25 Best Deep-Fry Recipes For Any Occasion

If you’re anything like me, you’ll want to bookmark these deep-fry recipes asap.

I mean, who doesn’t love crunchy churros and crispy chicken wings, right? They’re golden brown and oh-so-delicious.

Plus, between the funnel cakes, fritters, and calamari, these deep-fried recipes are ideal for parties!

And though it can be daunting for newcomers, I promise you’ll become a frying pro in no time.

This list of 25 deep-fry recipes has everything from appetizers to desserts. So crank up the heat, and let’s fry some food!

1. Apple Cider Donuts

I know you were expecting something salty, but these apple cider donuts deserve today’s top spot.

Though that might just be my sweet tooth talking!

The prep time for this recipe is just over an hour and a half, and you’ll need apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, sugar, and nutmeg.

What you don’t need is yeast. So, once everything is chilled and rolled, just drop the batter in hot oil until golden and delicious.

2. Cracker Barrel Fried Okra

This southern appetizer is quick, easy, and full of exciting flavors. But be careful – it’s so good that it’s borderline addictive!

To make these crunchy bites, grab some okra, flour, cornmeal, and eggs.

Season with salt and pepper to highlight the flavors, and maybe add a dash of cayenne if you like spice!

If you don’t think you like okra, try this recipe and get back to me. I bet it’ll change your mind!

3. Churros

Boy, do I love churros. They’re soft on the inside, crispy on the outside, and when they’re cooked properly, they melt in your mouth.

Making churros at home is super easy and will satisfy the deepest of cravings.

Make the batter, fry the churros, and be sure to have cinnamon sugar at the ready – that’s the best part! 

Plus, if you have a serious sweet tooth like me, don’t forget to make the chocolate sauce. 

4. Cracker Barrel Fried Chicken

I spend a little too long in the store, but when I finally take my seat in Cracker Barrel, all I can think about is the fried chicken.

Luckily, you can make it yourself at home, and I daresay it’s better than the original!

One secret ingredient that will take your fried chicken from boring to fabulous is buttermilk – and the double coating, of course. 

First, coat the chicken in the flour mixture. Then coat it in buttermilk, followed by another layer of the flour mixture.

Deep fry for 10-15 minutes, and you can thank me later.

5. Crispy Beer Batter Fish

This recipe is everything you want in a restaurant-quality fried fish dish.

It’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, and every bite packs a serious punch.

While you can use any fish, I recommend Alaskan Cod, Tilapia, or Halibut for their mild flavor and firm texture.

Besides paprika and garlic, you’ll also need some beer for the batter.

The bubbles in the beer will make the batter lighter and add some dimension to the flavor. Substitute lemon and lime soda if you don’t like beer!

6. Sweet and Sour Chicken Balls

These crispy, golden chicken balls are dangerously addictive.

Inspired by Chinese cuisine, this recipe will satisfy even the harshest of critics, and it’s ideal for kids too!

What’s not to love? Sweet and sour chicken is quick, easy, and affordable.

All you need for the sweet and source sauce is ketchup, soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, pineapple juice, and cornstarch. How easy is that?

7. Spring Rolls

No list of deep-fried food is complete without spring rolls. They’re everyone’s favorite Chinese side and something we all fight over when there’s only one left!

Prep time for this recipe is only 30 minutes, meaning that you’ll have these golden, crispy goodies in your mouth in under 40.

Season the pork butt with oyster sauce, sesame oil, and more, then wrap it up, and fry until golden brown.

8. City Chicken

This fantastic city chicken recipe doesn’t contain any chicken. Yes, you read that right. 

The name dates back to the Depression when fresh chicken was tough to find and was often replaced with more accessible ingredients, like pork.

To make this goldie oldie, you need boneless pork, eggs, milk, Italian seasoned bread crumbs, and good old salt and pepper. 

Mix the batter, coat the chicken and roll it in Italian breadcrumbs. Fry the pork until golden brown and enjoy a piece of history with every bite.

9. Crispy Beer-Battered Cauliflower

Vegetarians of the world, rejoice!

I have a bunch of deep-fry recipes to come that are meat-free, but this is my fave!

Again, you’ll use beer for its hoppy bubbles and light taste. And again, you can always swap that out for citrus soda if you prefer.

Either way, you want something sparkling to add air and crispiness to the batter, which is a must-have for any fried dish.

If you want to take these babies up a notch, try coating them in a yummy, sticky glaze once they’re fried. Try honey, soy sauce, and gochujang paste! 

10. Bang Bang Chicken

This bang bang chicken is so good that it will knock you off your feet.

While the name is the same as the renowned Chinese chicken dish, this recipe adds a slightly different twist.

There’s still crispy fried chicken, but in this version, it’s coated in a sauce of mayo, honey, sweet chili sauce, and gochujang. Delish!

11. Deep Fried Onion Rings

Onion rings are one of those appetizers that never get old. I like them instead of fries and often stuff them in my burgers too.

