What Can You Put in Air Fryer to Hold Food Perfectly Every Time

Maximize your air fryer’s potential with oven-safe cookware like silicone molds, parchment paper, and metal racks to hold food perfectly every time. These accessories prevent sticking, promote even cooking, and make cleanup effortless—ideal for delicate items like fish, veggies, or reheating leftovers. Always avoid non-stick coatings and flammable materials to ensure safety and consistent results.

Key Takeaways

• Use parchment paper: Prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
• Try silicone molds: Ideal for portion control and delicate foods.
• Opt for metal racks: Elevates food for crispier results.
• Choose oven-safe dishes: Safe for baking and reheating in air fryer.
• Use skewers or toothpicks: Keeps small items secure and evenly cooked.
• Line with foil: Simplifies cleanup and protects basket from mess.

Why the Right Air Fryer Liner or Holder Matters

Let’s be real—air fryers are magic. They crisp up fries, cook chicken to golden perfection, and even make veggies taste like they’ve been kissed by a grill. But if you’ve ever pulled out a batch of soggy tater tots or found your salmon stuck to the basket, you’ve probably asked yourself: what can I put in my air fryer to hold food properly?

It’s a question that doesn’t get nearly enough attention. Most people focus on recipes, but the right liner or holder can make or break your air frying experience. Think of it like choosing the right pan for a stovetop—except in this case, you’re working with rapid, circulating hot air. The wrong material can block airflow, create smoke, or worse—leave your food stuck and ruined. Over the years, I’ve experimented with everything from parchment paper to silicone molds, and I’ve learned that the secret to perfect results isn’t just about what you cook—it’s about how you hold it.

1. Parchment Paper: The Classic (But Tricky) Choice

How to Use Parchment Paper Correctly

Parchment paper is one of the most popular liners for air fryers—and for good reason. It’s affordable, widely available, and non-stick. But here’s the catch: it can be dangerous if used incorrectly. I learned this the hard way when a loose piece of parchment caught fire during a batch of bacon. (Spoiler: smoke alarm went off, my dog panicked, and I had to open all the windows in February.)

The key is to use perforated parchment paper or pre-cut liners made specifically for air fryers. These are designed with small holes to allow hot air to circulate, which prevents steaming and ensures even cooking. If you’re using regular parchment, you must weigh it down with food before turning on the air fryer. Never let loose paper flap around in the basket—hot air can lift it and cause it to touch the heating element.

Here’s a quick tip: cut your parchment to fit snugly inside the basket, leaving about ¼ inch of space around the edges. This prevents it from curling up during cooking. And if you’re cooking something greasy (like chicken wings), place a few small slits in the paper to let excess oil drip through.

Best Uses for Parchment Paper

• Frozen foods: French fries, mozzarella sticks, and nuggets—parchment keeps them from sticking without adding oil.
• Delicate items: Fish fillets, shrimp, and scallops benefit from the non-stick surface.
• Baking: Muffins, brownies, or even mini cakes can be baked in parchment cups or lined pans.

One thing to note: parchment paper isn’t reusable. Once it’s greasy or torn, toss it. But for single-use cooking, it’s a solid option—especially if you’re trying to avoid extra cleanup.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Non-stick, affordable, easy to find, helps reduce mess.
• Cons:
  • Not reusable
  • Can catch fire if loose
  • May block airflow if not perforated
  • Not ideal for high-moisture foods (can steam instead of crisp)

Bottom line: parchment paper works great if you use it right. Invest in pre-cut, perforated liners for peace of mind—and fewer fire drills.

2. Silicone Mats and Baking Cups: Reusable and Reliable

Why Silicone Is a Game-Changer

If you’re tired of wasting parchment paper or worrying about fire hazards, silicone is your new best friend. I switched to silicone mats a few years ago, and honestly? It’s one of the best air fryer upgrades I’ve made. These mats are heat-resistant (usually up to 450°F or higher), reusable, and non-stick—no oil needed.

Silicone mats come in various sizes and shapes. Some are flat, like mini baking sheets that fit perfectly in your basket. Others are designed as baking cups or muffin liners, which are perfect for portioning out foods like egg bites, meatballs, or even mini quiches. I love using silicone cupcake liners for air fryer banana oat bites—no sticking, no mess, and they pop out like magic.

How to Use Silicone Safely and Effectively

First, make sure your silicone mat is labeled as food-grade and oven-safe. Not all silicone is created equal—some cheaper versions can melt or leach chemicals at high temps. Stick to brands with good reviews or those certified by organizations like FDA or LFGB.

Place the mat directly in the air fryer basket. Unlike parchment, it won’t fly around because it’s heavier and more stable. The raised edges on some mats help contain small or liquid ingredients (think: scrambled eggs or marinara sauce for meatballs). Just make sure the mat doesn’t cover the entire bottom—leave space at the edges so air can circulate.

