The best pans for air fryer offer superior heat distribution and non-stick surfaces, transforming your air fryer into a versatile cooking tool for everyone from home cooks to culinary enthusiasts. Choosing the right pan is crucial, as a subpar option can lead to uneven cooking, difficult food release, and ultimately, wasted ingredients and diminished meal quality. Different materials and designs cater to various needs, impacting durability, cleaning ease, and the types of foods you can prepare effectively.
With numerous choices available, finding the perfect fit can be overwhelming. To help you navigate the options, we’ve rounded up the 10 best pans for air fryer that promise to enhance your air-fried creations and simplify your kitchen routine.
When selecting the best pans for air fryer functionality, consider options that promote 360-degree heat circulation. Sets like the GE Appliances Air Fry Basket & Tray Set and the DONGULI Air Fryer Basket Oven offer this feature, often with a tray to catch drippings. Many versatile baking sheets, such as the Gotham Steel Baking Sheet with Air Fry Rack, also perform well when used with an accompanying rack to elevate food for optimal crisping.
Best Pans for Air Fryer: At a Glance
| Image | Product | Buy |
|---|---|---|
Best Pick 1  | GE Appliances Air Fry Basket & Tray Set, PM48X120 Best for: Oven conversion | Check Price |
Best Pick 2  | Air Fryer Basket for Oven,2 Set Air Fryer Basket and Best for: Doubling recipes | Check Price |
Best Pick 3  | Gotham Steel Baking Sheet with Air Fry Rack, 16.5” x Best for: Baking and frying | Check Price |
Best Pick 4  | Air Fryer Paper Liners, 125Pcs Parchment Paper, Air Fryer Liners Best for: Convenience cooks | Check Price |
Best Pick 5  | DONGULI Air Fryer Basket Oven – 2 Set Large Air Best for: Large batch cooking | Check Price |
How We Picked
To determine the best pans for air fryer, we prioritized durability and real-world performance. We evaluated build quality, looking for robust stainless steel or non-stick coated aluminum constructions like those from TeamFar and Nordic Ware. Safety features, such as BPA-free materials and oven-safe temperatures up to 500°F, were crucial.
We ruled out flimsy options and focused on sets offering versatile sizes, like the 2-piece options from DONGULI and OPENICE, and those with helpful accessories like parchment liners. Standout features included those promoting even cooking and easy cleanup, aligning with what discerning buyers expect for consistent results and long-term value.
What Most Buyers Get Wrong
Oven or Air Fryer: Knowing Where It Fits
Many air fryer pans are designed to fit inside standard ovens, functioning as convection trays. Pay close attention to dimensions like those found in the Air Fryer Basket for Oven (Product 2) or DONGULI Air Fryer Basket Oven (Product 5). Ensure the interior dimensions of your specific air fryer or oven’s crumb tray area can accommodate the basket and tray set you’re considering.
A snug fit is crucial for proper air circulation, which is key to achieving that perfect crispness your air fryer is known for.
Basket vs. Liner: Understanding Their Roles
When selecting accessories for your air fryer, it’s important to distinguish between full baskets and liners. Products like the GE Appliances Air Fry Basket & Tray Set (Product 1) offer a complete system for 360-degree heat circulation. In contrast, Air Fryer Paper Liners (Product 4) or silicone liners like the Boribim Square Silicone Air Fryer Liners (Product 8) are designed to sit inside an existing basket or pan, catching grease and preventing food from sticking.
For optimal results and easier cleanup, consider using a basket and tray set for more substantial cooking or a liner for simpler items.
1. GE Appliances Air Fry Basket & Tray Set, PM48X120
Best for: Fits many oven models, dishwasher safe.
GE Appliances offers a 15 x 12-inch air fry basket and tray set designed for 360-degree heat circulation, allowing you to achieve crispy results while catching drips.
This set includes both a basket and a tray, each measuring 15 inches by 12 inches, making it suitable for a variety of range ovens and wall ovens. It is oven safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit and dishwasher safe, simplifying cleanup after use.
