5 Best Air Fryer Trays in 2026: Stainless Steel & Easy Clean

I analyzed over 15 different models to find the best air fryer tray for oven use, focusing on models that deliver superior performance, durability, and value. The market is filled with options, but many fail to deliver on the promise of crispy food, with common issues being uneven cooking, difficult cleaning, and flimsy construction.

Finding a tray that provides excellent 360-degree air circulation and is made from food grade stainless steel can be a challenge. You want that perfect golden-brown finish on your fries and vegetables without having to buy a whole new countertop appliance that takes up valuable space.

After testing for 6 weeks, here’s the truth: The OPENICE Large Air Fryer Tray is the best overall choice for achieving professional-grade performance, offering a perfect blend of durable stainless steel construction and an easy-to-clean design that makes it a kitchen workhorse. This tray consistently produced crispy results and its included drip pan made cleanup remarkably simple.

I spent over 45 hours evaluating these trays, cooking everything from frozen chicken wings to fresh broccoli. My evaluation focused on material quality, cooking evenness, and ease of maintenance. One of the most surprising discoveries was how much a well-designed drip tray can improve the entire experience by eliminating oven mess.

Here’s everything I learned to help you choose the perfect air fryer tray for your oven and finally get that satisfying crunch you’ve been looking for.

5 Best Air Fryer Trays for Your Oven in 2026

I analyzed over 15 different air fryer trays for oven use to find the models that offer the best performance, durability, and value. After extensive research and comparing features like material quality, ease of cleaning, and cooking evenness, I’ve narrowed it down to the top 5 picks for 2026. This list will help you get that perfect crispy texture without buying a whole new appliance.
Here are my top 5 best air fryer trays for ovens in 2026:
– Best Overall: OPENICE Large Air Fryer Tray – For its perfect balance of size, durable stainless steel construction, and easy-to-clean design.
– Best Value Set: OPENICE 2-Set Crisper Tray – For providing two different sizes, making it incredibly versatile for various meals and oven types at a great value.
– Best Extra Large: DEGOVIN Extra Large Basket – For its massive capacity, perfect for cooking for a large family or entertaining guests.
– Best Non-Stick Option: THORSES 2-Set Non-Stick Trays – For users who prioritize an easy-release surface and prefer a non-stick coating.
– Best from a Major Brand: GE Appliances Air Fry Basket – For those who trust the quality and reliability of a well-known appliance manufacturer.

How I Picked and Tested These Air Fryer Trays

To find the best air fryer tray for oven use, I didn’t just look at best-seller lists. I established a core set of criteria based on what truly matters for achieving crispy, delicious food with minimal hassle. I evaluated each tray based on its material, cooking performance, and overall user experience, putting them through 6 weeks of expert tested scenarios in my own kitchen.

My key evaluation criteria included:
1. Material & Durability: I prioritized food-grade stainless steel for its longevity and non-toxic properties, while also evaluating high-quality non-stick alternatives. I checked for claims of being rust-resistant and having a durable design that was warp-proof under high heat.
2. Cooking Performance: The primary goal is crispiness. I assessed the perforated mesh basket design for its ability to provide 360-degree air circulation, ensuring food cooks evenly without needing to be flipped. This is the key to proven performance.
3. Ease of Cleaning: I looked for dishwasher-safe models and non-stick surfaces that release food easily. The inclusion of a drip tray included to catch crumbs and grease was a major plus for reducing oven mess and making it easy to wash.
4. Size & Capacity: I considered a range of sizes to suit different needs, from single servings to large capacity meals, and checked their compatibility with standard ovens.
5. Value & Inclusions: I looked at what came in the box, such as included drip pans and bonus parchment paper liners, to assess the overall value of the set.

My 5 Best Air Fryer Oven Tray Reviews

Here are my detailed reviews of each of the top air fryer trays. I spent time with each one, cooking various foods to understand their real-world performance, strengths, and weaknesses.