Cleaning is a breeze. Most silicone mats are dishwasher-safe, but I usually just rinse them with warm soapy water. A quick scrub with a soft sponge removes any residue, and they’re ready for the next use.

Top Uses and Tips

• Egg dishes: Silicone baking cups are perfect for air fryer frittatas or egg muffins.
• Small bites: Meatballs, dumplings, or stuffed mushrooms stay contained and cook evenly.
• Vegetables: Use a flat silicone mat to roast chopped veggies without them falling through the basket holes.
• Reheating: Great for warming up leftovers like pizza or chicken tenders without drying them out.

One pro tip: if you’re cooking something with a lot of moisture (like salmon), pat the food dry before placing it on the mat. Excess liquid can pool and lead to steaming instead of crisping.

Silicone is also great for baking. I’ve made air fryer banana bread in a silicone loaf pan, and it came out moist on the inside with a slightly crisp top—perfect!

3. Metal Racks and Baskets: For Maximum Airflow

When to Use a Metal Rack

Sometimes, you want maximum crispiness—and that means letting hot air hit your food from all sides. Enter the metal rack. These are usually made of stainless steel or chrome-plated wire and sit inside the air fryer basket. They elevate food, allowing air to circulate underneath and around it.

I use my metal rack for things like chicken wings, drumsticks, or even roasted potatoes. The elevated position helps the skin crisp up beautifully, and excess fat drips down into the basket. It’s especially useful for large or thick cuts of meat that need even cooking.

Types of Metal Holders

• Elevated racks: Fit inside the basket, often with legs or a raised base.
• Stackable baskets: Two-tier systems that let you cook more food at once (great for families).
• Rotisserie baskets: For whole chickens or kebabs—some air fryers come with these as accessories.
• Mesh trays: Flat trays with small holes, ideal for delicate foods like fish fillets or tofu.

One thing to watch for: not all metal racks are compatible with every air fryer model. Check the dimensions and make sure it fits snugly without touching the heating element. Also, avoid aluminum or thin metal—it can warp or react with acidic foods.

Best Practices and Pitfalls

Metal racks are fantastic for airflow, but they’re not non-stick. To prevent sticking:

• Lightly oil the rack (use a spray or brush)
• Pat food dry before placing it on the rack
• Don’t overcrowd—give each piece space to breathe

I once tried air frying breaded chicken cutlets on a dry metal rack. They stuck so badly, I had to soak the rack for an hour. Lesson learned: a little oil goes a long way.

Also, metal racks can get very hot. Always use tongs or oven mitts when removing them. And never put them in the dishwasher if they have a non-stick coating—it can wear off over time.

For best results, pair your metal rack with a drip tray or liner underneath to catch grease. Some models even come with a non-stick coating on the rack itself, which helps with both release and cleanup.

4. DIY and Creative Solutions (Yes, You Can Use These!)

Aluminum Foil: Use With Caution

Aluminum foil is a common kitchen staple, but it’s not ideal for air fryers—unless you use it right. The main issue? Foil blocks airflow. If you cover the entire basket bottom, your food will steam instead of crisp.

But there are safe ways to use it:

• Make a foil “boat”: Crimp foil around the edges to create a shallow tray. Place it in the basket with food inside. The raised edges keep liquids contained, while the open top allows air to circulate.
• Line the drip tray: Place foil under the basket (not inside it) to catch grease. This makes cleanup easier and protects the heating element from splatters.

Never let foil touch the heating element. And avoid using it with acidic foods (like tomatoes or citrus)—it can react and leach aluminum into your food.

Oven-Safe Dishes and Pans

Here’s a secret: you can use small oven-safe dishes in your air fryer. Think: ramekins, mini cake pans, or even cast iron skillets (if they fit). I’ve used a 6-ounce ramekin to bake individual soufflés, and a tiny cast iron to sear scallops.

The key is size and material:

• Make sure the dish doesn’t block the air vents
• Use oven-safe materials (glass, ceramic, cast iron, stainless steel)
• Preheat the dish if possible (just like in a regular oven)

This method is perfect for:

• Baked potatoes (cut in half and placed in a dish to prevent rolling)
• Individual casseroles or quiches
• Melting cheese or reheating saucy dishes (like mac and cheese)

Reusable Paper Alternatives

Want the non-stick benefits of parchment without the waste? Try reusable paper liners. These are made from food-grade silicone-coated fabric and can be used hundreds of times. I’ve had one for over two years, and it still looks new.

They’re slightly more expensive than parchment, but the long-term savings add up. Plus, they’re easier to clean—just wipe or rinse. Look for brands that are BPA-free and heat-resistant up to 500°F.

