Can I Use Pyrex in an Air Fryer Find Out Here

Yes, you can safely use Pyrex in an air fryer as long as it’s labeled oven-safe and fits securely without touching the heating element. Avoid sudden temperature changes—always preheat the air fryer and never place cold Pyrex directly into a hot basket to prevent cracking or shattering.

Key Takeaways

• Pyrex is air fryer-safe: Use it confidently if labeled oven-safe and preheated properly.
• Check for cracks: Inspect Pyrex before use to prevent breakage from thermal stress.
• Preheat Pyrex: Warm it gradually to avoid sudden temperature shocks in the air fryer.
• Avoid extreme temps: Don’t place cold Pyrex directly into a hot air fryer basket.
• Use lower temps: Cook at or below 400°F (200°C) for safer, even heating.
• Opt for smaller dishes: Ensure Pyrex fits without blocking air fryer’s airflow.

Can I Use Pyrex in an Air Fryer? Find Out Here

Imagine this: you’ve just pulled a perfectly golden, crispy lasagna from your air fryer, and you’re ready to serve. But wait—did you just use a Pyrex dish? If that thought makes you pause, you’re not alone. Air fryers have become kitchen staples for their speed, convenience, and ability to create crunchy foods with minimal oil. But when it comes to cookware, things get a little murky. Can you really use your favorite Pyrex casserole dish in an air fryer? It’s a question I’ve asked myself more than once, especially when I’m trying to avoid dirtying multiple pans or want to cook and serve from the same dish.

Pyrex is a household name, known for its durability and heat resistance. We’ve all used it in the oven or microwave without a second thought. But air fryers are a different beast. They use rapid, circulating hot air—sometimes up to 400°F—which can stress glass if it’s not designed for such conditions. The short answer? Yes, you can use Pyrex in an air fryer, but only under the right conditions. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know: what Pyrex is made of, the risks of thermal shock, which types are safe, and how to use them without cracking your favorite dish. Whether you’re a seasoned air fryer pro or just starting out, this is the real talk you need before placing that dish inside.

Understanding Pyrex: What Makes It Different?

The History and Composition of Pyrex

Pyrex has been around since the early 1900s, originally developed by Corning Glass Works for railroad lanterns. The name “Pyrex” comes from the Greek word *pyro*, meaning fire—fitting for a material designed to handle heat. Early Pyrex was made from borosilicate glass, a type of glass containing boron trioxide, which gives it an extremely low coefficient of thermal expansion. That means it can handle sudden temperature changes (like going from fridge to oven) without cracking.

However, in the 1980s, Corning sold the Pyrex brand to World Kitchen, and the composition changed. In the U.S., most Pyrex sold today is made from soda-lime glass, not borosilicate. This shift is crucial because soda-lime glass is more prone to thermal shock. While it’s still heat-resistant, it can’t handle the rapid temperature swings as well as its older cousin.

Why This Matters for Air Fryers

Air fryers work by circulating hot air at high speeds, often heating food from all sides. This is great for crisping chicken wings or baking muffins, but it can create uneven heat distribution in cookware. If you place a cold Pyrex dish into a preheated air fryer, the outside heats up quickly while the inside stays cool. This temperature difference causes stress, leading to cracks or even shattering.

Here’s a real-life example: I once placed a Pyrex pie dish straight from the fridge into a 375°F air fryer to reheat a quiche. Within minutes, I heard a faint *crack*. By the time I pulled it out, the dish had split cleanly in half. The culprit? Thermal shock. Lesson learned: temperature changes matter more than the heat itself.

Thermal Shock: The Real Danger of Using Pyrex in Air Fryers

What Is Thermal Shock?

Thermal shock occurs when a material experiences a rapid temperature change, causing internal stress. Glass, especially soda-lime glass, expands when heated and contracts when cooled. If one part heats or cools faster than another, the uneven expansion creates cracks. Think of it like a car windshield cracking in winter when you blast hot air on it—same principle.

Air fryers are particularly risky because they heat up quickly. Many models reach 400°F in under 5 minutes. If your Pyrex dish is at room temperature (say, 70°F), that’s a 330°F jump in seconds. Even if the glass is “heat-resistant,” it’s not designed for such rapid transitions.

