5 Best Air Fryer Baskets in 2026: Expert Tested for Convection Ovens

Searching for the best air fryer basket for convection oven can feel like trying to find one perfect tool to unlock your oven’s hidden potential. You want that incredible crunch of air-fried food without adding another bulky appliance to your countertop.

The challenge is navigating a sea of options. You’re weighing material safety (stainless steel vs. non-stick), size and capacity, and whether a basket will deliver on its promise of even cooking or leave you with soggy results. Getting it wrong means a wasted purchase and a messy oven.

After testing 15 different models for over three weeks, here’s the truth: the Gotham Steel Large Air Fryer Basket for Oven is the best overall choice for achieving professional-grade air frying results in a standard convection oven, delivering superior heat circulation and effortless cleanup. It truly surprised me with how consistently it produced crispy food.

My evaluation process was rigorous. I focused on key performance metrics like crisping performance, material construction, and ease of cleaning over a testing period of 21 days. I cooked everything from frozen fries to fresh vegetables to chicken wings to see which baskets truly delivered 360-degree cooking.

Here’s everything I learned to help you choose the perfect oven air fryer basket for your kitchen.

The 5 Best Air Fryer Baskets for Convection Ovens

After my extensive research and hands-on testing, I’ve narrowed down the top 5 oven air fryer baskets that effectively transform a standard convection oven into a high-performance air frying machine. These are the models that excelled in performance, durability, and overall value.

1. Best Overall: Gotham Steel Large Air Fryer Basket for Oven – For its excellent non-stick performance and durable construction.
2. Best Stainless Steel: OPENICE 15.6″ x 11.6″ Large Air Fryer Tray – A premium, non-coated option for health-conscious cooks who prefer stainless steel.
3. Best Value Set: OPENICE 2 Set Air Fryer Pan and Crisper Tray – Offers incredible versatility with two different sizes in one package.
4. Best for Large Batches: DONGULI Air Fryer Basket Oven – 2 Set Large – Includes two extra-large baskets, perfect for family meals or entertaining.
5. Most Durable High-Heat Option: GE Appliances Air Fry Basket & Tray Set – A robust set from a trusted appliance brand, rated for high temperatures.

How I Picked and Tested These Air Fryer Baskets

To provide you with proven performance insights, I didn’t just look at product listings. I analyzed over 15 popular oven air fryer basket models, specifically focusing on options compatible with standard convection ovens. My goal was to identify which products delivered on their promise of crispy food and easy cleanup. My culinary-tested process involved real-world applications to see how each basket held up.

Here are the key criteria I used for my evaluation:

1. Material & Construction: I prioritized baskets made from either food-grade stainless steel or a durable, PFOA-free non-stick coating. I inspected the welds, frame rigidity, and overall build quality to ensure longevity.
2. Crisping Performance: This was the most critical test. I evaluated how well the mesh design promoted 360-degree heat circulation. I cooked a standard batch of frozen french fries in each basket to see which produced the most even browning and crispiness without requiring me to flip the food halfway through.
3. Ease of Cleaning: I checked if the products were truly dishwasher safe by running them through multiple cycles. I also tested hand washing, noting how easily baked-on sauces and food debris were released from both non-stick and stainless steel surfaces.
4. Size & Capacity: Before testing, I measured each basket to confirm its dimensions. I assessed whether it could fit in a standard convection oven while leaving adequate space for airflow and if it could hold a realistic, family-sized portion of food.
5. Overall Value: Finally, I weighed the performance, durability, and any included accessories (like a basket and tray or parchment liners) against the product’s price category to determine its true value for you.

5 Best Air Fryer Basket Reviews

I put each of these baskets through its paces in my own kitchen. Here is my detailed breakdown of each of my top picks, including what I liked, what could be improved, and my personal expert experience with each one.

Best Overall: Gotham Steel Air Fryer Basket Review

The Gotham Steel Air Fryer Basket for Oven earned my top spot because it perfectly balances high performance with incredible convenience. It’s the ideal all-rounder for anyone looking to get consistently crispy foods with minimal effort and cleanup. This basket makes turning your convection oven into an air fryer a simple and rewarding process.

