Using or not using aluminum utensils is one of the many issues you will stumble upon while exploring more about your air fryer.
Aluminum is a good conductor, and aluminum cookware is suitable for cooking.
We have done some digging to know more about using aluminum pans in an air fryer.
Yes, you can use aluminum pans in an air fryer if it is oven-safe. Materials that are not oven-proof/safe cannot withstand high temperatures inside an air fryer. Using them may not only waste the food but also cause your air fryer to malfunction.
Precautions For Using Aluminum Pans In An Air Fryer
Some cautious to consider before putting an aluminum pan in an air fryer.
Find The Oven-Safe Label
The presence of an oven-safe label is the first thing you should consider when putting an aluminum pan in your air fryer.
This label is usually present on the base of the pan.
The benefit of using an oven-safe kitchen utensil is that it can withstand the high temperatures of the cooking chamber.
Read the User-Manual
As new technologies and air fryer models are being introduced, each model comes with a user manual tailored to its features and capabilities.
Therefore, it is always recommended to read your air fryer’s user manual thoroughly.
If using an aluminum pan in your air fryer is prohibited, you will find it explicitly mentioned in the user manual.
Note: Even if the pan is oven-safe, its use might still be prohibited by the manufacturers in some cases.
Proper Air Circulation
The air fryer works best when the air flows through food without obstruction.
Therefore, your aluminum pan should not impede airflow.
Choose a pan size that is smaller than the bottom of the air fryer basket to prevent blockage.
In addition, it is advised to try a few different sizes before making a decision.
Aluminum Pans with Lid
Avoid using aluminum pans in your air fryer that come with plastic lids.
These pans may not be oven-safe and can pose a risk when used in the air fryer.
Typically designed for storing cooked food in the refrigerator or transporting it, they are not suitable for use in cooking.
Alternatives Of Aluminum Pans For Air Fryer
- Silicone baking cups
- Glass bowls
- Steel bowl
- Silicone muffin cups
- Oven-proof paper cupcake cups
- Ceramic bowl
Can you use foil trays in air fryer?
Yes, you can use a foil tray in the air fryer, but there are a few concerns. Firstly, the tray should be made with aluminum; putting tin foil in the air fryer is not recommended. Secondly, the tray should not be too big to block the airflow.
You may also like to check out:
- Can You Put Metal In an Air Fryer?
- Can You Put Aluminum Foil In An Air Fryer?
- Can You Leave an Air Fryer Unattended?
Wrapping Up!
Using your air fryer carefully can prolong its life. Therefore, caution is always required when adding any utensils to your air fryer that were not originally designed for it. The same is true about cooking in aluminum pans. Above, we have talked extensively about this issue; make sure to give a thorough read for keeping your air fryer and food safe.