Can You Put Glass Pyrex in Air Fryer Safely and Easily

Yes, you can safely put glass Pyrex in an air fryer—but only if it’s labeled oven-safe and you avoid sudden temperature changes to prevent cracking. Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines and preheat the Pyrex gradually for best results, ensuring your cookware can handle the air fryer’s rapid heat circulation without shattering.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, Pyrex is safe: It withstands air fryer heat if handled properly.
• Check for cracks: Inspect glass before use to prevent breakage.
• Preheat the air fryer: Avoid thermal shock by preheating first.
• Use oven mitts: Always handle hot Pyrex with protective gloves.
• Place carefully: Center the dish for even heat distribution.
• Avoid sudden temperature changes: Don’t place hot glass on cold surfaces.

Why You Might Be Wondering If Pyrex Belongs in Your Air Fryer

Let’s be honest—air fryers are the superheroes of modern kitchens. They promise crispy fries, juicy chicken, and even baked potatoes in record time, all with little to no oil. But as we dive deeper into this culinary revolution, a question pops up more often than burnt toast: can you put glass Pyrex in an air fryer? It’s a fair question. After all, Pyrex is the go-to for casseroles, baking, and even meal prep. You’ve probably got a few pieces sitting in your cupboard right now, ready to go.

Maybe you’re standing in your kitchen, holding that trusty 9×13 Pyrex dish, staring at your air fryer, and wondering: “Can this handle the heat?” Or perhaps you’ve already tried it once, and the dish survived—but you’re not sure if that was pure luck. I’ve been there. I’ve nervously placed a Pyrex casserole in my air fryer, holding my breath as the timer ticked down, wondering if I’d end up with shattered glass and a kitchen disaster. So, let’s break it down together. This isn’t just about safety—it’s about convenience, efficiency, and making the most of your kitchen tools without risking your favorite dishes (or your sanity).

Understanding Glass Pyrex: What Makes It Special?

The Science Behind Pyrex

Pyrex isn’t just any glass. It’s a brand name that’s become synonymous with borosilicate glass, a type of glass that’s engineered to handle extreme temperature changes. Unlike regular glass, borosilicate contains boron trioxide, which reduces thermal expansion. In plain English? It’s less likely to crack when heated or cooled quickly.

For decades, Pyrex was made entirely from borosilicate glass. But here’s the twist: since the 1980s, most Pyrex sold in the U.S. is actually made from soda-lime glass, which is cheaper to produce. While soda-lime glass is still tempered for durability, it’s not as heat-resistant as borosilicate. So, if your Pyrex is older (think pre-1980s), it might be borosilicate. If it’s newer, it’s likely soda-lime. Check the bottom of your dish for clues—older pieces often have “Made in France” or “Corning” markings.

Why This Matters for Air Frying

Air fryers work by circulating hot air at high speeds, typically between 300°F and 400°F (150°C–200°C). The key concern with glass in an air fryer is thermal shock—a sudden temperature change that causes glass to crack or shatter. Imagine placing a cold Pyrex dish straight into a 400°F air fryer. The outside heats up fast, while the inside stays cool, creating stress points. That’s when things go boom.

But here’s the good news: if your Pyrex is tempered soda-lime glass (the kind sold today) and you follow the right steps, it can handle air fryer temperatures. The catch? You’ve got to be smart about how you use it. Think of it like putting a cast-iron skillet in the oven—it’s safe, but only if you avoid extreme temperature swings.

Real-World Example: My First Attempt

I remember the first time I tried air frying lasagna in my Pyrex. I preheated the air fryer, placed the room-temperature dish inside, and set the timer. Ten minutes in, I heard a tiny crack. My heart stopped. But the dish held—barely. The next time, I let the Pyrex sit on the counter while the air fryer preheated. No crack. Lesson learned: temperature acclimation is everything.

Can You Put Glass Pyrex in Air Fryer? The Short Answer (and the Long One)

The Short Answer: Yes, But…

Yes, you can put glass Pyrex in an air fryer, but with three critical conditions:

• It must be tempered glass (like modern Pyrex).
• It must be at room temperature before going into the air fryer.
• You must avoid sudden temperature changes (no cold dish into hot air fryer, no hot dish into cold water).

Ignore these, and you risk cracks, leaks, or worse—shattered glass in your food. Not exactly a gourmet experience.