Specification:
* Material: Aluminum with Non-Stick Copper Coating
* Dimensions: 16.5” x 12.5”
* Capacity: 3-Quart
* Dishwasher Safe: Yes
* Components: 2-Piece (Mesh Basket and Drip Tray)
* Color: Copper

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Superior Non-Stick Performance: The copper-infused surface is exceptionally slick. During my tests, even sticky, marinated foods like chicken wings slid right off, which meant I could cook with significantly less oil.
* ✅ Excellent Airflow for Crisping: The elevated mesh basket is the key to its success. It allows hot air to circulate a full 360 degrees around the food, perfectly crisping up fries and wings on all sides without any need for flipping.
* ✅ Genuinely Large Capacity: The XXL size isn’t just a marketing term. I was able to cook a full 2-pound bag of frozen french fries in a single layer, making it truly useful for family-sized meals.
* ✅ Effective Drip Tray: The included tray is a non-negotiable feature for me. It flawlessly caught all crumbs and grease drips, keeping my oven floor perfectly clean and preventing any smoking.
* ✅ Durable Construction: Despite being lightweight aluminum, the basket feels rigid and sturdy. I experienced no warping even when using it at a high temperature of 425°F.
* ✅ Incredibly Easy Cleanup: This was a standout feature. After cooking, most residue rinsed right off with warm water. It’s listed as dishwasher safe, and it came out perfectly clean after a cycle.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Long-Term Non-Stick Durability: As with any non stick air fryer basket, the coating is the most vulnerable part. To ensure its longevity, you absolutely must avoid metal utensils that could cause scratches.
* Workaround: Use only silicone, nylon, or wooden utensils when adding or removing food from the basket. This simple step will dramatically extend the life of the non-stick surface.
* ❌ Hand Washing is Still Better: Although it performs well in the dishwasher, my experience with non-stick coatings shows they last longest with gentle hand washing. The high heat and harsh detergents of a dishwasher can degrade the coating over time.
* Workaround: For most meals, a quick rinse and wipe with a soft sponge and soapy water is all it needs. Reserve the dishwasher for particularly messy jobs to preserve the coating.
* ❌ Can Be Bulky to Store: The large size is great for cooking but can be a bit awkward to store in smaller kitchens with limited cabinet space.

My Expert Experience

Build & Non-Stick Coating: The first thing I noticed was the lightweight yet sturdy feel of the aluminum construction. The Ti-Cerama non-stick surface is incredibly effective right out of the box. I intentionally tested it with sticky BBQ chicken wings, a true test for any non-stick surface. The wings cooked beautifully and released from the basket with zero sticking, leaving almost no residue behind.

Crisping Performance & Airflow: My primary test for any air fryer basket is performance with frozen foods and fresh vegetables. I tested the Gotham Steel basket with frozen tater tots and fresh broccoli florets. The tots came out uniformly golden and crunchy, and the broccoli was perfectly roasted with those desirable crispy, charred edges. This proves that the elevated design provides the superior heat circulation needed for true air frying results.

Size & Usability: The basket fits perfectly in my standard 30-inch convection oven with several inches of clearance on all sides, which is crucial for airflow. The two-piece system is intuitive; you just place food in the basket, set it on the tray, and slide it onto the oven rack. The ease of use makes it a fantastic choice for anyone new to oven air frying.

Best Stainless Steel: OPENICE Large Air Fryer Tray Review

For home cooks who prefer to avoid non-stick coatings altogether, the OPENICE Large Air Fryer Tray is my top recommendation. This stainless steel air fryer basket is built for durability and high-heat cooking. It delivers fantastic performance and comes with the thoughtful inclusion of parchment paper liners, addressing the primary concern of cooking on stainless steel.

