Craving that delicious, char-kissed flavor of grilled food but don’t want to fire up the outdoor grill? Or maybe you just need a quicker, healthier way to get those results indoors? Enter the mighty air fryer! While known for its crispy fries and juicy chicken, with the right tools and a little know-how, your air fryer can absolutely deliver fantastic grill-like results.
Transforming your air fryer into a grilling powerhouse isn’t just about the appliance itself; it’s also about the accessories that elevate your cooking. We’re talking about achieving that perfect sear, ensuring even cooking, and making cleanup a breeze. If you’re looking to achieve the best air fryer for grilling experience, these seven essential items are game-changers.
Why Air Fryers for Grill-Like Results?
Air fryers use powerful convection cooking, circulating superheated air around your food. This process is excellent for creating a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy – much like a grill. Add in a few clever accessories, and you can mimic the direct heat and elevated cooking of a traditional grill, all from your countertop. It’s convenient, often healthier with less oil, and perfect for quick meals or smaller portions.
Here are our top 7 picks to help you get the most out of your air fryer and truly achieve the best air fryer for grilling results:
Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster
When it comes to getting serious about versatile cooking, including grill-like outcomes, the Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster stands out. This isn’t just an air fryer; it’s a multi-functional culinary hub designed for large families or entertaining. With its powerful 360º superheated air circulation and dual-speed fan, it’s built to deliver golden, crispy results akin to deep frying, but with far less oil. Its spacious 26-quart capacity means you can roast a whole chicken or even bake a large pizza, making it a fantastic centerpiece for achieving a comprehensive grilling and cooking experience indoors.
Key Features:
– Versatile air fryer and multi-cooker combo
– 25 cooking presets for various methods (including Roast, Bake, Chicken)
– Dual-speed fan for 360º superheated air circulation
– Extra-large 26-quart capacity, fits a 6-lb chicken or 12” pizza
– Stainless steel exterior with elegant French doors and interior light
– Automatic shut-off for perfectly done toast
Pros:
– Highly versatile with numerous cooking functions
– Large capacity suitable for families or gatherings
– Excellent air circulation for crispy food
– Stylish design with convenient French doors
– Pre-sets simplify cooking for various dishes
Cons:
– Large footprint might take up significant counter space
– Can be a higher price point compared to basic air fryers
– Learning curve for all 25 presets
User Impressions:
Customers rave about its versatility and large capacity, often mentioning how it replaces multiple kitchen appliances. The ability to roast whole chickens and achieve crispy results without excess oil is a common highlight, though some note its size requires dedicated counter space. Many find it becomes their go-to appliance for everyday meals.
Alpha Grillers Meat Thermometer Digital
To truly master the art of indoor “grilling” with your air fryer, precision is key. The Alpha Grillers Meat Thermometer is your secret weapon for perfectly cooked food every single time. Whether you’re trying to get a steak to a perfect medium-rare or ensure your chicken is safely cooked through, this instant-read thermometer provides accurate results in just 2-3 seconds. Its large, backlit display means you can easily read temperatures in any light, making it an indispensable tool for everything from grilling meats in your air fryer to baking and deep frying.
Key Features:
– Instant Read Food Thermometer with 2-3 seconds response time
– Multi-use for meats, liquids, deep frying, candy making, etc.
– Large, easy-read digital display with bright blue backlight
– Water-resistant IP67 rated for easy cleaning
– Comes pre-calibrated with a recalibrating feature if needed
– Ideal for air fryer, oven, grill, BBQ, griddle, smoker, kitchen, and outdoors
Pros:
– Extremely fast and accurate temperature readings
– Versatile for a wide range of cooking tasks
– Easy to read in various lighting conditions
– Durable and water-resistant for easy cleanup
– Great gift idea for home cooks and grill masters
Cons:
– Requires battery replacement over time
– Probe must be inserted carefully to avoid touching bone
– Some users prefer a wired probe for continuous monitoring
User Impressions:
Users consistently praise its speed and accuracy, stating it’s a must-have for preventing overcooked or undercooked meals. The bright backlight and water-resistant design are frequently mentioned as practical benefits, making it a reliable tool for any cooking adventure, including getting the best air fryer for grilling results.
Skewers for Grilling Metal Kabob Skewer Air Fryer Stand
If you’ve ever wanted to make delicious kabobs or perfectly roasted vegetables in your air fryer, this Skewers for Grilling Metal Kabob Skewer Air Fryer Stand is an absolute game-changer. Designed to fit perfectly inside most 8QT air fryers, this stand allows you to cook multiple skewers vertically, ensuring even heat distribution and fantastic airflow. This means juicy, tender meats and crispy veggies, all without the hassle of a traditional grill. It’s perfect for chicken, beef, shrimp, and your favorite vegetables, bringing that beloved char-grilled taste right into your kitchen.
