Can Dishes Be Used in an Air Fryer Find Out Here

Yes, you can use certain dishes in an air fryer, but only if they’re labeled oven-safe or heat-resistant up to 400°F (204°C). Avoid plastic, paper, or thin glass dishes that can melt, warp, or shatter under high heat—opt for ceramic, silicone, or metal instead for safe, crispy results.

Key Takeaways

• Only use oven-safe dishes: Ensure they withstand high heat without cracking.
• Check air fryer compatibility: Verify dish size and shape fit properly.
• Avoid non-stick coatings: They may degrade under air fryer temperatures.
• Use metal, glass, or ceramic: These materials are safest for air frying.
• Leave space for airflow: Crowding reduces cooking efficiency and results.
• Monitor cooking closely: Adjust time/temp to prevent overheating dishes.

Can Dishes Be Used in an Air Fryer? Find Out Here

You’ve just pulled your favorite ceramic casserole dish out of the cupboard, excited to try that new mac and cheese recipe in your air fryer. But then it hits you: Can dishes be used in an air fryer? You’ve heard horror stories of shattered glass and warped plastic, and now you’re second-guessing whether your go-to baking dish is air fryer-friendly.

Trust me, I’ve been there. When I first got my air fryer, I was so eager to cook everything in it—lasagna, brownies, even a mini quiche—that I didn’t stop to think about whether my dishes could handle the heat. One cracked pie plate later, I realized I needed to learn the rules. The good news? Yes, many dishes can be used in an air fryer, but not all. And knowing the difference can save you time, money, and a kitchen disaster.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through exactly what types of dishes work (and which ones don’t), why it matters, and how to get the best results. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned air fryer pro, this is your go-to resource for using dishes safely and effectively in your countertop appliance.

How Air Fryers Work (And Why It Matters for Your Dishes)

The Science Behind Air Frying

Air fryers work by circulating super-hot air around your food at high speeds. This process, called convection, crisps up the outside while cooking the inside evenly. Unlike ovens, which heat up slowly and rely on radiant heat, air fryers blast food with hot air from all angles—usually from a heating element above and a fan that forces the air downward.

This rapid circulation means your food cooks faster and with more browning, but it also means your dishes are exposed to intense, direct heat. That’s why not every dish that works in a conventional oven will survive an air fryer.

Heat Distribution Differences

In a regular oven, heat radiates from the sides and bottom. Your dish heats up gradually, giving materials like ceramic and glass time to adjust. But in an air fryer, the heat is more concentrated and faster. Think of it like a hair dryer on high versus a warm room.

For example, I once used a thick ceramic baking dish in my air fryer for a frittata. The bottom cooked perfectly, but the sides stayed cold—and the rapid temperature change caused a hairline crack. Lesson learned: dishes need to handle quick, even heat distribution.

Why Material Matters

The key takeaway? Material is everything. The dish must be able to:

• Withstand temperatures up to 400°F (205°C), which most air fryers reach
• Handle rapid temperature changes without cracking
• Allow even heat transfer to avoid hot spots
• Fit securely in the basket or tray without blocking airflow

Understanding these factors helps you choose the right dish—and avoid kitchen mishaps.

Safe Dishes You Can Use in an Air Fryer

Metal Baking Dishes and Pans

Metal is your best friend in the air fryer. It’s durable, heats evenly, and handles high temps like a champ. Aluminum, stainless steel, and cast iron are all safe choices.

For example, I use a small 6-inch stainless steel pie pan for individual pot pies. It fits perfectly in my 5.8-quart air fryer basket and browns the crust beautifully. I’ve also used a mini loaf pan for banana bread—comes out moist inside and crisp on top.

Pro tip: Avoid thin, flimsy metal pans. They can warp or buckle under high heat. Look for heavy-duty or oven-safe metal bakeware.

Silicone Molds and Liners

Silicone is another excellent option. It’s flexible, non-stick, and can handle temperatures up to 450°F. I love using silicone muffin cups for mini quiches and egg bites. They pop out easily, and cleanup is a breeze.

One reader told me she uses a silicone bundt mold for a single-serve coffee cake. It fits in her air fryer and bakes evenly. Just make sure your silicone is labeled “oven-safe” and BPA-free.

Note: Silicone doesn’t brown as well as metal. If you want a crispier crust, preheat the silicone dish or use a metal liner inside.

