Can I Put Glass in the Air Fryer Find Out Here

Yes, you can put glass in the air fryer—but only if it’s labeled oven-safe and can withstand rapid temperature changes. Not all glass is created equal, so avoid cold glass going straight into a hot air fryer to prevent cracking or shattering. Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines and use tempered glass (like Pyrex) for safe, effective cooking.

Key Takeaways

• Only use oven-safe glass to avoid shattering or chemical leaching.
• Check manufacturer guidelines before placing glass in your air fryer.
• Preheat glass gradually to prevent thermal shock and cracks.
• Avoid sudden temperature changes when using glass containers.
• Opt for borosilicate glass for higher heat resistance and durability.
• Never use cracked glass—it can break under high heat.

Can I Put Glass in the Air Fryer? The Truth About Safety and Best Practices

Air fryers have revolutionized the way we cook, offering a healthier, faster, and more convenient alternative to traditional frying. From crispy chicken wings to golden-brown vegetables, these countertop marvels use rapid hot air circulation to achieve the same satisfying crunch as deep frying—without the excess oil. But as home cooks experiment with new recipes and techniques, one common question keeps bubbling to the surface: Can I put glass in the air fryer?

Whether you’re trying to repurpose a leftover casserole dish, reheat a glass container of soup, or simply avoid dirtying extra pans, the temptation to use glass in an air fryer is understandable. After all, glass is oven-safe, microwave-safe, and non-reactive—so why not in an air fryer? However, the answer isn’t as simple as a yes or no. The safety of using glass in an air fryer depends on several factors, including the type of glass, temperature, and how you use it. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the science behind glass and heat, evaluate the risks, and provide you with practical, evidence-based advice to help you make informed decisions. By the end, you’ll know exactly when—and when not—to use glass in your air fryer.

Understanding How Air Fryers Work and Why It Matters

How Air Fryers Generate Heat and Circulate Air

To understand whether glass is safe in an air fryer, it’s essential to first grasp how these appliances function. Unlike traditional ovens that heat food from the bottom and sides with radiant heat, air fryers use a powerful convection system. A heating element at the top rapidly heats the air, and a high-speed fan circulates that hot air around the food at speeds up to 100 miles per hour. This process, known as convection cooking, creates a crispy exterior by dehydrating the surface of the food—similar to deep frying, but with up to 80% less oil.

Most air fryers operate at temperatures between 175°F (80°C) and 400°F (205°C), with some models reaching even higher. The rapid air movement and high heat intensity mean that the cooking environment is more aggressive than a standard oven. This is why not all materials that are oven-safe are automatically air fryer-safe. For example, while a ceramic casserole dish might survive in a conventional oven at 350°F, the same dish could crack or shatter in an air fryer due to uneven heating or thermal shock from the intense airflow.

Why Material Choice Is Critical in Air Fryer Cooking

The materials you use in an air fryer must meet three key criteria: heat resistance, thermal shock resistance, and airflow compatibility. Glass, while often heat-resistant, fails on the second criterion when not properly designed. Thermal shock occurs when a material is subjected to sudden or uneven temperature changes. For instance, placing a cold glass dish directly into a preheated air fryer can cause stress fractures due to the rapid expansion of the glass surface.

Additionally, airflow is a major factor. In a conventional oven, hot air rises and circulates more gently. In an air fryer, the fan creates turbulent, high-velocity airflow that can cause lightweight or poorly supported containers to vibrate or even tip over. A glass dish that’s too large or too shallow may not allow air to circulate properly, leading to uneven cooking or hot spots that increase the risk of cracking.

Types of Glass: Which Ones Are Air Fryer-Safe?

Pyrex, Borosilicate, and Tempered Glass: What’s the Difference?

Not all glass is created equal. The safety of using glass in an air fryer hinges on the type of glass and how it was manufactured. Let’s break down the most common types:

• Pyrex (Original Borosilicate Glass): Traditional Pyrex, especially vintage pieces, is made from borosilicate glass, which contains boron trioxide. This type of glass has a low thermal expansion coefficient, meaning it resists cracking when exposed to temperature changes. It can safely handle temperature swings of up to 1,000°F (538°C) and is generally safe in air fryers—if used correctly.

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• Modern Pyrex (Soda-Lime Glass): Since the 1990s, most Pyrex sold in the U.S. is made from tempered soda-lime glass, not borosilicate. While it’s still oven-safe, it’s more prone to thermal shock. Soda-lime glass can crack if exposed to sudden temperature changes, such as moving from the fridge to a hot air fryer.
• Tempered Glass: This type of glass is strengthened through a process of heating and rapid cooling. It’s four to five times stronger than regular glass and is used in baking dishes, measuring cups, and even smartphone screens. Tempered glass is generally safe in air fryers, but only if it’s labeled as oven-safe and used within temperature limits.
• Annealed Glass: This is standard, untreated glass. It’s not safe for use in ovens or air fryers because it’s highly susceptible to thermal shock and can shatter without warning.

