Must-Have Air Fryer Accessories: Complete Guide to Tools & Add-Ons

The right accessories transform your air fryer from good to great. Learn which tools are essential, which are nice-to-have, and which are wasteful gimmicks. This guide helps you build the perfect accessory collection without overspending.

Parchment Paper Liners: The #1 Essential

If you buy only one accessory, make it pre-cut parchment liners with holes:

Why Parchment Liners are Essential

• Easy cleanup: Food doesn't stick to basket—just remove liner
• Protects coating: Prevents scratching non-stick basket
• Prevents sticking: Especially for sticky, saucy, or breaded foods
• Pre-cut with holes: Sized for air fryers with perforations for airflow
• Affordable: Pennies per use
• No mess: Throw away instead of scrubbing basket

Types of Parchment Liners

Pre-Cut Perforated Rounds/Squares (Best Option)

• What they are: Pre-sized for air fryers with holes punched in
• Sizes available: 6.5", 7.5", 8", 9" diameter/square
• Price: $8-15 for 100 sheets
• Why best: No cutting needed, holes ensure airflow
• Perfect for: Everyday use, all basket styles

Regular Parchment Paper (Budget Option)

• What it is: Standard baking parchment from grocery store
• Price: $3-5 for large roll
• Process: Cut to size, punch your own holes
• Downside: Time-consuming, must create holes
• Works if: Budget is extremely tight

Silicone Parchment Sheets

• What they are: Silicone-coated paper, thicker than regular
• Price: $10-18 for 100
• Benefit: More durable, less likely to blow around
• Use for: Heavier foods, high-temperature cooking

How to Use Parchment Liners

1. Size correctly: Choose liner slightly smaller than basket
2. Place after adding food: Don't put empty liner in basket (will blow around)
3. Press down: Weight of food holds liner in place
4. Cook as normal: Holes allow air circulation
5. Remove and discard: After cooking
6. Quick cleanup: Basket stays clean

When to Use Parchment Liners

Always Use For:

• Sticky marinades (teriyaki, BBQ sauce)
• Breaded foods (schnitzel, fried chicken)
• Cookies and baked goods
• Anything with coating that might stick
• Messy foods (ribs, wings with sauce)

Optional For:

• French fries (easier cleanup but not required)
• Vegetables (prevents small pieces falling through)
• Reheating (convenience factor)

Skip For:

• Foods needing maximum crispiness (direct basket contact is crispier)
• When you want grill marks
• Very light foods that need basket weight

Recommended Parchment Liners

• Best overall: COSORI 100pc Parchment Paper Liners ($12-15)
• Budget pick: Generic perforated liners on Amazon ($8-10)
• Premium option: Parchment Paper Perforated Silicone Sheets ($15-18)
• For oven-style: Get rectangular sheets sized for your racks

Silicone Mats: Reusable Alternative

The eco-friendly option to replace disposable parchment:

What Are Silicone Air Fryer Mats

• Material: Food-grade silicone with raised nubs or holes
• Reusable: Use hundreds of times
• Heat resistant: Safe to 450°F+
• Non-stick: Food releases easily
• Washable: Dishwasher safe
• Eco-friendly: Replace disposable parchment

Pros and Cons

Advantages:

• One-time purchase replaces hundreds of paper liners
• Better for environment
• Won't blow around like parchment
• Thicker and more durable
• Easy to clean—dishwasher safe
• Cost-effective long-term

Disadvantages:

• Higher upfront cost ($12-20 vs $10 for 100 papers)
• Takes up storage space
• Must clean after each use
• Can retain odors over time
• Not as crispy as direct basket contact
• Slightly reduces air circulation compared to basket

Types of Silicone Mats

Perforated Mats

• Multiple holes throughout for airflow
• Best air circulation
• Most popular type
• Price: $12-18

Raised Nub/Dimpled Mats

• Small raised bumps lift food off surface
• Good air circulation underneath
• Prevents sticking
• Price: $15-20

