Can Metal Go in an Air Fryer Find Out Now

Yes, metal can go in an air fryer—but only if it’s oven-safe and properly sized. Avoid warping or fire hazards by using air-fryer-approved metal pans, trays, or foil that don’t touch the heating element or block airflow. Always check your model’s guidelines to ensure safe, effective cooking.

Key Takeaways

• Only use oven-safe metal: Ensure metal containers are labeled oven-safe to avoid hazards.
• Avoid thin or flimsy metals: They can warp or spark in high heat.
• Never cover air fryer vents: Metal blocking airflow reduces efficiency and risks damage.
• Check for non-stick coatings: Scratched coatings on metal trays may release harmful chemicals.
• Use metal sparingly: Stick to manufacturer guidelines for safe, effective cooking.

Can Metal Go in an Air Fryer? Find Out Now

So, you just bought your first air fryer or maybe you’ve had one for a while and are finally ready to push the limits of what it can do. You’re standing in your kitchen, holding a metal bowl, a stainless steel skewer, or maybe even a leftover takeout container, wondering: *Can metal go in an air fryer?*

It’s a question I asked myself not too long ago. I remember pulling out a batch of crispy chicken tenders and realizing I had used a metal baking pan—without thinking. My heart skipped a beat. Did I just damage my brand-new appliance? Was it safe? And more importantly, could I keep using metal without risking sparks, smoke, or worse—my air fryer giving up on me?

After testing, researching, and even accidentally (okay, *mostly* intentionally) pushing the boundaries, I’ve got the answers. Whether you’re a seasoned air fryer pro or just starting out, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about using metal in your air fryer—safely, effectively, and without turning your kitchen into a fire hazard. We’ll cover what’s safe, what’s not, and how to make the most of your air fryer without sacrificing convenience.

Understanding How Air Fryers Work

How Air Fryers Use Heat and Airflow

Before we dive into whether metal is safe, it helps to understand how your air fryer works. Unlike a microwave, which uses radiation to heat food, an air fryer uses rapid air circulation and high heat—usually from a heating element located at the top.

Hot air (typically between 300°F and 400°F) is blown down and around your food using a powerful fan. This creates a convection effect that crisps the outside of your food while cooking the inside, mimicking the texture of deep-fried foods—without all the oil.

Because the heating element is exposed and the air moves quickly, the interior of the air fryer is designed to handle high temperatures. But that doesn’t mean everything can go inside. The key is in the materials and how they interact with heat and airflow.

Why Material Matters

The materials you use in your air fryer affect:

• Heat distribution – Some materials conduct heat better than others.
• Safety – Certain materials can spark, melt, or release fumes.
• Airflow – Blocking airflow can cause uneven cooking or overheating.
• Appliance longevity – Using the wrong items can damage the basket, heating element, or fan.

That’s why the question “can metal go in an air fryer” isn’t just about whether it fits—it’s about how it behaves under intense heat and airflow.

For example, I once tried using a flimsy metal cupcake liner. It didn’t just melt—it caught fire. Not my proudest moment. But a sturdy stainless steel bowl? That’s a different story. So let’s get into the specifics.

Can You Put Metal in an Air Fryer? The Short Answer

The short answer: Yes, but with conditions. Not all metal is created equal, and not all metal items are safe to use in an air fryer. The key is understanding the type of metal, its thickness, and how it interacts with your air fryer’s environment.

Safe Metal Types

Here are the metals generally considered safe when used properly:

• Stainless steel – Durable, heat-resistant, and non-reactive. Ideal for bowls, pans, and racks.
• Cast iron – Excellent heat retention. Works well if preheated and used carefully (more on this later).
• Heavy-duty aluminum – Thicker aluminum pans (like those used in professional kitchens) can work, but avoid thin foil or disposable containers.
• Carbon steel – Similar to cast iron, but lighter. Great for pans and trays.

I use a stainless steel mixing bowl regularly for marinating chicken and then transferring it directly to the air fryer. As long as it’s not touching the heating element and airflow isn’t blocked, it works like a charm.

Unsafe or Risky Metal Items

Now, the ones to avoid or use with extreme caution:

• Thin aluminum foil or foil trays – Can blow around, touch the heating element, and cause sparks or fires.
• Disposable takeout containers with metal lining – Often have plastic or paper coatings that melt or catch fire.
• Metal utensils (forks, spoons, etc.) – Can scratch the non-stick coating and create sparks if they touch the heating element.
• Metal skewers with plastic or wooden handles – The non-metal parts can melt or burn.
• Aluminum foil with sharp edges or crumpled balls – Increases the risk of arcing (sparking).

One time, I used a small foil tray to cook mini meatloaves. It seemed fine at first, but halfway through, I smelled something burning. Turns out, the foil had warped and touched the heating element. Smoke, panic, and a slightly charred meatloaf later, I learned my lesson.

