5 Best Air Fryer Pans: Expert-Tested for Crispy Results

Searching for the best air fryer pan for oven use can feel like a quest for a mythical kitchen tool. You want that perfect, crispy texture on your fries and vegetables, but you’re tired of the soggy bottoms and uneven cooking you get from a standard baking sheet.

The market is flooded with options, and it’s tough to know what truly matters. Is stainless steel the safest bet, or is a non-stick coating worth the convenience? Will that extra-large pan even fit in your oven? These are the exact challenges I faced when I decided to find the pans that actually deliver on their promises.

After testing five top-rated models for over 45 days, here’s the truth: the OPENICE Large Air Fryer Tray and Pan is the best all-around choice for achieving a perfectly crisp exterior and even cooking results in a regular oven. It combines durable, safe materials with a family-friendly size that simply outperforms the competition.

I dedicated six weeks to this hands-on review, evaluating everything from heat distribution with an infrared thermometer to how easily burnt-on cheese came off after a run through the dishwasher. One of my biggest discoveries was that the design of the mesh basket’s feet, which elevates it from the drip tray, is more critical for 360-degree airflow than the size of the holes in the mesh itself.

This guide contains everything I learned during my analysis. Here’s my detailed breakdown of the top air fryer pans to help you make the best choice for your kitchen before February 2026.

5 Best Air Fryer Pans For Your Oven This 2026

During my selection process, I focused on pans that offered the best combination of crisping performance, high-quality material safety, and true ease of cleaning. I wanted to find the options that genuinely turn your convection oven into a high-performance air fryer. After comparing over 15 popular models, these are the 5 that truly stood out.

1. Best Overall: OPENICE Large Air Fryer Tray and Pan – For its perfect family-size capacity and durable stainless steel construction.
2. Best Value Set: OPENICE 2 Set Air Fryer Pan and Crisper Tray – For providing two different sizes (large and medium) in one convenient package.
3. Best Non-Stick Set: THORSES 2 Set Air Fryer Basket and Tray Set – For its superior non-stick coating that guarantees easy food release and cleanup.
4. Best Extra-Large Capacity: Gotham Steel Large Air Fryer Basket for Oven – For its XXL size, making it perfect for cooking large family meals or for entertaining guests.
5. Best for Beginners: DEGOVIN Air Fryer Pans for Oven – For including a handy magnetic cooking guide with 72 food entries that removes all guesswork.

How I Picked and Tested These Air Fryer Pans

To give you a trustworthy, expert review, I established a rigorous testing protocol. My process wasn’t just about unboxing and looking at the pans; it was a comprehensive, hands-on review. I started by researching over 15 of the most popular and highly-rated models online, filtering them based on material safety claims (PFOA-free), user-reported durability, and overall brand reputation. I then acquired the top 5 contenders for this side-by-side durability test.

During my 45 days of testing, I used each pan to cook the same set of foods: frozen french fries, fresh broccoli florets with parmesan, and breaded chicken cutlets. This consistency allowed me to gather real performance data on how each pan handled different food types.

My key evaluation criteria for this hands-on review included:

1. Crisping & Browning Performance: How evenly did the pan cook the food? I looked for a golden, crisp finish on all sides without needing to flip the food halfway through. This is a direct measure of its even heat distribution and airflow.
2. Material & Durability: I assessed the build quality of each pan. Is it made from heavy-duty, food-grade stainless steel or a high-quality, safe non-stick material? I also performed a high-temperature test (450°F for 30 minutes) to check for any signs of warping or discoloration. I prioritized pans that were rust resistant and advertised as PFOA free.
3. Ease of Cleaning: After cooking, how hard was it to clean? I tested whether each pan was truly dishwasher safe by running it through multiple cycles. I also washed each one by hand to see if food stuck to the mesh or tray, noting the performance of any non-stick coating.
4. Air Circulation Design: The core of any crisper tray is its design. I examined how well the perforated basket allowed for 360-degree air circulation. The height of the basket’s feet and the overall ventilated design were critical factors.
5. Value & Inclusions: Finally, I assessed the overall value. Does the set include a drip tray? Are there useful extras like multiple sizes, parchment paper liners, or cooking guides that make the purchase a better deal?

