Can Metal Go Into an Air Fryer Safety Tips and Best Practices

Yes, metal can go into an air fryer—but only if it’s oven-safe and doesn’t touch the heating element. Avoid non-oven-safe metals or those with plastic coatings, as they can spark, melt, or release harmful fumes. Stick to recommended materials like stainless steel or aluminum foil (properly secured) to ensure safe, efficient cooking.

Key Takeaways

• Metal is safe: Use oven-safe metal pans or foil without blocking airflow.
• Avoid overcrowding: Ensure metal items don’t touch air fryer walls or heating element.
• Check compatibility: Only use metal cookware labeled safe for air fryers or ovens.
• Prevent sparks: Never use crumpled foil or metal utensils that may cause arcing.
• Monitor cooking: Stay nearby when using metal to avoid overheating or damage.
• Clean carefully: Remove metal residue promptly to maintain air fryer performance.

The Great Metal Debate: Can You Really Use It in Your Air Fryer?

Let’s face it—air fryers have become the kitchen MVP. They promise crispy fries, golden chicken, and even desserts with little to no oil. But with great convenience comes great confusion, especially when it comes to what you can and can’t put inside. One of the most common questions I hear (and asked myself when I first got my air fryer) is: can metal go into an air fryer? It sounds simple, but the answer isn’t always black and white.

I remember my first attempt at using a metal cake pan in my air fryer. I thought, “It’s metal, it’s heat-resistant—how bad could it be?” Spoiler alert: I got lucky. The pan worked, but I noticed some sparking and a faint metallic smell. That moment sparked my curiosity (and a bit of concern), leading me down a rabbit hole of research. Turns out, not all metal is created equal when it comes to air fryers. In this guide, we’ll explore the ins and outs of using metal in your air fryer, from safety tips to best practices, so you can cook with confidence—and without any unexpected kitchen fireworks.

Understanding How Air Fryers Work (And Why It Matters)

Before we dive into whether metal is safe, let’s take a quick look at how air fryers actually work. This isn’t just a science lesson—it’s the foundation for understanding why certain materials react the way they do.

The Science Behind the Crisp

Air fryers use rapid air circulation to cook food. A heating element at the top gets super hot (often over 400°F), and a powerful fan blows that hot air around the food in a basket or tray. This mimics deep-frying but with far less oil. The key here is the intense heat and airflow—two factors that can affect how materials, including metal, behave inside the appliance.

Unlike a microwave, which uses electromagnetic waves, or an oven, which relies on radiant heat, an air fryer’s method is closer to a convection oven—but faster and more compact. That means the interior space is small, and the air moves quickly, increasing the risk of hot spots or material interactions.

Why Material Matters

When you place something in your air fryer, you’re not just exposing it to heat—you’re exposing it to heat plus high-speed airflow. Some materials, like thin aluminum foil or sharp-edged metal, can disrupt the airflow or even create electrical hazards. For example, if metal touches the heating element or the fan, it could cause sparking or damage.

Think of it like this: your air fryer is like a tiny wind tunnel with a blowtorch at the top. You wouldn’t toss in a metal fork and expect nothing to happen, right? The same logic applies to pans, trays, and other metal accessories. So while metal isn’t automatically off-limits, how and what kind of metal you use makes all the difference.

Types of Metal: What’s Safe and What’s Not

Not all metals are created equal—and when it comes to air fryers, this is especially true. Let’s break down the most common types of metal you might consider using and whether they’re safe.

Safe Metals for Air Fryers

• Stainless Steel: This is your best bet. It’s durable, non-reactive, and doesn’t leach chemicals into food. Many air fryer accessories (like racks, skewers, and pans) are made from stainless steel because they’re designed to handle high heat without warping or sparking. Just make sure the item is smooth and doesn’t have sharp edges that could touch the heating element.
• Cast Iron (Enameled or Seasoned): Yes, you can use cast iron in an air fryer! But only if it’s fully seasoned or enamel-coated. Bare cast iron can rust due to the high moisture from some foods, but enameled versions (like Dutch ovens) are safe. I’ve made mini pot roasts in my air fryer using a small enameled cast iron pot—worked like a charm.
• Heavy-Gauge Aluminum: Thick, sturdy aluminum pans (like those labeled “air fryer safe”) are generally okay. These are often anodized or coated to prevent reactivity and warping. Avoid thin foil or flimsy pans that can melt or blow around.