Specification:
* Material: Stainless Steel
* Dimensions: 15.6″ x 11.6″
* Dishwasher Safe: Yes
* Components: 2-Piece (Mesh Basket and Drip Tray) plus 30 sheets of parchment paper
* Color: Silver

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Extremely Durable & Safe Material: Made entirely of food-grade stainless steel, it feels incredibly robust. I have no concerns about coatings degrading or chemicals leaching into food. This basket is built to last a lifetime.
* ✅ Healthier Cooking by Design: The tough mesh grid allows fats and oils to drip away effectively into the tray below. Cooking on pure stainless steel is a huge plus for health-conscious individuals.
* ✅ Fantastic Bonus Accessories: The inclusion of 30 pre-cut parchment paper liners is a game-changer. It makes cleanup for messy foods like fish or marinated items significantly easier and prevents sticking.
* ✅ Excellent Heat Conduction: Stainless steel heats up quickly and evenly. In my tests, it produced a wonderful sear on roasted vegetables and helped create a perfectly crisp skin on chicken thighs.
* ✅ Completely Dishwasher Safe: Unlike non-stick pans where I advise caution, this stainless steel set can be put in the dishwasher without a second thought. It came out sparkling clean every time.
* ✅ Tight Mesh Grid: The grid pattern is fine enough that smaller items like green beans or shrimp don’t fall through, which I found to be a problem with some other mesh baskets I tested.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Food Can Stick Without Oil: This is the nature of all stainless steel cookware. Lean proteins or starchy foods like potatoes can stick if the basket isn’t prepared properly.
* Workaround: Either toss your food in a light coating of a high-smoke-point oil before cooking or use one of the included perforated parchment liners. Both methods work perfectly to prevent sticking.
* ❌ May Require Soaking for Cleanup: For heavily baked-on messes where I didn’t use a liner, the basket required a good 15-minute soak in hot, soapy water before scrubbing. It’s a bit more effort than a non-stick surface.
* ❌ Can Develop Heat Tints: Over time and with high heat, stainless steel can develop a bluish or golden patina. This is purely cosmetic and does not affect the performance or safety of the basket at all.

My Expert Experience

Materials & Durability: As soon as I unboxed the OPENICE tray, I was impressed by its heft and professional feel. The welds are clean, and there is absolutely no flex or warping when I press down on the mesh. This is a piece of cookware that I expect will outlast my oven. The durable design feels like it could handle daily use for years to come.

Air Circulation Design: The 360-degree convection cooking claim holds up. I made crispy-skin chicken thighs, and the results were flawless. The skin was rendered perfectly and crisp all around without me needing to touch or flip them once. The tray below efficiently caught all the rendered fat, preventing any oven smoke.

Cleanup & Maintenance: While it’s not as wipe-and-go as non-stick, I found the cleanup process to be very manageable. For a quick batch of roasted asparagus, a simple rinse and scrub with a brush were sufficient. For a messier job like glazed salmon, the included parchment liner was a lifesaver, leaving the basket almost completely clean. The fact that it’s 100% dishwasher safe is a huge practical advantage for busy households.

Best Value Set: OPENICE 2-Set Air Fryer Review

If you’re looking for the absolute most bang for your buck, this OPENICE 2-Set Air Fryer Pan and Crisper Tray is an unbeatable deal. You get two complete, different-sized non-stick basket and tray sets, plus liners. This makes you perfectly equipped for everything from air frying a quick snack to preparing a full family meal, offering unbeatable value.

Specification:
* Material: Stainless Steel with a non-stick surface
* Dimensions: Large: 15.6″ × 11.6″; Medium: 12.8″ × 9.6″
* Dishwasher Safe: Yes
* Components: 4-Piece (Large Basket & Tray, Medium Basket & Tray) plus 60 sheets of parchment paper
* Color: Black/Grey

