Can You Put Metal in an Air Fryer?

Air fryers have become increasingly popular in recent years as a healthy alternative to deep frying. Their convection heating technology allows you to make crispy fried favorites like chicken wings, french fries, and more using little to no oil. But what types of cookware can you use in your air fryer? Specifically, is it safe to put metal pans, trays, or baskets in an air fryer?

How Air Fryers Work

Air fryers work by rapidly circulating hot air around food to produce a crispy, fried finish. A heating element and fan are located in the top or side of the appliance. As the heating element warms up, the fan starts circulating the hot air around and throughout the cooking chamber. This allows food to cook evenly and develop a crispy outer layer.

Unlike deep fryers that submerge food in hot oil, air fryers rely on air as the heating medium. The rapid airflow mimics the results of deep frying without all the excess oil.

Is Metal Safe in an Air Fryer?

Most air fryer manufacturers specify that only certain types of metal are safe to use. In particular, coated or painted metal should be avoided as the high heat can damage the coating and expose the bare metal. Bare metal is also not recommended as it can interfere with the airflow.

However, there are some instances where using metal in an air fryer is considered safe:

• Stainless steel – Uncoated stainless steel mesh or perforated baskets are common in air fryers. Stainless steel can withstand the high heat without flaking or releasing toxins.
• Aluminum foil – Using a small sheet of foil to cover part of the basket is generally safe. This can help prevent delicate foods from overcooking. Avoid large sheets that can disrupt airflow.
• Metal skewers or grilling baskets – Small metal accessories like skewers or vegetable grilling baskets will not interfere with the convection process.
• Enameled cast iron – Cast iron Dutch ovens with enamel coating are popular for cooking meats and braising in an air fryer. The enamel prevents damage to the air fryer.
• Metal baking pans – Uncoated metal baking pans, cake pans, and muffin tins are often safe if used for short cook times at lower temperatures. Avoid prolonged high heat.

Dangers of Putting Metal in an Air Fryer

There are a few risks associated with putting the wrong types of metal in an air fryer:

• Damaging the coating – Any coated or painted metal could start chipping, flaking, or melting when exposed to 400°F heat. This could release toxic chemicals into food.
• Blocking airflow – Solid metal plates or pans can prevent air from properly circulating, leading to uneven cooking.
• Overheating – Bare metals like aluminum or copper can absorb and retain heat, potentially causing appliances to overheat.
• Melting – Thin aluminum foil and tin foils may melt from the convection heat and make a mess.
• Food contamination – Metals can leach or transfer molecules to food when heated, especially reactive metals like aluminum.
• Sparking – If metal touches the heating element, it could cause dangerous sparking.

To avoid potential damage and safety hazards, refer to your air fryer’s instruction manual for which metals can safely be used. When in doubt, stick to heat-safe stainless steel, cast iron, or ceramic cookware. Avoid aluminum foil or uncoated metal. With the right containers, your air fryer will cook food to crispy perfection.

Key Takeaways:

• Air fryers use rapid hot air circulation to create crispy fried finishes without oil.
• Stainless steel, aluminum foil (in moderation), metal skewers, enameled cast iron, and some baking pans are generally safe.
• Coated or painted metals can damage the coating at high heat.
• Bare metals can disrupt airflow, overheat the appliance, transfer molecules to food, or spark.
• Check your air fryer manual for recommended cookware. When uncertain, opt for stainless steel or ceramic.
• Avoid aluminum foil, uncoated metal, and any metals that may interfere with airflow.