The best thing about this recipe is that it’s so easy that a 5-year-old would be able to make it. 

Coat the sliced onion rings in the flour, then eggs, and finish with a layer of bread crumbs.

Deep-fry the onion rings for 2-3 minutes, and voila! You’re all set.

12. Crisco Fried Chicken

Here’s yet another mouthwatering fried chicken recipe.

What sets this one apart is the Crisco shortening, which makes the chicken taste extra delicious.

The coating includes garlic salt, paprika, and poultry seasoning, and there’s the typical egg and flour dredge.

But instead of regular oil, you’ll use Crisco for maximum crunch! Trust me; this will become a staple in your family.

13. Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries are a fantastic alternative to regular French fries.

I wouldn’t say they’re healthy, but they are pretty darn scrumptious and have way more flavor.

The trick is to rinse and boil the fries to soften them up.

Then, if you want them crispy, dip them in cornstarch and let them rest for two minutes before frying.

You won’t believe the difference it makes!

14. Fried Zucchini Chips

Here’s another delicious vegetarian recipe that will floor everyone, even hardcore meat-eaters.

These fried zucchini chips take only 20 minutes, making them great for busy mornings. 

Coat the zucchini in flour, dip in the egg mixture, and add a layer of Panko.

How easy is that?

15. Apple Fritters

Deep-frying apples definitely sounds like a weird idea. But hey, we’re here to experiment and have fun in the kitchen, right?

And I promise that this dish will exceed your expectations.

They’re like donuts, but they’re full of crisp apples.

Does that make them healthy? I’ll let you decide!

They only need two minutes on each side, and then you’ll coat them in cinnamon sugar while they’re still hot. Talk about heavenly.

16. Shrimp Tempura

This shrimp tempura recipe will blow your mind.

Crispy on the outside and very tender on the inside, these babies are surprisingly effortless.

Just grab some cornstarch, flour, eggs, and salt to create the batter, then dredge those little pink morsels and fry. 

Shrimp cook fast, so have a plate – and your appetite – ready to go.

17. Spicy Fried Cheese Balls Appetizer

Who doesn’t like cheese balls? They’re creamy and jam-packed with delicious flavors.

Of course, these are deep-fried, making them ooey-gooey and insanely delicious.

This recipe is also a little spicy, but it’s not too much. And the creamy filling will help to balance everything out.

18. Potato Croquettes (Crispy Deep Fried Mashed Potatoes!) 

Potato croquettes are one of my favorite fried potato dishes.

You only need a handful of ingredients to make this stunning recipe, making it very easy and affordable.

I like to add bacon bits and cheese for added texture and flavor, but they’re great as is.

19. Fried Calamari

If you’re into seafood, then this restaurant-worthy fried calamari is perfect for you.

Like fried chicken, you’ll use buttermilk to ensure they’re as tender and flavorful as possible.

And like the shrimp, they cook fast. So be ready to gobble them up with a squeeze of lemon and a few chili flakes sprinkled over the top.

20. Funnel Cake

I can still remember my first funnel cake. And my second.

I also remember seeing them both again after one too many rides at the fair…

Luckily, you can eat this funnel cake in the comfort of your own home – with no rollercoasters in sight!

And believe it or not, they’re insanely easy.

You’ll make a simple batter, then randomly drizzle it into the hot oil. The messier, the better!

Once fried, add some powdered sugar and enjoy.

21. Beef Chimichanga

Chimichangas are basically fried burritos. So, as close to perfect as food gets!

To create this stunning Mexican dish, you’ll need ground beef, taco seasoning, pinto beans, tortillas, and cheese.

Of course, if you’re feeling extra spicy, you can also add hot sauce.

The trick this to keep these babies wrapped, so the filling doesn’t pop out. That means shallow-frying or using toothpicks to keep it sealed.

22. Banana Fritters

If you’re in a hurry and want to create a quick yet delicious dessert, this one is for you.

Deep-frying bananas really bring out the depth of flavor, which is already crazy-delicious. 

All you need to do is make a quick batter, dip the bananas, and fry for five minutes.

Drizzle a glaze on top and serve warm with ice cream. Delish! 

23. Homemade Corn Dogs

Corn dogs are every kid’s dream.

They remind me of amusement parks, field trips, football games, and fun times – every bite evokes a nostalgic feeling.

To make this recipe, it’s as easy as dipping hotdogs in a thick batter. Fry them until golden, and enjoy!

24. Corn Fritter

These fried pockets are so delicious that you won’t be able to eat just one.

I love the pops of color, and the corn adds a beautiful sweetness to the mix too.

To fry, just spoon the batter into the hot oil and let the magic happen. Serve these with spicy mayo or maybe simple Ranch.

25. Deep Fried Chicken Wings

How did I get through 24 deep-fry recipes and not talk about chicken wings?

They’re perfect for any occasion, and they’re best when they’re crispy and hot!

Like the cauliflower, toss them in sticky-sweet sauce or tasty seasoning – like garlic and parmesan – and serve with a cold beer.