Oven-Safe Glass Dishes (With Caution)

Yes, you can use glass—but only if it’s labeled oven-safe. Pyrex, Anchor Hocking, and tempered glass dishes are usually safe. But there’s a catch: never put cold glass into a preheated air fryer.

I made this mistake once. I took a room-temperature glass casserole dish and placed it in a preheated air fryer. Within minutes, it cracked. The sudden heat shock was too much.

Instead, place the dish in the cold air fryer, then preheat it together. This gradual heating prevents thermal shock. Also, avoid glass with metal rims or decorative finishes—those can spark or melt.

Cast Iron Skillets (Small Sizes)

Cast iron is a powerhouse. It retains heat, sears beautifully, and lasts forever. I use a 6-inch cast iron skillet for mini frittatas and even small steaks. It fits in my air fryer and gives that restaurant-quality crust.

Just remember: cast iron is heavy. Make sure your air fryer basket can support the weight. Also, don’t use enameled cast iron with chipped glaze—the exposed iron can rust.

Disposable Aluminum Pans

These are great for one-off dishes or when you don’t want to clean. I use them for lasagna, casseroles, or even baking cookies. They’re lightweight, cheap, and heat up fast.

But don’t go too small. A shallow foil pan can collapse under weight. Use sturdy, deep pans labeled for oven use.

Dishes You Should NEVER Use in an Air Fryer

Regular (Non-Oven-Safe) Glass

This is a big no-no. Regular drinking glasses, Mason jars, or decorative glass dishes are not made for high heat. They can explode or crack, sending shards flying.

I once tried to use a glass mug for a mug cake. The air fryer heated it too fast, and the glass shattered. Not only was it dangerous, but it ruined my air fryer basket.

Rule of thumb: If it’s not labeled “oven-safe,” don’t risk it.

Plastic Containers

Plastic melts. Even if it’s labeled “microwave-safe,” that doesn’t mean it’s heat-resistant to 400°F. I’ve seen plastic containers warp, bubble, and even release fumes.

One friend tried to cook a quiche in a plastic storage container. The edges melted and stuck to the basket. She had to throw both away. Save your Tupperware for the fridge—not the air fryer.

Paper Plates and Towels

Paper can catch fire. Air fryers have heating elements and fans—paper near them is a fire hazard. I’ve seen people try to line baskets with paper towels to absorb grease. Don’t do it.

Instead, use air fryer parchment paper with holes. It’s designed to handle high heat and allows airflow.

Dishes with Metal Trim or Decorations

Some ceramic or glass dishes have metal rims, handles, or decorative bands. These can spark or melt. I once used a ceramic pie dish with a gold trim. The trim bubbled and peeled off, leaving a mess.

Also, avoid dishes with plastic handles or knobs. They can melt or catch fire.

Non-Stick Pans with Peeling Coating

If your non-stick pan is scratched or peeling, don’t use it. The coating can flake off and contaminate your food. Plus, high heat can release harmful fumes from degraded non-stick surfaces.

Stick to intact, high-quality non-stick pans—or better yet, use metal or silicone.

How to Choose the Right Dish for Your Air Fryer

Check the Size and Shape

Your dish must fit in the air fryer basket without blocking airflow. Most air fryers are 5–7 quarts, so look for dishes 6–8 inches in diameter.

I use a 7-inch round ceramic dish for quiches and a 6-inch square pan for brownies. Both fit snugly with a little space around the edges for air to circulate.

Pro tip: Measure your basket before buying a new dish. Leave at least 1 inch of clearance on all sides.

Look for “Air Fryer-Safe” Labels

Some brands now label dishes as “air fryer-safe.” These are tested for high heat and airflow. I have a silicone baking mat from a brand that specifically markets it for air fryers. It’s heat-resistant up to 480°F and fits perfectly.

Even if a dish isn’t labeled, check the manufacturer’s website. Many provide oven temperature ratings.

Test for Heat Resistance

If you’re unsure, do a quick test. Place the dish in a cold oven, preheat to 350°F, and bake for 15 minutes. If it survives, it’s likely safe for the air fryer.

I tested an old ceramic dish this way. It cracked in the oven, so I knew to avoid it in the air fryer.

Consider the Recipe

Some dishes work better than others. For example:

• Liquid batters (like cake or pancake batter) need deep, non-spill dishes.
• Starchy foods (like lasagna or casseroles) benefit from metal or cast iron for browning.
• Delicate foods (like eggs or fish) do well in silicone or shallow metal pans.

