Can Baking Sheets Go in the Air Fryer Find Out Here

Yes, baking sheets can go in the air fryer—but only if they’re heat-safe, fit properly, and don’t block airflow. Always use oven-safe materials like stainless steel or ceramic, and avoid oversized sheets that disrupt cooking performance. For best results, choose perforated or mesh baking sheets designed for air frying to maximize crispiness and circulation.

Key Takeaways

• Check material first: Only use oven-safe metal or silicone baking sheets in air fryers.
• Avoid non-stick coatings: High heat can damage coatings and release harmful fumes.
• Size matters: Ensure the sheet fits without blocking air circulation for even cooking.
• Never preheat empty: Place food on the sheet before preheating to prevent warping.
• Use parchment paper: It protects sheets and simplifies cleanup without affecting performance.
• Monitor closely: Thin sheets may warp or smoke—watch during initial uses.

Can Baking Sheets Go in the Air Fryer? Find Out Here

Imagine this: You’re halfway through cooking a delicious batch of roasted veggies or crispy chicken tenders in your air fryer. The aroma fills your kitchen, and you’re excited to dig in. But then you remember—your recipe calls for a baking sheet, and you’re not sure if it’s safe to use in your air fryer. Sound familiar? You’re not alone. This is one of the most common kitchen dilemmas for air fryer owners, and the answer isn’t always straightforward.

Air fryers have become a staple in modern kitchens, promising crispy, golden results with little to no oil. But their compact design and intense heat can make even the most seasoned home cooks second-guess their tools. Can you use your trusty baking sheet in there? Will it warp, melt, or worse—damage your appliance? The good news is, with the right knowledge and precautions, you can safely use certain baking sheets in your air fryer. In this post, we’ll dive deep into the dos and don’ts, explore material compatibility, share practical tips, and help you make the most of your air fryer without risking your cookware.

Understanding Air Fryer Basics and Heat Dynamics

How Air Fryers Work

Before we tackle whether baking sheets belong in your air fryer, let’s take a quick look at how these appliances work. Unlike traditional ovens that rely on radiant heat, air fryers use rapid air circulation to cook food. A powerful fan pushes superheated air (typically between 320°F and 400°F) around the food, creating that coveted crispy crust without deep frying. This method is faster, more energy-efficient, and often healthier—but it also means the internal environment is intense.

The air fryer basket or tray sits close to the heating element, and airflow is crucial. Any obstruction—like a thick, poorly placed baking sheet—can block airflow, leading to uneven cooking or even overheating. That’s why understanding the appliance’s mechanics is the first step in deciding what cookware is safe to use.

Heat Tolerance and Airflow: The Twin Pillars

Two key factors determine whether a baking sheet will survive in your air fryer: heat tolerance and airflow disruption. Most baking sheets are designed for oven use, which usually maxes out at 450°F—well within the range of an air fryer. But the real issue isn’t just the temperature; it’s how the heat is delivered. Air fryers heat from the top and sides, and the fan creates strong convection currents. If your baking sheet is too thick, too small, or made from the wrong material, it can trap heat, warp, or block airflow.

For example, I once tried using a thick ceramic baking sheet in my air fryer to make garlic bread. It fit, but the edges burned while the center stayed doughy. Why? The ceramic absorbed too much heat and blocked airflow. The lesson? Not all oven-safe pans are air fryer-safe. Always consider both heat resistance and how the material interacts with convection.

Types of Baking Sheets: What Works and What Doesn’t

Metal Baking Sheets (Aluminum, Stainless Steel, Carbon Steel)

Metal baking sheets are your best bet for air fryer use—but not all metals are created equal. Let’s break it down:

• Aluminum baking sheets: Lightweight, affordable, and excellent conductors of heat. Thin aluminum sheets (like rimmed baking trays or quarter-sheet pans) work well in most air fryers, especially if they’re no more than 1 inch tall. They heat up quickly and promote even browning. Just make sure they’re not warped or dented, as that can create hot spots.
• Stainless steel baking sheets: Durable and non-reactive, but they’re heavier and slower to heat. A full-sized stainless steel sheet might be too tall or wide for smaller air fryer baskets. However, mini stainless trays or loaf pans (perfect for meatloaf or brownies) can work great. Just ensure they don’t block the fan or touch the heating element.
• Carbon steel baking sheets: A favorite among bakers for their durability and even heating. They’re oven-safe up to 500°F, making them ideal for air fryers. Just like stainless steel, use smaller or shallow versions to avoid airflow issues.

Pro tip: Always check your air fryer’s manual for the maximum height and width allowed for accessories. Most recommend accessories under 1.5 inches in height to allow proper airflow.