Signs Your Pyrex Is at Risk

• Pre-existing scratches or chips: Tiny imperfections act as stress concentrators, making cracks more likely.
• Sudden temperature changes: Going from freezer to air fryer? Big no-no.
• Uneven heating: If your air fryer basket has hot spots, the dish may heat unevenly.
• Old or damaged Pyrex: Glass degrades over time. If your dish is decades old, it’s more brittle.

Pro tip: Always inspect your Pyrex for hairline cracks before using it. Hold it up to the light—if you see tiny lines, toss it. A cracked dish is a hazard waiting to happen.

Which Pyrex Dishes Are Safe to Use in Air Fryers?

Borosilicate vs. Soda-Lime Pyrex: The Key Difference

Not all Pyrex is created equal. If you have borosilicate glass Pyrex (usually marked on the bottom), you’re in luck. These dishes can handle rapid temperature changes and are safe for air fryers. They’re more common in Europe and specialty stores, so check the label carefully.

For soda-lime Pyrex (most U.S. versions), the rules are stricter:

• Only use it for preheated dishes: If the food is already warm (e.g., leftovers from the fridge, not freezer), the temperature jump is smaller.
• Preheat the dish: Place it in the air fryer while the appliance heats up (set to 200°F for 5 minutes).
• Use lower temperatures: Stick to 350°F or below to reduce thermal stress.
• Avoid sudden cooling: Never place a hot dish on a cold surface (like a granite counter) or add cold ingredients.

Best Pyrex Types for Air Fryers

Pyrex Type	Material	Safe for Air Fryer?	Tips
Borosilicate Pyrex	Glass with boron	✅ Yes	Can handle rapid heating/cooling. Great for baking and crisping.
Soda-Lime Pyrex (new)	Glass with sodium	⚠️ With precautions	Preheat dish, avoid temperature swings, use ≤350°F.
Soda-Lime Pyrex (old/damaged)	Glass with sodium	❌ No	Discard if scratched, chipped, or cracked.

For example, I use my borosilicate Pyrex casserole dish to make individual frittatas in the air fryer. I preheat the dish with the air fryer, add the egg mixture, and cook at 320°F for 12 minutes. No issues—just fluffy, golden perfection. But for my soda-lime Pyrex pie plate, I only use it to reheat pre-cooked pies at 300°F after warming the dish first.

How to Safely Use Pyrex in Your Air Fryer

Step-by-Step Guide for Safe Cooking

Using Pyrex in an air fryer isn’t impossible—it just requires strategy. Follow these steps to avoid disasters:

1. Check the dish: No cracks, chips, or scratches.
2. Preheat the air fryer: Set it to 200°F and let it run for 5 minutes.
3. Preheat the Pyrex: Place the empty dish in the basket during this time. This reduces the temperature gap.
4. Add ingredients: Pour in your batter, casserole, or leftovers.
5. Increase temperature: Set to your desired heat (≤350°F for soda-lime).
6. Monitor cooking: Check at the halfway point to avoid overcooking.
7. Cool gradually: Remove the dish and let it sit on a trivet or wooden cutting board—never a cold surface.

Recipes That Work Great in Pyrex

• Individual quiches or frittatas: Preheat a small Pyrex ramekin, add eggs, veggies, and cheese, then air fry at 320°F for 10–12 minutes.
• Mini casseroles: Layer ground turkey, rice, and cheese in a 6-inch Pyrex dish. Cook at 350°F for 15–18 minutes.
• Reheating leftovers: Warm a Pyrex dish first, then add your food. Reheat at 300°F for 5–7 minutes.
• Brownie bites: Pour batter into a greased Pyrex mini-muffin pan. Bake at 330°F for 10–12 minutes.

One of my favorite hacks? Using a Pyrex loaf pan to make air fryer meatloaf. Preheat the pan, add the mixture, and cook at 350°F for 25 minutes. The edges get crispy, the center stays moist, and cleanup is a breeze.