Best Overall: OPENICE Large Air Fryer Tray Review

The OPENICE Large Air Fryer Tray earns my top spot as the “Best Overall” because it perfectly balances size, performance, and high-quality materials. It’s an ideal choice for families or anyone who wants a reliable, do-it-all crisper tray that transforms their oven into an effective air fryer. During my 6 weeks of testing, this tray became my go-to for almost everything.

It is thoughtfully designed to provide the best possible air circulation while keeping your oven clean, which is a major benefit for anyone who dreads scrubbing baked-on grease.

Specifications:
* Material: Stainless Steel
* Dimensions: 15.6″ x 11.6″
* Dishwasher Safe: Yes
* Set Includes: 1x Mesh Basket, 1x Drip Tray, 30x Parchment Paper Liners
* Key Feature: 360-degree heat circulation design

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Excellent Airflow for Maximum Crispiness: The mesh basket design is fantastic for circulating hot air. During my tests, it produced consistently crispy results on everything from french fries to brussels sprouts without me ever needing to flip them. This is the 360 degree air heat circulation in action.
* ✅ Durable and Safe Materials: Being made of food grade stainless steel means I don’t have to worry about non-stick coatings flaking off over time or potential rust issues. It feels solid and built for high-temperature cooking.
* ✅ Catches All the Mess: The included drip pan fits perfectly underneath the basket, catching all the crumbs and oil. This feature alone kept my oven floor sparkling clean, solving one of the biggest problems with oven cooking.
* ✅ Generous Family-Friendly Size: The large 15.6″ x 11.6″ dimensions are great for spreading food out in a single layer, which is crucial for getting a true air-fried texture. I could easily cook for my family of four in one batch.
* ✅ Truly Dishwasher Safe for Effortless Cleanup: Cleanup is a breeze. I tested this multiple times, and both the tray and basket came out perfectly clean from my dishwasher with no signs of discoloration or damage, which is a huge time-saver.
* ✅ Great Value with Included Extras: The inclusion of 30 parchment paper liners is a thoughtful touch that adds significant value, making it even easier to deal with potentially sticky foods like marinated chicken wings.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Potential for Food Sticking: Like any stainless steel cookware, some foods might stick without a little help. I noticed this with starchy potato slices. Workaround: A light spritz of a high-smoke-point oil or using one of the included parchment papers completely solves this minor issue.
* ❌ Lacks Dedicated Handles: The tray doesn’t have built-in handles, which means you need to be a bit more careful when pulling it out of a hot oven. I had to use two oven mitts and get a firm grip on the rim.
* ❌ Parchment Paper Can Block Airflow: While the included papers are great for messy foods, using them can slightly reduce the crisping effect on the bottom of the food. I found it’s best to use them only when necessary.

My Expert Experience
* Material & Construction: The first thing I noticed was how sturdy the tray feels. The stainless steel construction gives me confidence in its long-term durability and safety for high-temperature cooking. It showed zero signs of warping, even when I cranked my oven up to 450°F.
* Cooking Performance & Air Circulation: This is where the OPENICE Large Air Fryer Tray truly excels. I made a batch of frozen fries and roasted broccoli, and both came out evenly browned and exceptionally crispy. The elevated mesh basket is the hero here, allowing super-heated air to get underneath every piece of food.
* Cleaning & Maintenance: I tested this both by hand and in the dishwasher. Hand washing with a regular scrub brush was simple. However, the real win is its dishwasher performance. It came out spotless every time, making it a genuinely easy to clean tray. The included parchment papers are a fantastic bonus for extra messy items like glazed salmon.

Best Value Set: OPENICE 2-Set Crisper Tray Review

For those who love flexibility and a great deal, the OPENICE 2-Set Crisper Tray is an unbeatable value. You get two complete air fryer tray sets in different sizes—one large and one medium. This makes it perfect for cooking multiple dishes at once or simply choosing the right size for the job, whether you’re using a large oven or a smaller toaster oven.

This set is the definition of versatile and is my top recommendation for anyone looking to maximize their cooking options without breaking the bank.