Key Features:
– Made of high-quality food-grade stainless steel
– Multiple use: great for air fryers, outdoor barbecues, hot pots
– Designed for optimal airflow for juicy meats and crispy veggies
– Portable design can be hung on an outdoor barbecue rack
– Easy to use and clean; circular chassis and skewers separate for storage
– Includes 8.3-inch diameter circular chassis and 15 metal skewers
Pros:
– Enables grilling kabobs and roasted items in an air fryer
– Promotes excellent airflow for even cooking
– Made from durable and safe food-grade stainless steel
– Easy to clean and store
– Versatile for both air fryer and outdoor grilling use
Cons:
– Specific size (8.3 inches) may not fit all air fryer models
– The number of skewers might be excessive for small portions
– May require some practice to balance food on skewers evenly
User Impressions:
Customers love the convenience and versatility of this skewer set, especially for making kabobs and roasting smaller items in their air fryers. They highlight how it effectively creates grilled textures and flavors without needing an outdoor grill. The ease of cleaning and durable material are also frequently appreciated.
Air Fryer Basket for Oven, OPENICE 15.6″ x 11.6″ Large
While not exclusively for air fryers, the OPENICE Air Fryer Basket for Oven is an incredible accessory that brings air frying efficiency to your standard oven, and it’s especially useful for larger batches when you’re aiming for the best air fryer for grilling results on a bigger scale. This large crisper tray and pan set allows hot air to circulate 360 degrees around your food, giving you crispy, healthier meals with less oil. It’s perfect for making family-sized portions of crispy fries, roasted vegetables, or even juicy steaks, catching excess oil and crumbs in the tray below to keep your oven clean.
Key Features:
– Large size (15.5″x11.6″) for family or entertaining
– Mesh basket design promotes 360-degree air heat circulation
– Non-stick surface eliminates need for butter/fats
– Tray catches excess oil and crumbs for less mess
– Easy to clean and dishwasher-safe stainless steel
– Multi-functional: ideal for air frying, baking, roasting, and cooking en papillote
– Comes with 30 pre-cut parchment papers
Pros:
– Allows for larger batch cooking of crispy foods
– Promotes healthier cooking with less oil
– Excellent airflow for even crisping
– Catches drips and crumbs for easy oven cleanup
– Durable, dishwasher-safe, and comes with parchment paper
Cons:
– Requires oven usage, not a standalone air fryer
– Large size might not fit smaller toaster ovens
– Mesh can be tricky to clean if food sticks
User Impressions:
Reviewers praise its ability to make food incredibly crispy in a conventional oven, essentially turning it into a giant air fryer. The large capacity is a major plus for families, and the easy cleanup (especially with the included parchment paper) is a frequently mentioned benefit. Many find it indispensable for healthy and crispy cooking.
Mantova Air Fryer Spray 450F Smoke Point
To get that perfect crisp and prevent sticking without drenching your food in oil, the Mantova Air Fryer Spray is an absolute must-have. Unlike generic cooking sprays, this all-natural oil spray is specifically formulated with a high smoke point of 450°F, making it ideal for the high temperatures often used in air frying and grilling. A light mist is all it takes to ensure your food browns beautifully and doesn’t stick to your air fryer basket or grilling accessories, contributing to the seamless operation of your best air fryer for grilling setup.
Key Features:
– All-natural ingredients, made with pure oil
– High smoke point (up to 450°F) suitable for high-heat cooking
– Versatile for air fryers, roasting, grilling, baking, and more
– Free of additives and artificial flavors
– Provides a fine mist for even coating
Pros:
– Prevents sticking effectively in air fryers
– High smoke point makes it safe for high-temperature cooking
– All-natural and healthy alternative to traditional cooking sprays
– Fine mist ensures even coverage without excess oil
– Versatile for various cooking methods
Cons:
– May be more expensive than generic cooking sprays
– Can deplete quickly if used frequently
– Some users prefer a pump spray bottle over aerosol
User Impressions:
Users consistently report that this spray is highly effective in preventing food from sticking and helps achieve a better crisp. The high smoke point and all-natural ingredients are frequently highlighted as key benefits, making it a popular choice for health-conscious cooks who use air fryers regularly.
Katbite 350Pcs 9×13 In Parchment Paper Sheets, Heavy Duty
Make cleanup a breeze and protect your air fryer basket from sticking with Katbite’s Heavy Duty Parchment Paper Sheets. These pre-cut, unbleached sheets are designed for convenience, laying flat in your basket or oven tray without curling. Their double-sided silicone coating ensures a non-stick surface, making it incredibly easy to remove food and clean up afterwards. With an extra-thick 45gsm paper, they’re more tear-resistant than standard parchment, perfect for handling heavier or juicier items while you aim for the best air fryer for grilling results with minimal mess.