When Metal Is Okay: Key Guidelines

If you’re using metal in your air fryer, follow these rules:

• Never let metal touch the heating element – Keep at least 1–2 inches of clearance.
• Use thick, sturdy metal – Thin or flimsy metal can warp, blow around, or ignite.
• Ensure airflow isn’t blocked – Don’t cover the entire basket with a solid metal sheet.
• Preheat if needed – Some metal pans benefit from preheating to avoid thermal shock.
• Check your model’s manual – Some brands specifically prohibit certain materials.

When in doubt, test a small batch first. I once tried a new stainless steel pan and ran it for 5 minutes empty to see if it got too hot or caused any unusual smells. It passed—and now it’s part of my regular rotation.

Best Metal Accessories for Air Frying (and How to Use Them)

Using the right metal accessories can actually improve your air frying experience. They help with even cooking, prevent sticking, and allow for more versatile recipes.

Stainless Steel Baking Pans

Perfect for:

• Baking brownies, muffins, or mini quiches
• Roasting vegetables with sauces
• Cooking casseroles or lasagna (in smaller portions)

Tip: Use a pan with low sides (under 2 inches) to allow airflow. I use a 7-inch round stainless steel pan for individual frittatas—cooks evenly and cleans up easily.

Metal Air Fryer Racks

Many air fryers come with a metal rack insert. If yours doesn’t, you can buy one separately. These are great for:

• Cooking multiple layers of food (like chicken wings or fish fillets)
• Drying herbs or making jerky
• Elevating food to improve air circulation

Pro tip: Flip food halfway through for even crispiness. I use a metal rack to cook two layers of sweet potato fries—no sogginess, just crunch.

Cast Iron Skillets (Yes, Really!)

Believe it or not, you can use a small cast iron skillet in your air fryer—if it fits.

How to use it safely:

• Choose a skillet that’s at least 1 inch smaller in diameter than your basket
• Preheat the skillet in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes before adding food
• Use oven mitts—it gets very hot
• Great for searing steaks, baking cornbread, or making skillet cookies

I once made a mini cast iron brownie in my air fryer. It was rich, gooey, and had a perfect crispy top. Just make sure your skillet has a metal handle—wooden or silicone ones won’t survive the heat.

Metal Skewers and Kebab Sticks

Stainless steel skewers work great for kebabs, shrimp, or veggies. Just remember:

• Use long-handled metal skewers that stay outside the basket
• Don’t let the metal end touch the heating element
• Soak wooden-handled skewers in water first to prevent burning (but the metal part is fine)

I like to thread marinated chicken and bell peppers onto skewers, then place them on a metal rack inside the basket. Cooks evenly and looks impressive when served.

Custom Metal Trays and Liners

Some brands sell metal air fryer trays with holes for airflow. These are ideal for:

• Cooking greasy foods (like bacon or sausages) without dripping into the basket
• Reusable, eco-friendly alternative to parchment paper
• Easy cleanup—just wash and reuse

I use a perforated stainless steel tray for bacon. It catches the grease and prevents smoke. Plus, no more scrubbing the basket.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced air fryer users make mistakes with metal. Here are the most common—and how to avoid them.

Using Aluminum Foil Improperly

Aluminum foil is not inherently bad—but it’s often used wrong. The problem isn’t the foil itself; it’s how it’s applied.

Do:

• Use foil to line the bottom of the basket (not the sides)
• Crush it slightly to create a “dome” that keeps grease from dripping onto the heating element
• Use heavy-duty foil (0.024 mm or thicker)

Don’t:

• Cover the entire basket with a flat sheet—blocks airflow
• Let foil touch the heating element
• Use crumpled foil balls as “stands”—they can spark

I once saw a viral hack using foil to make “air fryer pancakes.” The foil was shaped into little cups. It worked—until the foil shifted and touched the heating coil. Sparks flew. Lesson learned: if you use foil, secure it and monitor it.

Overloading the Basket with Metal

Just because you can fit a big metal pan doesn’t mean you should.

Overloading blocks airflow, leading to:

• Uneven cooking
• Longer cook times
• Hot spots that can damage the appliance

Rule of thumb: Leave at least 1 inch of space around the sides of any metal pan for air to circulate.

Ignoring Manufacturer Warnings

Some air fryers have specific warnings against using metal. Always check your manual. For example:

• Philips air fryers generally allow metal accessories
• Some budget models have plastic-coated heating elements that can be damaged by metal
• Newer models with smart sensors may detect metal and shut off

I once used a metal pan in a rental apartment’s air fryer—didn’t check the manual. The pan warped, scratched the basket, and left a permanent mark. Landlord wasn’t happy.

Using Metal with Non-Stick Coatings

Some metal pans have non-stick coatings. These are fine—as long as they’re oven-safe and rated for high heat (400°F+).