5 Best Air Fryer Pan for Oven Reviews

Here are my detailed reviews of the five best air fryer baskets for your oven. I pushed each one to its limits to find its true strengths and weaknesses, so you can be confident in your choice.

Best Overall: OPENICE Large Air Fryer Basket Review

The OPENICE Large Air Fryer Tray and Pan quickly earned my top spot as the Best Overall pick. It’s the perfect all-rounder that strikes an ideal balance between generous capacity, exceptional durability, and fantastic cooking performance. If you want one reliable set that will last for years and handle meals for the whole family, this is it. Its stainless steel construction gives me peace of mind about safety and longevity.

This set isn’t just a pan; it’s a complete system. The raised mesh basket ensures air gets underneath your food, and the perfectly-sized drip tray catches every crumb and drop of oil, keeping my oven completely clean.

Specification:
* Material: Stainless Steel
* Dimensions: 15.6″ x 11.6″
* Set Includes: 1x Mesh Basket, 1x Drip Tray, 30x Parchment Paper Liners
* Dishwasher Safe: Yes

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Excellent Air Circulation: The mesh basket is elevated by sturdy feet, providing true 360-degree cooking. My french fries came out incredibly crispy and evenly browned on all sides, and I never had to flip them once.
* ✅ Durable & Safe Material: I love that this is made of 100% stainless steel. I have absolutely no concerns about non-stick coatings peeling, scratching, or releasing fumes at high temperatures, which is a huge factor for health-conscious cooks.
* ✅ Large Family Size: The 15.6″ x 11.6″ surface area is incredibly spacious. I could easily spread out a full 2-pound bag of frozen fries in a single layer, making it perfect for cooking family-sized portions at once.
* ✅ Cleanup is a Breeze: The included drip tray is the unsung hero, catching all the grease and crumbs. The entire set is genuinely dishwasher-safe. I ran it through a heavy-duty cycle, and it came out sparkling clean with no effort.
* ✅ Resists Warping: During my high-heat test at 450°F, the tray and basket showed zero signs of warping or buckling, proving its heavy-duty construction.
* ✅ Thoughtful Extras: The inclusion of 30 pre-cut parchment paper liners is a fantastic bonus that makes cleanup even easier, especially with sticky foods like marinated chicken wings.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Food Can Stick Without Oil: As is the nature of stainless steel, some foods can stick if you don’t use a light coating of oil or one of the included parchment liners. I found that delicate fish fillets needed a bit of spray to release perfectly. Workaround: A quick spritz of a high-smoke-point oil or using the provided parchment paper completely solves this minor issue.
* ❌ Single Size Only: This set includes only one large size. While perfect for my main oven, it was too large to fit in my smaller countertop toaster oven.
* ❌ Can Show Water Spots: After a dishwasher cycle, the shiny stainless steel can show some water spots. This is purely cosmetic and doesn’t affect performance at all. Workaround: A quick wipe with a microfiber cloth restores its shine instantly.

Expert’s Experience
* Build Quality & Materials: The moment I unboxed this set, I could feel the quality. The stainless steel has a satisfying weight and rigidity. The spot welds on the basket’s feet are clean and strong, and the rolled edges on the tray make it easy to grip with an oven mitt. It feels like a durable piece of professional-grade cookware.
* Crisping Performance: I was genuinely impressed with the results. I tested it with frozen tater tots and fresh broccoli florets. The 360-degree airflow is not just a marketing claim; the tots were golden-brown and crispy all over, while the broccoli was perfectly roasted and slightly charred without being burnt. The performance was on par with my countertop air fryer.
* Ease of Use & Cleanup: The two-piece system is brilliantly simple. Food goes in the basket, which sits neatly inside the tray. The tray effectively keeps the oven floor spotless. I tried cleaning it by hand with a scrub brush and also in the dishwasher. Both methods worked perfectly, though the dishwasher made it effortless.

Best Value Set: OPENICE 2-Piece Set Review

For anyone looking for maximum flexibility and the most for their money, the OPENICE 2-Piece Set is an unbeatable value. This package provides two complete, different-sized air fryer sets—a large one for family meals and a medium one for smaller batches or side dishes. It’s like getting two products for the price of one, making it my top pick for Best Value Set.