5. What NOT to Put in Your Air Fryer (Avoid These Mistakes)

Materials That Can Damage Your Air Fryer

Not everything is safe for air frying. Here are the top things to avoid:

• Regular paper: Napkins, paper towels, or printer paper can catch fire or blow into the heating element.
• Plastic containers: They’ll melt or warp. Even “microwave-safe” plastic isn’t safe for air fryer temps.
• Wax paper: It has a low smoke point and can melt or smoke.
• Non-oven-safe ceramics: Some glazes can crack or release toxins at high heat.
• Overly large dishes: If it blocks airflow, your food won’t cook evenly.

Common User Mistakes

Even with the right liner, mistakes happen. I’ve been guilty of:

• Overloading the basket: Crowding food blocks airflow. Leave at least ½ inch between pieces.
• Skipping preheating: Most air fryers need 3–5 minutes to heat up. Cooking on a cold basket leads to soggy results.
• Ignoring oil needs: Some foods (like lean meats or veggies) need a light spray of oil to crisp up—even with a non-stick liner.
• Using the wrong size liner: A liner that’s too big can block vents; one that’s too small won’t protect the basket.

One more tip: always check your food halfway through cooking. Shake the basket or flip items to ensure even browning. And if you’re using a liner, make sure it’s not blocking the top or sides of the basket.

6. Choosing the Right Liner for Your Cooking Style

Quick Reference: Which Liner to Use When

Food Type	Best Liner	Why	Tip
Frozen foods (fries, nuggets)	Perforated parchment or silicone mat	Non-stick, easy cleanup	Pat food dry to prevent steaming
Meat (wings, chicken, steaks)	Metal rack or silicone mat	Elevates for crisp skin, drains fat	Oil lightly to prevent sticking
Fish or seafood	Silicone mat or parchment	Prevents delicate flesh from tearing	Don’t overcrowd—cook in batches
Eggs or baked goods	Silicone baking cups or oven-safe ramekins	Holds shape, easy removal	Preheat dish for even baking
Vegetables	Silicone mat or metal rack	Prevents falling through holes	Toss with oil and season before cooking
Saucy or liquid dishes	Oven-safe dish or foil boat	Contains liquids, prevents mess	Use a lid or cover if splattering

Matching Liners to Air Fryer Types

Not all air fryers are the same. Basket-style models (like Philips or Ninja) work best with flat liners or racks. Oven-style air fryers (like Cosori or Instant Vortex) can accommodate deeper dishes and multiple trays.

If you have a small air fryer (3–4 quarts), stick to flat liners or small cups. Larger models (5+ quarts) can handle racks, stackable baskets, and even small pans.

And don’t forget: cleanability matters. If you hate scrubbing, go for dishwasher-safe silicone or non-stick metal racks. If you’re on a budget, parchment is fine—just be careful.

Final Thoughts: Master Your Air Fryer Setup

At the end of the day, what you put in your air fryer to hold food is just as important as the recipe itself. The right liner or holder ensures even cooking, prevents sticking, and makes cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re a parchment paper loyalist, a silicone convert, or a metal rack enthusiast, there’s a solution that fits your style.

I’ve learned through trial, error, and a few smoke alarms that the best approach is matching the liner to the food. Crispy wings? Go for the rack. Delicate fish? Use a silicone mat. Baking muffins? Grab a silicone cup. And always—always—prioritize airflow and safety.

Your air fryer is a powerful tool. With the right accessories, it becomes even better. So experiment, take notes, and find what works for you. Because when your food comes out perfectly every time? That’s the real magic.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can you put in air fryer to hold food without it sticking?

Use parchment paper, silicone mats, or lightly greased metal racks to prevent sticking. These options allow air circulation while keeping food secure during cooking.

Can I use aluminum foil in my air fryer to hold food?

Yes, aluminum foil works well to hold food, especially smaller items like diced veggies or shrimp. Just avoid blocking airflow by not covering the entire basket.

Are there air fryer accessories designed to hold food securely?

Absolutely! Silicone baskets, metal racks, and multi-layer trays are perfect for holding food and improving crispiness. Look for accessories compatible with your air fryer model.

What can you put in air fryer to hold food if you don’t have parchment paper?

Try silicone baking cups, lightly greased foil, or reusable silicone mats. These alternatives keep food elevated and prevent messes without sacrificing air flow.

Is it safe to use ceramic or glass bowls to hold food in an air fryer?

Yes, oven-safe ceramic or glass bowls can be used, but ensure they fit without blocking the fan. They’re great for casseroles or dips that need containment.

How do I keep small foods from falling through the air fryer basket?

Use a silicone liner, foil packet, or a mesh silicone mat to hold small foods like peas or nuts. These tools keep items contained while allowing even cooking.