What Plate Can I Put In Air Fryer? Safe Guide

Air fryers promise crispy deliciousness with a fraction of the oil of traditional frying. This makes them appealing to those watching their waistlines or just seeking cooking convenience. But as you explore the world of air frying and try out different recipes, a common question pops up: what plate can I put in air fryer to make air frying even easier?

We’ve all been there, staring into the air fryer basket, wondering if we can skip a step and just pop a plate in there. An air fryer cooks food by utilizing the circulation of hot air to achieve efficient cooking results. This article will answer all your questions about using plates safely and effectively in your air fryer.

You’ll also learn about the different types of plates that are compatible with air fryers and those that should never come near the appliance. Plus, we’ll provide helpful alternatives and tips for safe air frying.

Jump to:

• Understanding the Basics: Can You Put a Plate in an Air Fryer?
• Choosing Safe and Suitable Options
• Benefits of Using Plates in the Air Fryer
• Additional Tips: Air Fryer Safety
• What About Liners? Additional Air Fryer Accessories
• FAQs
• Conclusion

Understanding the Basics: Can You Put a Plate in an Air Fryer?

So, can you put a plate in an air fryer? Well, the answer is not a simple yes or no. Technically, you can put a plate in an air fryer, but only if it’s made of a material that can withstand high temperatures. Think of your air fryer as a miniature convection oven.

If you can safely put a dish in a conventional oven, then, generally, it can withstand the heat inside an air fryer. The most important factor is ensuring your plate is labeled as “oven-safe”.

This usually means it can handle temperatures up to at least 400°F (204°C), the standard high heat of most air fryers. It is crucial to use oven-safe materials like silicone molds, metal plates, and glass dishes to ensure safety and effective cooking.

A quick way to check is to look for an oven-safe symbol on the bottom of the plate, usually a flame icon inside a circle. You can usually find this symbol alongside details about whether the plate is dishwasher or microwave-safe. If you’re unsure, always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Why Does Material Matter?

The high heat generated by an air fryer can cause certain materials to melt, warp, or even release harmful chemicals into your food. That’s why it’s crucial to be cautious about what plate you do put in air fryer. Materials like paper and cardboard can catch fire when exposed to the high temperatures of an air fryer.

Avoid these materials at all costs:

• Plastic: Plastic plates will melt in an air fryer and can release harmful toxins. Yes, even those labeled “microwave-safe,” as microwaves operate at lower temperatures.
• Paper Plates: Paper plates are a fire hazard and won’t hold up to high temperatures. Plus, they’ll likely absorb moisture, making your food soggy instead of crispy.
• Cardboard: Similar to paper plates, cardboard is extremely flammable and should never go in your air fryer.
• Melamine: While some melamine plates might claim to be heat-resistant, they often cannot handle the consistent high temperatures of an air fryer.

Also read: Gourmia vs Power XL Air Fryer: Which Cooks Best?

Choosing Safe and Suitable Options

Now that we've covered what not to put in an air fryer, let's discuss the best options when deciding what type of plate can be put in the air fryer safely:

1. Ceramic Dishes

Ceramic is a great choice for air fryer cooking as long as it's oven-safe. You can find ceramic bowls, plates, and even small casserole dishes that fit perfectly in most air fryer baskets. They offer even heat distribution, easy cleanup, and a visually appealing way to serve food right from the air fryer.

Two types of ceramic dishes work well in air fryers:

• Ceramic Cookware: These are your casseroles, baking dishes, and even ramekins, often coated with a heat-resistant glaze for added durability.
• Ceramic Crockery: Your everyday plates and bowls fall under this category. Ensure they're oven-safe before using them in your air fryer.

2. Glass Cookware

Oven-safe glass dishes, like Pyrex, can be used in air fryers. It is crucial to use heat-resistant and oven-safe glass plates to avoid cracking or shattering due to thermal stress.

These dishes provide similar benefits to ceramic—they’re non-reactive, heat evenly, and allow you to monitor your food as it cooks. But a word of caution—glass is susceptible to thermal shock. So, avoid placing cold glass directly into a preheated air fryer. Let it come to room temperature first.

Pyrex dishes, made from borosilicate glass, are more resistant to thermal shock than other types of glass, making them a better option. Look for tempered or borosilicate glass to be extra cautious.

Just as a reminder—avoid any glass dish with non-oven-safe decorations, especially those with metallic accents. Consider glass bakeware for your next air-fried meal.

See some tips here: When To Use Bake Setting on Air Fryer: Expert Tips and Recipes

3. Metal Dishes

You might be surprised, but you can use metal in an air fryer, too. However, this comes with several caveats.