Key Features:
– Perfect 9×13 inch size, 350 pre-cut sheets
– Non-stick with double silicone coating
– Heavy-duty extra thick 45gsm paper for tear resistance
– Natural, unbleached, 100% pure wood pulp, fluorescent-free
– Multi-use: baking, wrapping, freezing, microwave, oven
– Temperature range from -68°F to 450°F
Pros:
– Pre-cut sheets save time and prevent curling
– Excellent non-stick properties for easy food release
– Extra-thick and durable for various foods
– Natural and healthy choice (unbleached, non-toxic)
– Simplifies cleanup significantly
Cons:
– May restrict some airflow slightly in the air fryer basket
– Not suitable for extremely high temperatures above 450°F
– Large quantity might be more than some users need immediately
User Impressions:
Customers love the convenience of pre-cut sheets and the substantial thickness of this parchment paper, which makes it far more durable than others. They praise its non-stick capabilities and how much easier it makes cleaning up after air frying, roasting, and baking.
SMARTAKE 200 Pcs Unbleached Parchment Paper Baking Sheets
Similar to the previous entry but with a focus on a different common size, SMARTAKE’s Precut Unbleached Parchment Paper Baking Sheets offer another excellent solution for hassle-free air frying and baking. These 10×15 inch sheets are specifically designed for larger baking trays, but can easily be trimmed or folded to fit larger air fryer baskets. They eliminate the frustration of curling parchment paper, lying flat for a seamless cooking experience. Like all good parchment paper, they’re non-stick, food-grade, and can withstand temperatures up to 450°F, ensuring your food doesn’t stick and your cleanup is quick.
Key Features:
– Precut for 10×15 inch baking sheets, lays flat
– 200 pieces of non-toxic, food-grade parchment paper
– Suitable for baking, grilling, frying, and steaming
– Resists temperatures up to 450°F
– Non-stick properties for easy food release
– Comes in a rectangular packaging box to prevent folding
Pros:
– Convenient pre-cut sheets eliminate cutting and curling
– Reliable non-stick surface for easy food removal
– Safe for high-temperature cooking up to 450°F
– Versatile for multiple cooking applications
– Packaging ensures sheets remain flat and unfolded
Cons:
– Specific size might not perfectly fit all air fryer baskets without adjustment
– Can slightly impede airflow if used improperly
– Not reusable
User Impressions:
Users appreciate the flat, pre-cut nature of these sheets, which makes them incredibly convenient for everyday use. The non-stick performance is highly rated, significantly reducing cleanup time after various cooking tasks, from baking cookies to air frying vegetables.
Conclusion
Achieving delicious, grill-like results indoors is more accessible than ever, thanks to the versatility of modern air fryers and these fantastic complementary accessories. Whether you’re investing in a powerful all-in-one appliance like the Emeril Lagasse, ensuring perfect doneness with a reliable meat thermometer, or simply streamlining your cleanup with high-quality parchment paper, each of these items plays a crucial role.
By incorporating these seven essential tools into your kitchen, you’re not just air frying; you’re elevating your entire cooking game. You’ll find yourself enjoying healthier, crispier meals with less fuss, truly transforming your setup into the best air fryer for grilling your favorite foods, any time of year. Happy “grilling”!
FAQs About Air Fryer Grilling
1. Can I really “grill” in an air fryer?
While an air fryer doesn’t use direct flame like a traditional grill, it can create remarkably similar results. The powerful convection heat circulation browns and crisps food, giving it a texture and flavor profile reminiscent of grilling, especially with the right techniques and accessories like grill pans or skewers.
2. What makes an air fryer great for grill-like results?
Air fryers excel due to their rapid, even heat circulation. This “air crisp” technology creates a Maillard reaction, browning the food and developing a flavorful crust. They also often come with perforated baskets or trays that allow fats to drip away, similar to a grill grate, leading to healthier, less greasy results.
3. What kind of foods are best for air fryer grilling?
Many foods take well to air fryer grilling! Think thinner cuts of steak, chicken breasts, fish fillets, shrimp, kabobs, vegetables (like bell peppers, onions, zucchini), and even sausages. Foods that typically do well on a traditional grill will likely get great results in an air fryer with the right accessories.
4. Are these accessories safe to use in an air fryer?
Yes, the accessories reviewed are generally safe for air fryer use, provided they are made from food-grade materials like stainless steel and are designed to withstand high temperatures. Always check product specifications and your air fryer’s manual for compatibility and temperature limits.
5. How do I clean air fryer grilling accessories?
Most stainless steel accessories, like baskets and skewers, are dishwasher-safe or can be easily cleaned by hand with warm soapy water. For sticky residues, a good soak can help. Parchment paper, of course, is disposable, making cleanup almost non-existent for the air fryer basket itself.
6. Do I need special oils for air fryer grilling?
It’s best to use cooking oils with a high smoke point (like avocado, grapeseed, or specifically formulated air fryer sprays) when air frying or “grilling.” Oils with lower smoke points can burn, causing smoke and imparting an unpleasant taste to your food. A light mist is usually sufficient.
7. What’s the difference between air frying and traditional grilling?
Traditional grilling uses direct, radiant heat from an open flame or heated grates, often imparting a smoky flavor and distinct grill marks. Air frying uses circulating hot air to cook and crisp food, achieving a similar crispy exterior and tender interior without the smoke or open flame, making it ideal for indoor use and typically requiring less oil.