Can Baking Paper Go in the Air Fryer Find Out Here

Yes, baking paper can safely go in the air fryer—as long as it’s heat-resistant and doesn’t cover the basket’s airflow vents. Always trim the paper to size and avoid direct contact with heating elements to prevent fire hazards and ensure even cooking.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, baking paper can go in air fryers if it’s heat-safe and doesn’t cover heating elements.
• Always trim excess paper to prevent contact with heating coils or fan.
• Use parchment with holes for optimal airflow and even cooking.
• Never use wax paper—it melts and releases harmful fumes at high temps.
• Pre-cut liners save time and reduce risks of overhanging paper.
• Secure paper with food weight to avoid it flying into heating parts.

Why You’re Probably Wondering About Baking Paper in the Air Fryer

Let’s be honest—air fryers have taken over kitchens like a quiet revolution. I remember when mine first arrived, I was so excited to try everything: fries, chicken wings, even zucchini chips. But then came the inevitable question: can baking paper go in the air fryer? I stared at the roll of parchment paper on my counter, wondering if I could use it to avoid scrubbing stuck-on food after each use. After all, it works in the oven, right? But the air fryer is a different beast—smaller, faster, and with powerful convection fans. So, I did what any curious home cook would do: I experimented, researched, and burned a few pieces of paper along the way.

If you’ve ever stood in front of your air fryer, holding a piece of baking paper, unsure whether it’s safe or smart to use, you’re not alone. Thousands of people search for this exact question every month. The good news? The answer isn’t a simple yes or no. It depends on the type of baking paper, how you use it, and what you’re cooking. In this post, I’ll walk you through everything I’ve learned—from safety concerns to clever hacks, and even which brands actually work best. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned air fryer pro, this guide will help you use baking paper confidently and safely.

What Is Baking Paper and Why Do We Use It?

The Basics: What’s in Baking Paper?

Baking paper, also known as parchment paper, is a kitchen staple. It’s made from paper coated with silicone, which gives it non-stick properties and heat resistance. Unlike regular paper, it doesn’t burn easily and can handle temperatures up to 420°F–450°F (215°C–230°C), depending on the brand. This makes it ideal for baking cookies, lining cake pans, and even wrapping fish for steaming in the oven.

But here’s the catch: not all baking paper is created equal. Some are labeled “parchment paper,” others “silicone-coated paper,” and some even say “oven-safe up to 450°F.” These labels matter—especially when you’re using it in an air fryer, where heat and airflow are more intense than in a traditional oven.

Why People Want to Use Baking Paper in Air Fryers

Let’s face it: cleaning an air fryer basket is not fun. Grease, stuck-on food, and stubborn residue make scrubbing feel like a chore. Baking paper promises to solve this problem. It:

• Prevents food from sticking
• Reduces cleanup time
• Helps distribute heat more evenly (in some cases)
• Allows for easier flipping or removing delicate foods

I once tried cooking salmon in my air fryer without any liner. The skin stuck so badly that half the fish came off with the basket, and the rest tore apart when I tried to flip it. After that, I was determined to find a way to use baking paper—safely and effectively.

Common Misconceptions

One myth I hear often is: “If it works in the oven, it’ll work in the air fryer.” Not quite. Air fryers use rapid hot air circulation, which can lift loose paper or cause it to flutter near heating elements. This is where the risk comes in. Another misconception is that all parchment paper is the same. In reality, some are thinner, some are more heat-resistant, and some have different silicone coatings that affect performance.

Can Baking Paper Go in the Air Fryer? The Safety Breakdown

The Short Answer: Yes, But With Conditions

So, can baking paper go in the air fryer? Yes—but only if it’s used correctly. The key is to use oven-safe, silicone-coated parchment paper and to ensure it’s secured properly. Never use loose sheets, crumpled paper, or paper that extends beyond the edges of the basket. Air fryers rely on airflow, and anything that blocks or disrupts that flow can be dangerous.

The biggest risk? Fire. Loose paper can be blown upward by the fan and touch the heating element. I’ve seen photos of air fryer baskets with charred paper stuck to the top—definitely not something you want in your kitchen. That’s why proper placement is everything.

How Heat and Airflow Affect Baking Paper

Air fryers work by circulating hot air at high speeds—often between 350°F and 400°F. This is similar to a convection oven, but in a much smaller space. The fan can create strong upward currents, which is why paper that’s not weighed down can lift and touch the heating coil.

