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5 Best Air Fryer Trays for Oven: Expert Tested
Searching for the best air fryer tray for oven use can feel like trying to find one perfect tool for a dozen different jobs. You want the crispy, golden-brown results of a dedicated air fryer, but without sacrificing precious counter space on another bulky appliance.
The real challenge is navigating the options. You’re faced with deciding between durable construction from stainless steel or the convenience of a non-stick coating. You need to know if it will actually circulate heat effectively or just be a glorified baking sheet, and most importantly, if the ease of cleaning will make it a go-to tool or a pain to use.
After my analysis of 15 different models over three weeks, here’s the truth: The OPENICE Large Air Fryer Basket is the best air fryer tray for most ovens, offering professional-grade stainless steel performance that delivers consistently crispy foods. It strikes the perfect balance between size, durability, and simple cleanup.
During my extensive testing period, I focused on how well each tray crisped frozen fries, roasted vegetables, and handled delicate items. I discovered that the design of the mesh basket is far more important than any other single feature. This guide will walk you through everything I learned so you can find the perfect tray to upgrade your oven.
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The Top 5 Best Air Fryer Trays for Ovens of 2026
After evaluating numerous models for crisping ability, material quality, and how easy they were to clean, I’ve narrowed down the list to the five best options. These are the trays that successfully turn a standard oven into a powerful air fryer, delivering delicious results with less oil and less mess. Each one excels in a specific area, ensuring there’s a perfect choice for your kitchen.
- Best Overall: OPENICE Large Air Fryer Basket – For its excellent balance of size, durable stainless steel construction, and easy cleanup.
- Best Value Set: OPENICE 2-Set Air Fryer Pan and Crisper Tray – For providing two versatile sizes at a budget-friendly price point.
- Best Extra Large Capacity: DEGOVIN Extra Large 18.8″ x 12.8″ Basket – Perfect for large families or entertaining, cooking more food in a single batch.
- Best Non-Stick Set: THORSES 2-Set NonStick Air Fryer Pan – For those who prioritize the convenience of a non-stick surface and easy food release.
- Best from a Major Appliance Brand: GE Appliances Air Fry Basket & Tray Set – A reliable and sturdy option designed to be compatible with many range ovens.
How I Picked and Tested These Air Fryer Trays
To give you recommendations you can trust, I implemented a rigorous, hands-on testing process. My goal was to move beyond marketing claims and see how these trays performed in real-world cooking scenarios. I started by researching over 15 popular air fryer trays, analyzing material specifications and thousands of user reviews to identify top contenders. From there, I selected the most promising models for a three-week evaluation period in my own conventional oven.
I used a consistent set of expert tested criteria to judge each oven air fryer basket, ensuring a fair and comprehensive comparison. Here are the key performance metrics I focused on during my analysis:
- Cooking Performance: How evenly and crispy did the food get? I tested each tray with a standardized batch of frozen french fries and chopped broccoli, assessing the effectiveness of the 360-degree air circulation. I specifically looked for even browning without needing to flip the food halfway through.
- Material & Durability: I inspected the quality of the stainless steel or non-stick coating. My durability test involved checking for any signs of warping or “popping” at high temperatures up to 450°F. I also noted if any chemical smells were present during the first use.
- Ease of Cleaning: After cooking greasy foods like chicken wings, I evaluated how easy to clean each tray was. I tested dishwasher-safe claims by running each tray through multiple cycles and also washed them by hand to see how much scrubbing was required for burnt-on messes.
- Design & Usability: I assessed the practicality of each design. This included the perforation size of the mesh, how well the drip tray caught messes, and the presence (or absence) of useful features like handles for safe removal from the hot oven.
- Value: Finally, I weighed the overall performance, durability, size, and included accessories (like parchment paper liners) against the product’s price category to determine its true value.
5 Best Air Fryer Tray for Oven Reviews
Here is my detailed breakdown of the five best air fryer trays I tested. I’ve gone deep into the pros, cons, and my personal experience with each one to help you understand which is the right fit for your cooking style and needs.