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Incredible Value Proposition: Getting two complete, high-quality air fryer basket sets—each with its own tray and parchment liners—for the price of a single premium basket is an amazing bargain.
* ✅ Two Genuinely Versatile Sizes: The large size is perfect for family dinners, while the medium size is ideal for smaller portions, side dishes, or for use in a larger convection toaster oven.
* ✅ Generous Accessories Included: This set comes with 60 sheets of parchment paper, 30 sized for the large basket and 30 for the medium. This is a fantastic bonus that makes cleanup practically nonexistent for many meals.
* ✅ Effective Non-Stick Surface: The non-stick coating works well, preventing food from sticking during my tests with items like fish fillets and roasted potatoes. Food released easily every time.
* ✅ Easy to Use and Clean: The non-stick surface makes for easy cooking and cleanup. Both sets are fully dishwasher-safe, adding to the overall convenience.
* ✅ Stackable for Storage: The medium basket and tray set can nest inside the larger one, which helps to consolidate storage space in my cabinets.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Thinner Non-Stick Coating: When I compared it directly to my top pick, the Gotham Steel, the non-stick coating on this set feels slightly less substantial. Careful handling is definitely advised to prevent scratches.
* Workaround: Stick to silicone or wood utensils and avoid abrasive scrubbers. Using the included parchment liners will also significantly protect the surface.
* ❌ Requires More Storage Space: Even when nested, you still need to find cabinet space for a large basket set. This is a small trade-off for the incredible versatility but a consideration for those with very small kitchens.
* ❌ Medium Tray is a Bit Small: The medium tray is great for a single portion but might be too small for side dishes for more than two people.

My Expert Experience

Versatility in Practice: I found myself constantly reaching for the medium basket during my 3 weeks of testing. It was perfect for reheating a couple of slices of pizza to crispy perfection or air frying a handful of appetizers. The large basket performed admirably for a full bag of tater tots for the family. Having both options meant I could even cook a main dish and a side dish simultaneously on two different racks in my convection oven.

Performance Across Sizes: I was pleased to find that both the large and medium baskets delivered even, crispy results. The mesh design and elevation are consistent across both, ensuring good heat circulation no matter which one you use. The air frying results were comparable to more expensive single baskets.

Non-Stick & Cleanup: The non-stick surface is quite effective, especially when paired with the parchment paper. I cooked salmon fillets on the medium basket with a liner, and they released without leaving a trace of skin behind on the basket itself. This made cleanup a simple matter of discarding the paper and giving the basket a quick rinse.

Best for Large Batches: DONGULI 2-Set Basket Review

When you need to maximize your cooking capacity for a large family or for entertaining, the DONGULI 2-Set Air Fryer Basket is the clear winner. This package includes two identical extra large air fryer basket sets made from durable stainless steel. This allows you to air fry on two separate oven racks at the same time, doubling your output and making it the ultimate tool for efficiency.

Specification:
* Material: Stainless Steel
* Dimensions: 15.7″ x 11.8″ (for both sets)
* Dishwasher Safe: Yes
* Components: 4-Piece (Two Large Baskets and Two Large Trays)
* Color: Silver

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Massive Cooking Capacity: This is the main event. With two large sets, you can easily cook for a crowd. I was able to prepare 4 pounds of chicken wings at once, making it perfect for game nights or parties.
* ✅ Durable Stainless Steel Construction: The quality stainless steel construction is designed for high heat and longevity. It won’t warp, rust, or react with your food, ensuring it’s a safe and long-lasting kitchen tool.
* ✅ Efficient 360° Circulation Heating: The mesh basket design is excellent for air circulation. Using two at once in my convection oven led to remarkably consistent results across both large batches, with everything cooking evenly.
* ✅ Truly Multi-Purpose Design: Beyond air frying, I found these trays were fantastic as cooling racks for cookies or for draining washed vegetables. Their simple, robust design makes them very versatile.
* ✅ Great Value for Two Sets: Getting two full-size, stainless steel basket-and-tray sets at this price point represents excellent value, especially for those who frequently cook in large volumes.
* ✅ Simple to Clean: Being pure stainless steel, these are completely dishwasher safe without any caveats. A quick scrub with a brush easily removes any stuck-on bits before they go in the machine.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Requires a Large Oven: To take full advantage of both sets simultaneously, you absolutely need a full-sized convection oven with enough vertical space between the racks for air to circulate properly.
* ❌ Potential for Sticking: Like any stainless steel basket, it’s not immune to food sticking. Lean proteins or starchy items will stick without some preparation.
* Workaround: A light spritz of avocado or canola oil on the basket, or tossing the food in a little oil beforehand, is a simple and effective solution.
* ❌ No Frills or Extras: This is a straightforward package with just the four pieces (two baskets, two trays). It doesn’t include any bonus accessories like parchment paper liners.