Silicone Baking Mats and Trays

Silicone is heat-resistant (usually up to 428°F–480°F), flexible, and non-stick—perfect for delicate foods like cookies or fish. Silicone baking mats (like parchment alternatives) are a great option. They’re thin, lightweight, and don’t block airflow. Just lay one directly on the air fryer basket or a compatible metal tray.

But be cautious with silicone trays or molds. While they won’t melt, they’re floppy and can tip over or collapse under heavy food. I once tried making mini quiches in silicone muffin molds—they worked, but I had to place them on a small metal tray to keep them steady. The combo of silicone + metal was the winning ticket.

Non-Stick, Glass, and Ceramic: The Risky Trio

These materials are not recommended for most air fryers, and here’s why:

• Non-stick baking sheets: While many are labeled oven-safe, the high, direct heat of an air fryer can degrade non-stick coatings over time. This can release harmful fumes or cause the coating to flake into your food. Even if it doesn’t happen immediately, it’s not worth the risk.
• Glass baking dishes: Pyrex and other glass pans are oven-safe, but they don’t conduct heat well. In an air fryer, they can cause uneven cooking or even crack from thermal shock. Plus, glass is heavy and can damage the air fryer basket if dropped.
• Ceramic baking sheets: Like glass, ceramic is a poor conductor. It also retains heat intensely, which can lead to burning. I’ve seen ceramic dishes crack when placed directly into a preheated air fryer. If you must use ceramic, let it come to room temperature first and never preheat it inside the air fryer.

Bottom line: Stick to metal or silicone. Your air fryer (and your lungs) will thank you.

Size Matters: Matching Your Baking Sheet to Your Air Fryer

Measuring Your Air Fryer Basket

Before buying or using any baking sheet, measure your air fryer basket. Here’s how:

• Measure the interior width and length of the basket (not the exterior).
• Check the height from the bottom of the basket to the top rim. Most air fryers need at least 1–2 inches of clearance above the food for airflow.
• Look for the maximum accessory height in your manual. If it’s not listed, assume 1.5 inches is the safe limit.

For example, my 5.8-quart air fryer has a basket that’s 8 inches wide and 10 inches long. I found a quarter-sheet baking pan (9×13 inches) was too long, but a half-sheet pan cut down to 8×10 inches fit perfectly. I also use a 7-inch stainless steel cake pan for smaller batches—it leaves plenty of space around the edges for air to circulate.

Customizing or Cutting Baking Sheets

If you have a metal baking sheet that’s slightly too big, you can often cut it down with tin snips or a metal saw. Just sand the edges smooth to avoid sharp corners. I did this with an old aluminum sheet pan to fit my air fryer, and it’s been a game-changer for making sheet-pan meals in smaller portions.

Another trick: Use oven-safe cooling racks inside your air fryer basket. They elevate food, allowing air to circulate underneath—perfect for crispy bacon, fries, or chicken wings. Just make sure the rack fits snugly and doesn’t touch the heating element.

When “Fits” Isn’t Enough

Even if a baking sheet fits physically, it might not work well. I learned this the hard way when I used a deep, 2-inch tall baking pan to make roasted potatoes. The potatoes on the bottom burned while the top layer was undercooked. Why? The pan was too tall, blocking airflow. Switching to a shallow, 1-inch pan fixed the problem instantly.

Always prioritize shallow, low-profile baking sheets. They allow heat and air to reach all sides of your food, giving you that signature air-fried crispiness.

Safety First: Preventing Damage and Hazards

Warping, Melting, and Fumes

One of the biggest risks of using the wrong baking sheet is warping. Thin aluminum sheets, especially if overheated or unevenly heated, can warp in an air fryer. This not only ruins the pan but can also scratch the basket or create dangerous hot spots.

Melting is rare with metal, but silicone and non-stick coatings can degrade. If you notice a strange smell or see discoloration on your baking sheet, stop using it immediately. Some non-stick coatings emit toxic fumes when overheated—a risk you don’t want to take.

To prevent issues:

• Never preheat your baking sheet inside the air fryer. Always add it when you add the food.
• Use oven mitts when removing hot pans—air fryers heat up fast, and metal gets hot.
• Check your baking sheet after each use for warping, discoloration, or coating damage.

Electrical and Fire Safety

Air fryers use high wattage (usually 1,200–1,800 watts), and any obstruction can cause overheating. If a baking sheet blocks airflow, the internal temperature can spike, potentially tripping the thermal cutoff or, in rare cases, causing a fire hazard.

Always ensure:

• Your baking sheet doesn’t touch the heating element or fan.
• The air fryer has proper ventilation—don’t cover it with a towel or place it near flammable materials.
• You’re using the air fryer on a flat, heat-resistant surface.

I once left my air fryer running with a metal tray that was too close to the heating coil. The tray glowed red, and the appliance shut off automatically. Scary, but the safety features worked. Now, I double-check the clearance every time.