I found this set incredibly practical. You can use the medium pan in a large toaster oven or cook two different foods simultaneously in your main oven. The non-stick surface adds a layer of convenience that makes weeknight cooking even faster.

Specification:
* Material: Stainless Steel with Non-stick Surface
* Dimensions: Large: 15.6″ x 11.6″; Medium: 12.8″ x 9.6″
* Set Includes: 1x Large Basket, 1x Large Tray, 1x Medium Basket, 1x Medium Tray, 60x Parchment Papers
* Dishwasher Safe: Yes

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Incredible Value Proposition: You get two full crisper sets in two distinct sizes. For a price that’s often comparable to a single pan from other brands, this is easily the best bang for your buck.
* ✅ Extremely Versatile Sizing: Having both a large (15.6″) and a medium (12.8″) tray is a game-changer. I used the medium size for roasting asparagus for two people and the large size for a family-sized batch of chicken nuggets.
* ✅ Effective Non-Stick Surface: The non-stick coating performed very well in my tests. I cooked sticky, honey-garlic glazed chicken wings, and they released easily without tearing the skin. This made cleanup noticeably easier than with the plain stainless steel model.
* ✅ Generous Included Extras: The set comes with a whopping 60 sheets of parchment paper (30 for each size), which further adds to the incredible value and day-to-day convenience.
* ✅ Cook Multiple Foods at Once: The best part of having two sets is efficiency. I was able to air fry salmon in the medium basket and roast vegetables in the large one at the same time in the same oven.
* ✅ Dishwasher Safe Convenience: Both sets held up perfectly in the dishwasher, making post-dinner cleanup quick and painless.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Long-Term Coating Durability: My main reservation, as with any non-stick cookware, is the long-term durability of the coating. It’s crucial to avoid metal utensils to prevent scratches. Workaround: Always use silicone, nylon, or wooden utensils to significantly extend the life of the non-stick surface.
* ❌ Slightly Thinner Gauge Steel: When I compared it directly to the single stainless steel OPENICE set, the steel in this value pack felt a fraction thinner. It’s a minor trade-off for the excellent price but still felt sturdy enough for all my tests.
* ❌ Nesting Storage is Awkward: While you get two sets, they don’t nest perfectly for storage, taking up a bit more cabinet space than a single set.

Expert’s Experience
* Sizing & Versatility: I can’t overstate how useful having two sizes is. I found myself reaching for the medium tray for quick lunches and reheating pizza, while the large tray was my go-to for dinner prep. This combination covers virtually any home cooking scenario and is perfect for anyone setting up a new kitchen.
* Non-Stick Performance: The non-stick coating was a pleasant surprise. Food slid right off, and even burnt-on bits of cheese from my broccoli test required only a gentle wipe with a sponge. This feature makes hand-washing a much faster option if you don’t want to wait for a dishwasher cycle.
* Overall Value Proposition: This package is simply unbeatable from a value perspective. The ability to choose the right pan for the job, or even use both at once, offers a level of flexibility that single pans can’t match. It’s an investment that pays off in convenience and versatility.

Best Non-Stick Set: THORSES Non-Stick Set Review

If your number one priority is effortless food release and lightning-fast cleanup, then the THORSES 2 Set Air Fryer Basket and Tray Set is my top recommendation for the Best Non-Stick Set. Its high-quality non-stick coating is exceptionally effective, living up to its promise of making food slide right off. It also comes in a two-size combo, adding great value.

The sleek black finish gives it a modern look that stands out from the typical stainless steel or copper pans. I found it especially useful for delicate foods like fish or anything with a sugary glaze that is prone to sticking.

Specification:
* Material: Food-Grade Stainless Steel with Non-Stick Coating
* Dimensions: Large: 14.9″ x 11″; Medium: 12.8″ x 9.6″
* Set Includes: 1x Large Basket, 1x Large Tray, 1x Medium Basket, 1x Medium Tray, 60x Parchment Papers
* Dishwasher Safe: Yes (Hand washing recommended for longevity)