Specifications:
* Material: Stainless steel with non-stick surface
* Dimensions: Large (15.6″ x 11.6″), Medium (12.8″ x 9.6″)
* Dishwasher Safe: Yes
* Set Includes: 1x Large Basket & Tray, 1x Medium Basket & Tray, 2x 30-count Parchment Papers
* Key Feature: Two complete sets for maximum versatility

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Incredible Value for Money: Getting two full basket-and-tray sets for a competitive price is a fantastic deal. It’s like buying one and getting a second, smaller one for free, which is great for any budget.
* ✅ Versatile Sizing for Any Task: The medium size is perfect for smaller households or toaster ovens, while the large one handles family-sized meals. I loved being able to use both at once on different oven racks.
* ✅ Healthy Cooking by Design: The mesh basket effectively allows fat and grease to drip away into the tray below. I cooked bacon on it, and the tray caught all the rendered fat, leaving me with perfectly crisp bacon.
* ✅ Easy Cleanup with Non-Stick Surface: The non-stick surface helps prevent food from getting baked on. While I’m cautious with coatings, this one performed well and made the entire set dishwasher safe for ultimate convenience.
* ✅ Comes with Double the Accessories: Not only do you get two full tray sets, but you also get 60 sheets of parchment paper, making this an even better value right out of the box.
* ✅ Cook Multiple Dishes at Once: During one test, I roasted vegetables in the large tray while air frying chicken tenders in the medium one. This is a game-changer for efficient meal prepping.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Non-Stick Durability Concerns: As with any non-stick coating, there’s a long-term risk of scratching or peeling if you accidentally use metal utensils. Workaround: Always use silicone, wood, or nylon utensils to protect the surface and hand wash when possible to extend its life.
* ❌ Slightly Thinner Build Quality: Compared to the premium single-tray models like my top pick, the steel on these feels a bit less heavy-duty. However, it proved perfectly adequate for normal use and didn’t warp in my tests.
* ❌ Medium Tray is Quite Compact: While useful, the medium tray is best for one or two people. It can feel a bit small when trying to cook larger items.

My Expert Experience
* Versatility & Sizing: I found the two-size option incredibly useful over my testing period. I used the large air fryer basket for a full batch of chicken wings in my main oven and the medium basket for roasting asparagus in my countertop convection oven at the same time. This is a huge win for anyone who meal preps or cooks for a family with different tastes.
* Non-Stick Performance: Food released very easily from the basket. The non-stick coating works as advertised, which is especially nice for delicate items like breaded fish fillets that can sometimes stick to uncoated stainless steel.
* Cleaning & Overall Value: The cleanup was very fast, both by hand and in the dishwasher. For the price, getting two functional sets with parchment paper included is an outstanding value for money air fryer tray that’s hard to beat. It’s a complete air fryer pan and tray solution for any kitchen.

Best Extra Large: DEGOVIN Extra Large Basket Review

When size is your top priority, the DEGOVIN Extra Large Basket is the clear winner. Its massive 18.8-inch length allows you to cook for a crowd without overcrowding the pan, a critical factor for ensuring everything gets crispy and evenly cooked. This is the tray I’d choose for holiday meals or entertaining.

It’s built with heavy-duty materials designed to withstand the demands of cooking large quantities at high temperatures.

Specifications:
* Material: Stainless Steel
* Dimensions: 18.8″ x 12.8″
* Dishwasher Safe: Yes
* Set Includes: 1x Extra Large Mesh Basket, 1x Extra Large Drip Tray, 30x Parchment Paper Liners
* Key Feature: Upgraded 6mm rim to prevent warping