Pros
- Accommodates 360-degree heat circulation for even crisping.
- Tray catches crumbs and drips, reducing oven messes.
- Oven safe up to 500°F for versatile cooking.
- Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.
Cons
- The unit count is 1.0, meaning you only receive one basket and one tray.
For GE oven owners seeking a dedicated air fryer solution, this basket and tray set provides essential functionality for crisping foods.
2. Air Fryer Basket for Oven,2 Set Air Fryer Basket and
Best for: Two sizes included, 60 parchment papers.
This THORSES two-piece air fryer basket and tray set comes with a large 15″x11″ and a medium 13.4″x9.6″ option, enabling you to cook main dishes and sides simultaneously.
The set includes two different sized baskets and trays to fit various convection ovens with a minimum 16-inch interior width and 11-inch depth. It promotes healthy, less greasy cooking with its raised mesh design that ensures 360-degree air circulation.
Pros
- Accommodates cooking main dishes and sides together.
- Mesh design ensures 360-degree air circulation.
- Suitable for ovens with a 16-inch min. width and 11-inch depth.
- Includes 60 disposable parchment papers for added convenience.
Cons
- The basket and tray are designed for ovens, not freestanding air fryers.
Ideal for families or meal preppers who need to cook multiple items at once. This set helps achieve healthier, crisper foods with minimal oil.
3. Gotham Steel Baking Sheet with Air Fry Rack, 16.5” x
Best for: Durable aluminum with copper coating.
The Gotham Steel baking sheet features a 16.5-inch by 11.5-inch surface area and a durable aluminum construction with a non-stick copper coating for multipurpose use.
This spacious 3-quart baking sheet is great for baking, frying, roasting, and crisping. Made from aluminum, it conducts heat rapidly and evenly. The non-stick surface ensures food releases easily, and it is dishwasher safe for simple cleanup.
Pros
- Spacious 16.5″ x 11.5″ surface for large meals.
- Durable aluminum with non-stick copper coating.
- Suitable for baking, frying, roasting, and crisping.
- Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.
Cons
- The product is a single unit (no set of multiple pans included).
For home cooks looking for a versatile, easy-to-clean baking sheet that can also crisp foods. Its large size is perfect for family portions.
4. Air Fryer Paper Liners, 125Pcs Parchment Paper, Air Fryer Liners
Best for: Unbleached, BPA-free parchment liners.
These 8-inch square air fryer paper liners, made from unbleached raw wood with a silicone coating, are unbleached, BPA-free, and PFA-free, withstanding temperatures up to 428°F.
This pack includes 125 parchment paper liners, each measuring 8 inches by 8 inches, eliminating the need for cutting or measuring. They are water-proof, oil-proof, and non-stick, ensuring food stains and grease stay on the liner, not your air fryer basket.
Pros
- Made from healthy, unbleached wood pulp.
- Water-proof, oil-proof, and non-stick properties.
- Withstands temperatures up to 428°F.
- Pre-cut for convenient, no-mess use.
Cons
- These are single-use liners, generating waste after each use.
For air fryer owners who prioritize easy cleanup and want to keep their appliances spotless. These liners are convenient for both everyday cooking and batch prep.
5. DONGULI Air Fryer Basket Oven – 2 Set Large Air
Best for: Two large stainless steel sets.
The DONGULI two-set air fryer basket and pan measures between 15.4″x10.4″ and 15″x11.2″, allowing you to cook larger quantities of food at once to save time.
This set includes two large stainless steel air fryer baskets and two corresponding pans, designed for 360° circulation heating. The mesh design on both the tray and basket distributes heat evenly for thoroughly cooked food, ideal for families or entertaining.
Pros
- Accommodates cooking larger quantities of food.
- Stainless steel construction for durability.
- 360° circulation heating for even cooking.
- Mesh design promotes adequate heat distribution.
Cons
- The dimensions are for the basket and pan, but the specific internal oven requirements are not listed.
Perfect for families or those who entertain, this set enables cooking larger batches of crispy food efficiently through even air circulation.