Silicone Basket Inserts

• Full basket liner with raised edges
• Contains messes and drips
• Less air circulation
• Price: $10-15

Parchment vs Silicone Mat Decision

Choose Parchment If:

• You cook messy/saucy foods often
• You hate cleaning
• You want maximum crispiness
• You prefer disposable convenience

Choose Silicone Mat If:

• You want eco-friendly option
• You cook similar foods regularly
• You don't mind washing after use
• You want long-term cost savings

Many People Buy Both:

• Silicone mat for everyday cooking
• Parchment for messy foods and baking
• Best of both worlds

Additional Racks and Trays: Double Your Capacity

Cook multiple items at once with layered racks:

What Are Air Fryer Racks

• Description: Wire racks that elevate food above basket floor
• Purpose: Create second cooking level
• Material: Stainless steel wire
• Sizes: Must fit your specific air fryer model
• Cost: $10-20

Types of Racks

Double-Layer Rack with Skewers

• Two stacked levels
• Includes 5 skewers for kabobs
• Maximizes vertical space
• Great for batch cooking
• Price: $15-25

Single Wire Rack

• One elevated platform
• Simple design
• Easy to clean
• Perfect for reheating
• Price: $10-15

Mesh Trays/Crisper Trays

• Fine mesh for small items
• Prevents small foods falling through
• Great for fries, nuggets
• Dishwasher safe
• Price: $12-18

Why You Need Extra Racks

Double Your Capacity:

• Cook proteins on bottom, vegetables on top
• Reheat multiple items simultaneously
• Separate foods that need different handling
• Essential for small air fryers

Better Results:

• Elevates food for better air circulation all around
• Prevents bottom sogginess
• Creates drip zone for grease
• More even cooking

What You Can Cook with Racks

• Dehydrating: Fruit or jerky on multiple levels
• Chicken wings: Two layers = double capacity
• Complete meals: Salmon on bottom, asparagus on top
• Pizza bagels: Multiple servings at once
• Reheating: Separate different leftovers
• Baking: Multiple pans of cookies or cupcakes

Important Sizing Information

Skewers and Kabob Holders

Perfect for kabobs, satay, and keeping foods elevated:

Types of Air Fryer Skewers

Metal Skewer Rack Set

• What it is: Rack with holes + 4-6 metal skewers
• Material: Stainless steel
• Use for: Kabobs, satay, corn on the cob
• Benefit: Suspends food for even cooking
• Price: $15-25

Wooden Skewers

• What they are: Traditional bamboo skewers
• Length: 6-8 inches for air fryers
• Must soak: Soak 30 minutes before use
• Disposable: Single-use
• Price: $3-5 for 100

What to Make with Skewers

• Chicken kabobs: Marinated chicken chunks with vegetables
• Shrimp skewers: Quick-cooking and delicious
• Beef satay: Asian-inspired skewered beef
• Vegetable kabobs: Mixed vegetables
• Fruit kabobs: Pineapple, peaches for dessert
• Hot dogs on a stick: Kids love these
• Corn on the cob: Insert skewer through center

Skewer Cooking Tips

• Don't overcrowd: Leave space between pieces
• Similar sizes: Cut all pieces to same size for even cooking
• Presoak wood: Prevents burning
• Metal gets hot: Use tongs to remove
• Rotate halfway: For even browning on all sides
• Thread tightly: Prevent spinning when flipping

Cake Pans and Muffin Tins: Baking Essentials

Unlock your air fryer's baking potential:

Essential Baking Pans for Air Fryers

Round Cake Pans (6-7 inch)

• Size: 6 or 7 inch diameter
• Material: Metal or silicone
• Use for: Layer cakes, cheesecakes, quiches
• Price: $8-15 for set of 2-3
• Essential for: Anyone who wants to bake

