If you have an air fryer, you’ve likely wondered, Can Aluminum Foil Go in the Air Fryer? Well, the answer is: it depends. I’m covering everything you need to know with this helpful guide on using aluminum foil in air fryer!

overhead: food in air fryer basket
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Can I Use Aluminum Foil in the Air Fryer?

This is one of the most asked questions in my air fryer group.

Nowadays, everyone owns an air fryer, but back in the dark ages when I started air frying, there was no information out there.

At the time, the rage was the Instant Pot, and while I do love that appliance too, I had love at first sight with my air fryer. In fact, it’s how this website ForkToSpoon.com was born!

Nowadays, everyone owns an air fryer, and everyone seems to be wondering, can aluminum foil go in the air fryer? Can I use aluminum foil in the air fryer? Keep reading to find out!

Need more Helpful Air Fryer Tips? Don’t miss my posts on CAN I PUT PAPER TOWEL IN AIR FRYER, GUIDE TO CLEANING YOUR AIR FRYER, HOW TO USE PARCHMENT PAPER IN THE AIR FRYER, UPDATED AIR FRYER COOKING CHART, and FROZEN FOODS AIR FRYER CHART.

Reasons to Use Aluminum in an Air Fryer

  • Easier cleanup
  • Catches splatters and drips from messy recipes
  • Prevents breaded food from going soggy on the bottom
  • Can be used as a mini baking sheet

So, Can Aluminum Foil Go in the Air Fryer?

Yes, you can use aluminum foil in an air fryer, but there are some things that you need to keep in mind:

  • You should not cover up the air fryer basket holes. The design of the basket holes is to circulate hot air around the basket. If you completely line the basket with aluminum, you’ll end up with unevenly cooked food.
  • Many people want to use aluminum in the air fryer to help aid in cleanup. This is fine in some models. In other models, it prevents the food from being cooked correctly.
  • Because every model is built differently, your specific model may not work well with foil. If the foil interferes with the circulated air, it’s not a good idea. If it doesn’t, you should be fine. But always check your manual!
  • Some may want to add foil to cover the drip pans. While this does save on clean-up time, it may disrupt the airflow. Again, check your specific model and manual to make sure.

So, as you can see, the answer to can aluminum foil go in the air fryer is ultimately, it depends on your model!

Things to Keep in Mind When Using Aluminum Foil in an Air Fryer

  • Airflow is most important: The key thing to remember when using aluminum foil in an air fryer is that proper air circulation is essential for even cooking. Don’t forget… don’t cover the holes in the basket!
  • Foil goes in the basket, not on the bottom: You may be tempted to line your entire air fryer to catch drippings, but placing foil on the bottom will disrupt the ever-important airflow and damage the heating element.
  • Don’t use aluminum in the air fryer when cooking acidic foods like tomatoes, vinegar marinades, or citrus fruits. The acid will react with the foil and leave a gross metallic taste in your food.
  • Cooking wet or juicy foods is not recommended either, as it can create steam and affect the cooking process.
  • Never leave any loose aluminum in your air fryer basket as it may get lodged in the heating element. Not only is this a fire hazard, but it may also damage (or worse, break) your air fryer.
  • Always check your owner’s manual as every air fryer is different!

How to Use Aluminum Foil in the Air Fryer FAQs

Can aluminum foil go in the air fryer?

Yes, you can use tin foil in the air fryer, but you need to make sure it is placed properly so that it doesn’t block the airflow. And don’t forget to refer to all of my other tips above too!

Is it safe to use foil in an air fryer?

Yes, it is safe to use aluminum foil in an air fryer as long as you follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use it properly.

How to use tin foil in the air fryer?

Simply wrap it around the food you want to cook or line the bottom of the basket with it. Make sure the foil doesn’t touch the heating element or block the air vents.

Can I use aluminum foil in air fryer that’s already been used?

No, it is not recommended to reuse aluminum foil in an air fryer as it can affect the cooking process and food quality.

Can you use non-stick spray on aluminum foil in an air fryer?

Yes, you can use non-stick spray with the foil. Make sure to use a small amount to avoid creating a mess and prevent the spray from affecting the quality of the food.

More Helpful Air Fryer Guides:

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