Best Overall: OPENICE Large Air Fryer Basket Review
The OPENICE Large Air Fryer Basket quickly stood out as the ideal choice for most households. It offers a generous size that’s perfect for family meals and a durable, food-grade stainless steel build that delivers consistently crispy results. For anyone looking to get started with oven air frying without compromise, this is the one I recommend.
Specification:
* Material: Food-grade Stainless Steel
* Dimensions: 15.6″ x 11.6″ (Basket)
* Includes: 1x Mesh Basket, 1x Drip Tray, 30x Parchment Paper Liners
* Dishwasher Safe: Yes
* Heat Circulation: 360-degree mesh design
Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Excellent Airflow for Maximum Crispiness: The mesh basket design is fantastic. I found it circulates hot air perfectly, producing evenly cooked food that’s crispy all over without ever needing to flip it. This is the 360-degree air heat circulation you’re looking for.
* ✅ Generous Family-Friendly Size: The 15.6″ x 11.6″ surface area is large enough to cook a sizable batch of fries or about two pounds of chicken wings in a single layer. This makes it a practical choice for a family of four.
* ✅ Promotes Healthier Cooking: This design is very effective at its core job. It allows excess oil and fat to drip away into the solid tray below, which means you can make healthier meals with significantly less oil.
* ✅ Truly Effortless Cleanup: Being fully dishwasher-safe is a huge win. I ran both the basket and the tray through my dishwasher multiple times, and they came out spotless with no signs of rust or wear. This makes post-dinner cleanup incredibly simple.
* ✅ Durable and Safe Material: The food-grade stainless steel construction feels sturdy and reliable. I detected no chemical smells, and it showed no signs of warping, even when I cranked my oven up to 450°F.
* ✅ Great Value with Included Extras: The inclusion of 30 pre-cut parchment paper liners is a thoughtful touch that adds real value. It makes cleanup on those extra-messy days even more of a breeze.
Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ No Dedicated Handles: The biggest drawback is the lack of integrated handles on the basket or tray. You have to be very careful with oven mitts to get a secure grip when removing the hot set from the oven. Workaround: I found it was safest to pull the entire oven rack out slightly before lifting the tray.
* ❌ Small Items Can Fall Through: The mesh grid is great for airflow, but it’s wide enough that very small food items, like finely diced garlic or stray peas, might fall through to the drip tray below. This is a common issue with most mesh-style baskets.
* ❌ Potential for Sticking Without Oil: As with any stainless steel cookware, some foods can stick if you don’t use a light coating of oil. I found a quick spray of cooking oil before adding food prevented any sticking issues.
Expert’s Experience
* Material & Build Quality: During my three weeks of testing, I was consistently impressed with the sturdy feel of the OPENICE Large Air Fryer Basket. The stainless steel construction proved to be robust and completely resistant to warping under high heat. It feels like a durable piece of bakeware that’s built to last, a significant step up from flimsy, coated alternatives.
* Cooking Performance & Airflow: My tests with frozen french fries yielded impressively crispy results that were nearly indistinguishable from those made in my countertop air fryer. The 360-degree circulation is legitimate; the bottoms of the fries were just as crisp and golden as the tops. This oven air fryer basket truly delivers on its promise of even cooking.
* Cleanup & Maintenance: I am a big proponent of easy cleanup, and this set delivered. I put it in the dishwasher after making greasy chicken wings, and it came out perfectly clean with no residual spots or signs of rust. For a tougher test with burnt-on barbecue sauce, a quick 15-minute soak in hot, soapy water was all it took before a gentle scrub had it looking new.
Best Value Set: OPENICE 2-Set Air Fryer Pan and Crisper Tray Review
For those who love flexibility and a great deal, the OPENICE 2-Set Air Fryer Pan and Crisper Tray is an incredible value. This package provides two complete sets in different sizes, allowing you to handle everything from a small snack to a large family meal. It’s a versatile and budget-friendly addition to any kitchen.
Specification:
* Material: Stainless Steel with a non-stick coating
* Dimensions (Large): 15.6″ x 11.6″
* Dimensions (Medium): 12.8″ x 9.6″
* Includes: 1x Large Set (Basket & Tray), 1x Medium Set (Basket & Tray), 60x Parchment Papers
* Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Unbeatable Value Proposition: Getting two complete air fryer pan and crisper tray sets for a budget-friendly price is an outstanding deal. It feels like getting two products for the price of one.
