is well-suited for preparing family meals or serving a small group of up to six people.
Secura 1700-Watt Stainless-Steel Triple Basket Electric Deep Fryer
For those who value versatility, the Secura deep fryer includes three separate baskets. This unique triple-basket system allows you to cook different foods simultaneously, such as fish and chips, without flavor transfer. It includes one jumbo basket for large items and two side-by-side baskets for smaller batches or foods with different cook times.
A powerful 1700-watt immersion element ensures the oil heats up quickly and recovers its temperature rapidly after food is added, which is key for crispy, non-greasy results. The 4.0-liter removable oil tank makes the cleaning process much more manageable. An extra set of odor filters is also included to help minimize lingering smells from your cooking sessions.
All-Clad Electric Deep Fryer with Basket and Lid
All-Clad brings its renowned kitchenware quality to this electric deep fryer, which features a patented oil filtration system. This technology automatically manages the oil, storing it for reuse while effectively containing odors. This results in a cleaner kitchen and more economical operation over time.
Like other premium models, it offers adjustable temperature control from 300°F to 375°F, giving you the precision needed for everything from delicate pastries to hearty chicken. The 3.5-liter oil capacity and ability to fry up to 2.65 pounds of food make it a practical choice for family cooking. Many of its components are also dishwasher safe, adding an extra layer of convenience.
Presto 05411 GranPappy Electric Deep Fryer
The Presto GranPappy is a straightforward and reliable deep fryer designed for efficiency. It uses just six cups of oil to make up to six servings of french fries, making it an economical choice for smaller batches. Its design focuses on simplicity and consistent performance.
This unit automatically maintains the proper frying temperature, which is essential for achieving consistently good results without constant monitoring. It is a versatile appliance capable of handling a variety of foods, from crispy chicken and shrimp to onion rings. Its user-friendly operation makes it a great option for those new to deep frying at home.
Cuisinart CDF-200P1 Professional Deep Fryer, 1 Gallon
Cuisinart’s professional-grade deep fryer features a generous one-gallon removable stainless steel oil container. The inclusion of a pouring spout makes transferring and disposing of oil a cleaner and safer process. Its sturdy construction gives it a solid, professional feel.
The large capacity is ideal for cooking for groups or making bigger batches of your favorite fried foods. The removable oil container is a significant benefit for cleanup, as it can be easily carried to the sink or disposal area. This model is designed for home cooks who appreciate robust appliances and frequently entertain.
Hamilton Beach 35032 Professional Style Electric Deep Fryer
This Hamilton Beach fryer offers a family-size capacity with a 12-cup oil reservoir, allowing you to fry up to 8 cups of food at once. The chrome-plated frying basket includes a hook for mess-free draining after cooking, and the lid helps contain splatter during the frying process.
Powered by a 1500-watt immersed heating element, it fries food quickly and evenly, giving you restaurant-style results at home. The combination of a large capacity, effective splatter lid, and convenient draining hook makes this a very practical and user-friendly model for preparing classics like chicken, fish, and onion rings.
De’Longhi Livenza Deep Fryer with EasyClean System
De’Longhi’s Livenza fryer is designed with user convenience at the forefront. Its patented EasyClean system simplifies the often-tricky task of oil drainage, allowing you to safely drain and recycle oil through a front-mounted tube directly into a storage container. The one-gallon capacity is perfect for parties and family gatherings.
A key feature is the Cool Zone, which reduces oil burning and food particle carbonization, resulting in cleaner oil that can be used more times and better-tasting food. The adjustable thermostat provides cooking precision, while cool-touch handles and a removable basket ensure safety when handling hot food.
Waring Pro DF280 Professional Deep Fryer
The Waring Pro DF280 is built for performance with a powerful 1800-watt immersion-style heating element that is removable for easier cleaning. This high wattage ensures fast heating and excellent temperature recovery. The one-gallon stainless steel oil container is also removable and features a handy pouring spout.
This model comes with three heavy mesh baskets—one large and two small—providing flexibility for cooking different items. The baskets feature cool-touch collapsible handles for safe and compact storage. While this model is discontinued, it remains a popular choice for its professional power and flexible basket system.
Oster DiamondForce Nonstick XL 5 Quart Digital Air Fryer
For those seeking a healthier alternative to traditional deep frying, the Oster Air Fryer uses hot air technology to achieve a crispy texture with significantly less oil. It features Oster’s durable diamond-infused nonstick coating, which is designed to last longer than standard nonstick surfaces.
The 5-quart capacity is generous for family meals, and the digital touchscreen offers eight preset functions for foods like fries, chicken, and fish, as well as a dehydrate function. With a temperature range from 80°F to 400°F and overheating protection, it provides versatility and safety for a wide range of recipes.