Here are the most important things to keep in mind:

• Avoid Sharp Edges: Ensure the metal dish doesn't have any sharp edges or points that could damage your air fryer's interior.
• No Non-Stick Coatings: Don't use metal dishes with non-stick coatings, as the high heat can cause the coating to break down and release potentially toxic fumes. Stick with bare metal.

Here are a few suitable metal options:

• Stainless Steel: Stainless steel bowls are great for dishes like air fryer turkey breast. They heat up quickly and evenly, making them suitable for a range of air fryer recipes. Stainless steel bowls are also great for cooking methods that require high heat. Avoid using any lids.
• Cast Iron: Cast iron skillets, renowned for their heat retention, are also great for air fryers. But be prepared for a longer cooking time, as cast iron takes longer to heat. Cast iron pans add a nice sear and are great for one-pan meals in the air fryer. Using a cast iron skillet will ensure your food cooks evenly and gets that crispy texture you crave.
• Metal Baking Pans & Trays: Like those used for pizzas or cakes, metal pans, and trays are usually safe for air fryers. Steel plates are a great option. Their shallow sides encourage even cooking.

Related: Can You Put Aluminum Foil In An Air Fryer?

4. Silicone

Silicone molds and liners are popular air fryer companions for their flexibility and non-stick properties. Silicone baking is a breeze because you won’t have to worry about food sticking. Silicone molds are especially popular for baking treats. Just make sure they're made from food-grade, oven-safe silicone and can handle temperatures up to 400°F.

Learn more here: What Containers Are Air Fryer Safe?

Check out some of these delicious air fryer recipes: Recipes

Benefits of Using Plates in the Air Fryer

Now that we have a clearer picture of what plates can be used in an air fryer, let's consider some advantages. While the air fryer basket is designed for most tasks, sometimes a plate is a better option:

• Easy Cleanup: Plates act as a barrier between your food and the air fryer basket, making cleanup easier. They’re also great for cooking delicate foods. Just make sure you pick a dishwasher-safe material.
• Portion Control: Plates help you portion food accurately. They also allow you to cook different foods at varying temperatures if your air fryer has multiple cooking zones.
• Versatility: Using oven-safe plates opens up many possibilities. For example, you can reheat leftovers in an oven-safe dish or try an air-fryer brownie recipe directly in a small cake pan. Imagine enjoying freshly baked goods without ever turning on your oven.
• Presentation: A nice dish can elevate your air fryer meals from casual to company-worthy, eliminating extra dishes to wash.

See some tips here: 7 Common Air Fryer Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Additional Tips: Air Fryer Safety

While using the right dish is crucial, there are a few additional safety tips to consider:

• Size Matters: Your chosen plate must fit comfortably inside the air fryer basket, allowing for proper airflow. This is essential for even cooking.
• Preheating: While it's tempting to throw everything in at once, avoid putting cold dishes into a hot air fryer. Preheat both the air fryer and the plate if needed, to avoid cracking.
• Handle With Care: Always use oven mitts when handling hot dishes and plates in and out of the air fryer. And don't forget, those metal plates get hot.
• Watch Those Handles: Avoid plates with large or protruding handles that can obstruct the air fryer’s airflow and impact how well your food cooks. It's all about letting the hot air circulate freely. Fryer safety is paramount.

Also read: How Do Air Fryers Cook So Fast: Secrets To Speedy Cooking!

What About Liners? Additional Air Fryer Accessories

Besides plates, liners can make your air-frying experience even better. Here are a few popular options:

• Silicone Liners: Reusable, flexible, and non-stick. What's not to love? Walled silicone liners line the sides and bottom of your air fryer basket for total protection, while flat silicone liners are perfect for just the base.
• Parchment Paper: While single-use, parchment paper is a cost-effective choice, especially for messier recipes. It keeps food from sticking, prevents excess dripping, and simplifies cleanup. Parchment paper is one of the most popular air fryer accessories.
• Aluminum Foil: While not ideal for acidic foods due to potential leaching concerns, you can use aluminum foil to contain spills in a pinch. Ensure the foil is well secured to the sides of the basket with food placed on top. This prevents it from blowing around and potentially touching the heating element.

Related: Silicone vs Parchment Paper for Air Fryer

Conclusion

As we’ve learned, the answer is nuanced but manageable. The key is choosing materials designed for high heat—namely, oven-safe ceramic, tempered glass (especially Pyrex), and certain metals without non-stick coatings.

Knowing this will not only prevent a kitchen mishap but will ensure you have peace of mind, knowing you are cooking safely. So explore the versatility of your air fryer, and remember always err on the side of caution when it comes to choosing cookware and accessories for your appliance. Happy air frying!