The Long Answer: Breaking Down the Risks

Let’s get into the nitty-gritty. Air fryers create a unique environment. The intense, direct heat from all sides (unlike an oven’s ambient heat) can stress glass more. Here’s what to watch for:

• Uneven heating: Air fryers circulate hot air aggressively. If your Pyrex has cold spots (e.g., from a fridge), those areas will expand slower, creating stress.
• Preheating myths: Some say you should preheat the Pyrex dish. Not true! A preheated air fryer + cold dish = thermal shock. Always start with a room-temperature dish.
• Size matters: Oversized Pyrex dishes might not fit properly, blocking airflow. This can cause uneven cooking or overheating at the edges.

But don’t panic! With the right precautions, Pyrex can be a game-changer in your air fryer. I’ve successfully used it for:

• Casseroles (like green bean or tuna casserole).
• Baked desserts (brownies, bread pudding).
• Reheating leftovers (stews, pasta dishes).

When to Say “No”

There are times when Pyrex just isn’t the right tool for the job:

• Cold from the fridge? Let it sit out for 30+ minutes before air frying.
• Chipped or cracked? Toss it. Even tiny flaws can worsen under heat.
• Extreme temps? Avoid recipes requiring rapid temp changes (e.g., freezing a casserole, then air frying it straight away).

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Use Pyrex in Your Air Fryer Safely

Step 1: Check Your Pyrex

Before anything else, inspect your dish:

• Look for cracks, chips, or scratches. If you find any, don’t risk it.
• Confirm it’s tempered glass. Modern Pyrex dishes have a “Tempered Glass” label on the bottom.
• Ensure it fits in your air fryer basket. Measure the dish and compare it to your air fryer’s interior. Leave at least 1 inch of space around the sides for airflow.

Step 2: Prep the Dish (No Preheating!)

Here’s a common mistake: preheating the Pyrex. Don’t do it. Instead:

• Assemble your recipe (e.g., casserole, brownie batter) in the Pyrex dish.
• Let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This evens out the temperature and reduces thermal shock risk.
• If your kitchen is chilly, leave it out longer (up to 1 hour).

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer (Not the Dish)

Set your air fryer to the recipe’s recommended temperature (usually 350°F–400°F) and let it preheat for 3–5 minutes. This ensures consistent cooking from the start.

Step 4: Load the Air Fryer

Carefully place the Pyrex dish in the air fryer basket. If the dish is large, you might need to remove the basket first to avoid jostling it. Here’s a pro tip: line the basket with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 5: Adjust Cooking Time

Glass conducts heat slower than metal, so your food might take longer to cook. As a rule of thumb:

• Add 5–10 minutes to the recipe’s cooking time.
• Check for doneness 5 minutes before the timer ends. Use a food thermometer for meats or a toothpick for baked goods.

For example, if a recipe says “air fry at 375°F for 20 minutes,” start with 25 minutes for Pyrex.

Step 6: Remove and Cool

Once done, use oven mitts to remove the Pyrex. Place it on a dry, heat-resistant surface (like a wooden cutting board or trivet). Never put a hot Pyrex dish on a cold countertop—thermal shock alert!

Let it cool for 10–15 minutes before serving. This also prevents burns and lets hot food settle.

Pyrex vs. Other Air Fryer Containers: What’s Best?

The Pros and Cons of Pyrex

Let’s compare Pyrex to other common air fryer containers:

Container Type	Pros	Cons
Pyrex (Tempered Glass)	Non-reactive (won’t absorb odors/tastes). Oven-safe up to 425°F (ideal for air fryers). See-through (easy to monitor cooking). Dishwasher-safe.	Risk of thermal shock if misused. Heavier than other options. Slower heat conduction (longer cook times).
Metal (Aluminum, Stainless Steel)	Lightweight and durable. Cooks food faster (better heat conduction). No thermal shock risk.	Can react with acidic foods (e.g., tomatoes). Not see-through. May require oil to prevent sticking.
Silicone	Flexible and easy to clean. No thermal shock. Great for baking (muffins, cakes).	Can absorb odors over time. Less sturdy for heavy dishes. Not ideal for high-heat searing.

When to Choose Pyrex Over Other Options

Pyrex shines in these scenarios:

• You want to monitor cooking: See-through glass lets you check for browning or bubbling without opening the air fryer.
• You’re making casseroles or baked dishes: The even heat distribution works well for dense foods.
• You prefer non-reactive materials: Great for acidic recipes (e.g., tomato-based sauces).