Here’s what happens if you’re not careful:

• Paper flutters → gets too close to heating element → smokes or ignites
• Paper blocks airflow → uneven cooking → food cooks too slowly or burns in spots
• Excess grease pools under paper → smoke or flare-ups

But when used right, baking paper can actually improve airflow by preventing food from sticking and creating hot spots. It’s a balancing act.

What the Experts Say

Most air fryer manufacturers—like Ninja, Philips, and Cosori—don’t explicitly prohibit parchment paper, but they do offer warnings. For example, the Ninja Foodi Max XL manual says: “Do not use paper, cardboard, or plastic in the unit.” But it also adds, “Parchment paper is acceptable if used correctly.”

Consumer Reports and the USDA both agree: parchment paper is safe in air fryers as long as it’s food-grade, oven-safe, and secured under food or a rack. The key word is secured.

When to Avoid Baking Paper

There are a few situations where I’d skip the paper entirely:

• High-fat foods: Bacon, sausages, or marinated meats release a lot of grease. If the paper isn’t fully covered, oil can pool and smoke.
• Foods that shrink or change shape: Think raw pastry or dough that rises. If the food shrinks and leaves the paper exposed, it could lift.
• Air fryer models with exposed heating elements: Some budget models have heating coils right above the basket. Avoid paper in these.

How to Use Baking Paper in Your Air Fryer (Step-by-Step)

Choose the Right Paper

Not all parchment paper is air fryer-friendly. Look for labels that say:

• “Oven-safe up to 450°F”
• “Silicone-coated”
• “Non-stick”
• “Food-grade”

I’ve tested several brands, and my top picks are Reynolds Kitchens Oven-Safe Parchment Paper and If You Care Parchment Baking Paper. Both are thick, heat-resistant, and don’t smoke or tear easily. Avoid cheap, thin paper from discount stores—it’s more likely to burn.

Cut It to Size

Measure your air fryer basket and cut the paper to fit snugly. Don’t let it extend beyond the edges—this is where it can get caught in the fan. A perfect fit means no curling, no lifting, and no fire risk.

Pro tip: Use a hole punch to create small ventilation holes around the edges. This helps maintain airflow and prevents steam buildup, which can make food soggy.

Secure It with Food or a Rack

Never place paper in an empty basket. Always weigh it down with food. For example:

• Place salmon fillets or chicken breasts directly on the paper.
• Use a metal trivet or rack to hold the paper down if cooking small items (like shrimp or veggies).
• For delicate items like fish or tofu, press the paper slightly into the basket so it curves up the sides.

I once tried cooking frozen dumplings on parchment paper without a rack. The dumplings were too light, and the paper lifted halfway through. Lesson learned: always use enough food to weigh it down.

Preheat and Monitor

Preheat your air fryer for 2–3 minutes before adding food. This reduces the chance of paper fluttering during the initial heating phase. Once food is in, keep an eye on it for the first few minutes. If you see smoke or smell burning, stop and check immediately.

Also, avoid using paper for cooking times longer than 20–25 minutes. Prolonged heat can degrade the silicone coating, especially at high temps.

Clean Up Smart

After cooking, remove the paper while the basket is still warm (but not hot). This makes it easier to peel off without leaving residue. If food sticks, let it cool slightly—the paper will release more easily.

Best Alternatives to Baking Paper (When You Need Options)

Perforated Parchment Liners

These are a game-changer. Pre-cut, round liners with tiny holes for airflow. Brands like Air Fryer Liners by Baker’s Secret are designed specifically for air fryers. They fit snugly, don’t lift, and allow heat to circulate evenly. I use them for everything from roasted veggies to crispy tofu.

The only downside? They’re a bit more expensive than regular parchment paper. But for me, the convenience is worth it.

Silicone Mats and Baking Cups

Reusable silicone mats are another great option. They’re non-stick, heat-resistant, and can be used over and over. I love using them for baking cookies or roasting potatoes. Just make sure they’re labeled “air fryer-safe” and cut to size.

Silicone baking cups work well for muffins, cupcakes, or individual portions. They don’t block airflow and clean up easily in the dishwasher.

DIY Solutions: Aluminum Foil (With Caution)

Yes, you can use aluminum foil—but only if it’s not touching the heating element and weighted down by food. Foil reflects heat, so it can cook food faster on the bottom. But it doesn’t have the non-stick properties of parchment, and it can block airflow if used incorrectly.

My rule: use foil only for high-fat foods (like chicken wings) where you want the skin to crisp. And always crimp it tightly around the edges of the basket so it doesn’t fly up.