* ✅ Extremely Versatile Sizing: I loved having two sizes at my disposal. The large 15.6″ tray is perfect for main courses, while the medium 12.8″ tray is great for side dishes, reheating pizza, or even for use in a smaller toaster oven.
* ✅ Effective Non-Stick Surface: The non-stick coating works as advertised. Food releases very easily from the basket, which means you can use less oil and cleanup is much simpler.
* ✅ Keeps the Oven Spotless: The solid tray underneath each basket does an excellent job of catching all the crumbs and grease. During my tests, my oven floor stayed perfectly clean, which is a major benefit of this two-piece design.
* ✅ Huge Bonus of Parchment Paper: The inclusion of 60 sheets of parchment paper (30 for each size) is a massive bonus that adds to the already great value and makes cleanup even easier.
* ✅ Works for Simultaneous Cooking: Having two sets allowed me to cook chicken wings in the large basket and potato wedges in the medium one at the same time on different oven racks. This is a genuine time-saver for meal prep.
Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Long-Term Non-Stick Durability: My main concern is the longevity of the non-stick coating. These surfaces can degrade or scratch over time, especially if you use metal utensils or abrasive sponges. Workaround: To preserve the coating, I strongly recommend using only silicone or wood utensils and handwashing with a soft sponge.
* ❌ Slightly Thinner Gauge Steel: Compared to the premium single-tray options, the metal on this set feels a bit thinner and less substantial. It held up fine in my tests, but it may be more prone to warping over many years of use.
* ❌ Handwashing is Best: While the product is listed as dishwasher-safe, the high heat and harsh detergents of a dishwasher can significantly shorten the life of any non-stick coating. The convenience of being “dishwasher-safe” is a bit misleading if you want it to last.
Expert’s Experience
* Versatility in Practice: The two-size system is more useful than I initially expected. I used the large tray for a full meal and found the medium tray was perfect for air frying a smaller portion of leftovers, which came out much crispier than using a microwave. The ability to cook two different foods at once is a fantastic feature for family or entertaining.
* Non-Stick Performance: The non-stick coating performed very well. I cooked breaded fish fillets, and they released from the basket with zero sticking, leaving the delicate breading perfectly intact. This made handwashing with a soft sponge a 30-second job.
* Overall Value Proposition: For anyone just starting out with oven air frying or someone who wants maximum flexibility without a big investment, this package is the clear winner. The performance is solid, and the sheer amount of cookware you get for the price is unmatched.
Best Extra Large Capacity: DEGOVIN Extra Large 18.8″ x 12.8″ Basket Review
If you’re regularly cooking for a crowd or have a large family, the DEGOVIN Extra Large 18.8″ x 12.8″ Basket is the ultimate solution. Its massive surface area and incredibly robust build are designed for serious batch cooking, letting you make more crispy food in a single go.
Specification:
* Material: Stainless Steel (upgraded 6mm)
* Dimensions: 18.8″ x 12.8″
* Includes: 1x Extra Large Mesh Basket, 1x Extra Large Drip Tray, 30x Parchment Papers
* Dishwasher Safe: Yes
* Special Feature: Easy grip handles, warp-resistant design
Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Absolutely Massive Cooking Area: This tray is huge. The 18.8″ x 12.8″ surface lets you spread out a whole 2-pound bag of fries or a dozen chicken thighs without any overcrowding. This space is the key to getting truly crispy results on large batches.
* ✅ Extremely Sturdy, Warp-Resistant Build: The company’s claim of using thicker 6mm stainless steel holds up. I noticed absolutely no warping, flexing, or “popping” sounds, even when I had my oven at 450°F. This tray feels like a professional-grade piece of equipment.
* ✅ Convenient and Safe Handles: The integrated easy grip handles are a significant design victory. They make it much safer and easier to pull the heavy, hot tray from the oven, providing a secure grip that other models lack.
* ✅ Superior Air Circulation Design: The elevated mesh basket sits high above the drip tray, ensuring that hot air can get underneath the food effectively. This resulted in exceptionally even browning in my tests.
