Air fryers have become increasingly popular in recent years as a healthy alternative to deep frying. When cooking with an air fryer, it’s important to use cookware that is suitable for air frying in order to get the best results.
Metal
Metal plates, baking pans, and trays work well in an air fryer. Stainless steel, aluminium, and coated steel plates conduct heat efficiently and allow for even cooking. Metal plates should be oven safe to withstand the high heat of an air fryer, which can reach around 400°F.
Some pros of using metal cookware in an air fryer:
- Heats up quickly and evenly
- Easy to clean and durable
- Can be used for a variety of foods including meats, vegetables, and baked goods
Some cons to keep in mind:
- Metal can get very hot, so care needs to be taken when handling
- Food may stick without sufficient oil or non-stick coating
- Metal may be reactive to acidic foods like tomatoes or citrus
Glass
Glass baking dishes work well in air fryers, as long as they are labeled oven safe. The smooth surface allows air to circulate and conducts heat evenly. Glass plates should be checked to ensure they can withstand temperatures up to 400°F.
Benefits of using glassware:
- Allows you to easily monitor cooking progress
- Can go from oven directly to table for serving
- Non-reactive surface won’t react with acidic foods
Some drawbacks:
- Not as durable as metal or ceramic
- Food may stick without oil or non-stick spray
- Gets very hot, so caution must be used when handling
Ceramic
Ceramic plates, baking dishes, and ramekins are a good choice for air fryers if they are labeled oven and microwave safe. The glazed surface helps food release easily. Ceramic heat resistance varies, so check the maximum temperature rating.
Benefits of ceramic cookware:
- Distributes heat evenly for consistent cooking
- Durable and resistant to high temperatures
- Easy to clean and non-stick
Some limitations:
- Heavy dishes may increase preheat time
- Unglazed ceramic may soak up oil or grease
- Sudden temperature changes can cause cracking
Silicone
Silicone is gaining popularity in air frying due to its flexibility, non-stick properties, and heat resistance up to about 425°F. Silicone plates and trays provide an affordable and lightweight option.
Benefits of silicone:
- Naturally non-stick surface
- Heats evenly and gently
- Easy to clean and store
Potential disadvantages:
- Prone to staining from oil or spices
- Not as durable over time as other materials
- Can warp or melt at very high temps
Non-Recommended Materials
Certain materials should be avoided in air fryers, either due to heat sensitivity or potential hazards:
- Plastic – Can melt or release harmful chemicals when heated
- Wood – Can char, burn, or crack under high heat
- Paper – Flammable and unable to withstand air fryer temperatures
- Foil – Can cause arcing or burning at high heat
Tips for Choosing an Air Fryer Plate
- Match the size of the plate to your air fryer’s basket dimensions
- Select a plate with raised edges to keep foods contained
- Look for plates with non-stick coatings for easy release and cleaning
- Ensure it is oven-safe and heat resistant to 400°F+ temperatures
- Handwash only plates in warm, soapy water
Conclusion
Metal, glass, ceramic, and silicone plates are all good options for air frying, provided they are rated oven and heat safe. Avoid plastics, wood, paper products, and foil. Choose an appropriately sized plate with raised edges to maximize airflow and ensure even browning. With the right cookware, air fryers can produce delicious, crispy results with minimal oil.