If you’re wondering if you can put parchment paper in an air fryer, the answer is yes, you can. These tips and tricks will give you satisfying results—crispy, delicious food and a quick cleanup. There are some pros and cons to keep in mind, but once you’re aware, you’ll be cooking the safe way every time!
Using parchment paper in your air fryer isn’t an absolute must. Your basket or tray is designed to generously help with the cooking process.
However, there are some circumstances where it’s beneficial to use a layer of parchment paper. To do it the right way, you’ll want to follow a few key tips.
Is it safe to put parchment paper in an air fryer?
Yes, it is safe to put parchment paper at the bottom of the air fryer basket. It’s a good idea to triple check your air fryer manual because it does depend on the type and model.
It is not recommended to use parchment paper every time you use your air fryer. It can potentially block 99% of the air fryer’s air flow, which is the whole point of this appliance. Parchment paper does not allow your food to drain off oils while cooking because it blocks the small holes at the bottom of the basket. (Read on for a handy trick that helps with this!)
Do not preheat your air fryer with the parchment paper in it. The hot air will blow the parchment paper around and get caught in the heat coils. The parchment paper will also burn if it’s exposed to high heats for too long.
Place Parchment Paper in the Basket Only
For the best results, place the parchment paper in your air fryer at the bottom of the basket. Then place food on top of the parchment paper.
If you place parchment paper on top of your food or somewhere insecure, it could create a fire hazard by interfering with the air fryer’s heating element. Additionally, misplacing parchment paper will alter the air circulation and cooking time of your food.
Tips for Using Parchment Paper in an Air Fryer
- Hole punch it out. Allow your food to drain while cooking by hole punching your parchment paper! Just a few rows will do the trick. This is a great way to allow air circulation and minimize clean up since most of the parchment paper will catch the grease.
- Grease before adding food. If you add a thin layer of butter or spray-on oil to the parchment paper before you place your food, it’ll ensure a non-stick surface. This will make it easy to remove the food.
- Check the maximum temperature. Make sure to check how heat resistant your parchment paper is. It needs to be able to withstand the high temperatures that your food will be cooking at. Most parchment papers can withstand heat up to 425°F. Air fryers like the Cosori brand only cook up to 400°F, so you likely won’t have an issue with this.
- Wax is a no-go. Do not accidentally use wax paper instead of parchment paper. The wax will definitely get caught in the heating coil and will start a fire. Check labels on all types of paper, so you aren’t buying the wrong thing.
- Measure twice, cut once. Don’t oversize your parchment paper or else your air fryer will be crowded. Simply measure twice with a pencil or pen to ensure the perfect fit. The fewer holes you cover in the bottom of the basket, the better air flow. You can always buy pre-cut parchment paper that will eliminate mis-measurements.
- When in doubt, manual it out. Always read your air fryer manual. That will be the key to your safety.
Parchment Paper vs. Aluminum Foil
Parchment paper can be the better option compared to foil. Unlike foil, it is not reactive because it has a silicone coating, making it heat resistant and less likely to stick to your cooking food. Parchment paper may also be a good option because it may protect your air fryer from food splatter.
Aluminum foil is not always the best option. Foil can have better benefits for outside of the air fryer like keeping your food warm. Tin foil is reactive which can give your food a metallic taste. For more information about aluminum foil in the air fryer, check out this post.
More Air Fryer Resources
Reading about how to use an air fryer is a great start to learn tips, tricks, and safety precautions. While cooking in an air fryer is quick, check in on whether air fryers are healthy in this post. Don’t forget to learn about how to clean an air fryer to keep it in tip top shape.
Healthy Air Fryer Recipes
Looking for a way to switch up your potatoes? Check out these recipes for air fryer sweet potato fries, air fryer baked potato, and air fryer SWEET baked potato.
For a spin or twist on protein, try this Air Fryer Shrimp recipe and Air Fryer Chicken Wings recipe that will make your meats perfectly crispy.
Want to switch up your veggie game? Add these Air Fryer Asparagus to your menu.
Bored of mushy zucchini? Try out this Air Fryer Zucchini Chips recipe or this Air Fryer Zucchini Fries recipe.
To make the blooming onion of your dreams, you’ll never go back from this recipe.
For a healthy crunch, try out these Air Fryer Apple Chips and Air Fryer Kale Chips to satisfy that late-night crave.
