Can Parchment Paper Go in an Air Fryer Find Out Here

Yes, parchment paper can safely go in an air fryer as long as it’s labeled heat-resistant and doesn’t cover the appliance’s heating elements or vents. Always pre-cut the paper to fit the basket and avoid direct contact with the heating coil to prevent burning or fire hazards. Using parchment paper simplifies cleanup and helps prevent food from sticking—just ensure proper airflow for optimal cooking results.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, parchment paper is air fryer-safe when used correctly and preheated.
• Use perforated parchment liners to ensure proper airflow and prevent fire hazards.
• Avoid non-stick coatings that may release harmful fumes at high heat.
• Secure edges with food weight to stop paper from blowing into heating elements.
• Never preheat with empty parchment—add food first to avoid combustion risks.
• Replace charred or torn liners immediately to maintain safety and performance.

Can Parchment Paper Go in an Air Fryer? The Definitive Guide

Air fryers have revolutionized modern cooking, offering a healthier alternative to deep frying while delivering crispy, golden results. From chicken wings to roasted vegetables, this compact kitchen appliance uses rapid hot air circulation to mimic the effects of oil immersion. But as air fryer usage grows, so do questions about best practices—especially when it comes to accessories and liners. One of the most common queries home chefs have: Can parchment paper go in an air fryer?

You’ve probably used parchment paper in your oven, baking sheet, or even on the grill. It’s a kitchen staple known for its non-stick properties and ability to prevent food from sticking while allowing moisture to escape. But the air fryer’s unique cooking environment—intense heat, high-speed air, and confined space—raises concerns about safety, performance, and longevity. Using the wrong liner can lead to smoke, fire hazards, or even damage to your appliance. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore whether parchment paper is a safe and effective choice for air frying, how to use it properly, what alternatives exist, and how to maximize your air fryer’s performance with confidence.

Understanding Parchment Paper and Its Properties

What Is Parchment Paper?

Parchment paper, also known as baking paper, is a cellulose-based paper that has been treated with a silicone coating. This coating gives it a non-stick surface and makes it heat-resistant, moisture-resistant, and grease-resistant. Unlike wax paper, which melts under high heat, parchment paper can withstand temperatures up to 420°F to 450°F (215°C to 230°C), depending on the brand. This makes it ideal for baking cookies, roasting vegetables, and lining cake pans in conventional ovens.

The silicone treatment also prevents food from sticking, eliminating the need for excessive oil or spray—perfect for health-conscious cooks. It’s also reusable for some applications (though not recommended for air fryers after one use), easy to cut to size, and widely available in grocery stores and online. But its oven-safe reputation doesn’t automatically make it air fryer-safe.

Heat Resistance and Safety Ratings

Most high-quality parchment papers are rated for oven use at temperatures up to 450°F. Air fryers typically operate between 325°F and 400°F, which falls within this range. However, the key difference lies in how the heat is applied. In an oven, heat radiates evenly and slowly. In an air fryer, a powerful fan circulates hot air at high speed, creating turbulent conditions that can dislodge loose materials like paper.

Additionally, some low-quality or unbranded parchment papers may not be uniformly coated with silicone, leading to hot spots or even ignition if the paper touches the heating element. Always check the packaging for explicit oven and high-heat safety certifications. Look for labels like “oven-safe up to 450°F” or “suitable for baking and roasting.” Avoid any paper labeled as “parchment-style” without clear heat ratings.

Common Misconceptions About Parchment Paper

• Myth: “All parchment paper is the same.” – False. Thickness, silicone coating, and heat resistance vary by brand.
• Myth: “If it works in the oven, it works in the air fryer.” – Not always. Air flow and space constraints matter.
• Myth: “Parchment paper is completely fireproof.” – It’s fire-resistant, not fireproof. Prolonged contact with heating elements can cause charring or smoke.

Understanding these nuances is critical before placing parchment paper in your air fryer. The next section will explore whether it’s actually safe—and under what conditions.

Is It Safe to Use Parchment Paper in an Air Fryer?

The Short Answer: Yes, With Conditions

Yes, parchment paper can go in an air fryer, but only when used correctly. The primary concern is not the paper’s heat tolerance, but its placement and stability within the air fryer basket. If the paper is loose, oversized, or placed directly under or over the heating element, it can flutter into the fan or heating coil, causing smoke, sparks, or even a fire hazard.

Manufacturers like Ninja, Cosori, and Philips explicitly state in their user manuals that parchment paper is acceptable—but with caveats. For example, Ninja recommends using parchment paper only if it’s cut to fit the basket and weighted down with food. They also warn against using paper with pre-cut holes unless designed specifically for air fryers.

How Air Flow Affects Parchment Paper

Air fryers rely on rapid air circulation to cook food evenly and achieve crispiness. When you place a piece of parchment paper in the basket, you’re partially obstructing this airflow. If the paper is too large or not secured, it can flap around, reducing cooking efficiency or even blocking the fan. This not only affects performance but also increases the risk of the paper touching the heating element.