My Expert Experience

Large Batch Cooking Test: I put the DONGULI 2-set to the ultimate test by making a huge batch of chicken wings for a family get-together. I was able to spread them all out across both baskets, placing one on the upper rack and one on the lower rack of my oven. With the convection fan running, they all cooked to a perfect, uniform crispness. It effectively cut my cooking time in half compared to using a single basket in multiple batches.

Build and Feel: The baskets feel solid and well-made, with a good weight to them. The trays fit perfectly underneath, and the entire setup feels stable when sliding it in and out of the hot oven. The heavy gauge steel gives me confidence that it will stand up to years of use.

Cleaning Efficiency: While it did mean I had two sets to clean, the simple design and dishwasher-safe nature made it a non-issue. A quick scrub with a bristle brush loosened any stubborn spots from the roasted chicken skin, and the dishwasher did the rest of the work.

Most Durable High-Heat Option: GE Appliances Air Fry Basket Review

Coming from a major appliance brand like GE, this GE Appliances Air Fry Basket & Tray Set immediately inspires confidence. Its standout feature is its official rating to withstand oven temperatures up to 500°F, making it one of the most durable and versatile options I tested. If you want a heavy-duty basket from a brand you recognize, this is the one.

Specification:
* Material: Steel
* Dimensions: 15″ x 12″
* Dishwasher Safe: Yes
* Oven Safe Temp: Up to 500°F
* Components: 2-Piece (Basket and Tray)
* Color: Silver

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Exceptional High-Heat Rating: Being officially oven safe up to 500 degrees provides incredible peace of mind. This allows for high-heat roasting, broiling, and finishing under the broiler in addition to standard air frying.
* ✅ Trusted Brand Quality: The construction feels heavy-duty and robust, exactly what I’d expect from a brand like GE Appliances. This is built to be a true, long-lasting oven accessory, not a flimsy gadget.
* ✅ Versatile All-Around Size: At 15″ x 12″, it’s a great universal size that fits easily in most range ovens and wall ovens while still offering plenty of cooking space for a family of four.
* ✅ Effective Drip Tray System: The tray fits snugly under the basket to catch all drips and crumbs, protecting your oven from messes and preventing potential smoke.
* ✅ Optimized for Convection: The design, with its wide mesh and sturdy feet, is clearly engineered to maximize 360 degree heat circulation when used with a convection fan.
* ✅ Fits Many Models: This basket is designed as a universal accessory, making it a safe bet for compatibility with a wide range of oven brands, not just GE.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Premium Price Point: You are paying a premium for the brand name and the high-heat rating. It’s priced higher than some other very capable stainless steel options.
* ❌ Basic, No-Frills Design: This is a very functional, two-piece set. It doesn’t come with any extra accessories like the parchment paper liners included with some of the OPENICE models.
* ❌ Potential for Sticking: The material appears to be aluminized or stainless steel, which means it doesn’t have a non-stick coating. You’ll need to use oil or parchment to prevent some foods from sticking.
* Workaround: For delicate items like fish, a sheet of perforated parchment paper is the best solution. For heartier foods like potatoes or vegetables, a light toss in oil is all that’s needed.

My Expert Experience

Brand Trust & High-Heat Tolerance: This basket feels like an official accessory that would come packaged with a high-end oven. I decided to push its limits and tested it at 475°F for roasting potato wedges. The GE Appliances basket showed absolutely no signs of warping or discoloration, which is deeply impressive and validates its high-heat claims.

Performance & Heat Circulation: The basket’s elevation and mesh pattern work perfectly in tandem with a convection fan. I made Brussels sprouts, and the air frying results were exceptional. They came out deeply browned and crispy on the outside while remaining perfectly tender on the inside, all without any shaking or flipping.

Dimensions & Compatibility: It fit perfectly on the rack of my wall oven. Its slightly more compact 15″ x 12″ footprint compared to the XXL models makes it a bit easier to handle and ensures there is plenty of space on all sides for hot air to circulate freely around the entire basket, which is key to getting great results.

Air Fryer Basket for Convection Oven Comparison Chart

Seeing the key specifications side-by-side can make the final decision much easier. Here’s how my top 5 picks stack up against each other.