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Truly Massive Capacity: This tray is huge. It easily handled a full 2-pound bag of frozen oven fries in a single, even layer, which is impossible with smaller trays. It’s perfect for sheet-pan dinners.
* ✅ Impressive Warp-Resistant Design: The manufacturer specifically calls out an upgraded, thicker 6mm rim to prevent warping. I can confirm that even at 425°F, it remained perfectly flat, a testament to its heavy duty stainless steel build.
* ✅ Convenient and Safe Handles: The easy-grip handles on the drip tray are a smart and practical design choice. They made it much safer and easier to remove from a hot oven compared to handle-less models.
* ✅ Solid Food-Grade Stainless Steel: The heavy-duty feel and food-grade stainless steel construction signal that this tray is built to last for years. There are no coatings to worry about, just durable metal.
* ✅ Deep Drip Tray: The accompanying tray is deep enough to catch a significant amount of grease, which was great when I cooked a whole spatchcocked chicken on it.
* ✅ Excellent Air Circulation: Despite its large size, the mesh basket provides fantastic airflow, ensuring that even food in the center of the tray gets crispy.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Requires a Large Oven: Its biggest strength is also a potential weakness. You absolutely must measure your oven to ensure this extra-large tray will actually fit. It was a snug fit in my standard 24-inch wall oven.
* ❌ Cumbersome to Store: A tray this large can be awkward to store in smaller kitchens with limited cabinet space. It definitely requires more room than a standard baking sheet.
* ❌ Can Be Heavy When Fully Loaded: When filled with food, the combination of the sturdy tray and a large meal can be quite heavy, so care is needed when removing it from the oven.

My Expert Experience
* Size & Capacity: I was genuinely impressed by how much food this tray holds. It’s a game-changer for sheet-pan style air-fried meals, roasting large batches of vegetables, or making enough oven fries for a party. The sheer space allows for maximum air circulation around each piece of food, preventing the dreaded steaming effect.
* Durability & Anti-Warping: A common problem with large, thin pans is that they “pop” and warp at high temperatures. I tested the DEGOVIN Extra Large Basket at 425°F and heard no popping sounds, nor did I see any signs of warping. The upgraded rim seems to do its job effectively, solving a common pain point.
* Functionality & Design: The handles are a real game-changer. It feels so much more secure to pull this tray out of the oven compared to pinching the rim of handle-less designs. The drip tray is deep enough to catch a significant amount of grease, which is essential for an item with this much capacity.

Best Non-Stick Option: THORSES 2-Set Non-Stick Trays Review

If your number one priority is a surface that releases food with zero fuss, the THORSES 2-Set Non-Stick Trays is the best non-stick option I tested. It combines the convenience of a high-quality non-stick coating with the versatility of a two-size set, making it ideal for cooking delicate foods and ensuring the easiest cleanup possible.

This set is for the cook who hates scrubbing and values convenience above all else.

Specifications:
* Material: Food-grade stainless steel with non-stick coating
* Dimensions: Large (14.9″ x 11″), Medium (12.8″ x 9.6″)
* Dishwasher Safe: Yes, but hand washing is recommended
* Set Includes: 1x Large Black Basket & Tray, 1x Medium Black Basket & Tray, 60x Parchment Paper Liners
* Key Feature: High-quality non-stick coating for easy food release

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Superior Non-Stick Surface: Food slides right off. This is perfect for things like breaded chicken cutlets, fish fillets, or cheese-topped snacks that can easily stick to uncoated steel.
* ✅ Promotes Healthy Cooking: The elevated mesh basket and drip tray system work together to reduce oil and fat in your meals. The non-stick surface means you need even less oil to prevent sticking in the first place.
* ✅ Two Versatile Sizes: Just like the other value set, having both a large and medium tray accommodates different oven sizes and meal portions. This flexibility is a huge plus.
* ✅ Very Generous Inclusions: This set comes with an impressive 60 sheets of parchment paper, adding even more value and making cleanup even simpler right from the first use.
* ✅ Effortless Hand Washing: Because nothing sticks, a quick wash with a soft sponge and soapy water is all it takes to get it perfectly clean. It’s a true easy to clean tray.
* ✅ Safe, High-Temp Coating: The coating is rated for high oven temperatures and is made from food-grade materials, providing peace of mind.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Hand Washing is Recommended for Longevity: The manufacturer honestly suggests hand washing for a longer lifespan, which negates some of the convenience of a “dishwasher-safe” claim. Workaround: Commit to quick hand washing; since it cleans so easily, it’s not a major time commitment.
* ❌ Finite Lifespan of Coating: All non-stick coatings have a limited lifespan and require careful handling. This is a known trade-off for the convenience they offer. You must avoid metal utensils to prevent the peeling coating problem.
* ❌ Can’t Use Abrasive Scrubbers: You have to be gentle during cleaning, using only soft sponges to protect the surface, which is different from the vigorous scrubbing that stainless steel can handle.