How to Identify Air Fryer-Safe Glass

Before using any glass container in your air fryer, follow these steps to ensure safety:

1. Check the bottom of the dish: Look for an oven-safe symbol (a triangle with a flame) or text stating “Oven Safe,” “Bake Safe,” or “For Oven Use.” Avoid any glass without this label.
2. Verify the material: If it’s labeled “Pyrex,” confirm whether it’s borosilicate (check the packaging or manufacturer’s website). Vintage Pyrex is more reliable than newer versions.
3. Inspect for damage: Even minor chips, cracks, or scratches can become stress points and cause the glass to shatter under heat.
4. Review the temperature rating: Most oven-safe glass is rated for up to 425°F (220°C). Since air fryers often exceed this, ensure your glass can handle at least 400°F (205°C) continuously.

Pro Tip: When in doubt, use a glass dish that’s specifically labeled for “air fryer use.” Brands like Anchor Hocking and Pyrex (borosilicate) offer models designed for high-heat appliances.

The Risks of Using Glass in an Air Fryer

Thermal Shock and Sudden Temperature Changes

The biggest risk when using glass in an air fryer is thermal shock. This occurs when one part of the glass heats or cools faster than another, creating internal stress. For example, if you take a glass casserole dish straight from the refrigerator (around 40°F/4°C) and place it into an air fryer preheated to 400°F (205°C), the outer surface will expand rapidly while the inner surface remains cold. This mismatch can cause the glass to crack or explode.

Even room-temperature glass can be at risk if the air fryer heats unevenly. Some models have hot spots near the heating element, which can cause localized overheating. Glass is a poor conductor of heat, so it heats unevenly—this increases the chance of cracking.

Airflow Disruption and Uneven Cooking

Air fryers rely on unrestricted airflow to cook food evenly. A glass dish that’s too large or too tall can block airflow, especially if it’s placed directly on the air fryer basket. This leads to:

• Undercooked or soggy food in the center
• Overcooked edges due to concentrated heat
• Longer cooking times
• Increased risk of hot spots that stress the glass

Additionally, glass dishes with thick rims or lids can trap steam, creating pressure that may cause the lid to pop off or the dish to crack. This is especially dangerous if you’re cooking liquids or foods that release moisture.

Potential for Shattering and Safety Hazards

A shattered glass dish inside an air fryer isn’t just a mess—it’s a safety hazard. Glass shards can:

• Damage the heating element or fan
• Contaminate food
• Cause injury when removing the basket
• Void your appliance’s warranty (if misuse is detected)

There have been documented cases of glass dishes exploding in air fryers, particularly when users ignored preheating guidelines or used unsuitable containers. In one incident reported by a consumer advocacy group, a tempered glass baking dish cracked during the preheating phase, sending shards into the air fryer’s fan and requiring replacement of the entire unit.

Safe Ways to Use Glass in Your Air Fryer

Preheating and Temperature Management

The safest way to use glass in an air fryer is to avoid sudden temperature changes. Follow these steps:

1. Bring glass to room temperature: Never use a cold dish straight from the fridge or freezer. Let it sit for 15–30 minutes.
2. Preheat the air fryer with the glass inside: Place the empty glass dish in the basket and preheat for 3–5 minutes. This allows the glass to heat gradually.
3. Limit maximum temperature: Keep the air fryer below 375°F (190°C) when using glass. Avoid using the “Max Crisp” or “Dehydrate” settings, which often exceed 400°F.
4. Allow gradual cooling: After cooking, turn off the air fryer and let the glass cool inside for 10–15 minutes before removing it.

Choosing the Right Size and Shape

Not all glass dishes are suitable. Follow these guidelines:

• Use small to medium-sized dishes: A 1-quart (1L) casserole dish or a 9-inch round pan works well. Avoid anything larger than 2 quarts (2L).
• Opt for low, wide shapes: Shallow dishes allow better airflow and reduce the risk of trapping steam.
• Ensure the dish fits without touching the heating element: Leave at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) of clearance on all sides.
• Use air fryer-safe lids: If your dish has a lid, ensure it’s made of tempered glass or heat-resistant silicone. Avoid metal lids, which can cause arcing.

