Can You Put Glass in an Air Fryer Safety Tips and Best Practices

Yes, you can put glass in an air fryer—but only if it’s labeled oven-safe and can withstand rapid temperature changes. Avoid regular or tempered glass that isn’t explicitly rated for high-heat cooking to prevent cracking or shattering. Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines and preheat carefully to ensure safe, effective air frying with glass bakeware.

Key Takeaways

• Only use oven-safe glass: Ensure glass is labeled for oven use to prevent shattering.
• Avoid sudden temperature changes: Preheat glass gradually to prevent thermal shock and breakage.
• Check air fryer compatibility: Confirm your model allows glass containers before use.
• Never place cold glass in a hot fryer: Let glass warm slightly to avoid cracks.
• Use tempered glass: It’s stronger and safer for high-heat air frying.
• Monitor cooking closely: Watch for signs of stress like cracking or discoloration.

The Great Air Fryer Debate: Can You Put Glass in an Air Fryer?

Air fryers have taken the culinary world by storm, offering a healthier way to enjoy crispy, delicious foods without the guilt of deep frying. From golden french fries to succulent chicken wings, these countertop appliances promise convenience, speed, and flavor. But as their popularity grows, so do the questions—especially about what materials are safe to use inside them. One of the most frequently asked questions by home cooks is: can you put glass in an air fryer?

This seemingly simple query opens the door to a broader conversation about safety, material science, and best practices in modern cooking. Unlike traditional ovens, which are designed to handle a wide range of cookware, air fryers operate differently. Their intense, rapid convection heating can create thermal shock in certain materials—especially glass. While it might be tempting to toss your favorite Pyrex dish into the air fryer basket for a quick lasagna or baked casserole, doing so could lead to cracked dishes, ruined meals, or even safety hazards. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore whether glass is truly air fryer-friendly, which types are safe, and how to use them correctly. Whether you’re a seasoned air fryer enthusiast or a first-time user, understanding the nuances of cookware compatibility is essential for safe and successful cooking.

How Air Fryers Work and Why Material Matters

To understand whether glass can safely go in an air fryer, it’s crucial to first grasp how these appliances function. Unlike conventional ovens that heat food from the outside in using radiant heat, air fryers rely on rapid air circulation to cook food evenly and achieve that coveted crispy texture. A powerful fan pushes superheated air (typically between 300°F and 400°F) around the food at high velocity, creating a convection effect similar to deep frying—but without submerging the food in oil.

The Role of Thermal Shock in Air Fryers

Thermal shock occurs when a material experiences a rapid change in temperature, causing internal stress that can lead to cracking or shattering. Glass is particularly vulnerable to thermal shock due to its low thermal conductivity and high coefficient of expansion. In a traditional oven, the temperature rises gradually, allowing glass dishes to heat uniformly. However, in an air fryer, the intense, focused airflow can create uneven heating zones—especially when cold glass is placed directly into a preheated basket or when hot glass is removed and exposed to a cooler environment.

For example, imagine placing a cold 9×13-inch glass baking dish into a 400°F air fryer. The outer surface of the glass heats up rapidly due to direct contact with hot air and metal surfaces, while the center remains cool. This temperature differential causes stress, and in the worst-case scenario, the dish cracks. Even if it doesn’t break immediately, microcracks can form, weakening the glass over time and increasing the risk of sudden failure during future use.

Air Fryer Design vs. Traditional Ovens

Air fryers are compact, with limited space and high airflow velocity. This design intensifies heat exposure and reduces the buffer zone that larger ovens provide. Most air fryers use a perforated metal basket that sits inside a heating chamber. When you place a glass dish in this basket, it’s not just the air that’s hot—the metal basket itself can reach extreme temperatures. If the glass dish touches the sides or bottom of the basket, it’s exposed to direct conduction heating, which further increases the risk of breakage.

Additionally, many air fryers have a “shake” or “flip” function that requires removing the basket mid-cooking. This means you’re handling hot glass, which can be dangerous if the dish has weakened or cracked during heating. Unlike oven-safe glassware, which is designed for gradual temperature changes and stable environments, air fryers present a more dynamic and aggressive heating scenario.

Types of Glass: What’s Safe and What’s Not

Not all glass is created equal—especially when it comes to heat resistance and durability in high-convection environments like air fryers. Understanding the differences between common types of glassware can help you make informed decisions and avoid kitchen mishaps.

Oven-Safe Tempered Glass (e.g., Pyrex, Borosilicate)

The most widely used glass for cooking is tempered glass, particularly borosilicate glass (like Pyrex and Anchor Hocking). This type of glass is specially formulated to withstand thermal stress. Borosilicate glass has a low coefficient of thermal expansion, meaning it expands and contracts less under temperature changes, reducing the risk of cracking.