Practical Tips and Creative Uses for Baking Sheets in Air Fryers

Perfect Pairings: What to Cook

Here are some of my favorite recipes that work beautifully with baking sheets in the air fryer:

• Sheet-pan nachos: Use a quarter-sheet pan to layer tortilla chips, cheese, beans, and toppings. Air fry at 350°F for 5–7 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
• Mini meatloaves: A 7-inch stainless steel loaf pan fits perfectly. Add a meatloaf and air fry for 25 minutes at 375°F.
• Crispy roasted veggies: Toss cauliflower, broccoli, or carrots with oil and spices on a shallow metal tray. Air fry at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway.
• Baked potatoes: Wrap potatoes in foil and place them on a metal tray. Air fry at 390°F for 35–40 minutes.

These dishes benefit from the direct heat of the baking sheet while still getting the crispy edges from airflow.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning your baking sheet after air fryer use is just as important as choosing the right one. Metal sheets can usually go in the dishwasher, but hand-washing with warm, soapy water is gentler on the surface. Avoid abrasive scrubbers, which can scratch non-stick or seasoned surfaces.

For silicone mats, wipe them down with a damp cloth or wash in the sink. They’re non-stick, so food rarely sticks, but a quick rinse after each use prevents buildup.

And a pro tip: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to reduce cleanup time and prevent sticking—especially for sticky foods like honey-glazed chicken or baked goods.

When to Skip the Baking Sheet

Not every recipe needs a baking sheet. For foods that are small, delicate, or prone to falling through the basket (like shrimp, asparagus, or breaded fish), use the air fryer basket directly. You can also use air fryer liners (parchment or silicone) to catch drips without blocking airflow.

For example, I make salmon fillets directly in the basket with a drizzle of olive oil. The skin gets crispy, and the flesh stays moist—no baking sheet needed. Save the sheet for recipes where you need containment or even cooking (like casseroles or layered dishes).

Quick Reference: Baking Sheet Compatibility Table

Baking Sheet Type	Air Fryer Safe?	Max Temp	Tips
Thin Aluminum (rimmed)	✅ Yes (if shallow)	450°F	Ensure height ≤ 1.5 inches; avoid warping
Stainless Steel (shallow)	✅ Yes	500°F	Use mini or loaf pans; avoid tall sides
Carbon Steel	✅ Yes	500°F	Season well; ideal for baking
Silicone Mat	✅ Yes	480°F	Place on metal tray for stability
Silicone Tray	⚠️ Caution	480°F	Use with metal base; avoid heavy loads
Non-Stick	❌ No	400°F (coating degrades)	Risk of fumes; not recommended
Glass/Ceramic	❌ No	450°F (thermal shock risk)	Never preheat; poor airflow

So, can baking sheets go in the air fryer? The answer is a resounding yes—but with caveats. Metal and silicone baking sheets, especially shallow or mini versions, can be fantastic tools for expanding your air fryer’s capabilities. They let you make sheet-pan meals, bake desserts, and cook larger portions without sacrificing crispiness.

The key is choosing the right material, size, and shape. Avoid glass, ceramic, and non-stick pans, and always prioritize airflow. Measure your air fryer, test small batches, and keep an eye on your cookware for signs of wear. With a little care, your baking sheets can become your air fryer’s new best friend.

Next time you’re craving crispy roasted veggies, a mini meatloaf, or a batch of golden cookies, don’t hesitate to reach for that baking sheet—just make sure it’s the right one. Happy air frying!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can baking sheets go in the air fryer safely?

Yes, baking sheets made of oven-safe materials like stainless steel or aluminum can go in the air fryer. Avoid non-stick or plastic-coated sheets, as they may warp or release harmful fumes at high temperatures.

What type of baking sheet is best for an air fryer?

Opt for flat, lightweight metal baking sheets that fit your air fryer basket without blocking airflow. Look for air fryer-safe or oven-safe labels to ensure compatibility with high heat and rapid air circulation.

Can you use a baking sheet in the air fryer for crispy results?

Yes, a baking sheet helps distribute heat evenly and prevents small food items from falling through the basket. For extra crispiness, lightly oil the sheet and avoid overcrowding to allow proper airflow.

Are silicone baking sheets safe for air fryers?

Silicone baking sheets are generally safe for air fryers but may not achieve the same crispiness as metal. Ensure they’re rated for air fryer or oven use and avoid direct contact with heating elements.

Can I put a parchment-lined baking sheet in the air fryer?

Yes, parchment paper is safe on a baking sheet in the air fryer as long as it’s secured and doesn’t block airflow. Trim excess paper to prevent it from touching the heating element or fan.

How do I prevent my baking sheet from warping in the air fryer?

Use heavy-duty, high-quality metal baking sheets and preheat them gradually. Avoid sudden temperature changes and never place a cold sheet into a hot air fryer to minimize warping risks.