* ✅ Durable for High-Heat Roasting: Because it’s made of thick stainless steel, I felt confident using this tray for high-temperature roasting, not just air frying. It’s a versatile piece of bakeware.
* ✅ Keeps the Oven Clean: Despite its size, the drip tray is perfectly matched to the basket and catches everything, ensuring less mess in your oven, even when cooking large quantities of greasy food.
Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Requires a Large Oven: Its biggest strength is also its main limitation. You must measure your oven interior before buying. This 18.8-inch long tray will not fit in smaller or some standard-sized ovens.
* ❌ Bulky to Store and Clean: This is not a compact item. It will take up a significant amount of cabinet space. Due to its size, it can also be a bit awkward to fit into a standard sink for handwashing or position in a dishwasher.
* ❌ Heavier Than Other Models: The robust construction means it’s also heavier than the other trays I tested. This is a sign of quality, but something to be aware of if you have difficulty lifting heavier items.
Expert’s Experience
* Large-Batch Cooking Test: I put this extra large air fryer basket to the test by cooking two pounds of chicken wings at once for a get-together. They all came out uniformly crispy and golden-brown. There was no sogginess, which is a common problem when you overcrowd smaller trays. It allowed me to cook evenly for a large group without needing to do multiple batches.
* Handling and Safety: The handles are a true game-changer. I felt much more secure moving the tray from the oven to the countertop, especially when it was fully loaded with hot food. This is a major safety and convenience feature that I wish more brands would adopt.
* Build Quality Impression: This tray feels like it belongs in a commercial kitchen. The weight, the rigidity of the steel, and the quality of the finish inspire confidence that it will last for many years, making it a worthwhile investment for serious home cooks.
Best Non-Stick Set: THORSES 2-Set NonStick Air Fryer Pan Review
For anyone who dreads cleanup and values convenience above all else, the THORSES 2-Set NonStick Air Fryer Pan is the ultimate choice. The high-performance non-stick surface ensures food slides right off, making post-meal cleanup an absolute breeze. Plus, you get two different sizes for maximum versatility.
Specification:
* Material: Food-Grade Stainless Steel with Non-Stick Coating
* Dimensions (Large): 15.7″ x 11.6″
* Dimensions (Medium): 12.8″ x 8.9″
* Includes: 1x Large Set (Basket & Tray), 1x Medium Set (Basket & Tray), 60x Parchment Papers
* Dishwasher Safe: Yes (Handwashing recommended)
Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Superb Non-Stick Performance: This was the best non-stick surface I tested. Even notoriously sticky foods like breaded chicken with melted cheese and delicate fish fillets released without any effort, leaving almost no residue behind.
* ✅ Extremely Easy to Clean: This set absolutely delivers on its promise of an easy to clean-up experience. Most messes wiped away with just a soft sponge and a little soapy water, taking seconds to clean.
* ✅ Versatile Two-Size Combo: Just like the other value set, having two sizes is incredibly useful. I used the large pan for a main dish and the medium one for a side, which streamlined my cooking process.
* ✅ Sleek and Modern Appearance: The uniform black non-stick finish gives the set a modern and cohesive look that is quite stylish.
* ✅ Great for Delicate Foods: The gentle food release makes this set perfect for items that might fall apart on a stainless steel surface, like flaky fish or items with a delicate breading.
* ✅ Safe, High-Quality Materials: The core is made of safe food-grade stainless steel, so you have a sturdy base underneath the convenient non-stick coating.
Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Long-Term Durability is a Concern: As with all non-stick cookware, there’s a risk of scratching or degrading the coating over time. You must be diligent about using only non-metal utensils.
* ❌ Handwashing is Strongly Recommended: While the product is technically listed as dishwasher-safe, the manufacturer (and I) strongly recommend handwashing to preserve the non-stick surface. This slightly negates the ultimate convenience factor.
* ❌ Not Ideal for High-Heat Searing: Non-stick coatings are generally not meant for the extremely high temperatures you might use for broiling or searing, as it can damage the surface. Stick to temperatures around 400-425°F.