• Pyrex: Originally made from borosilicate, modern Pyrex (post-1998) is typically made from tempered soda-lime glass, which is still oven-safe but less resistant to thermal shock than true borosilicate.
• Anchor Hocking: Offers both borosilicate and tempered soda-lime lines. Their “TrueSeal” and “Oven Basics” lines are oven-safe and often used for casseroles and baking.
• Heat resistance: Most oven-safe tempered glass can handle temperatures up to 425°F–450°F, but only when heated and cooled gradually.

Important: Even oven-safe glass is not inherently air fryer-safe. The rapid heating and airflow in air fryers can exceed the safe thermal gradient for these dishes, especially if not used correctly.

Non-Tempered Glass (e.g., Drinking Glasses, Decorative Dishes)

Everyday glassware—such as drinking glasses, mason jars, and decorative serving dishes—is not safe for air fryer use. These items are not designed for high heat and are highly susceptible to thermal shock. Even if they survive one use, repeated exposure to sudden temperature changes can cause them to shatter unexpectedly.

• Drinking glasses: Made from regular soda-lime glass with no tempering. Never use these in an air fryer.
• Mason jars: While some people use mason jars in ovens for canning, they are not rated for direct high-heat cooking in convection environments. The risk of explosion is real.
• Glass lids: Even if the dish is oven-safe, glass lids (especially those with metal rims) can trap heat and increase pressure, leading to breakage.

Specialty Air Fryer Glassware

Some manufacturers now produce air fryer-specific glass dishes designed to handle the intense convection environment. These dishes are often made from reinforced borosilicate or tempered glass and feature:

• Raised edges to prevent contact with the metal basket
• Non-slip silicone bases or handles
• Ventilation holes to allow even airflow

Brands like Cosori, Philips, and Instant Vortex offer compatible glass inserts and baking pans. These are the safest option if you want to use glass in your air fryer.

Safe Ways to Use Glass in an Air Fryer

While the risks are real, it is possible to use glass in an air fryer—if you follow strict safety guidelines and use the right techniques. The key is minimizing thermal shock and ensuring even heating.

Preheating and Temperature Management

One of the most effective ways to prevent thermal shock is to preheat the glass dish before placing it in the air fryer. Here’s how:

1. Place the glass dish in the air fryer basket before turning it on.
2. Set the air fryer to the desired temperature (e.g., 350°F).
3. Allow the dish to heat up slowly with the air fryer for 3–5 minutes.
4. Carefully remove the basket and add your ingredients.
5. Return the basket and cook as usual.

This method allows the glass to expand gradually, reducing internal stress. Never place a cold dish into a preheated air fryer.

Using a Liner or Barrier

To protect the glass and improve airflow, consider using a heat-resistant liner:

• Perforated parchment paper: Place it at the bottom of the glass dish to prevent food from sticking and to reduce direct contact with hot air.
• Silicone mats: These can sit under the dish to insulate it slightly and provide a non-slip surface.
• Aluminum foil (with caution): While foil can be used in air fryers, avoid covering the entire dish—this can trap heat and cause uneven cooking. Use foil only to cover the top for dishes like casseroles, and remove it halfway through cooking to allow browning.

Pro tip: Elevate the glass dish slightly using heat-safe silicone trivets or a small wire rack (designed for air fryers) to promote airflow underneath.

Choosing the Right Size and Shape

Not all glass dishes are suitable for air fryers. Follow these guidelines:

• Size: The dish should fit comfortably in the basket with at least 1 inch of clearance on all sides to allow airflow.
• Shape: Shallow, wide dishes (like casserole pans) work better than tall, narrow ones (like ramekins), which can block airflow.
• Depth: Aim for dishes no deeper than 2–3 inches to ensure even cooking.

For example, a 6-inch round glass pie dish or a small 7×7-inch glass casserole pan is ideal for air fryer use. Avoid large 9×13-inch dishes unless your air fryer is specifically designed to accommodate them (e.g., some dual-basket models).

What to Avoid: Common Mistakes and Risks

Even with precautions, there are several pitfalls that can compromise safety and cooking performance when using glass in an air fryer. Avoid these common mistakes to keep your kitchen safe and your meals delicious.

Placing Cold Glass in a Preheated Basket

This is the number one cause of glass breakage in air fryers. As mentioned earlier, the sudden temperature change can cause thermal shock. Always preheat the glass with the appliance or use room-temperature dishes.

Using Damaged or Scratched Glass

Even minor cracks or scratches weaken glass significantly. Before each use, inspect your glassware for:

• Hairline cracks
• Chips on the rim or base
• Cloudy or frosted areas (a sign of stress or etching)

Discard any damaged glass—don’t risk it. A cracked dish may not break during cooking, but it could shatter when handled, causing injury.

Overfilling or Overcrowding the Dish

Air fryers rely on airflow to cook food properly. Overfilling a glass dish with batter or ingredients can:

• Block hot air circulation
• Cause uneven cooking (raw in the center, burnt on top)
• Increase internal pressure, leading to cracking

For baked goods like brownies or cakes, fill the dish only halfway. For casseroles, leave at least 1 inch of space at the top.