Recommended Recipes and Examples

Here are a few safe and delicious ways to use glass in your air fryer:

• Air Fryer Baked Eggs: Use a small ramekin or custard cup (borosilicate) to make individual eggs. Preheat for 3 minutes, add eggs, and cook at 320°F (160°C) for 8–10 minutes.
• Reheating Leftovers: Place a glass container of lasagna or casserole in the air fryer. Preheat, then cook at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes. Stir halfway through.
• Mini Baked Apples: Core apples, stuff with oats and cinnamon, and place in a small glass baking dish. Cook at 360°F (182°C) for 15–18 minutes.

Alternatives to Glass: Safer and More Efficient Options

Metal and Silicone Baking Pans

While glass has its place, metal and silicone are often better choices for air fryers:

• Perforated Air Fryer Pans: Made of stainless steel or non-stick metal, these are designed for airflow and can handle temperatures up to 500°F (260°C). They’re ideal for baking, roasting, and reheating.
• Silicone Baking Molds: Flexible, non-stick, and heat-resistant up to 450°F (230°C). Great for muffins, egg bites, and small desserts. They also prevent sticking without oil.
• Aluminum Foil Pans: Disposable and lightweight, but ensure they’re oven-safe and don’t block airflow. Use them for one-time meals or messy recipes.

Air Fryer-Specific Accessories

Many brands now offer accessories designed specifically for air fryers:

Accessory	Material	Max Temp	Best For
Air Fryer Baking Pan	Non-stick metal	450°F (230°C)	Cakes, casseroles, lasagna
Silicone Egg Bite Mold	Food-grade silicone	425°F (220°C)	Eggs, quiche, mini frittatas
Stainless Steel Skewers	304 stainless steel	500°F (260°C)	Kebabs, shrimp, vegetables
Reusable Air Fryer Liners	Parchment paper or silicone	400°F (205°C)	Prevent sticking, easy cleanup

These accessories are engineered for the unique demands of air fryer cooking—offering better airflow, durability, and safety than most glass containers.

When to Avoid Glass Altogether

There are times when you should never use glass in an air fryer:

• Using cold glass straight from the fridge
• Cooking at temperatures above 400°F (205°C)
• Using cracked, chipped, or unmarked glass
• Cooking liquids without a lid or with a non-heat-resistant cover
• Using large or deep dishes that block airflow

When in doubt, stick to the manufacturer’s recommendations. If your air fryer manual explicitly states “not for use with glass,” respect that warning.

Conclusion: Can I Put Glass in the Air Fryer?

So, can I put glass in the air fryer? The answer is: sometimes, but with caution. Glass—specifically borosilicate or high-quality tempered glass labeled as oven-safe—can be used in an air fryer if you follow strict safety guidelines. Preheating the dish, avoiding temperature extremes, choosing the right size, and monitoring cooking time are all critical to preventing breakage and ensuring food safety.

However, glass is not the ideal material for air fryer cooking. Its susceptibility to thermal shock, poor heat conduction, and airflow limitations make it a riskier choice compared to metal, silicone, or air fryer-specific accessories. For everyday use, especially with high-heat recipes or frozen foods, it’s better to use safer alternatives that are designed for the intense environment of an air fryer.

Ultimately, your air fryer is a powerful, versatile tool—but it demands respect. By understanding the science behind materials and heat, you can make smarter, safer choices in the kitchen. So next time you’re tempted to toss that glass dish in, pause and ask: Is it safe, or am I asking for trouble? With the knowledge from this guide, you’re now equipped to answer that question confidently. Cook smart, stay safe, and enjoy the crispy, delicious results your air fryer is capable of delivering—without the shattered glass.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I put glass in the air fryer safely?

Yes, you can put glass in the air fryer, but only if it’s labeled as oven-safe or heat-resistant (e.g., borosilicate glass). Avoid sudden temperature changes to prevent cracking.

What type of glass is safe for air fryer use?

Only use borosilicate or tempered glass (like Pyrex or Anchor Hocking) that’s explicitly marked oven-safe. Regular glass or containers with plastic parts aren’t suitable for the air fryer.

Can I put a glass bowl in the air fryer without damaging it?

Yes, but ensure the glass bowl is preheated gradually and doesn’t touch the heating element. Always check for cracks or chips before placing it in the air fryer.

Why can’t I put just any glass in the air fryer?

Non-oven-safe glass can shatter due to rapid heat exposure. The keyword here is “oven-safe glass”—it’s designed to withstand high temperatures without breaking.

Is it safe to cook with glass in the air fryer at high temperatures?

Oven-safe glass can handle air fryer temperatures (typically up to 400°F/200°C). Always verify the manufacturer’s guidelines for maximum heat tolerance.

Can I put cold glass in the air fryer straight from the fridge?

No, extreme temperature changes can cause glass to crack. Let it reach room temperature first, or preheat it gradually to avoid thermal shock.