How to Fry a Turkey in Bacon Grease: A Flavor-Packed Guide for Thanksgiving

Carving Thanksgiving Turkey

How to Fry a Turkey in Bacon Grease: A Flavor-Packed Guide for Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving dinner just got an upgrade. Imagine the savory, smoky flavor of bacon infused into every juicy bite of turkey, finished with a perfectly golden-brown skin. That’s what you get when you fry your turkey in bacon grease.

This method has quickly become a show-stopping centerpiece for holiday gatherings. It’s not only delicious but also faster than roasting, freeing up your oven for pies, casseroles, and all the other holiday favorites.

In this article, we’ll walk you through:

  • Why frying a turkey in bacon grease is a game-changer.
  • Step-by-step preparation tips.
  • Must-have equipment and seasonings.
  • Pro tips to make sure your turkey comes out perfectly.
  • And yes—we’ll cover safety essentials so your feast goes smoothly.

Why Fry a Turkey in Bacon Grease?

  • Flavor Beyond Ordinary Oil – Bacon grease adds a rich, smoky flavor that seeps into the turkey, making every bite unforgettable.
  • Golden Brown Skin – Deep frying helps lock in all those savory juices while giving the turkey a rich, golden finish that tastes as good as it looks.
  • Moist, Juicy Meat – The quick cooking process prevents drying out—especially helpful for white meat.
  • Faster Cook Time – A 14-pound turkey takes only about 40–45 minutes compared to hours in the oven.
  • Southern Tradition Meets Innovation – Deep-fried turkey started in the South but has spread nationwide. Using bacon grease takes that tradition up a notch.

What You’ll Need

Equipment

  • Bass Pro Shops Outdoor Turkey Fryer Combo
  • Bass Pro Shops Stainless Steel Outdoor Turkey Fryer
  • Bass Pro Shops Frying Oil Blend (blend bacon grease with oil as needed)
  • Cabela’s Pit Mitt for safe handling

Ingredients

  • Bacon Up Bacon Grease (3 gal.)
  • Recommended Frying Oil Blends
  • Cabela’s Injectable Marinades – Creole Butter, Jalapeño Butter, Roasted Garlic & Herb
  • Cabela’s Open Season Turkey Brine Mix and Rub Kit

Step-by-Step: Frying a Turkey in Bacon Grease

Thaw Completely

Make sure your turkey is fully thawed and patted dry. Any moisture will cause dangerous oil splatters.

Season and Inject

Use Cabela’s marinades to inject flavor deep into the meat.

Season and Inject for Maximum Flavor

Use Cabela’s meat injectors to infuse marinades deep into the turkey, locking in moisture and rich flavor throughout the cooking process.

For even greater tenderness, try an overnight brine using Open Season blends before injecting. Brining involves soaking the turkey in a seasoned saltwater solution, which allows the meat to absorb moisture and flavor at a cellular level. The result is a juicier, more flavorful bird—especially for those who have found turkey a bit dry in the past.

From personal experience, brining has completely converted family members who never used to enjoy turkey. It adds an extra day or two to your prep, but the payoff is undeniable: tender, juicy meat and well-balanced seasoning from the inside out. This two-step technique is ideal for larger cuts like turkey, brisket, or wild game.

Shop Turkey Prep Essentials:

Preheat Your Fryer

Preheat your fryer by adding mostly oil, then mix in Bacon Up for extra depth of flavor. Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature—since most fryers don’t have built-in temperature settings, watch closely until the oil or grease reaches between 325°F and 350°F.

Slowly Lower the Turkey

Carefully lower your turkey into the hot grease using fryer tools. Do not drop it in.

Cook Time

Fry for about 3 minutes per pound. A 14-pound turkey should take ~42 minutes.

Check Temperature

Remove the turkey when the breast meat reaches 165°F and thighs are 175°F.

Rest Before Carving

Let the turkey rest for 15–20 minutes before slicing. This keeps juices locked in.

Safety Tips You Can’t Skip

  • Always fry outdoors, away from structures.
  • Never overfill your fryer with oil or grease.
  • Ensure turkey is fully thawed and dry.
  • Use protective gloves and a thermometer.
  • Keep a fire extinguisher nearby.
  • Be sure and wear closed toe shoes.

Pro Tip: To measure oil safely, place your turkey in the fryer, fill with water until covered, then remove the turkey and mark the water line with tape. Empty and dry the fryer—use the tape line as your oil fill guide.

Expert Insight

This video recipe comes straight from our Bass Pro Shops Pro Staff team, who’ve tested and perfected this method. Their advice? Start with great gear, respect safety rules, and let the bacon grease bring the magic.

FAQs About Frying a Turkey in Bacon Grease

  • Is frying a turkey in bacon grease safe? Yes—if done correctly. Use an outdoor fryer, ensure the turkey is thawed and dry, and monitor the grease temperature.
  • Can I use only bacon grease to fry a turkey? Pure bacon grease has a lower smoke point than oils like peanut or vegetable oil. Most people blend bacon grease with a neutral frying oil for safety and better results.
  • How much bacon grease do I need? You’ll want several quarts. Many cooks use about 1 gallon of bacon grease blended with oil, depending on fryer size.
  • Does bacon grease change the cook time? No—the cook time is based on turkey weight (about 3 minutes per pound). Bacon grease mainly impacts flavor.
  • What’s the best marinade for fried turkey? Creole butter and jalapeño marinades are popular for adding spice and richness that complement the bacon flavor.

Shop Turkey Frying Essentials

👉 Shop online at BassPro.com or Cabelas.com, or visit the store nearest you.

Thanksgiving Reflections

At Bass Pro Shops, we believe Thanksgiving is more than just a meal. It is about gathering with loved ones, sharing laughter, and giving thanks for the blessings in our lives. Whether it is the thrill of the hunt, the quiet peace of a morning on the water, or the simple joy of a meal shared around the table, these moments remind us of what truly matters.

“Thanksgiving is a time to slow down, share a meal, and celebrate the blessings of faith, family, friends, and the great outdoors. From our family to yours, we are grateful to be part of your traditions.” — Bass Pro Shops

So, this year, when you carve into that golden, crispy, bacon-grease-fried turkey, may it be more than just delicious. May it be a symbol of the gratitude and togetherness that make Thanksgiving special.

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