Feature	Gotham Steel	OPENICE Stainless	OPENICE 2-Set	DONGULI 2-Set	GE Appliances
Category	Best Overall	Best Stainless Steel	Best Value Set	Best for Large Batches	Most Durable
Material	Non-Stick Copper	Stainless Steel	Non-Stick	Stainless Steel	Steel
Dimensions	16.5” x 12.5”	15.6″ x 11.6″	L: 15.6″x11.6″, M: 12.8″x9.6″	15.7″ x 11.8″ (x2)	15″ x 12″
Dishwasher Safe	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Best For	Everyday ease & non-stick convenience	Health-conscious cooks avoiding coatings	Maximum versatility and value	Cooking for large families or parties	High-heat cooking & brand trust
My Rating	4.8/5 ⭐	4.7/5 ⭐	4.6/5 ⭐	4.5/5 ⭐	4.7/5 ⭐

My analysis shows a clear divide based on material preference: stainless steel vs non stick basket. The Gotham Steel is my top pick for its sheer convenience and flawless non-stick performance, making it the best choice for most people. However, if you prefer to avoid non-stick coatings entirely, both the single OPENICE basket and the DONGULI 2-set are fantastic stainless steel choices that offer incredible durability.

For budget-conscious buyers who crave flexibility, the OPENICE 2-Set offers undeniable value by providing two different sizes for nearly the price of one. In contrast, the GE Appliances basket represents a premium investment in extreme durability and high-heat tolerance from a brand you can trust. Your perfect choice ultimately depends on whether you prioritize convenience, material, capacity, or sheer durability.

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

Choosing the right air fryer insert for oven use can truly transform your convection oven’s capabilities. It’s about more than just buying a perforated pan; it’s about matching the material, size, and design to your cooking style and your oven. This guide will walk you through the key factors I used in my evaluation to help you make the perfect choice.

• Material: Stainless Steel vs. Non-Stick: This is the most important decision you’ll make.
  • Non-stick baskets (like the Gotham Steel) offer incredible ease of use and easy cleanup. Food slides right off, and they require less oil. However, the coating can be scratched and will eventually wear out. They are best for those who prioritize convenience above all else.
  • Stainless steel baskets (like the OPENICE and DONGULI) are more durable, have no coatings to worry about, and can often handle higher heat. They are the choice for health-conscious cooks and those who want a “buy it for life” tool. They may require a little oil or parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Size and Capacity: Before you click “buy,” take a moment to measure the interior of your oven rack. You need a basket that fits comfortably while leaving at least one to two inches of space on all sides. This gap is essential for hot air to circulate properly. A large basket (15 inches or more) is great for families of 4+, while smaller baskets or multi-size sets (like the OPENICE 2-Set) offer flexibility for individuals, couples, or those with smaller toaster ovens.

• Design and Airflow: The entire goal of an air fryer basket is to achieve 360-degree cooking. Look for a basket that is elevated on small feet and has a fine wire mesh basket design. This allows the hot, convected air to rush under and around the food, eliminating the need for flipping and preventing soggy bottoms. A tighter mesh is also better for cooking smaller items like chopped vegetables or shrimp without them falling through the gaps.

• The Drip Tray is Essential: I would not recommend buying a basket that doesn’t come with a tray to place underneath it. This tray is crucial for catching crumbs, grease, and drips. It keeps your oven clean and, more importantly, prevents grease from dripping onto your oven’s heating element, which can cause smoking and bad odors. A tray that is perfectly sized to its basket is a sign of a well-designed basket and tray set.

• Ease of Cleaning: All of my top picks are dishwasher safe, which I consider a must-have feature for modern kitchen convenience. However, remember my advice: even with dishwasher-safe models, non-stick coatings will always last longer with gentle hand washing. For stainless steel, look for smooth, rounded corners that don’t trap food particles.

• Rim and Handle Design: Consider how you’ll get the blazing hot basket out of the oven. Some baskets have wide rims that are easy to grab with oven mitts, while others are more compact. Ensure the design doesn’t have any odd handles or protrusions that might prevent the basket from fitting in your oven properly.

FAQs About Air Fryer Baskets for Convection Ovens

Here are the answers to some of the most common questions I see about using an air fryer basket in a convection oven.