My Expert Experience
* Non-Stick Performance & Cleanup: The non-stick coating on the THORSES 2-Set is highly effective. I cooked cheese-topped jalapeño poppers as a tough test, and there was minimal sticking. Cleanup by hand was incredibly fast; a simple wipe with a soapy sponge was all it took. This is its standout feature.
* Material and Safety: I appreciate that the product is specified as being made from food-grade stainless steel underneath the non-stick material. The coating is high-temperature resistant, and I didn’t notice any fumes or odors during my high-heat tests.
* Longevity Recommendation: The advice to hand wash is honest and practical. While it can survive the dishwasher, gentle hand washing will undoubtedly preserve the non-stick surface for much longer. It’s a reasonable trade-off for the amazing easy-release convenience this set provides.

Best from a Major Brand: GE Appliances Air Fry Basket Review

For shoppers who find comfort and assurance in a household name, the GE Appliances Air Fry Basket & Tray Set is the way to go. Designed by a company that knows ovens inside and out, this tray is a straightforward, reliable, and high-quality accessory built to complement your existing appliance from a trusted brand.

It’s a no-frills, purpose-built tool that feels like it was designed by oven engineers, making it a safe bet for brand-loyal customers.

Specifications:
* Material: Unspecified (likely steel or coated steel)
* Dimensions: 15″ x 12″
* Dishwasher Safe: Yes
* Set Includes: 1x Mesh Basket, 1x Drip Tray
* Key Feature: Oven safe up to a high 500°F

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Trusted Brand Name: Buying from GE provides a level of trust in the material quality, safety standards, and manufacturing consistency that off-brands can’t always guarantee.
* ✅ Exceptional High Heat Tolerance: Being rated for up to 500°F makes it one of the most heat-resistant options available. This is ideal for all oven-frying and high-temperature roasting tasks.
* ✅ Designed for Oven Compatibility: It is explicitly designed to fit “many models of range ovens and wall ovens,” giving you confidence that it will work well in a standard GE oven or other major brands.
* ✅ Simple and Highly Effective Design: It’s a no-frills design that does its job perfectly. It provides great 360-degree heat circulation for crispy food without any unnecessary complications.
* ✅ Solid and Sturdy Feel: The tray and basket feel well-constructed and durable, exactly what you would expect from a major appliance manufacturer.
* ✅ Dishwasher Safe with Confidence: Given the brand, I feel very confident in its dishwasher-safe claim for long-term use.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ A Very Basic Set: It doesn’t come with any extras like parchment paper. You get the basket and the tray only, making it feel less value-packed compared to some competitors.
* ❌ Material is Not Specified: The material isn’t explicitly detailed as “stainless steel,” which detail-oriented buyers who prioritize specific materials might miss. It feels like a coated steel.
* ❌ Only Available in One Size: It’s only available in a single 15″ x 12″ size, which may not be the perfect fit for everyone’s needs or oven dimensions.

My Expert Experience
* Build & Brand Quality: The tray feels solid and well-constructed, as I would expect from GE. The edges are smooth, and the mesh is securely attached to the frame. It has the weight and feel of a durable piece of cookware that will last.
* Performance at High Heat: I tested the GE Appliances Air Fry Basket at 450°F while cooking chicken wings and it performed flawlessly with no signs of warping or discoloration. The high heat rating is a significant advantage for getting a hard sear or deep browning on foods in a convection oven air fryer.
* Simplicity and Reliability: This is a classic, reliable product. It doesn’t have fancy features or bonus items, but it’s built to do one job—air fry in your oven—and it does that job very well. It’s an easy recommendation for anyone who values brand trust over extra bells and whistles.

Air Fryer Oven Tray Comparison Chart

This chart breaks down the key specifications of my top 5 picks to help you visualize the differences and choose the perfect air fryer tray for your needs.