Warning: If the coating is scratched, it can flake into food. Use silicone or wooden utensils, not metal.

When to Avoid Metal (And What to Use Instead)

Despite the benefits, there are times when metal just isn’t the best choice.

Highly Acidic Foods

Stainless steel and aluminum can react with acidic ingredients like tomatoes, vinegar, or lemon juice—especially at high heat. This can:

• Leach small amounts of metal into food (usually harmless, but not ideal)
• Alter the flavor (a metallic taste)
• Damage the pan’s surface over time

Better options: Use oven-safe glass, ceramic, or silicone molds for dishes like tomato-based sauces or citrus-marinated fish.

Very Greasy Foods

While metal trays can help catch grease, they can also cause smoke if the grease heats too quickly.

Solution: Place a layer of parchment paper or a silicone liner under the metal tray to catch drips. Or use a dedicated grease tray.

Delicate Baking

Air fryers aren’t ovens. They cook faster and hotter. Metal conducts heat quickly, which can lead to over-browning or drying out delicate cakes or soufflés.

Better choice: Use silicone molds or parchment-lined paper cups for muffins, cupcakes, or custards.

Small or Lightweight Items

Small metal items (like paper clips, loose screws, or tiny pans) can blow around and damage the fan or heating element.

Tip: If you’re using a small metal cup, place it on a rack or in a larger pan to stabilize it.

Data Table: Metal Items in Air Fryers – Safe vs. Risky

Metal Item	Safe?	Notes
Stainless steel bowl	Yes	Thick, sturdy, non-reactive. Avoid touching heating element.
Cast iron skillet	Yes (if fits)	Preheat first. Use metal handle only.
Aluminum foil (flat sheet)	Risky	Only use on basket bottom. Never cover entire surface.
Aluminum foil (crumpled ball)	No	Can spark or catch fire.
Metal skewers (stainless steel)	Yes	Use long handles. Keep ends outside basket.
Disposable takeout container	No	Often has plastic coating that melts.
Metal rack (perforated)	Yes	Ideal for multi-layer cooking.
Metal utensils (fork, spoon)	No	Can scratch basket or cause sparks.
Heavy-duty aluminum pan	Yes	Thick, oven-safe pans only.
Metal cupcake liners	No	Too thin; can melt or catch fire.

Final Thoughts: Can Metal Go in an Air Fryer?

So, can metal go in an air fryer? Yes—but with wisdom, caution, and the right choices.

Metal isn’t the enemy. In fact, it can be a powerful ally in your air frying journey. Stainless steel bowls, cast iron skillets, and metal racks can help you cook more efficiently, achieve better textures, and even expand your recipe options. But it’s not a free-for-all.

The key is understanding the difference between safe and risky metal. Thick, sturdy, heat-resistant metals are usually fine. Thin, flimsy, or coated metals? Not so much. And never, ever let metal touch the heating element.

I’ve learned through trial, error, and a few kitchen close-calls that the air fryer is a tool—like a chef’s knife or a good skillet. It’s only as good as the person using it. With the right accessories and a little common sense, you can safely use metal to take your air frying to the next level.

So go ahead—grab that stainless steel pan, thread some kebabs, or bake a mini cast iron brownie. Just do it with care. Your air fryer (and your taste buds) will thank you.

And remember: when in doubt, check your manual, test small, and always keep an eye on things. Because nothing ruins a delicious meal faster than a fire alarm going off.

Happy air frying—and may your metal always stay where it belongs: inside the basket, and away from the heating coil.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can metal go in an air fryer without causing damage?

Yes, most metal accessories like baskets, skewers, or foil are safe in air fryers because they’re designed to withstand high heat. Just avoid placing lightweight metal items near the heating element to prevent arcing or warping.

Is it safe to use aluminum foil in an air fryer?

Yes, you can use aluminum foil in an air fryer to line the basket or wrap food, as long as it’s secured and doesn’t block airflow. This helps with cleanup and prevents sticking without interfering with cooking.

Can I put a metal bowl or plate in my air fryer?

Metal bowls or plates are generally safe if they fit properly and are oven-safe. Ensure they don’t touch the heating element or overcrowd the basket to maintain proper air circulation.

Does using metal in an air fryer affect cooking performance?

No, metal conducts heat efficiently and can even enhance crisping. Just avoid using thin or crumpled foil, as it may disrupt airflow and lead to uneven cooking.

Are there any metal items I should never put in an air fryer?

Never use non-oven-safe metal containers, like takeout trays with plastic coatings, or loose metal shavings. These can melt, spark, or release harmful fumes during cooking.

Can metal go in an air fryer if it’s non-stick or coated?

Yes, most non-stick or coated metal accessories (like cake pans) are safe, as long as they’re labeled oven-safe. Avoid scratching the coating to prevent flakes from mixing with food.