Can You Put Metal In An Air Fryer?

You can use metal in an air fryer if it is an ovenproof dish. Metal, glass, ceramic, and silicone dishes or molds can all be safely used in air fryers, as they are designed to endure high temperatures for prolonged periods.

Are you curious about safely using metal roasting trays, baking dishes, and even foil (a form of aluminum) in your air fryer? These are common questions, and there seems to be some confusion!

In this article, I’ll clarify how air fryers work concerning the metals and materials you can safely use.

Is It Safe To Put Metal In An Air Fryer?

Can you put metal in a fryer? The short answer is yes, you can use metal in an air fryer, provided it is an oven-safe dish.

If you can safely bake it in a traditional oven, you can use it in an air fryer.

This encompasses any oven-proof or oven-safe metal container or utensil. Additionally, you can use glass, ceramic, or silicone dishes and molds as long as they are oven-safe.

Another crucial consideration is to only place items in the basket that are compatible with it. The basket allows the air fryer to circulate air efficiently and cook food evenly.

Remember that air fryers function differently from microwaves, which may be why people are concerned about what can and cannot be used inside them.

Though air fryers may resemble ovens and instantly generate heat, they do not operate using electromagnetic or radiation fields, so the metal does not react to them.

Air fryers are essentially miniature convection ovens. They have 2-3 heating elements that create rapid, intense heat that's evenly distributed throughout the chamber by fans to maintain temperature and crisp food.

Read also: Can You Put A Plate In An Air Fryer?

The reason for using only oven-safe metal in air fryers is the same as why you would use oven-safe materials in a regular oven. The same principles apply to both oven-safe and non-safe materials.

Oven-safe materials are designed to withstand high temperatures for extended periods without melting, cracking, or experiencing other damage.

What about aluminum foil? You can use foil in an air fryer if it does not obstruct airflow. Consult your appliance’s manual to ensure compatibility with your specific model.

Common oven-safe metals include aluminum, stainless steel, and cast iron.

Some baking dishes combine these materials, such as cast aluminum. If the dish is deemed oven-safe, it is suitable for use.

Avoid using painted metal dishes or utensils in an air fryer. These paints are not heat-resistant and can be damaged quickly.

Another risk associated with painted metal items is the release of toxic gases when heated. These gases can be absorbed by your food, potentially causing serious health issues.

Also, refrain from placing wood or plastic in the air fryer. Ensure that metal dishes or trays do not have any wood or plastic finishes. Silicone handles are acceptable, provided they are metal, oven, and heatproof safe.

Other items to avoid placing in an air fryer include baking or parchment paper.

These materials can catch fire or impede air circulation within the chamber. Instead, use a fryer basket that drains excess juices or fat into the drip tray. Even using butter in an air fryer can be dangerous – you should avoid direct contact with the basket.

Here are examples of foods you shouldn’t cook in an air fryer:

• Battered foods.
• Fresh greens like spinach.
• Whole roasts.
• Cheese.
• Raw grains.
• Hamburgers.
• Toast.
• Popcorn.

FAQs