There’s nothing like the taste of a crispy, golden fried turkey on Thanksgiving Day — but if you’ve ever seen those viral fryer-fire videos, you know one small mistake can ruin the day (and your driveway).
Whether you’re a seasoned backyard cook or frying your first bird, these are the top 10 turkey-frying mistakes people make — and how to avoid them using LoCo’s 30 Qt and 36 Qt SureSpark Turkey Fryer Kits.
Mistake #1: Frying a Frozen or Partially Frozen Turkey
Why it’s bad: Ice and hot oil don’t mix. Frozen turkeys release steam that causes bubbling and dangerous oil overflow.
Fix: Thaw completely before frying. Allow 24 hours of thawing per 4 lbs of turkey in the refrigerator, and pat dry thoroughly. Once you’re ready, LoCo’s SmartTemp technology keeps your oil perfectly steady from start to finish.
Mistake #2: Using Too Much Oil
Why it’s bad: Overfilling the pot can cause oil to spill out once the turkey is lowered in — a major fire risk.
Fix: Do a water test first. Fill your pot with water, submerge the turkey, and mark your fill line. Dry completely before adding oil. SmartTemp maintains the correct temperature and prevents unsafe overflows.
Mistake #3: Not Monitoring Oil Temperature
Why it’s bad: If your oil is too cool, the turkey turns greasy; too hot, and it burns outside while staying raw inside.
Fix: Let SmartTemp do the work. LoCo’s built-in temperature regulation system automatically prevents overheating — no more manual timers or guesswork.
Mistake #4: Dropping the Turkey Too Quickly
Why it’s bad: Lowering the bird too fast causes oil to surge and splatter.
Fix: Take it slow. Use LoCo’s sturdy poultry lifter hook and lower the turkey over about 30 seconds for a safe, smooth submersion.
Mistake #5: Forgetting Safety Gear
Why it’s bad: Hot oil burns instantly — even one splatter can cause serious injury.
Fix: Suit up for safety. Wear heat-resistant gloves, long sleeves, and closed-toe shoes. Keep kids and pets away from the fryer at all times.
Mistake #6: Overcooking or Undercooking
Why it’s bad: Dry turkey or unsafe turkey — neither is a win.
Fix: Trust your thermometer. LoCo includes a 12″ stainless thermometer so you can hit perfection every time: 165°F in the breast, 175°F in the thigh.
Mistake #7: Forgetting to Season or Inject
Why it’s bad: Hot oil locks in flavor but doesn’t create it.
Fix: Inject and season ahead. Marinate several hours before frying, and season the skin just before you cook. The roomy LoCo 30 Qt pot gives you space to prep easily before dropping the bird.
Mistake #8: No Plan for Draining
Why it’s bad: Lifting a dripping 20-lb turkey can be messy — and unsafe.
Fix: Use Twist & Drain. LoCo’s Twist & Drain system locks the basket in place for hands-free, splatter-free draining.
Mistake #9: Frying in Unsafe Spots
Why it’s bad: Frying too close to the house or on uneven ground increases your fire risk.
Fix: Fry smart. Always cook outdoors, on flat, stable ground at least 10 feet from any structure. LoCo’s heavy-duty welded stand provides unmatched stability — no assembly required.
Mistake #10: Leaving the Burner On While Lifting the Turkey
Why it’s bad: Hot oil can splash onto the flame and ignite.
Fix: Turn it off before you lift. Shut off the burner before removing the turkey, then relight it once the bird is fully drained and out of the oil.
🔥 Fry Fearlessly with LoCo Cookers
From our SmartTemp technology that keeps oil at the perfect temperature, to SureSpark push-button ignition that lights instantly, and the Twist & Drain system that keeps cleanup safe and easy — LoCo’s 30 Qt and 36 Qt Turkey Fryer Kits are built for safer, smarter, and more delicious holiday cooking.
Get your 36 qt. turkey fryer today at LoCoCookers.com or find a 30 qt. turkey fryer in stores and online at The Home Depot.