18 Crispy Deep Fryer Recipes for Every Occasion

Posted on April 6, 2025

Difficulty

Prep time

Cooking time

Total time

Servings

When it comes to satisfying your cravings, there’s nothing quite like a crispy, golden-brown treat straight from the deep fryer. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or adventurous and exotic, we’ve got 18 mouth-watering deep fryer recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.

From Southern-style fried chicken to Japanese takoyaki and everything in between, these recipes showcase the versatility and deliciousness of deep-frying. And with a range of flavors and textures to choose from, you’re bound to find something that fits your taste buds and occasion.

Classic Southern Fried Chicken

Classic Southern Fried Chicken
Get ready for a crispy, juicy, and mouthwatering Southern classic with this simple recipe.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
5. Fry chicken pieces in batches for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve hot.

Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total, depending on the size of your chicken pieces.

Golden Beer-Battered Fish

Golden Beer-Battered Fish
Crunchy on the outside, flaky on the inside – this golden beer-battered fish is a game-changer for any seafood lover!

Ingredients:

– 4 fish fillets (cod or haddock work well)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup beer, chilled
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, beer, and lemon juice until smooth.
3. Dip each fish fillet into the batter, coating evenly.
4. Roll the battered fish in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Fry the fish for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot with your favorite sides.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Enjoy your crispy, golden beer-battered fish!

Crispy Onion Rings with Spicy Dip

Crispy Onion Rings with Spicy Dip
Elevate your snack game with this addictive recipe that combines the perfect crunch of onion rings with a spicy kick from our signature dip. Get ready to devour!

Ingredients:

– 1 large onion, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rings
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Spicy Dip (see below)

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each onion ring into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry onion rings in batches until golden brown and crispy (about 3-4 minutes per batch).
6. Drain on paper towels.

Spicy Dip:

– 1 cup sour cream
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Mix all ingredients until smooth. Serve with crispy onion rings!

Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes, depending on the number of batches.

Homemade Mozzarella Sticks

Homemade Mozzarella Sticks
Transform store-bought mozzarella cheese into crispy, golden-brown sticks with this easy recipe. Perfect for snacking or as a fun twist on traditional appetizers.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour and a pinch of salt.
2. In a separate dish, beat the egg.
3. In another dish, place the breadcrumbs.
4. Dip each mozzarella ball into the flour mixture, then the egg, and finally the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry the breaded mozzarella sticks for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain excess oil on paper towels. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes total

Perfectly Fried Shrimp Tempura

Perfectly Fried Shrimp Tempura
Transform ordinary shrimp into a mouthwatering Japanese-inspired treat with this easy-to-follow recipe for perfectly fried shrimp tempura. With a light and airy batter, these succulent morsels will satisfy your cravings in no time.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup ice-cold soda water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Optional: tempura dipping sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and cornstarch.
2. Gradually add soda water while gently stirring to create a smooth batter.
3. Add shrimp and coat evenly with the batter.
4. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat (350°F).
5. Fry shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
7. Serve immediately with tempura dipping sauce, if desired.

Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes (depending on batch size).

Enjoy your crispy and delicious Perfectly Fried Shrimp Tempura!

Crunchy Fried Pickles

Crunchy Fried Pickles
Add a satisfying crunch to your snacking routine with these crispy fried pickles. Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, they’re sure to be a hit!

Ingredients:

– 1 large dill pickle, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each pickle slice into the buttermilk, coating both sides, then roll in the flour mixture to coat.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
5. Fry the coated pickle slices in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes total (depending on batch size)

Fluffy Japanese Takoyaki

Fluffy Japanese Takoyaki
Takoyaki, a popular Japanese street food, is a must-try snack when exploring the country’s culinary scene. This recipe brings the classic flavors of takoyaki to your kitchen with a simple and easy-to-follow guide.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 10-12 octopus pieces (dried or canned)
– Green onions, pickled ginger, and takoyaki sauce (for serving)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Gradually add water to form a thick batter.
3. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a takoyaki pan or a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Pour the batter into the hot oil, filling each mold about 3/4 full.
5. Place an octopus piece in each mold and press gently to coat.
6. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until crispy and golden brown.
7. Serve with green onions, pickled ginger, and takoyaki sauce.

Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes

Enjoy your delicious homemade Fluffy Japanese Takoyaki!

Spicy Fried Calamari

Spicy Fried Calamari
This recipe adds a bold twist to classic fried calamari by infusing it with a spicy kick from Korean chili flakes (gochugaru). Perfect as an appetizer or snack, this dish is sure to tantalize your taste buds.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound cleaned and cut squid rings
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and gochugaru.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate bowl.
3. Dip each squid ring into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry calamari rings in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Sweet and Sticky Fried Banana Fritters

Sweet and Sticky Fried Banana Fritters
Sweet and Sticky Fried Banana Fritters Recipe

Get ready to indulge your taste buds with these crispy and chewy banana fritters coated in a sweet and sticky syrup!

Ingredients:

– 3-4 ripe bananas, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup milk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Sticky Syrup (see below)

Sticky Syrup:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon honey

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
2. Add milk and mix until smooth batter forms.
3. Dip each banana piece into the batter, coating evenly.
4. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
5. Fry banana fritters for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Toss fritters in Sticky Syrup (heat the syrup mixture in a saucepan over medium heat until dissolved) while still warm.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Serve immediately and enjoy!