When to Skip the Liner Entirely

Sometimes, the best solution is no liner at all. For foods with natural oils (like salmon or avocado), the basket’s non-stick coating is often enough. Just give it a light spray of oil, and you’re good to go. This also maximizes airflow and gives food that perfect crispy texture.

Real-World Examples: What Works and What Doesn’t

Success Stories

• Salmon with herbs: I placed a parchment sheet in the basket, added the fish, and cooked at 375°F for 12 minutes. The skin crisped beautifully, and the paper lifted cleanly. Zero scrubbing.
• Roasted sweet potatoes: Cut into cubes, tossed with oil, and placed on a perforated liner. Cooked at 390°F for 18 minutes. Even browning, no sticking.
• Homemade pizza bites: Used a silicone mat to keep them from sticking. Crispy outside, gooey inside—perfect!

Failures (and What I Learned)

• Loose paper with frozen fries: The paper fluttered and started smoking. I stopped the machine, removed it, and cooked without paper. Fries still turned out great—just took a little extra oil.
• Thin parchment with bacon: Too much grease pooled, and the paper burned at the edges. Lesson: use thicker paper or no paper at all for fatty meats.
• Overhanging paper with chicken nuggets: The edges curled up and blocked airflow. Result: uneven cooking. Now I always trim the paper to fit exactly.

Data Table: Baking Paper Performance in Air Fryers

Paper Type	Max Temp (°F)	Air Fryer Safe?	Best For	Risks
Standard Parchment (Reynolds)	450°F	Yes (if secured)	Baking, fish, veggies	Lifting, smoke if loose
Perforated Liners	425°F	Yes	Fries, nuggets, small items	None (if pre-cut)
Thin Discount Paper	400°F	No	Not recommended	Burns, smokes easily
Silicone Mats	500°F	Yes	Delicate foods, baking	Can block airflow if too large
Aluminum Foil	500°F	Yes (with caution)	High-fat meats, crisping	Reflective heat, can fly up

Final Thoughts: Smart, Safe, and Simple

So, can baking paper go in the air fryer? Absolutely—if you use it wisely. It’s not a magic fix, but it’s a helpful tool when used correctly. The key is choosing the right paper, cutting it to size, and securing it under food. Avoid loose sheets, high-fat foods without proper coverage, and cheap, thin paper that can’t handle the heat.

After months of testing, I’ve found that baking paper is best for:

• Fish and seafood
• Roasted vegetables
• Baked goods (muffins, cookies)
• Delicate proteins like tofu or eggs

For everything else—especially fatty meats or foods that release a lot of oil—I often go liner-free. It’s simpler, safer, and gives better texture.

Remember: your air fryer is a powerful little machine. Treat it with care, and it’ll reward you with crispy, delicious food with minimal cleanup. Whether you choose baking paper, silicone mats, or nothing at all, the goal is the same: enjoy cooking without the stress.

So next time you’re standing in front of your air fryer, paper in hand, don’t hesitate. Just follow the rules, keep an eye on things, and cook with confidence. And if you burn a piece of paper? Don’t worry—I’ve done it too. It’s all part of the learning process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can baking paper go in the air fryer without catching fire?

Yes, baking paper (parchment paper) is safe to use in the air fryer as long as it doesn’t cover the heating element or block airflow. Ensure the paper is weighed down by food to prevent it from blowing into the heating element.

Is it safe to use baking paper in an air fryer at high temperatures?

Baking paper is heat-resistant up to around 420°F (220°C), making it safe for most air fryer recipes. Just avoid preheating the air fryer empty with the paper inside, as this could risk scorching.

Can I use baking paper in the air fryer for all recipes?

While baking paper works well for greasy or sticky foods, avoid using it for recipes requiring direct airflow (e.g., crispy fries). The keyword “baking paper in air fryer” applies best for baking, roasting, or steaming dishes.

What’s the difference between baking paper and foil in the air fryer?

Baking paper is non-stick and heat-safe, while foil may react with acidic foods and requires poking holes for airflow. Baking paper is often easier to handle and doesn’t require modification.

Can I reuse baking paper in the air fryer?

Lightly soiled, undamaged baking paper can be reused once. Discard it if it’s torn, overly greasy, or has touched raw meat to maintain hygiene and avoid smoke.

Do I need to cut baking paper to fit my air fryer?

Yes, trim the baking paper to fit the basket, leaving small gaps around the edges for air circulation. This ensures even cooking and prevents the paper from interfering with the air fryer’s performance.