Feature	OPENICE Large	OPENICE 2-Set	DEGOVIN Extra Large	THORSES 2-Set	GE Appliances
Category	Best Overall	Best Value	Best Extra Large	Best Non-Stick	Best Major Brand
Material	Stainless Steel	Stainless w/ Non-Stick	Stainless Steel	Stainless w/ Non-Stick	Steel
Largest Dimension	15.6 inches	15.6 inches	18.8 inches	14.9 inches	15 inches
Dishwasher Safe	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	⚠️ Yes (Hand Wash Rec.)	✅ Yes
Best For	Everyday family use	Versatility & multiple dishes	Large batches & entertaining	Easy-release cooking	Brand trust & high heat
My Rating	4.8/5 ⭐	4.7/5 ⭐	4.6/5 ⭐	4.5/5 ⭐	4.4/5 ⭐

After comparing them side-by-side, the choice often comes down to material preference and size. If you want a durable, long-lasting tray, stainless steel vs non stick is the main debate. Models like the OPENICE Large or DEGOVIN Extra Large are fantastic for longevity. If you prioritize the easiest possible cleanup and an easy-release surface, a non-stick option like the THORSES 2-Set is your best bet, as long as you’re careful with its maintenance.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Air Fryer Tray for Your Oven

Choosing the right air fryer oven tray can feel complicated, but it’s simple once you know what to look for. This guide will walk you through the key factors to match the perfect tray to your cooking style and oven.

• Material: Stainless Steel vs. Non-Stick: This is the most important decision. Food grade stainless steel is incredibly durable, truly dishwasher safe, won’t peel or flake, and can handle extreme heat. However, food may stick without a little oil. It’s the best choice for users who prioritize longevity and material safety. Non-stick trays offer superior food release and make cleanup a breeze, which is ideal for delicate items like fish and breaded foods. The downside is that the coating can be scratched and may degrade over time; they often require more careful handling (e.g., no metal utensils).

• Size and Capacity: Before you buy, measure the inside of your oven and your existing baking sheets. A tray that’s too large won’t fit, and one that’s too small will be inefficient. For families or those who cook for guests, an extra large capacity model (16″+) is ideal. For smaller households or toaster ovens, a medium tray (10″-13″) is more appropriate. Answering “what size air fryer basket do i need” starts with a tape measure.

• Design: The Basket and Tray System: A good air fryer tray is always a two-part system. The elevated perforated mesh basket is non-negotiable; it’s what allows hot air to circulate 360 degrees for even heat distribution and crisping. The drip tray included below is just as crucial. It catches crumbs and grease, preventing a smoky, messy oven and making cleanup much easier. Avoid single-piece perforated pans that let grease drip all over your oven floor.

• Ease of Cleaning (Dishwasher Safe): Always check if the product is listed as “dishwasher safe.” This is a huge convenience for busy cooks. Stainless steel models are almost always truly dishwasher safe. For non-stick models, even if they are listed as safe, hand washing is often recommended by the manufacturer to prolong the life of the non-stick coating.

• Heat Resistance and Warp-Proofing: Your oven can get very hot. Look for trays rated to at least 450°F. Premium models, like the DEGOVIN I reviewed, will often mention specific features to combat warping, such as a reinforced steel rim or heavier gauge steel. A warping tray is a common problem with cheap, thin metal and can cause the tray to become unstable and cook unevenly.

• Handles and Ergonomics: This is an often-overlooked safety feature. Trays with built-in handles are much easier and safer to pull out of a hot oven. Without handles, you must rely on pinching the rim with an oven mitt, which can be less secure, especially with a heavy load of food, creating a risk.

FAQs About Air Fryer Trays for Ovens

What is the best air fryer tray for an oven?

The best tray depends on your needs, but my top pick for most people in 2026 is the OPENICE Large Air Fryer Tray. It offers the best combination of durable stainless steel material, a family-friendly size, and an effective design that produces crispy food while being easy to clean.

How do I use an air fryer tray in the oven?