Secura Stainless Steel Triple Basket Deep Fryer
This Secura model, similar to another in our list, emphasizes multitasking with its triple-basket configuration. This design is perfect for families or entertainers who need to prepare multiple foods at once without waiting. You can efficiently manage different cooking times and keep flavors separate.
Constructed from durable stainless steel, it is built to withstand regular use. The multiple baskets provide exceptional flexibility, making it possible to have a complete fried meal ready to serve at the same time. It’s an excellent solution for maximizing efficiency in the kitchen during busy mealtimes.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Basket Deep Fryer
So, you’ve decided you want one of the best basket deep fryers for your kitchen. That’s a great move for anyone who loves perfectly crispy food. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the right one? I’ve found that focusing on a few key features makes the decision much easier.
First, consider the capacity. This is about more than just how much food you can cook at once. A smaller fryer, around 2 to 4 cups of oil, is perfect for one or two people and things like french fries or mozzarella sticks. If you often cook for a family or want to make larger batches for game day, look for a model with a 4 to 6-cup oil capacity. Remember, you should never fill the fryer to the brim with oil; there needs to be room for the food to prevent dangerous boil-overs.
Next, think about power and heating. Wattage is a big deal here. A higher wattage, say 1500 watts or more, means the fryer heats up faster and recovers temperature more quickly after you add cold food. This results in a crispier, less greasy finish because the food cooks quickly, sealing the outside. Some models have adjustable thermostats, which I find incredibly useful. Being able to set a specific temperature is key for cooking different foods correctly—delicate fish at 350°F versus crispy chicken at 375°F, for example.
The type of basket is another practical point. Look for a basket that feels sturdy and has a comfortable, cool-touch handle. A non-stick coating on both the basket and the interior of the fryer pot makes cleanup a breeze. Some fryers even have a magnetic basket latch that holds the basket in place when you’re draining the food, which is a small feature that makes a big difference in safety and ease of use.
Finally, don’t overlook safety and cleaning. Essential safety features include a cool-touch exterior, so you don’t burn yourself on the machine, and an automatic shut-off function that turns the fryer off if it overheats. A sealed lid with a viewing window is also great for containing splatter while letting you keep an eye on your food. For cleaning, a removable pot that is dishwasher-safe is the ultimate prize, saving you from scrubbing out congealed oil. Taking the time to think about these factors will help you find a fryer that fits your cooking style and makes the whole process simple and safe.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of oil is best for a basket deep fryer?
You want an oil with a high smoke point, meaning it can get to a high temperature without burning and creating off-flavors. My go-to choices are peanut oil, canola oil, and vegetable oil. They are neutral in flavor and work perfectly for everything from potatoes to chicken. Avoid oils like extra virgin olive oil, which has a low smoke point and will start to smoke at frying temperatures, making your food taste bitter.
How often should I change the oil in my deep fryer?
This depends on what you’re frying. If you’re only cooking french fries, you can usually use the same oil three to four times. If you’re frying foods with a strong flavor or lots of particles, like fish or battered onion rings, you’ll want to change the oil after every one or two uses. You’ll know it’s time when the oil becomes dark, foamy, or develops a rancid smell. Straining the oil through a cheesecloth after each use can help extend its life by removing food bits.
Is a basket deep fryer safe to use?
Modern basket deep fryers are designed with several safety features that make them very safe for home use, as long as you follow the instructions. Look for models with cool-touch exteriors, automatic shut-off to prevent overheating, and secure, locking lids to contain splatter. The most important safety factor, however, is you. Never leave a hot fryer unattended, keep it away from water, and always dry your food thoroughly before placing it in the oil to prevent dangerous splashing.
Can I use my basket deep fryer outdoors?
Yes, and this is actually a great idea! Using your fryer on a stable, heat-resistant surface on your patio or deck is an excellent way to prevent your kitchen from getting smoky and greasy. It’s a popular method for frying a turkey, but it works just as well for everyday foods. Just make sure the fryer is on a level surface, away from any walls or overhangs, and never use it in the rain or under covered areas where smoke can build up.
What’s the difference between a basket deep fryer and an air fryer?
This is a common question. A traditional basket deep fryer cooks food by fully submerging it in hot oil, which gives you that classic crispy, golden-brown texture. An air fryer is essentially a small, powerful convection oven that circulates hot air around the food with a minimal amount of oil. The result from an air fryer is a crispy exterior, but it’s a different kind of crispness than true deep-frying. If you want the authentic texture of a diner or restaurant, one of the best basket deep fryers for home cooks is the way to go.