How Much Oil Does the Butterball XL Turkey Fryer Use?

The Butterball XL Turkey Fryer is a popular frying appliance that allows you to make juicy, delicious deep-fried turkeys right at home. But one common question is – how much oil does this XL turkey fryer actually require? Let’s take a closer look at the oil capacity needed for this handy appliance.

When it comes to deep frying a turkey, having the right amount of oil is critical. Here’s what you need to know:

• The oil must fully cover and submerge the turkey to cook properly

• Too little oil leads to uneven cooking

• Too much oil causes dangerous spillovers and splattering

• The turkey fryer’s capacity determines how much oil is needed

So oil volume varies based on the size of your fryer. The Butterball XL holds more oil than smaller fryers to accommodate larger turkeys.

The type of oil used also matters…

Selecting the Best Oil for Turkey Frying

You’ll want an oil with a high smoke point for deep frying The most popular choices are

• Peanut oil
• Canola oil
• Vegetable oil
• Corn oil

Benefits of these oils:

• High smoke points (400°F+) to withstand turkey frying heat

• Neutral flavors that won’t compete with the turkey

• Lower saturated fat than oils like lard or shortening

No matter what oil you use, proper filling and safety is key. Now let’s look at the Butterball XL’s capacity.

Oil Capacity for the Butterball XL Turkey Fryer

The Butterball XL turkey fryer holds about 2.5-3 gallons of oil.

The exact amount depends on:

• The size of turkey you’re cooking
• If you’re following the minimum/maximum fill lines

Here are some examples:

• 12-14 lb turkey – Requires ~2.75 gallons of oil
• 16-18 lb turkey – Requires 2.5-3 gallons of oil
• 20 lb turkey – Requires full 3 gallon capacity

To determine the right amount:

• Place turkey in empty fryer
• Fill with oil until turkey is fully submerged
• Do not fill above the maximum line

This ensures your turkey fries evenly without boiling over.

Key Features of the Butterball XL

This XL turkey fryer contains several features that make frying turkeys safe and easy:

• Hooded lid with venting – prevents oil splatter

• Built-in thermostat – monitors oil temp

• Minimum/maximum fill lines – for perfect oil level

• Large frying basket – keeps turkey contained

• Magnetic power cord – disconnects if pulled

• 1 year warranty – guarantees quality

With handy features and ability to hold 2.5-3 gallons, the Butterball XL allows you to safely deep fry birds up to 20 pounds!

Tips for Frying with the Butterball XL

Here are some tips to maximize usage of your XL turkey fryer:

• Choose the right oil type based on smoke point

• Slowly lower thawed turkey into hot oil to prevent splashing

• Use cooking thermometer to maintain oil at 350-375°F

• Allow oil to cool completely before disposing or straining for reuse

• Scrub fryer well after use and remove all oil residue

• Check that magnetic cord fully disconnects for safety

• Refer to user manual for step-by-step frying instructions

Benefits of the XL Turkey Fryer

Frying turkey in the XL offers several benefits:

Juicy, flavorful turkey – Frying seals in moisture and juices.

Faster cooking – Turkey fries in about 4 minutes per pound!

Crispy skin – The hot oil gives amazing crispiness.

Hands-off – No frequent basting like roasting.

Fun and festive – Perfect for feeding a holiday crowd!

With the right oil amount and some safety precautions, the Butterball XL allows you to enjoy deep fried turkey perfection.

The Takeaway on Fryer Oil Volume

When using the Butterball XL Turkey Fryer, you’ll need about 2.5-3 gallons of oil depending on the turkey size. Follow the minimum and maximum fill lines to properly submerge the turkey. Choosing a high smoke point oil like peanut or canola is also critical for even cooking and optimal flavor. With generous capacity and smart features, the XL fryer lets you safely serve up the ultimate crispy, golden turkey to your family and guests.