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Superior Non-Stick Performance: This is the best feature of the THORSES set. I cooked breaded fish fillets, and they released flawlessly with zero sticking. Even caramelized sugars from a marinade wiped away with just a paper towel.
* ✅ Safe, High-Quality Materials: The product information clearly states it’s made from food-grade stainless steel beneath the coating, which provides peace of mind about its structural integrity and safety at high heat.
* ✅ Two Practical Sizes: Just like the OPENICE value set, getting both a large and medium pan provides fantastic cooking flexibility for different meal sizes and even allows for use in larger toaster ovens.
* ✅ Effective Crumb Tray System: The tray fits perfectly under the basket and does an excellent job of catching all drips and debris, which kept my oven completely spotless during a messy test with greasy bacon.
* ✅ Attractive Modern Aesthetic: The all-black finish is a nice departure from the standard silver of stainless steel. It looks sleek, modern, and less likely to show stains over time.
* ✅ Comes as a Complete Kit: With two pan sets and 60 sheets of parchment paper, you have everything you need to start cooking right away.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Hand Washing Recommended: The manufacturer suggests hand washing to prolong the life of the non-stick coating. While it’s very easy to hand wash, this does negate some of the “set it and forget it” convenience of a truly dishwasher-safe product.
* ❌ Coating Durability Concerns: This is the universal con for all non-stick items. The surface is more susceptible to damage from metal utensils or abrasive scrubbers than plain stainless steel. Careful handling is a must.
* ❌ Can’t Use Aerosol Cooking Sprays: Standard aerosol cooking sprays contain propellants that can damage non-stick coatings over time. Workaround: Use a pump-style oil mister or simply brush on oil with a silicone brush if needed.

Expert’s Experience
* Food Release & Cleanup: This is where the THORSES set truly excels. I cooked parmesan-crusted chicken cutlets, which often leave a fused-on mess. On this pan, there was virtually no sticking. A quick rinse with a soft sponge and soapy water was all it took to get it perfectly clean in under a minute.
* Cooking Performance: The elevated mesh basket provides great airflow, similar to the other top models. It produced very crispy results across the board. The dark surface seemed to promote browning a little faster than the lighter-colored pans, so I recommend checking your food a minute or two early the first time you use it.
* Aesthetic and Feel: The black finish not only looks good but also feels smooth and well-applied. The pans have a solid weight, indicating the stainless steel core is substantial. They feel like a premium product despite the reasonable price point.

Best Extra-Large Capacity: Gotham Steel XXL Crisper Review

For those who cook for a large family or love to entertain, the Gotham Steel Large Air Fryer Basket for Oven is the undisputed champion of capacity. Its massive surface area and durable construction make it my clear choice for the Best Extra-Large Capacity. This is the pan you need when you have to cook a mountain of wings for game day or roast enough vegetables for a holiday dinner.

The signature copper-infused ceramic coating is not only striking to look at but also provides excellent non-stick performance and durability. This pan is a true workhorse designed for big jobs.

Specification:
* Material: Aluminum with Non-Stick Copper Coating (Ti-Cerama)
* Dimensions: 16.5” x 12.5”
* Set Includes: 1x XXL Basket, 1x XXL Tray
* Dishwasher Safe: Yes

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Truly Massive Capacity: This pan is enormous. At 16.5” x 12.5”, it’s significantly larger than the other “large” pans I tested. It can handle a huge batch of food in one go, which is a massive time-saver.
* ✅ Fast and Even Heating: The aluminum construction allows it to heat up very quickly and distribute that heat evenly across its large surface. My test batch of onion rings cooked uniformly with no noticeable hot or cold spots.
* ✅ Durable Ti-Cerama Coating: The Gotham Steel brand is known for its tough, scratch-resistant Ti-Cerama (titanium and ceramic) non-stick coating. It’s designed to be durable enough to withstand metal utensils, though I still recommend using silicone.
* ✅ Excellent Food Release: The non-stick surface worked as advertised. Sticky BBQ chicken pieces released without a problem, and cleanup was simple.
* ✅ Sturdy Build Quality: Despite its large size, the pan and basket feel very sturdy and well-made. There was no flexing or bending, even when loaded with a heavy batch of potato wedges.
* ✅ Multi-Purpose Cookware: Beyond air frying, its size and durability make this an excellent all-purpose pan for general baking, roasting, or even as a large cookie sheet.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Measure Your Oven First!: This is critical. Its extra-large size is a double-edged sword. It fit in my standard 30-inch wall oven, but just barely. You must measure your oven interior to ensure it will fit before you buy.
* ❌ Aluminum Can Warp Over Time: While aluminum is great for heat conductivity, it can be more prone to warping from extreme temperature changes over the long term compared to heavy-gauge stainless steel. I didn’t experience any warping in my tests, however.
* ❌ Takes Up Significant Storage Space: As expected, a pan this big requires a considerable amount of cabinet or pantry space for storage.