When to Avoid Pyrex

Stick to metal or silicone if you’re:

• Cooking at very high temperatures: Some air fryers go above 425°F (Pyrex’s limit).
• Needing faster cook times: Metal conducts heat better.
• Working with sticky foods: Silicone’s non-stick surface is easier to clean.

Expert Tips and Common Mistakes to Avoid

Pro Tips for Success

After years of testing, here are my top tips:

• Use a trivet: Place a silicone trivet or heat pad under the Pyrex when removing it from the air fryer. It prevents direct contact with cold surfaces.
• Don’t overcrowd: Leave space around the dish for air circulation. This prevents hot spots and ensures even cooking.
• Grease the dish: Even with Pyrex, a light coating of oil or non-stick spray helps prevent sticking (especially for baked goods).
• Start low and slow: For delicate recipes (e.g., custards), begin at 325°F and increase the temperature gradually.

Common Mistakes (And How to Fix Them)

Even seasoned air fryer users slip up. Here’s what to watch for:

• Mistake: Placing a cold Pyrex dish in a hot air fryer.
  Fix: Always let the dish sit at room temperature first.
• Mistake: Using Pyrex for rapid temperature changes (e.g., frozen casserole to air fryer).
  Fix: Thaw frozen dishes in the fridge first, then bring to room temperature.
• Mistake: Not checking for cracks.
  Fix: Inspect your Pyrex every time. A hairline crack might not seem dangerous, but heat can make it worse.
• Mistake: Overfilling the dish.
  Fix: Leave at least 1 inch of space at the top to prevent bubbling over.

Real-Life Example: The Burnt Brownie Fiasco

Last winter, I tried air frying brownies in my Pyrex. I ignored the “add 5–10 minutes” rule and set the timer to match the metal pan recipe. The edges burned while the center stayed gooey. Lesson learned: glass cooks differently. Now, I always adjust the time and check early.

Final Thoughts: Is Pyrex Air Fryer-Friendly?

So, can you put glass Pyrex in an air fryer? The answer is a resounding yes—if you play it smart. Pyrex isn’t the fastest or most forgiving option, but its durability, non-stick surface, and versatility make it a worthy addition to your air fryer toolkit. Just remember: temperature acclimation, careful handling, and common sense are your best friends.

I’ll admit, there’s a bit of a learning curve. You might crack a dish or two (I did). But once you nail the technique, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. Imagine pulling a bubbling casserole, a batch of fudgy brownies, or a perfectly reheated stew from your air fryer—all in the same dish you use for baking and storage. That’s the magic of Pyrex.

At the end of the day, your kitchen should work for you, not the other way around. So go ahead—give it a try. Start with a simple recipe (like a small casserole or baked oatmeal), follow the steps above, and see how it goes. And if you’re ever unsure, remember: when in doubt, opt for metal or silicone. Safety first, deliciousness second.

Happy air frying—and may your Pyrex always stay intact!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you put glass Pyrex in an air fryer safely?

Yes, you can put glass Pyrex in an air fryer if it’s labeled oven-safe and can withstand high temperatures (typically up to 425°F/220°C). Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines and avoid sudden temperature changes to prevent cracking.

Is Pyrex glass air fryer-safe for all models?

Most Pyrex glass dishes are air fryer-safe, but ensure the dish fits without touching the heating element or basket walls. Verify your air fryer’s manual for compatibility with glass cookware to avoid damage.

Can you put cold Pyrex directly into a preheated air fryer?

No, never place cold Pyrex into a hot air fryer—thermal shock can cause it to shatter. Let the dish warm up gradually or preheat it with the air fryer to minimize temperature differences.

What’s the maximum temperature for Pyrex in an air fryer?

Standard Pyrex glass is safe up to 425°F (220°C), but confirm your specific dish’s rating. Air fryers rarely exceed this, but avoid rapid heat fluctuations to maintain the glass’s integrity.

Can Pyrex lids go in the air fryer?

Only if the lid is made of oven-safe glass and explicitly labeled for high-heat use. Plastic lids should never be used in an air fryer, as they can melt or release harmful chemicals.

Why did my Pyrex crack in the air fryer?

Pyrex cracks due to thermal shock (sudden temperature changes) or if the dish isn’t oven-safe. Always preheat the dish gradually and confirm it’s rated for air fryer use to prevent breakage.