6. Nordic Ware Oven Crisp Baking Tray 2pc Set Includes Pan
Best for: Aluminum pan with nonstick steel rack.
This Nordic Ware 2-piece oven crisp baking tray set features a formed aluminum pan that conducts heat rapidly and evenly, with a nonstick coated steel rack for elevated cooking.
The pan is designed to catch drippings while the rack elevates food for hot air circulation underneath, eliminating the need for turning. This set is great for making bacon, jerky, dried fruits, crisp fries, and vegetables, promoting healthier cooking.
Pros
- Aluminum pan conducts heat rapidly and evenly.
- Rack elevates food for better air circulation.
- Pan catches drippings for healthier cooking.
- Suitable for a variety of crispy foods.
Cons
- Cleaning must be done by hand; it is not dishwasher safe.
Ideal for anyone looking for a healthier way to achieve crispy results in their oven. This set is perfect for making fries, veggies, and more.
7. Air Fryer Basket, OPENICE 2 Set Air Fryer Pan and
Best for: Includes 2 large, 2 medium sets + paper.
The OPENICE Air Fryer Basket set provides two large 15.6″x11.6″ and two medium 12.8″x9.6″ air fryer baskets and trays, along with 60 parchment papers, for versatile cooking needs.
This pack of six items is designed for most regular ovens with an air fry option or wall ovens, promoting 360-degree heat circulation for crispy meals without flipping. The mesh basket design ensures food is cooked evenly for delicious results.
Pros
- Offers four total baskets and trays in two sizes.
- Mesh basket design promotes 360° air heat circulation.
- Includes 60 parchment papers for convenience.
- Suitable for most ovens with air fry functionality.
Cons
- The product does not specify material type for the baskets and trays.
For households that frequently use their oven’s air fry function and need multiple sizes for various dishes. This set delivers crispy results with minimal effort.
8. Boribim 2 PCS Square Silicone Air Fryer Liners – 8
Best for: Thicker, food-grade silicone, reusable.
These Boribim square silicone air fryer liners are 67mil thick, measuring 8 inches by 8 inches with a 2.2-inch height, fitting 4 to 7 QT air fryers.
Crafted from food-grade silicone, these reusable liners are non-toxic, BPA-free, and withstand temperatures up to 464°F (240℃). Their non-stick surface ensures easy food release and simplified cleaning, making them a durable alternative to parchment paper.
Pros
- Made from durable, food-grade silicone.
- Withstands high temperatures up to 464°F.
- Reusable and eco-friendly.
- Non-stick surface for easy cleanup.
Cons
- These are liners only, not baskets or trays.
For owners of 4-7 QT air fryers seeking a reusable, easy-to-clean solution to prevent food from sticking. These liners simplify cleanup and add a layer of protection.
9. COSORI Air Fryer Accessories, Set of 6 Perfect for Most
Best for: 6-piece set for 5.0 QT+ air fryers.
This COSORI 6-piece air fryer accessory set, including a cake pan, egg bites mold, metal holder, multipurpose rack, pizza pan, and silicone mat, is perfect for expanding your air fryer’s capabilities.
Designed for air fryers with a capacity of 5.0 QT or above, this set is compatible with many brands including Cosori, Ninja, PowerXL, and Instant Pot. It allows for diverse cooking, from cakes and pizzas to kebabs and egg bites, maximizing your appliance’s versatility.
Pros
- Includes 6 versatile cooking accessories.
- Increases air fryer cooking versatility.
- Compatible with most air fryers 5.0 QT and up.
- Suitable for baking, making pizza, and more.
Cons
- Requires an air fryer with a minimum 5.0 QT capacity.
For COSORI air fryer owners, or those with similar capacity models, wanting to bake, grill, or prepare a wider variety of dishes. This set unlocks new culinary possibilities.
10. TeamFar Air Fryer Basket for Oven, 2 Set Stainless Steel
Best for: Two sizes, stainless steel, high capacity.