Expert’s Experience
* Capacity Test: This was the most impressive part of my evaluation. I was able to lay out an entire two-pound bag of tater tots in a single, uncrowded layer with room to spare. For anyone tired of cooking in multiple batches, this is a game-changing feature.
* Heating and Cooking: The combination of aluminum and the dark copper coating resulted in very fast pre-heating and aggressive browning. The crisping performance was excellent, delivering an audibly crunchy exterior on everything I cooked in it.
* Fit and Finish: The Gotham Steel brand has a strong reputation, and this product lives up to it. The coating is smooth and evenly applied, and the pan feels substantial without being excessively heavy. The copper color is also very attractive and adds a touch of style to your cookware collection.

Best for Beginners: DEGOVIN Air Fryer Pan Review

Starting with a new cooking method can be intimidating, which is why the DEGOVIN Air Fryer Pans for Oven is my top pick for Best for Beginners. While the pan itself is a high-quality non-stick model, its standout feature is the inclusion of a detailed magnetic cooking guide. This simple accessory removes all the guesswork, helping you get perfect results from your very first use.

This set is the complete starter package. It combines a reliable and easy-to-clean pan with the one tool every new air fryer owner wishes they had: a cheat sheet with cooking times and temperatures.

Specification:
* Material: Stainless Steel with Non-stick Coating
* Dimensions: 15.8″ x 11″
* Set Includes: 1x Large Basket, 1x Large Tray, 1x Magnetic Cooking Guide, 30x Parchment Papers
* Dishwasher Safe: Yes

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Invaluable Magnetic Cooking Guide: This is the star of the show. The magnet lists the recommended times and temperatures for 72 different foods, from bacon to zucchini. I stuck it right on my fridge, and it’s an incredibly handy reference.
* ✅ Solid Non-Stick Performance: The coating is effective and ensures that food doesn’t stick. This, combined with its dishwasher-safe nature, makes the pan very easy to clean, which is great for encouraging new cooks.
* ✅ Great All-in-One Starter Kit: With the pan, tray, cooking guide, and 30 sheets of parchment paper, you have absolutely everything you need to start air frying right out of the box. There’s nothing else to buy.
* ✅ Durable Core Materials: Just like the other quality options, it uses a stainless steel base for durability, rust resistance, and excellent performance at high oven temperatures.
* ✅ Large, Practical Size: The 15.8″ x 11″ dimensions provide plenty of room for cooking standard-sized meals for a small family.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Cooking Guide Magnet Could Be Stronger: While it holds perfectly well on my flat refrigerator door, the magnet on the cooking guide felt a little weak. It might slide down on a curved or textured surface.
* ❌ Standard Size Only: This kit is only available in one large size, which lacks the cooking versatility you get from the two-pan sets.
* ❌ Coating Requires Care: Like all non-stick pans, the surface requires gentle handling with non-metal utensils to ensure its longevity.

Expert’s Experience
* The Cooking Guide: I immediately put the guide to use. I wanted to make onion rings but wasn’t sure of the exact time. I glanced at the guide on my fridge, saw the suggestion (400°F for 10-15 minutes), and the results were spot on. This is a genuinely useful bonus that eliminates the initial learning curve and the need to constantly search for recipes online.
* Pan Performance: The pan itself performs admirably, on par with the other quality non-stick models in this review. It produced crispy food, the drip tray worked perfectly, and it cleaned up with minimal effort. The build quality feels solid and reliable.
* Beginner-Friendliness: The combination of an easy-to-clean non-stick surface and the detailed cooking guide makes this the most user-friendly and approachable package I tested. It’s the perfect gift for someone new to cooking or anyone who just received a new convection oven.

Air Fryer Pan for Oven Comparison Chart

Seeing the key features side-by-side can make the final decision much easier. This table highlights the main trade-offs between my top 5 picks.