Savory Fried Chicken Wings with Buffalo Sauce

Savory Fried Chicken Wings with Buffalo Sauce
Savory Fried Chicken Wings with Buffalo Sauce Recipe

Get ready to spice up your snack game with this mouth-watering recipe for savory fried chicken wings tossed in a tangy buffalo sauce. Perfect for game day gatherings or casual get-togethers.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs chicken wings
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Celery sticks and blue cheese dressing (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate bowl.
3. Dip each chicken wing into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry wings for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove fried wings from oil and place on paper towels to drain.
6. Toss fried wings with buffalo sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
7. Serve hot with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing (if desired). Enjoy!

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Golden Fried Zucchini Chips

Golden Fried Zucchini Chips
Golden Fried Zucchini Chips Recipe Summary: Crunchy, flavorful, and irresistible – these golden fried zucchini chips are the perfect snack to enjoy with your favorite dip or as a side dish. Perfect for summer gatherings or movie nights!

Ingredients:

– 2 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– Lemon wedges (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oil in a deep fryer or a large saucepan to 350°F.
2. Slice the zucchinis into 1/8-inch thick rounds.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, and salt.
4. Dip each zucchini slice into the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly.
5. Fry the coated zucchini slices in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
6. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve warm with lemon wedges (optional).

Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes total.

Crispy Fried Green Tomatoes

Crispy Fried Green Tomatoes
This classic Southern recipe is a twist on traditional tomato dishes. A simple combination of green tomatoes, breadcrumbs, and spices yields a crispy, flavorful snack or side dish.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 green tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each tomato slice into the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly.
3. Dredge the floured tomato slices in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the breaded tomato slices in batches until golden brown and crispy (about 2-3 minutes per side).
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total, depending on batch size.

Delicious Fried Donut Holes

Delicious Fried Donut Holes
Delicious Fried Donut Holes Recipe

Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with these scrumptious fried donut holes! This recipe is a twist on traditional donuts, resulting in crispy, sugary treats that are perfect for snacking or serving at parties.

Ingredients:

– 1 package active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 375°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast, flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add milk, egg, and mix until a smooth batter forms.
4. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop small balls of dough into the hot oil.
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Dust with powdered sugar (if desired) and serve warm.

Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per batch

Crunchy Fried Okra with Ranch Dressing

Crunchy Fried Okra with Ranch Dressing
A Southern classic gets a crispy twist! This recipe combines the tender taste of okra with the crunch of fried breading and the creamy richness of ranch dressing.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup okra pods, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Ranch dressing, store-bought or homemade

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip okra slices in buttermilk, then coat in flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
5. Fry okra in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot with ranch dressing for dipping.

Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total, depending on the number of batches.

Fluffy Korean Hotteok (Sweet Pancakes)

Fluffy Korean Hotteok (Sweet Pancakes)
These sweet pancakes, also known as hotteok, are a popular Korean street food. They’re crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, filled with a sweet and sticky honey-soy filling.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Filling ingredients (see below)

Filling:

– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and vegetable oil.
3. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
4. Heat a non-stick pan or a cast-iron skillet over medium heat.
5. Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, scoop batter into the pan.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until bubbles appear on surface.
7. Serve hot with filling drizzled on top.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Golden Fried Crab Rangoon

Golden Fried Crab Rangoon
Elevate your appetizer game with this crispy and savory Golden Fried Crab Rangoon recipe. This classic Chinese-American fusion dish combines the richness of crab meat with the crunch of fried wontons, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 package of wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 8 ounces jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oil in a deep fryer or a large skillet to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine crab meat, cream cheese, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well.
3. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the crab mixture in the center of the wrapper.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing all four corners together to form a compact package. Press edges together to seal.
5. Fry the Rangoons in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
6. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Spicy Fried Jalapeño Poppers

Spicy Fried Jalapeño Poppers
Spicy Fried Jalapeño Poppers Recipe

Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these spicy fried jalapeño poppers! Crunchy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves a little heat in their snacks.

Ingredients:

– 12-15 jalapeño peppers
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Preheat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together cream cheese, cheddar cheese, cilantro, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Stuff each jalapeño pepper with the cheese mixture, filling them as full as possible.
4. Dip the stuffed jalapeños in flour, shaking off any excess.
5. Fry the poppers for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Classic French Beignets

Classic French Beignets
Experience the sweet delight of traditional French beignets with this simple recipe. These soft, airy pastries are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or serving at a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 package active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup warm milk (105°F to 115°F)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast and warm water; let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add flour, salt, and granulated sugar to the bowl; mix until smooth.
3. Add melted butter and milk; beat until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes.
5. Cover the dough with plastic wrap; let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
7. Punch down the dough and cut into small pieces; fry beignets for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
8. Drain excess oil with paper towels; dust with confectioners’ sugar.

Cooking Time: About 30 minutes

Summary

Get ready to indulge in the crispy, golden goodness of deep-fried delights! This collection of 18 mouth-watering recipes offers something for every occasion. From classic Southern Fried Chicken and Golden Beer-Battered Fish to sweet treats like Banana Fritters and Beignets, there’s a fried favorite for everyone. Plus, unique options like Spicy Fried Calamari, Crunchy Fried Okra, and Fluffy Korean Hotteok will keep things interesting. Whether you’re hosting a party or just satisfying your cravings, these crispy deep fryer recipes are sure to impress.

Tags:

You might also like these recipes

Leave a Comment