Alternatives to Pyrex: When Glass Isn’t the Best Option

Why You Might Want to Switch

Even with precautions, glass has limitations. It’s heavy, can shatter if dropped, and isn’t always the best conductor of heat. For certain air fryer tasks, other materials outperform Pyrex:

• Metal (aluminum, stainless steel): Conducts heat evenly, lightweight, and durable. Ideal for crisping or high-heat cooking (e.g., chicken tenders).
• Silicone: Flexible, non-stick, and heat-safe up to 450°F. Perfect for muffins, egg cups, or delicate foods.
• Oven-safe ceramic: Retains heat well and is great for casseroles, but avoid drastic temperature changes.

Best Air Fryer-Safe Alternatives

Material	Pros	Cons	Best For
Aluminum	Lightweight, conducts heat well, affordable	Can warp at high temps, not non-stick	Crispy foods, roasting
Stainless Steel	Durable, doesn’t warp, dishwasher-safe	Can stick without oil, heavy	Meats, stir-fries
Silicone	Non-stick, flexible, easy to clean	Can absorb odors, not for high-heat searing	Baking, delicate foods
Ceramic	Retains heat, oven-safe, attractive	Heavy, can crack with thermal shock	Casseroles, baking

For instance, I use a silicone egg mold to make air fryer poached eggs—no sticking, no mess. And for crispy Brussels sprouts, a lightweight aluminum tray ensures even browning. But for dishes that need to go straight from air fryer to table, I still reach for Pyrex (when it’s borosilicate or carefully preheated).

Final Thoughts: Balancing Convenience and Safety

So, can you use Pyrex in an air fryer? The answer is a cautious yes—but with conditions. Borosilicate Pyrex is the safest bet, while soda-lime Pyrex requires extra care to avoid thermal shock. Remember: the goal isn’t just to avoid cracked glass; it’s to cook delicious, stress-free meals. By preheating your dish, monitoring temperatures, and choosing the right recipes, you can enjoy the convenience of one-pot cooking without the drama of shattered glass.

At the end of the day, your air fryer is a tool, and Pyrex is another tool. When used wisely, they work beautifully together. But if you’re ever in doubt, opt for a metal or silicone alternative. And hey, if you’ve already had a Pyrex disaster (we’ve all been there), take it as a lesson in kitchen science. After all, every cracked dish teaches us something—like the importance of patience, preheating, and knowing when to swap materials.

So next time you’re tempted to toss that Pyrex into the air fryer, pause. Ask yourself: Is it borosilicate? Is it warm? Is the temperature reasonable? If the answer to all three is yes, go ahead and cook with confidence. If not, maybe it’s time to reach for that trusty silicone mold instead. Happy air frying—and stay safe out there!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Pyrex in an air fryer safely?

Yes, most Pyrex glassware is safe to use in an air fryer as long as it’s labeled oven-safe and you avoid sudden temperature changes. Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines and ensure the dish fits without touching the heating element.

What types of Pyrex dishes work best in an air fryer?

Oven-safe Pyrex glass bowls, casserole dishes, and baking pans are ideal for air fryer use. Avoid cold glass straight from the fridge—preheat it gradually to prevent cracking due to thermal shock.

Is it okay to put cold Pyrex in an air fryer?

No, never place cold Pyrex directly into a preheated air fryer, as rapid temperature changes can cause it to shatter. Let the dish warm up to room temperature first, or preheat it with the air fryer for safety.

Can I use Pyrex in an air fryer at high temperatures?

Yes, Pyrex can generally handle air fryer temperatures up to 400°F (200°C), but verify the dish’s heat tolerance. Avoid exceeding recommended temperatures or using damaged glass, which weakens its durability.

Are there any risks when using Pyrex in an air fryer?

The main risk is thermal shock from extreme temperature shifts, which can cause cracking or breakage. Always handle Pyrex carefully and ensure it’s free of chips or cracks before air frying.

Can I use Pyrex in an air fryer for baking or roasting?

Absolutely! Pyrex is great for baking casseroles, roasting vegetables, or reheating leftovers in your air fryer. Just ensure the dish is oven-safe and monitor cooking times to avoid overcooking.