To mitigate this, always use parchment paper that’s cut to fit the bottom of the air fryer basket, with minimal overhang. Leave at least a ½-inch margin around the edges to allow air to circulate freely. Never cover the entire surface—especially not the sides or top—where air vents are located.

Real-World Examples: Safe vs. Unsafe Use

• Safe: Cutting a 7-inch round parchment sheet to fit a 5.5-quart air fryer basket and placing a batch of marinated salmon on top. The fish weighs down the paper, and air flows around the edges.
• Unsafe: Using a full 9×13 inch sheet in a 4-quart air fryer, allowing corners to curl and flutter into the heating coil. This can cause smoke or fire.
• Safe: Using a perforated parchment liner designed for air fryers, which includes small holes to promote air flow.
• Unsafe: Placing parchment paper on top of food (e.g., as a cover) to prevent splatter. This blocks airflow and can melt or ignite.

Always preheat your air fryer before adding food—this reduces the chance of paper fluttering during the initial heat surge. And never run the air fryer empty with parchment paper inside, even for preheating.

How to Use Parchment Paper in an Air Fryer (Step-by-Step Guide)

Step 1: Choose the Right Parchment Paper

Not all parchment papers are created equal. For air fryer use, opt for:

• High-quality, unbleached parchment paper with a thick silicone coating
• Brands that explicitly state “oven-safe up to 450°F” or “suitable for high-heat cooking”
• Pre-cut air fryer liners (optional but convenient)

Avoid cheap, flimsy papers or those with wax coatings. These can melt, smoke, or catch fire.

Step 2: Measure and Cut the Paper

Remove your air fryer basket and trace its base onto the parchment paper. Use scissors or a craft knife to cut a round or square shape that fits snugly inside, with no overhang. For most 3.5 to 5.5-quart air fryers, a 7 to 8-inch diameter circle works well. For square baskets, cut a piece slightly smaller than the base.

Pro Tip: Keep a template of your basket size for future use. You can also use a compass or a round object (like a plate) to trace a perfect circle.

Step 3: Pre-Cut Holes for Air Flow (Optional)

While not required, cutting small ¼-inch holes in a grid pattern across the parchment paper can improve air circulation and prevent soggy food. This is especially helpful for items like fries, nuggets, or battered foods. However, avoid cutting too many holes—this weakens the paper and increases flutter risk.

Alternatively, purchase pre-perforated air fryer parchment liners, which are designed with airflow in mind. These often have a slightly raised edge to prevent food from sliding off and are made from thicker, more durable paper.

Step 4: Place Food on the Paper

Once the parchment paper is cut and (optionally) perforated, place it in the air fryer basket. Then add your food, ensuring it covers at least 70% of the paper surface. This weight prevents the paper from moving during cooking. For example:

• Place 6 chicken drumsticks on the paper
• Arrange 1 lb of frozen fries in a single layer
• Put a salmon fillet with lemon slices on top

Do not leave large gaps—unweighted areas are more likely to lift and flutter.

Step 5: Monitor During Cooking

Even with proper placement, keep an eye on the air fryer during the first 5–10 minutes of cooking. Look for signs of:

• Smoke or burning smell
• Paper lifting or moving
• Discoloration or charring

If any of these occur, stop the air fryer immediately, remove the basket, and check the paper. Do not continue cooking if the paper is compromised.

Step 6: Discard or Reuse (With Caution)

Used parchment paper from air frying is typically not reusable due to grease buildup, food residue, and potential structural weakening. However, if it’s lightly used (e.g., for baking cookies), you can reuse it once for a similar task. Never reuse paper that’s been exposed to high-fat foods like bacon or oil-heavy marinades.

Best Alternatives to Parchment Paper for Air Frying

1. Air Fryer-Specific Silicone Liners

Silicone liners are a reusable, eco-friendly alternative to parchment paper. Made from food-grade silicone, these mats are heat-resistant up to 480°F and designed to fit air fryer baskets. They have raised edges to prevent food from sliding and small holes for air flow.

Pros: Dishwasher-safe, long-lasting, non-stick, no waste
Cons: Slightly more expensive upfront, can retain odors if not cleaned properly

Tip: Brands like OXO, AmazonBasics, and Kitchy offer high-quality silicone mats in various sizes.

2. Perforated Air Fryer Parchment Liners (Pre-Cut)

These are parchment papers specifically designed for air fryers. They come in packs of 50–100 and are pre-cut to fit popular air fryer models (e.g., Ninja, Instant Vortex). Many include small holes for airflow and are made from thicker paper.

Pros: Convenient, no cutting required, optimized for air flow
Cons: Still single-use, not recyclable if greasy

Example: The “Air Fryer Liners” by HOMKULA are highly rated for 5.8-quart baskets and include 100 pre-cut, perforated sheets.