Expert’s Experience
* The “Sticky Food” Test: I specifically chose to cook breaded mozzarella sticks on the THORSES set, as melted cheese is the ultimate enemy of bakeware. I was genuinely impressed. The sticks crisped up beautifully, and I was able to lift them off the basket with a silicone spatula, leaving zero cheese behind. This was a clear demonstration of a high-quality non-stick surface.
* Cleaning & Care: I followed the recommendation and exclusively hand-washed this set during my evaluation. It was genuinely effortless; everything rinsed off in seconds. To ensure the longevity of the coating, I would not risk putting this set in the dishwasher.
* Heat Distribution: The dark, matte surface seemed to promote browning and crisping slightly faster than the lighter-colored stainless steel models. My potato wedges developed a deep golden color a few minutes sooner, though overall cooking performance was excellent across the board. This set is a winner for perfect and healthy cooking with minimal fuss.
Best from a Major Appliance Brand: GE Appliances Air Fry Basket & Tray Set Review
For those who value brand trust and uncompromising build quality, the GE Appliances Air Fry Basket & Tray Set is the go-to option. As an official accessory from a major appliance manufacturer, this set is built to be a durable workhorse. It feels substantial and is designed to be compatible with a wide range of ovens.
Specification:
* Material: Steel (Unspecified type)
* Dimensions: 15″ x 12″
* Includes: 1x Mesh Basket, 1x Drip Tray
* Dishwasher Safe: Yes
* Heat Resistance: Oven safe up to 500°F
Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Built Like a Tank: This tray feels incredibly sturdy and well-made. From the moment I unboxed it, the weight and rigidity were noticeably superior, which is exactly what you’d expect from a brand like GE.
* ✅ Exceptional High-Heat Tolerance: Being officially rated as oven safe up to 500°F gives you incredible flexibility. This allows you to go beyond just air frying and use it for high-temperature roasting and broiling without fear of warping.
* ✅ Reassurance of a Trusted Brand: Buying an accessory from a known appliance brand like GE provides confidence in the material safety, manufacturing standards, and quality control. You know it’s been designed to work safely inside an oven.
* ✅ Simple, Effective, No-Frills Design: There are no complex features here—just a simple and highly effective design. The mesh basket provides perfect 360 degree heat circulation for wonderfully crispy results.
* ✅ Generous and Practical Size: The 15″ x 12″ dimensions are a great all-purpose size that will fit in most standard ovens while still offering plenty of room for a family-sized meal.
* ✅ Fully Dishwasher Safe: This set is built for convenience and durability. It holds up perfectly in the dishwasher, making cleanup straightforward.
Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Premium Price Point: This is a premium-priced option for a single tray. You are paying a premium for the brand name and the heavy-duty build quality compared to the value sets.
* ❌ Basic, No-Frills Package: The package is very basic. It doesn’t come with any extras like parchment paper or multiple sizes. You get just the high-quality basket and tray.
* ❌ No Handles: Similar to some other models, it lacks integrated handles, so careful maneuvering with oven mitts is required when it’s hot.
Expert’s Experience
* Durability and Feel: The difference in quality was palpable. The moment I unboxed the GE Appliances set, I could feel the extra weight and rigidity. This is a substantial piece of equipment that gives the impression it will never warp or fail, designed to last as long as the oven it’s in.
* High-Heat Test: I pushed this tray to its limit by roasting broccoli at 475°F. It handled the intense heat without any issue whatsoever. The broccoli came out beautifully charred and delicious, a task I’d be hesitant to perform with a lesser-quality coated pan. Its high heat resistance is a major selling point.
* Performance Simplicity: While it may lack the bells and whistles of other packages, its core function is flawless. The mesh grid is the perfect size to maximize airflow while preventing most food from falling through. It’s a simple, reliable, and powerful tool for anyone who prioritizes build quality and brand trust.