The TeamFar Air Fryer Basket for Oven comes in a 2-set package with large (15.4” x 11.5”) and medium (11.8” x 9.1”) options, ideal for cooking main courses and sides simultaneously.
This set includes both a large 15.4” x 11.5” basket and 16” x 12” tray, plus a medium 11.8” x 9.1” basket and 12.5” x 9.6” tray, all made from stainless steel. It’s perfect for making crispy foods like french fries, breaded chicken, and roasting meats or vegetables for the whole family.
Pros
- Offers two sizes for flexible cooking: large and medium.
- Stainless steel construction for durability.
- High capacity baskets and trays for family meals.
- Suitable for making crispy fries, chicken, and roasted items.
Cons
- The item weight is 4.22 pounds for the entire set.
For families or hosts looking to maximize their oven’s air fry function with durable stainless steel. This set efficiently cooks multiple items for gatherings.
Oven Pan Size Dictates Air Fryer Results
The most critical factor when selecting an air fryer pan for oven use isn’t the non-stick coating or even the material, but the dimensions. Specifically, internal oven cavity clearance dictates how much air can circulate, which is the fundamental principle behind effective air frying. The GE Appliances Air Fry Basket & Tray Set, while designed for specific ovens, highlights this by emphasizing its fit across many models.
However, its specific dimensions aren’t universally applicable. For most users, a pan’s ability to allow 360-degree heat circulation is paramount, and this is directly hampered by pans that are too large.
Consider the contrasting approaches to size evident in the offerings. The Air Fryer Basket for Oven, 2 Set Air Fryer Basket and, and the DONGULI Air Fryer Basket Oven – 2 Set Large Air, both tout multiple sizes, with options like 15×11 and 15.4×10.4. While the allure of cooking more at once is strong, excessively large pans can restrict airflow within many standard ovens, leading to uneven cooking and soggy results rather than crisping.
The goal should be to maximize crispiness, not just capacity. This means choosing a size that leaves ample room for hot air to move freely around the food.
The Nordic Ware Oven Crisp Baking Tray 2pc Set and the TeamFar Air Fryer Basket for Oven, 2 Set Stainless Steel, offer large and medium options, recognizing the need for adaptability. However, even these should be measured against the minimum internal dimensions of your specific oven’s convection setting, not just the advertised fit most ovens claims. The COSORI Air Fryer Accessories, Set of 6, while comprehensive, also relies on user measurement for true compatibility, as above 5.0 QT doesn’t guarantee sufficient clearance for optimal air fryer performance.
The Gotham Steel Baking Sheet with Air Fry Rack, with its 16.5” width, is likely to be too large for many standard ovens, sacrificing critical airflow for sheer surface area.
Ultimately, the true value of these accessories lies not in their included extras like parchment liners (Air Fryer Paper Liners, 125Pcs Parchment Paper, or Boribim 2 PCS Square Silicone Air Fryer Liners) or their construction materials, but in their ability to achieve effective air frying within your existing oven. Focus on selecting a basket and tray set where the dimensions allow for significant space between the pan edges and the oven walls, ensuring robust air circulation.
For users prioritizing genuine air frying results over sheer volume, the smaller end of the size spectrum offered by sets like the OPENICE 2 Set Air Fryer Pan and should be heavily considered, provided they still respect the minimum clearance needed for efficient convection.
What to Look For in Best Pans for Air Fryer
Pan material and durability
When selecting the material for your air fryer pan, prioritize durable stainless steel construction for longevity and even heating. Look for pans featuring robust, PFOA-free nonstick coatings that resist scratching and ensure easy food release. Silicone or heat-resistant handles are essential for safe handling during cooking.
Crucially, opt for pans explicitly labeled as dishwasher-safe, as this significantly simplifies cleanup. A well-chosen pan will feel solid, have a smooth, consistent nonstick surface, and boast comfortable, secure handles.
For dependable, long-lasting performance, choose stainless steel with a high-quality nonstick finish.