I use a silicone egg mold for poached eggs—no sticking, no breaking. But for a crispy chicken parmesan, I reach for my cast iron skillet.

Practical Tips for Using Dishes in Your Air Fryer

Preheat the Dish (Sometimes)

For better browning, preheat metal or cast iron dishes. Place them in the cold air fryer, then preheat together. This ensures even cooking from the start.

I do this for mini meatloaves and quiches. The result? A perfectly crisp crust every time.

Note: Don’t preheat glass or silicone—they don’t need it, and it can cause cracking.

Use Liners for Easy Cleanup

Air fryer parchment paper with holes is a game-changer. It prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy. I use it for everything from cookies to roasted veggies.

Just don’t cover the entire basket. Leave some space for airflow.

Don’t Overfill the Dish

Leave room at the top. Liquid can bubble over and drip onto the heating element, causing smoke or a mess.

I once filled a casserole dish to the brim. It overflowed and set off my smoke alarm. Now I keep it at ¾ full, max.

Rotate or Shake for Even Cooking

Air fryers have hot spots. For even cooking, shake the basket or rotate the dish halfway through.

I do this for mini pizzas and brownies. The result? No burnt edges or undercooked centers.

Let Dishes Cool Before Washing

Hot dishes can crack if plunged into cold water. Let them cool for 10–15 minutes first.

I learned this the hard way with a cast iron skillet. It warped slightly after I washed it while hot. Now I wait—and it’s stayed flat ever since.

Data Table: Air Fryer Dish Compatibility Guide

Material	Safe?	Max Temp	Best For	Tips
Stainless Steel	Yes	Up to 500°F	Casseroles, roasting, baking	Preheat for crispier results
Cast Iron	Yes	Up to 500°F	Seared meats, frittatas	Ensure basket can support weight
Oven-Safe Glass	Yes (with caution)	Up to 425°F	Casseroles, quiches	Preheat with the air fryer
Silicone	Yes	Up to 450°F	Muffins, egg bites, cakes	Use metal liner for browning
Aluminum (Disposable)	Yes	Up to 400°F	Lasagna, cookies	Use sturdy, deep pans
Regular Glass	No	N/A	N/A	Risk of shattering
Plastic	No	N/A	N/A	Can melt or release fumes
Paper	No	N/A	N/A	Fire hazard

Final Thoughts: Can Dishes Be Used in an Air Fryer?

So, can dishes be used in an air fryer? The answer is a resounding yes—but only if you choose the right ones. Metal, cast iron, oven-safe glass, and silicone are all great options. Just avoid plastic, regular glass, and anything with metal trim or paper.

Think of your air fryer as a mini, high-speed oven. It needs dishes that can keep up with its intense heat and airflow. When you pick the right dish, you unlock a whole new world of cooking: crispy casseroles, gooey brownies, perfectly baked eggs, and more.

My advice? Start with what you have. Test your favorite metal or silicone dishes. Read the labels. And when in doubt, do a quick oven test. Over time, you’ll build a collection of go-to dishes that work every time.

Remember, the goal isn’t just to avoid disasters—it’s to make delicious food with ease. So go ahead, grab that stainless steel pan, load it with your favorite recipe, and let your air fryer work its magic. You’ve got this.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can dishes be used in an air fryer safely?

Yes, most heat-resistant dishes made of glass, ceramic, or metal can be used in an air fryer, as long as they fit without blocking airflow. Avoid plastic or non-heat-safe materials to prevent melting or warping.

What types of dishes are air fryer-safe?

Oven-safe dishes like Pyrex, ceramic baking pans, and stainless steel bowls work well in an air fryer. Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure the dish can withstand temperatures up to 400°F (205°C).

Can I use a paper plate or parchment paper in an air fryer?

Parchment paper designed for air fryers is safe and helps prevent sticking, but regular paper plates can catch fire due to the high heat. Use only air fryer-specific liners or perforated parchment paper.

Are silicone dishes safe for air fryers?

Yes, food-grade silicone dishes are safe for air fryers and won’t melt at high temperatures. They’re flexible and easy to clean, making them a convenient option for baking or reheating.

Can dishes with metal handles be used in an air fryer?

Yes, metal handles are generally safe since air fryers don’t use microwave technology. Just ensure the dish fits properly and doesn’t touch the heating element or fan.

Why does the material of dishes matter for an air fryer?

Air fryers circulate hot air, so dishes must be heat-resistant to avoid cracking or releasing toxins. Using the right materials ensures even cooking and protects your appliance from damage.