Air Fryer Tray for Oven Comparison Chart
This quick-glance table summarizes my findings from weeks of testing. I’ve focused on the features that matter most when choosing the best air fryer tray for your oven: material, size, and overall value. My rating reflects the balance of cooking performance, long-term durability, and price for each of these excellent models.
| Feature | OPENICE Large | OPENICE 2-Set | DEGOVIN Extra Large | THORSES 2-Set | GE Appliances Set |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Category | Best Overall | Best Value Set | Best Extra Large | Best Non-Stick | Best Brand Name |
| Material | Stainless Steel | Coated Steel | Stainless Steel | Non-Stick Coated | Steel |
| Dimensions | 15.6″ x 11.6″ | L/M Sizes | 18.8″ x 12.8″ | L/M Sizes | 15″ x 12″ |
| Dishwasher Safe | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes (Handwash Rec.) | Yes |
| Best For | Daily family use | Maximum versatility | Large batch cooking | Easiest cleanup | Durability & trust |
| My Rating | 4.8/5 ⭐ | 4.7/5 ⭐ | 4.6/5 ⭐ | 4.5/5 ⭐ | 4.4/5 ⭐ |
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Air Fryer Tray for Your Oven
Choosing the right air fryer tray can completely transform your oven cooking, turning it into a high-performance convection crisper. It’s not about finding a single “perfect” tray, but about finding the perfect tray for you, your oven, and your cooking style. As an expert who has tested these extensively, I’ll break down the key factors I considered to ensure you get crispy, delicious results every time.
- Material: Stainless Steel vs. Non-Stick: This is the most important decision you’ll make.
- Stainless steel is the choice for durability and high-heat performance. It can withstand higher temperatures without degrading, is better for getting a hard sear or deep browning (the Maillard reaction), and will last for years. It’s my top choice for enthusiasts who want longevity.
- Non-stick offers unbeatable convenience and easy food release. It’s perfect for delicate foods like fish or anything with cheese that might stick. The cleanup is significantly easier. However, the coating requires more care (no metal utensils) and will eventually wear out. If you prioritize convenience over everything, choose non-stick.
- Size and Capacity: Before you click “buy,” take a moment to measure the inside of your oven. You need at least one inch of clearance on all sides of the tray for hot air to circulate properly.
- A large tray (around 15″ x 12″) is great for a family of 3-4.
- An extra-large tray (18″ or more) is necessary for families of 5+, for meal prepping, or for entertaining.
- A two-pack with multiple sizes offers the most versatility, allowing you to cook mains and sides simultaneously or use the smaller tray in a toaster oven.
- Design: Basket and Tray Set is a Must: The best design, and the only one I recommend, is a two-piece set featuring a mesh basket that sits inside a solid drip tray. This allows for true 360-degree heat circulation around the food while catching all the grease and crumbs. This simple feature is what keeps your oven clean and prevents a smoky mess. Avoid single-piece perforated trays that let drippings fall directly onto your oven floor.
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Ease of Cleaning: For maximum convenience, look for trays that are explicitly labeled dishwasher-safe. In my experience, stainless steel models are far more resilient in the dishwasher over the long term. For non-stick trays, even if they are listed as dishwasher-safe, I always recommend a quick handwash with a soft sponge to dramatically prolong the life of the coating.
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Rim and Handle Design: These small details make a big difference in daily use. A tray with a slightly raised rim on the drip pan helps prevent grease from sloshing out and food from sliding off when you remove it from the oven. Dedicated handles, like those on the DEGOVIN Extra Large Basket, are a huge plus for safety and make handling a heavy, hot tray much easier and more secure.
FAQs About Air Fryer Trays for Ovens
H3: Do air fryer trays really work in regular ovens?
Yes, they work exceptionally well, especially if your oven has a convection setting. An air fryer is just a small, high-powered convection oven. By using a mesh tray in your regular oven, you allow hot air to circulate 360 degrees around the food. This mimics the cooking environment of an air fryer and produces impressively crispy results without needing a separate appliance.
H3: Is stainless steel better than nonstick for air frying?
It depends entirely on your priority. Stainless steel is more durable, can handle much higher heat for better searing, and will last longer. Non-stick offers superior food release for delicate items like fish or cheese and is generally easier to clean by hand. For all-purpose durability and performance, I personally lean towards stainless steel. For ultimate convenience, non-stick is the winner.
H3: How do you clean a burnt air fryer tray?