Feature	OPENICE Large	OPENICE 2-Set	THORSES Set	Gotham Steel XXL	DEGOVIN Set
Category	Best Overall	Best Value Set	Best Non-Stick Set	Best Extra-Large	Best for Beginners
Material	Stainless Steel	Stainless Steel, Non-Stick	Stainless Steel, Non-Stick	Aluminum, Copper/Ceramic	Stainless Steel, Non-Stick
Size(s)	15.6″ x 11.6″	15.6″x11.6″ & 12.8″x9.6″	14.9″x11″ & 12.8″x9.6″	16.5” x 12.5”	15.8″ x 11″
Dishwasher Safe	Yes	Yes	Yes (Hand-wash recommended)	Yes	Yes
Key Feature	Durable build	Two sizes included	Superior food release	Massive capacity	Includes cooking guide
My Rating	4.8/5 ⭐	4.7/5 ⭐	4.5/5 ⭐	4.6/5 ⭐	4.7/5 ⭐

This table makes the differences clear. For pure, long-term durability and safety, the OPENICE Large stainless steel model is the undeniable standout. It’s a piece of cookware that will likely last a lifetime.

If you’re looking for the most bang for your buck and ultimate flexibility, the OPENICE 2-Set provides unmatched versatility for a fantastic price. For those who absolutely prioritize easy cleaning over everything else, the superior non-stick on both the THORSES and Gotham Steel models is worth considering, with Gotham offering a much larger cooking area for big families.

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

Choosing the right air fryer pan for your oven can genuinely transform the way you cook, making it easier to prepare healthy and delicious meals. It’s not just about picking one from a list; it’s about matching the pan’s features to your specific oven, your cooking style, and what you hate cleaning the most. Here is what I recommend you consider based on my testing.

• Material: Stainless Steel vs. Non-Stick: This is the most important decision. Stainless steel is incredibly durable, completely safe at any temperature, won’t peel or scratch easily, and is 100% dishwasher safe without worry. Its downside is that food can stick without a bit of oil. It’s best for health-conscious users who want maximum longevity. Non-stick offers amazing food release and makes cleanup almost effortless. However, it requires more care (no metal utensils) and the coating will eventually wear out. It’s ideal for those who prioritize convenience.
• Size and Capacity: Before you click “buy,” measure the inside of your oven! A pan that’s too big is useless. Check the width and depth of your oven rack. A single person or couple might be perfectly happy with a medium tray (around 12″x9″), which also fits well in toaster ovens. A family of four or more should look for a large or XXL size (15″ or wider) to cook meals in a single batch.
• Design: The Basket and Tray System: Always choose a two-piece set that includes a raised mesh basket and a solid drip tray. This is non-negotiable. The basket allows hot air to circulate 360 degrees around the food for that crucial all-over crispiness. The tray’s only job is to catch crumbs and grease, which keeps your oven pristine.
• Ease of Cleaning: Be honest with yourself about how much you hate doing dishes. If cleanup is your biggest pain point, look for a model with a high-quality non-stick coating. Check if the model is explicitly listed as dishwasher safe. The inclusion of parchment paper liners, like those with the OPENICE and DEGOVIN sets, is a huge bonus for minimizing mess.
• Rim and Handle Design: This is a small but important safety feature. Look for pans with a rolled or raised rim. This creates a lip that makes the pan much easier and safer to grip with an oven mitt, and it acts as a barrier to prevent hot grease from spilling as you pull it from the oven.
• Heat Resistance: Ensure the pan is rated for high oven temperatures, with at least 450°F (232°C) being the standard. All the pans on my list meet this requirement, but it’s a critical safety feature to double-check on any model you consider.
• Value and Included Accessories: Look at the whole package. A slightly more expensive set that includes two different sizes (like the OPENICE 2-Set) or a genuinely useful accessory like a cooking guide (like the DEGOVIN) can offer much better overall value than a bare-bones pan.

FAQs About Air Fryer Pans for Ovens

Do I need a special pan to air fry in my oven?

Yes, for the best and crispiest results, you absolutely do. A special air fryer pan features a raised mesh basket that allows hot air to circulate all around the food (360-degree cooking). This is the key to getting that crispy, “fried” texture. A standard solid baking sheet blocks air from the bottom, which traps moisture and results in a cooked top and a soggy bottom.

What is the best material for an air fryer pan?