3. Silicone-Coated Air Fryer Baskets or Trays

Some air fryers come with or offer optional non-stick silicone inserts that replace the standard basket. These are ideal for sticky or delicate foods like fish, eggs, or baked goods.

Pros: Reusable, easy to clean, excellent non-stick performance
Cons: Limited availability, may not fit all models

4. Light Oil Spray or Cooking Spray

For many foods, a light coating of avocado oil, olive oil, or cooking spray on the air fryer basket is sufficient to prevent sticking. This method requires no liner and allows maximum air flow.

Pros: Enhances crispiness, no waste, cost-effective
Cons: Requires regular basket cleaning, not ideal for very sticky foods

5. Aluminum Foil (With Caution)

Aluminum foil can be used in air fryers, but only if weighted down with food and not covering the entire basket. It’s not non-stick, so you’ll still need oil. Also, avoid acidic foods (like tomatoes or lemon juice) that can react with foil.

Pros: Blocks smoke, good for high-fat foods
Cons: Not non-stick, can block airflow if misused, not eco-friendly

Data Table: Parchment Paper vs. Alternatives for Air Frying

Option	Heat Resistance	Non-Stick?	Reusable?	Air Flow	Eco-Friendly?	Best For
Parchment Paper	Up to 450°F	Yes	No (usually)	Good (if cut properly)	No (grease-soiled)	Baked goods, fish, sticky marinades
Silicone Liners	Up to 480°F	Yes	Yes (100+ uses)	Excellent	Yes	Daily use, eggs, delicate items
Pre-Cut Parchment Liners	Up to 450°F	Yes	No	Very Good	No	Convenience, large batches
Oil Spray	N/A	Partial	N/A	Excellent	Yes	Vegetables, meats, fries
Aluminum Foil	Up to 500°F	No	No	Fair (if weighted)	No	High-fat foods, smoke control

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Using Oversized or Loose Paper

One of the most frequent mistakes is using parchment paper that’s too large. Even a small overhang can curl and touch the heating element. Always measure your basket and cut paper to fit precisely.

Placing Paper on Top of Food

Some users try to cover food with parchment paper to prevent splatter or retain moisture. This blocks air flow and can cause the paper to melt or ignite. Instead, use the air fryer’s lid or a splatter guard designed for the model.

Ignoring Preheating

Preheating stabilizes the internal temperature and reduces the chance of paper fluttering. Always preheat for 3–5 minutes before adding food and parchment paper.

Using Damaged or Worn Paper

Crinkled, torn, or previously used parchment paper may have weak spots that tear or ignite. Use fresh paper for each cook session.

Overloading the Basket

While parchment paper helps with cleanup, overloading the basket with food can compress the paper and block air vents. Maintain a single layer of food for best results.

By avoiding these pitfalls, you can safely enjoy the benefits of parchment paper in your air fryer—crispier food, easier cleanup, and less oil.

In conclusion, parchment paper can go in an air fryer—but only when used with care and attention to detail. The key is proper sizing, weighting with food, and choosing high-quality, heat-resistant paper. While alternatives like silicone liners offer reusable convenience, parchment paper remains a practical, affordable option for many air frying tasks. Whether you’re roasting vegetables, baking salmon, or reheating leftovers, using parchment paper correctly can enhance your cooking experience while keeping your air fryer clean and safe. Just remember: when in doubt, opt for pre-cut liners or silicone mats, and always prioritize airflow and stability. With this guide, you’re now equipped to make the most of your air fryer—no guesswork, no smoke, just delicious results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can parchment paper go in an air fryer safely?

Yes, parchment paper is safe to use in an air fryer as long as it doesn’t block the airflow or touch the heating element. Always trim the paper to fit the basket and weigh it down with food to prevent it from blowing around.

Is parchment paper necessary for air fryer cooking?

While not mandatory, parchment paper helps prevent food from sticking and simplifies cleanup. It’s especially useful for delicate items like fish or baked goods, but ensure proper airflow for optimal crispiness.

Can I use parchment paper in an air fryer at high temperatures?

Parchment paper is heat-resistant up to about 425°F (220°C), making it safe for most air fryer recipes. Avoid exceeding its temperature limit to prevent scorching or fire hazards.

Does parchment paper affect air fryer performance?

Using parchment paper in an air fryer can slightly reduce crispiness if it blocks too much airflow. Poke holes or use perforated parchment liners to maintain even cooking and circulation.

What’s the best way to keep parchment paper from flying in an air fryer?

Cut the parchment paper slightly smaller than your air fryer basket and press it down with food before cooking. Avoid letting excess paper flap freely near the heating element.

Can parchment paper go in an air fryer with oil?

Yes, parchment paper is safe to use with oil in an air fryer. It helps prevent sticking without affecting flavor, but lightly coat the paper with oil to avoid dry spots on food.