Rapid Cooling After Cooking

Just as rapid heating is dangerous, so is rapid cooling. Never place a hot glass dish on a cold surface (like a marble countertop or metal sink). Instead:

• Let it cool in the air fryer for 5–10 minutes after turning it off.
• Use oven mitts to transfer it to a heat-resistant trivet or wooden board.
• Avoid placing it in the refrigerator or freezer immediately.

Alternatives to Glass: Safer and More Efficient Options

While glass can be used safely with caution, there are several better alternatives that are designed specifically for air fryers. These options offer improved performance, safety, and convenience.

Silicone Baking Molds and Liners

Silicone is heat-resistant (up to 450°F+), flexible, and non-stick—making it ideal for air fryers. Benefits include:

• No risk of thermal shock
• Easy release of baked goods
• Lightweight and space-saving

Use silicone muffin cups for cupcakes, loaf pans for banana bread, or even full-sized cake pans. Many brands offer air fryer-specific silicone sets with ventilation holes for optimal airflow.

Stainless Steel and Cast Iron Inserts

For dishes that require browning or searing, metal pans are superior:

• Stainless steel: Durable, non-reactive, and excellent for roasting vegetables or baking quiches.
• Cast iron: Provides excellent heat retention and can be used for skillet cakes or frittatas. Preheat it in the air fryer for best results.

Both materials conduct heat evenly and are less prone to breakage than glass.

Perforated Air Fryer Pans and Baking Trays

Many air fryers come with or offer compatible perforated metal pans that sit inside the basket. These are designed to mimic the function of a baking sheet while allowing air to circulate freely. They’re perfect for:

• Roasting vegetables
• Baking cookies
• Reheating leftovers

They’re also easier to clean and more durable than glass.

Data Table: Glass Types and Air Fryer Compatibility

Type of Glass	Thermal Shock Resistance	Max Safe Temp	Air Fryer Safe?	Notes
Borosilicate (e.g., vintage Pyrex)	High	500°F	Yes (with preheating)	Best for air fryer use; low expansion rate
Tempered Soda-Lime (e.g., modern Pyrex)	Medium	425°F	Conditionally safe	Use only if preheated; avoid thermal shocks
Anchor Hocking Oven Basics	Medium-High	450°F	Yes (with precautions)	Check for “oven-safe” label; avoid rapid temp changes
Drinking Glasses / Mason Jars	Low	300°F	No	High risk of shattering; never use
Decorative Glassware	Very Low	250°F	No	Not designed for cooking; unsafe
Air Fryer-Specific Glass Inserts	High (reinforced)	450°F	Yes	Designed for convection; safest glass option

Final Thoughts: Balancing Safety and Convenience

So, can you put glass in an air fryer? The answer is a cautious yes—but only under the right conditions. While oven-safe tempered glass, especially borosilicate types, can be used in air fryers, it requires careful handling to avoid thermal shock, cracking, or shattering. The key is understanding the limitations of glass and adapting your cooking methods accordingly.

For everyday use, consider switching to air fryer-specific accessories like silicone molds, stainless steel pans, or perforated metal trays. These materials are not only safer but also more efficient, offering better heat distribution and easier cleanup. However, if you prefer the aesthetic and functionality of glass—especially for casseroles, baked goods, or meal prep—just remember the golden rules: preheat the glass, avoid thermal shocks, inspect for damage, and never rush the cooling process.

Ultimately, the air fryer is a powerful tool that rewards informed use. By respecting its unique heating dynamics and choosing the right cookware, you can unlock its full potential—creating crispy, delicious meals safely and consistently. Whether you’re baking a chocolate cake, roasting a veggie medley, or reheating last night’s lasagna, the right approach ensures both culinary success and peace of mind. So go ahead—experiment wisely, and let your air fryer work its magic, one safe, satisfying meal at a time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you put glass in an air fryer safely?

Yes, but only if the glass is labeled as oven-safe or air fryer-safe (borosilicate or tempered glass). Regular glass may shatter due to rapid temperature changes.

What type of glass can you use in an air fryer?

Use borosilicate or tempered glass containers designed for high heat, such as Pyrex or Anchor Hocking. Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines to confirm air fryer compatibility.

Is it safe to put cold glass in a preheated air fryer?

No—always let glass containers warm up gradually. Sudden temperature shifts can cause thermal shock, leading to cracks or breakage.

Can you put a glass dish in an air fryer basket?

Yes, but ensure the dish fits without touching the heating element or blocking airflow. Leave at least 1 inch of space around the dish for optimal circulation.

Are glass containers better than metal in an air fryer?

Glass is ideal for even heating and avoiding scratches, but metal heats faster. Choose based on your cooking needs—glass for delicate foods, metal for crisping.

Can you put glass in an air fryer for baking?

Absolutely! Oven-safe glass is perfect for air fryer baking, like casseroles or desserts. Just monitor cook times, as glass may require slight adjustments.