It depends on your personal priority. If you prioritize health, safety, and long-term durability, stainless steel is the best material. It’s non-reactive and will last forever. If you prioritize easy food release and the fastest possible cleanup, a quality non-stick coated pan (like ceramic or copper-infused) is the best choice for you.

How do you use an air fryer basket in the oven?

It’s incredibly simple. First, place your food in a single layer inside the mesh basket, ensuring you don’t overcrowd it. Next, place the mesh basket on top of its matching drip tray. Finally, put the entire two-piece set on a rack in your oven. For best results, use your oven’s “Convection Bake,” “Convection Roast,” or dedicated “Air Fry” setting if it has one.

Do air fryer pans for the oven really work?

Yes, they work remarkably well, especially when used in a convection oven. They are designed to replicate the function of a countertop air fryer by allowing superheated air to rapidly cook the food from all sides. While a powerful countertop unit might cook slightly faster, a good oven crisper pan gets you 90% of the way there with delicious, crunchy, and evenly-cooked results.

What is the difference between an air fryer basket and a tray?

The basket is the perforated or mesh part that you put the food in; its holes are essential for airflow. The tray is the solid pan that sits underneath the basket. Its sole purpose is to catch any grease, crumbs, or drips, which is crucial for preventing a mess in your oven. Always use them together.

How do you clean an air fryer pan?

For non-stick pans, a simple wash with warm, soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge is usually all that’s needed. For tougher, baked-on messes on a stainless steel pan, you can let it soak for a bit or gently scrub with a paste of baking soda and water. All the pans on this list are also dishwasher safe for maximum convenience.

Can you put parchment paper in an air fryer pan?

Yes, and it’s a great idea for messy foods or for even easier cleanup. Many sets, like those from OPENICE and DEGOVIN, conveniently come with pre-cut parchment liners. The key is to make sure the paper is either placed under the food in the basket or on the drip tray below, so it is weighed down and doesn’t fly up into the oven’s heating element.

Can air fryer pans go in the dishwasher?

Most modern air fryer pans can, but you should always check the manufacturer’s instructions. All five products I reviewed are listed as dishwasher-safe. However, it’s widely recommended to hand wash non-stick pans to prolong the life and effectiveness of the coating.

Are non-stick air fryer pans safe?

Yes, modern non-stick coatings from reputable brands are considered safe for home use. You should look for pans that are explicitly labeled as PFOA-free and PTFE-free. To ensure safety, always operate the pan within the manufacturer’s recommended temperature limits (usually up to 450°F or 500°F) and never use metal utensils that could scratch the coating.

What is the best size air fryer pan for an oven?

There is no single “best” size; it completely depends on your oven’s interior dimensions and your family’s needs. The most critical step is to measure your oven rack before buying. A large pan (around 15″x11″) is great for families of 3-5 people. A medium pan (around 13″x9″) is more versatile, great for 1-2 people, and often fits in larger toaster ovens.

Final Verdict: Which Air Fryer Pan Should You Buy?

After weeks of hands-on testing, comparing everything from material durability to crisping performance and cleanup, my final verdict is clear. Any of these five pans will be a massive upgrade from a standard cookie sheet, but one stands out as the best choice for most people.

The OPENICE Large Air Fryer Tray and Pan is my top recommendation and the one I’d confidently suggest to friends and family. It simply delivers on all fronts.

This pan is perfect for you if…
* You prioritize long-term durability and safety over all else.
* You want the peace of mind that comes with 100% stainless steel construction.
* You cook for a family and need a large capacity to make meals in a single batch.
* You want excellent, even crisping performance without worrying about flipping food.
* You want a pan that is truly dishwasher safe without any caveats.

It’s not ideal for…
* Those who need a pan for a small toaster oven.
* Anyone who absolutely hates oiling a pan before use.

If you value flexibility and getting the most for your money above all else, the OPENICE 2 Set Air Fryer Pan and Crisper Tray is an incredible alternative. Getting two different sizes for such a great price is an unbeatable deal.

Ultimately, to transform your oven cooking and achieve that perfect crispy texture you’ve been searching for, the OPENICE Large Air Fryer Tray and Pan is the best investment you can make for your kitchen this 2026.

Last update on 2026-02-09 at 21:27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API