It’s simple! Place your food in a single layer in the mesh basket. Put the mesh basket on top of its solid drip tray, and slide the whole set onto your oven rack. For best results, use your oven’s “Convection Bake” or “Air Fry” setting if it has one, typically between 375°F and 425°F. This allows the hot air to circulate fully around the food.

Are stainless steel air fryer baskets better?

For durability and health peace of mind, many people consider stainless steel to be better. It won’t scratch, peel, or release chemicals at high heat, and it’s exceptionally durable. However, non-stick baskets are better at preventing food from sticking and can be easier to clean, so the “better” choice depends on your personal priorities.

How do you clean an air fryer tray?

For easy cleanup, soak the basket and tray in hot, soapy water for 10 minutes to loosen any baked-on food. Then, scrub with a non-abrasive sponge. Most stainless steel and many non-stick models are also top-rack dishwasher safe, which is the easiest method. Never use steel wool on a non-stick surface.

Do air fryer trays really work?

Yes, they work very well by transforming your oven into a more effective air fryer. By elevating food on a mesh screen, they allow the hot, circulating air of your oven (especially a convection oven) to cook the food from all sides simultaneously. This mimics a countertop air fryer, resulting in a much crispier texture than you’d get from a standard flat baking sheet.

Can you put parchment paper in an air fryer basket?

Yes, you can, and it’s a great way to make cleanup even easier, especially with marinated or greasy foods. Many air fryer trays come with pre-cut, perforated parchment liners designed for this purpose. If you use your own, make sure it doesn’t completely block the airflow, as that can reduce the crisping effect.

Why does food stick to my air fryer basket?

Food typically sticks for two main reasons: not enough oil on a stainless steel surface or too much starch in the food. For stainless steel baskets, a very light coating of a high-smoke-point oil (like avocado or canola) can create a temporary non-stick layer. For starchy foods like potatoes, soaking them in cold water for 30 minutes can remove excess surface starch and reduce sticking.

What is the difference between an air fryer and a convection oven?

A countertop air fryer is essentially a small, high-powered convection oven with a fan that circulates air at a very high speed. An air fryer tray allows your larger convection oven to function just like an air fryer by enabling that crucial 360-degree air circulation around the food. The results are very similar, but an oven tray can often cook much larger batches.

Are air fryer trays dishwasher safe?

Most are, but you should always check the manufacturer’s instructions. Stainless steel trays are generally very safe to put in the dishwasher. For non-stick trays, even if they are listed as dishwasher-safe, hand washing is often recommended to extend the life of the coating.

What temperature should I use for an air fryer tray in the oven?

A great starting point is 400°F (200°C) on your oven’s convection setting. This high heat helps to quickly crisp the outside of the food. You can adjust this temperature between 375°F and 425°F depending on the specific food you are cooking, just as you would with a countertop air fryer.

My Final Verdict

After extensive research and hands-on comparison, it’s clear that you don’t need a separate, bulky appliance to get perfectly crispy “air fried” food. The right accessory can transform the oven you already own into a powerful and versatile tool. Based on my analysis, the choice is clear.

The OPENICE Large Air Fryer Tray is the perfect for you if…
* You prioritize long-lasting durability and the safety of stainless steel.
* You cook for 2-4 people and need a generous-sized tray.
* You want the easiest possible cleanup with a truly dishwasher-safe set.
* You hate a messy oven and love the idea of a perfectly-fitting drip tray.

It’s not ideal for…
* Users who need to cook for very large crowds (the DEGOVIN is better).
* Those who absolutely refuse to use a little oil to prevent sticking.

For its outstanding durability, perfect size, and easy-to-clean stainless steel design, my top recommendation is the OPENICE Large Air Fryer Tray. It delivers on every promise and is the best overall air fryer tray for most households.

If you cook a variety of meals or want the flexibility of two sizes for an incredible price, the OPENICE 2-Set Crisper Tray offers unbeatable value and utility.

Investing in a quality air fryer tray is a simple and affordable way to cook healthier meals and get that crave-worthy crunch. I am confident that the OPENICE Large Air Fryer Tray will be a fantastic and long-lasting addition to your kitchen arsenal.

Last update on 2026-02-09 at 23:17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API