Size and capacity
The most critical factor in pan size is ensuring it fits your specific air fryer basket perfectly. Measure your basket’s diameter and inner height to confirm compatibility; a snug fit prevents wobbling and promotes better air circulation. Consider the depth of the pan—a shallower pan is ideal for crisping, while a deeper one accommodates more substantial dishes like cakes or casseroles.
If you cook for one, a single pan suffices, but a set of multiple pans offers flexibility. For optimal space utilization and even cooking, select round or square pans that maximize contact with the air fryer walls.
Always choose the largest pan that comfortably fits your basket.
Versatile functionality
Your air fryer pan should extend beyond basic frying; look for versatile functionality that enhances your cooking options. A pan capable of baking and roasting efficiently means you can prepare a wider range of dishes, from muffins to roasted vegetables. Excellent reheating efficiency is also key, ensuring leftovers are crisp and appealing.
Grill pan features, such as raised ridges, add char marks and flavor to meats and vegetables. Ease of cleaning is paramount – a pan that smoothly releases food and washes without scrubbing is a clear winner.
For maximum utility, select pans designed for baking, roasting, and grilling, with a nonstick surface that cleans effortlessly.
Which Should You Choose?
- If you frequently cook for a crowd or want to maximize cooking capacity, choose extra-large basket and tray sets that provide dual large sizes for simultaneous cooking.
- If you have a standard oven and want accessories that fit many models, choose a basket and tray set designed for oven use with a focus on 360-degree heat circulation.
- If you prioritize ease of cleanup and a non-stick surface for various cooking tasks, choose a durable, aluminum-based baking sheet with a copper non-stick coating and an air fry rack.
- If you want to simplify cleanup for every batch and prevent food from sticking, choose disposable parchment paper liners made from unbleached, food-safe materials.
Quick Best Pans For Air Fryer Buying Checklist
- Check Dimensions Ensure the pan fits snugly inside your specific air fryer basket without obstructing airflow.
- Material Matters Opt for food-grade stainless steel or durable, non-toxic nonstick coatings for longevity and health.
- Handle Design Look for sturdy, heat-resistant handles that offer a comfortable and safe grip.
- Easy Cleanup Prioritize dishwasher-safe pans or those with easy-to-wipe nonstick surfaces.
- Airflow Considerations Select pans with perforations or designs that don’t block the essential air circulation in your fryer.
- Purposeful Use Choose a pan designed for your common cooking tasks, whether it’s baking, roasting, or reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Benefits Of Using Pans In An Air Fryer?
Using pans in an air fryer helps contain messes and allows for more versatile cooking, such as baking cakes or making sauces. They also make cleanup significantly easier by preventing food from sticking directly to the air fryer basket, keeping your appliance cleaner long-term.
Are Nonstick Pans Safe For Air Fryers?
Yes, nonstick pans are generally safe and highly effective for air fryers, provided they are made with PFOA-free materials. The nonstick surface prevents food from adhering, offering excellent results for delicate items and simplifying the cleaning process.
What Size Pan Works Best For An Air Fryer?
The best size pan for an air fryer is one that fits snugly within the basket without blocking airflow crucial for crisping. Measure your air fryer basket’s interior dimensions to ensure a proper fit; a slightly smaller pan is often ideal.
Can I Bake In An Air Fryer With A Pan?
Absolutely, baking in an air fryer with a suitable pan is a great way to prepare small cakes, muffins, or other baked goods. The pan ensures even cooking and prevents the bottoms from burning, offering a compact oven alternative.
How Do I Clean Pans Used In An Air Fryer?
Cleaning pans used in an air fryer is typically straightforward. For nonstick pans, gentle soap and a soft sponge are usually sufficient. Many pans are also dishwasher-safe, offering a convenient and thorough cleaning option.
Final Words
Investing in the best pans for air fryer significantly enhances your cooking capabilities, offering easier cleanup and more versatile meal preparation. These accessories transform your air fryer into a multi-functional kitchen tool, perfect for tackling everything from crispy snacks to delicate baked goods. Embrace the convenience and explore a wider range of delicious recipes with your air fryer.