Metals to Avoid (Or Use With Extreme Caution)

• Aluminum Foil: This is the big one. While it’s tempting to line your basket with foil for easy cleanup, it’s not recommended. Why? Foil can block airflow, causing uneven cooking. Worse, if it touches the heating element, it can spark or even catch fire. If you must use foil, crinkle it into a loose ball and place it only at the bottom of the basket—never covering the sides or top.
• Non-Stick Metal Pans with Thin Coatings: Some metal pans have non-stick coatings that can degrade at high temperatures. If the coating flakes off, it could release harmful chemicals or ruin your food. Look for pans labeled “PFOA-free” and “oven-safe up to 450°F.”
• Sharp or Pointed Metal Objects: Skewers with sharp ends, metal forks, or any object with jagged edges can scratch the air fryer’s interior or touch the heating element. Use blunt, rounded skewers instead.
• Metal with Plastic Handles: If the handle is plastic, it could melt or catch fire. Always check that the entire item is metal or heat-safe.

Real-World Example: My Foil Fail

I once tried to “hack” my air fryer by lining the basket with foil to catch drippings from a rack of ribs. Big mistake. The foil blocked the airflow, and the ribs cooked unevenly. Plus, a small piece touched the heating element—there was a loud pop, a spark, and a brief moment of panic. Lesson learned: stick to manufacturer-approved accessories.

Safety First: Key Tips for Using Metal in Your Air Fryer

Now that we know which metals are safe, let’s talk about how to use them safely. These tips are based on my own trials, manufacturer guidelines, and expert advice.

1. Always Check Manufacturer Guidelines

Every air fryer is different. Some brands (like Philips) have strict rules about metal use, while others are more flexible. Before you toss in a metal pan, read your manual. Look for phrases like “metal accessories allowed” or “not compatible with foil.”

For example, my Cosori air fryer explicitly says I can use stainless steel pans but warns against foil. My friend’s Ninja model, on the other hand, allows foil if it’s “tented” over food (never touching the heating element). When in doubt, call the manufacturer.

2. Size and Placement Matter

Even safe metals can cause problems if they’re too big or poorly placed. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Don’t cover the entire basket: Leave space for air to circulate. If you’re using a metal pan, make sure it doesn’t block more than 75% of the basket’s surface.
• Keep metal away from the heating element: This is critical. Most air fryers have a heating coil at the top. If metal touches it, sparks fly. Use a rack or trivet to elevate your metal item if needed.
• Use a drip tray: Place a heat-safe metal tray (like a small baking sheet) under your food to catch drippings—this reduces smoke and makes cleanup easier.

3. Monitor Cooking Time and Temperature

Metal conducts heat faster than other materials, which means your food might cook quicker (or burn). Here’s my rule of thumb:

• Reduce cooking time by 10–15% when using metal pans.
• Check food 5–10 minutes early to avoid overcooking.
• Use a meat thermometer for proteins to ensure they’re cooked through.

For instance, I make garlic butter shrimp in a stainless steel pan. Normally, they’d take 10 minutes at 375°F. With metal, I set it for 8 minutes and check at 6.

4. Avoid Sudden Temperature Changes

Metal expands and contracts with heat. If you put a cold metal pan into a preheated air fryer, it could warp or crack. To avoid this:

• Preheat the air fryer first (if your model allows it).
• Let metal pans come to room temperature before use.
• Never add ice-cold food to a hot metal pan inside the air fryer.

Creative Ways to Use Metal in Your Air Fryer

Once you’ve mastered the basics, metal opens up a world of possibilities. Here are some of my favorite ways to use it—beyond just cooking.

1. Reusable Air Fryer Pans

Instead of disposable foil pans, invest in reusable stainless steel or silicone pans. These are perfect for:

• Baked potatoes: Cut a slit, add butter and salt, and place in a metal pan for even crisping.
• Cakes and bread: Mini loaf pans or cake molds work great. I’ve made chocolate mug cakes in stainless steel ramekins—delicious!
• Frittatas: A small metal pan holds eggs and veggies perfectly.

2. Metal Skewers for Kabobs

Stainless steel skewers are a game-changer for kabobs. They’re sturdy, reusable, and conduct heat well. Just remember:

• Soak wooden skewers (if using) to prevent burning.
• Leave space between ingredients for airflow.
• Use a metal drip tray underneath to catch juices.

Pro tip: Thread veggies and meat in alternating colors for Instagram-worthy results.