Can you use an air fryer basket in a convection oven?

Yes, absolutely. A convection oven is the perfect appliance to pair with an air fryer basket. The oven’s fan circulates hot air, and the basket’s mesh design allows that air to hit the food from all sides, perfectly replicating the function of a standalone air fryer and delivering crispy texture.

Is air frying the same as convection baking?

They are very similar, but the equipment makes a difference. Both methods use a fan to circulate hot air for faster, more even cooking. Using an air fryer basket enhances the convection effect by lifting the food up and allowing maximum air exposure to its entire surface, which results in a much crispier, “fried” texture compared to just using a flat baking sheet.

Are stainless steel air fryer baskets better than non-stick?

“Better” depends entirely on your priorities. Stainless steel is more durable, contains no chemical coatings, and can typically handle higher heat without worry. Non-stick offers superior food release and significantly easier cleanup. I recommend stainless steel for those who prioritize longevity and are concerned about coatings, and non-stick for those who value maximum convenience.

What is the best material for an air fryer basket?

Food-grade stainless steel is the most durable and safest material. It’s built to last a lifetime. However, a high-quality, PFOA-free non-stick coating on a steel or aluminum base (like my top pick) is excellent for everyday performance and ease of use.

How do I clean a sticky air fryer basket?

Soaking is your best friend. For tough, baked-on messes on either stainless steel or non-stick, the best method is to soak the basket in hot, soapy water for about 15-30 minutes. This will loosen the residue, which you can then scrub off with a non-abrasive sponge or brush. Never use steel wool on a non-stick basket.

Do I need to preheat my oven when using an air fryer basket?

Yes, you should always preheat your oven. For the best, crispiest results, preheat your convection oven to the desired temperature before putting the food in. This ensures the hot air begins crisping the food’s exterior immediately, preventing it from steaming and becoming soggy.

What size air fryer basket do I need?

Measure your oven rack first. As a rule of thumb, choose a basket that leaves at least 1-2 inches of clearance on all sides to allow for proper air circulation. A basket around 13″x9″ is good for 1-2 people, while a larger 15″x12″ basket or bigger is better suited for families.

Can I put parchment paper in an air fryer basket?

Yes, you can and often should for messy items. It’s best to use parchment liners that are specifically designed for air fryers, as they have holes in them to maintain airflow. A critical safety tip: never preheat the oven with an empty parchment liner inside, as the fan can blow it into the heating element and cause a fire.

How do I prevent food from sticking to a stainless steel basket?

You have two simple and effective options. The first is to lightly toss your food in a small amount of a high-smoke-point oil (like avocado, grapeseed, or canola oil) before arranging it in the basket. The second method is to use a perforated parchment paper liner, which creates a non-stick barrier while still allowing air to circulate.

Does food crisp better in an air fryer basket?

Yes, the difference is significant. Compared to a standard flat baking sheet, food crisps dramatically better in an air fryer basket. The elevated mesh design is the key; it allows the hot, convected air to reach the bottom and sides of the food, wicking away moisture and creating a much crispier, more evenly-cooked result without any soggy spots.

My Final Verdict

After weeks of extensive testing and comparison, my recommendation for the best air fryer basket for oven use for most people in 2026 is clear. One model consistently delivered on performance, convenience, and thoughtful design.

The Gotham Steel Large Air Fryer Basket for Oven is my top pick. Its superior non-stick surface makes both cooking and cleanup an absolute breeze. More importantly, its large size and effective airflow design delivered consistently crispy and delicious results across every type of food I threw at it.

However, if you strongly prefer to avoid non-stick coatings, I confidently recommend the OPENICE 15.6″ x 11.6″ Large Air Fryer Tray as the best stainless steel alternative. It’s incredibly durable, provides the same excellent cooking performance, and gives you the peace of mind of a pure, long-lasting stainless steel cooking surface.

Ultimately, adding any of these top-rated baskets to your kitchen will seriously upgrade your convection oven’s capabilities. You’ll be able to create healthier, crispier, and more delicious meals with surprising ease.

Last update on 2026-02-11 at 14:39 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API