First, soak the tray in hot, soapy water for at least 30 minutes to loosen the grime. For tough, burnt-on food on a stainless steel tray, create a paste using baking soda and a little water. Apply the paste to the burnt spots, let it sit for an hour, and then scrub with a non-scratch sponge. You should always avoid using harsh steel wool or abrasive cleaners on non-stick surfaces, as this will permanently damage the coating.
H3: Can I use parchment paper or aluminum foil in an air fryer basket?
Yes, you can use both, and they can make cleanup even easier, but with a critical caveat. You must ensure the paper or foil does not cover the entire surface of the basket. Blocking the mesh holes defeats the purpose of the design by stopping airflow. The best practice is to use pre-cut, perforated parchment liners specifically designed for air frying.
H3: Do you need to preheat the oven with an air fryer tray?
Yes, for the absolute best results, you should always preheat your oven with the air fryer tray inside it. Placing your food directly onto a hot surface kickstarts the crisping and browning process immediately. A hot tray also helps create a naturally non-stick surface, even on stainless steel.
H3: What is the difference between an air fryer basket and a baking sheet?
The key difference is airflow. A baking sheet is a solid, flat pan that cooks food from the bottom via conduction and the top via radiated heat. An air fryer basket is perforated with holes or made of mesh, which allows hot air to circulate all around the food, cooking it from all sides simultaneously for a much crispier and more even result.
H3: Why is my food not getting crispy in my air fryer tray?
The most common reasons are overcrowding the basket, not using high enough heat, or blocking airflow. For truly crispy results, food must be arranged in a single layer with space between each piece to let the hot air circulate. Also, make sure to use your oven’s convection setting if you have one, and set the temperature to at least 400°F (200°C).
H3: Are oven air fryer baskets dishwasher safe?
Most modern air fryer baskets, including all the ones I reviewed, are listed as dishwasher-safe. Stainless steel models handle the dishwasher with no problem. However, to maximize the lifespan of any non-stick coating, handwashing with a soft sponge is always the gentler and better long-term option. Always double-check the manufacturer’s specific instructions.
H3: Can an air fryer tray replace a countertop air fryer?
For many people, the answer is a definite yes. An air fryer tray used in a convection oven can produce results that are 90-95% as good as a dedicated countertop air fryer. The primary advantages are that an oven tray can cook much larger batches of food at once and it takes up zero precious counter space.
H3: Do you need to use oil with an air fryer tray?
You don’t need to use a lot of oil, but a light toss or spray of oil is highly recommended. While you’re not deep-frying, a small amount of a high-smoke point oil (like avocado, grapeseed, or light olive oil) is crucial. It helps the food to brown beautifully, achieve maximum crispiness, and prevents it from drying out during the high-heat cooking process.
Final Verdict: Which Air Fryer Oven Tray Should You Buy?
After weeks of extensive testing, I can confidently say that a quality air fryer tray is a game-changing and space-saving accessory. It can truly elevate your oven’s cooking capabilities, delivering healthier and crispier food. While all the trays on this list are excellent performers, one stands out as the best choice for most people.
My final recommendation is a confident one. It’s the tray I’d buy for myself and recommend to friends and family.
- Best Overall: The OPENICE Large Air Fryer Basket is the best choice for the vast majority of home cooks. It delivers the perfect combination of durable stainless steel construction, a generous size for family meals, and the ultimate convenience of being fully dishwasher-safe for effortless cleanup. It delivers consistently crispy results that will make you forget about countertop machines.
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This tray is perfect for you if: you want durable, long-lasting performance; you prioritize healthy cooking with safe materials; you cook for 2-4 people regularly; and you want an easy, dishwasher-safe cleanup.
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It may not be ideal for you if: you exclusively cook delicate foods that stick easily or if you need to cook for more than 5 people at once.
If you want maximum versatility and don’t mind the extra care a non-stick surface requires, the OPENICE 2-Set Air Fryer Pan and Crisper Tray offers unbeatable value, giving you two different sizes for one budget-friendly price.
Ultimately, investing in a quality air fryer tray is one of the simplest and most effective ways to cook healthier, crispier food without cluttering your countertop. For the best balance of performance, durability, and value, you can’t go wrong with the OPENICE Large Air Fryer Basket.
Last update on 2026-02-11 at 21:40 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