3. Metal Baking Sheets for Sheet Pan Meals

Some air fryers have enough space for a small metal baking sheet. I use mine for:

• Roasted veggies: Toss with oil, salt, and pepper, then spread on the sheet.
• Sheet pan nachos: Layer tortilla chips, cheese, and toppings—melts evenly.
• Reheating leftovers: Pizza, chicken nuggets, or even fries crisp up nicely.

4. DIY Drip Trays

No need to buy special accessories. A small stainless steel pan or oven-safe dish works as a drip tray. Place it under your basket to catch grease—this reduces smoke and makes cleanup a breeze.

Common Myths and Misconceptions (Debunked)

Let’s clear up some confusion. There are a lot of myths floating around about metal and air fryers—here’s the truth.

Myth 1: “All Metal Causes Sparks”

Not true. Only conductive metals that touch the heating element or fan will spark. Stainless steel pans, when used correctly, are perfectly safe. The key is keeping metal away from the heating coil.

Myth 2: “You Can’t Cook Acidic Foods in Metal”

This one’s partially true. Acidic foods (like tomatoes or lemon juice) can react with bare aluminum, causing metallic flavors. But stainless steel and enameled metal are non-reactive. I’ve made tomato sauce in my stainless steel pan—no issues.

Myth 3: “Metal Pans Make Food Cook Unevenly”

Only if you block airflow. A properly sized metal pan with space around the edges cooks food more evenly than a crowded basket. Metal conducts heat, so it helps distribute warmth.

Myth 4: “You Need to Preheat Metal Pans”

Not necessarily. While preheating the air fryer is often recommended, you don’t need to preheat the metal itself. Just make sure it’s at room temperature to avoid warping.

Data Table: Metal Safety Comparison

Metal Type	Safe for Air Fryer?	Best Use Cases	Warnings
Stainless Steel	✅ Yes	Pans, racks, skewers	Avoid sharp edges; keep away from heating element
Enameled Cast Iron	✅ Yes	Mini Dutch ovens, braising	Ensure no chips in enamel; not for high-moisture foods
Heavy-Gauge Aluminum	✅ Yes (if anodized/coated)	Baking, roasting	Never use bare aluminum; avoid acidic foods
Aluminum Foil	❌ Not recommended	—	Can spark, block airflow, or catch fire
Non-Stick Metal	⚠️ Use with caution	Light baking	Check coating integrity; avoid high heat (>450°F)
Sharp/Pointed Metal	❌ No	—	Can damage interior or touch heating element

Final Thoughts: Metal in Air Fryers—Yes, But Do It Right

So, can metal go into an air fryer? The answer is a resounding yes—but with caveats. Stainless steel, enameled cast iron, and heavy-gauge aluminum are your friends. Foil, sharp objects, and low-quality metal? Not so much.

Think of your air fryer like a high-performance car. You wouldn’t use the wrong fuel or ignore the manual, right? Treat your metal accessories with the same care. Read your model’s guidelines, prioritize airflow, and always keep metal away from the heating element. When you do, you’ll unlock new cooking possibilities—from crispy kabobs to mini cakes—without any safety scares.

At the end of the day, air fryers are about convenience and creativity. Don’t let fear hold you back. With a little knowledge and the right tools, you can safely use metal to make your meals even better. Now go forth, experiment, and enjoy that golden, crispy goodness—responsibly!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can metal go into an air fryer without damaging it?

Yes, most air fryers are designed to handle metal accessories like grill pans or skewers, as long as they fit without touching the heating element. Always check your air fryer’s manual for specific guidelines on using metal.

Is it safe to put aluminum foil or metal containers in an air fryer?

Aluminum foil is safe if used properly—keep it weighed down with food to prevent blocking airflow. Avoid loose foil or metal containers that could shift and damage the heating coil.

What types of metal can go into an air fryer basket?

Food-grade metals like stainless steel or aluminum (e.g., foil, trays, or mesh baskets) are generally safe. Avoid non-stick metal coatings that could chip or flake into food.

Can metal go into an air fryer if it’s not labeled “air fryer safe”?

Use caution: unmarked metal may warp, spark, or react with acidic foods. Stick to accessories made for high-heat appliances or labeled explicitly for air fryer use.

Why does my air fryer spark when I use metal?

Sparks usually occur if metal touches the heating element or if crumpled foil creates sharp edges. Ensure all metal is flat, secured, and at least 1 inch from the heating coil.

Can I use metal utensils to remove food from an air fryer?

Yes, but gently—metal tongs or forks are fine for sturdy foods like meats. Avoid scraping the basket’s non-stick coating to prevent damage and extend its lifespan.