6-Cup Muffin Tin

• Size: Fits most 5-6 quart air fryers
• Material: Metal (best) or silicone cups
• Use for: Muffins, cupcakes, egg cups
• Price: $10-15
• Alternative: Silicone individual cups

Small Loaf Pan (7x3 inch)

• Size: 7x3 inch or 8x4 inch
• Use for: Quick breads, meatloaf, pound cake
• Material: Metal preferred
• Price: $8-12

Square Baking Pan (6-7 inch)

• Size: 6x6 or 7x7 inch square
• Use for: Brownies, bars, cornbread
• Price: $10-15

Springform Pan (6-7 inch)

• Size: 6 or 7 inch
• Use for: Cheesecakes, layered desserts
• Removable bottom: Easy release
• Price: $12-18

Silicone vs Metal Pans

Metal Pans (Recommended):

• Pros: Better heat conduction, golden bottoms, durable
• Cons: Can stick if not greased, requires storage space
• Best for: Cakes, brownies, anything needing crispy bottom

Silicone Pans:

• Pros: Non-stick, flexible, easy storage
• Cons: Less browning, can be floppy when full
• Best for: Muffins, cupcakes, mini cakes

Air Fryer Baking Accessories Set

Many brands sell complete sets including:

• 7-inch cake pan
• 6-cup muffin tin
• Pizza pan
• Wire rack
• Skewer rack
• Silicone mat
• Price: $25-40 for complete set
• Good value: If you want multiple accessories

Pizza Pan: Crispy Crust Perfection

Essential for pizza lovers:

What is an Air Fryer Pizza Pan

• Description: Perforated round metal pan
• Sizes: 6.5, 7, 8, or 9 inch
• Material: Non-stick coated steel or aluminum
• Holes: Perforations allow hot air underneath
• Price: $10-15

Why You Need One

• Perfect personal pizzas: Make from scratch
• Reheat pizza better: Crispier than just basket
• Frozen pizzas: Fits small frozen pizzas
• Flatbreads: Naan, pita, garlic bread
• Quesadillas: Crispy on both sides
• Open-face sandwiches: Melts and toasts perfectly

How to Use Pizza Pan

1. Spray pan lightly with oil
2. Place pizza dough or frozen pizza on pan
3. Add toppings (if making fresh)
4. Place pan in air fryer basket
5. Cook at 350-400°F for 8-12 minutes
6. Perforations create crispy crust

Pizza Pan vs Direct Basket

Pizza Pan Advantages:

• Holds toppings in place
• Easier to remove finished pizza
• More even cooking
• Prevents cheese drips

Direct Basket Advantages:

• Crispier crust (more air contact)
• No extra equipment needed
• One less thing to clean

Silicone Mitts and Heat-Resistant Gloves

Protect your hands from burns:

Why You Need Heat Protection

• Air fryers get HOT: Exterior, basket, and accessories heat up
• Basket handle heats up: Especially during long cooks
• Steam burns: Opening drawer releases hot steam
• Metal accessories: Racks, pans, skewers are extremely hot
• Safety first: Prevent painful burns

Types of Heat Protection

Silicone Oven Mitts

• Material: Heat-resistant silicone
• Temperature rating: Safe to 450-500°F
• Benefit: Non-slip grip, waterproof
• Easy to clean: Rinse or dishwasher
• Price: $12-20 per pair

Fabric Oven Mitts

• Material: Quilted cotton or aramid
• Traditional style: Like regular oven mitts
• More comfortable: Flexible fabric
• Downside: Can get wet/dirty
• Price: $10-18

Heat-Resistant Gloves

• Material: Aramid fiber (Kevlar) or silicone
• Style: Five-finger gloves
• Benefit: Better dexterity than mitts
• Can handle racks: Easier to grip small items
• Price: $15-25

What to Look For

• Temperature rating: Minimum 450°F
• Length: Long enough to protect forearms
• Non-slip: Textured grip surface
• Easy to clean: Silicone wipes clean
• Flexible: Can grip basket handle easily

Recommendation

Best choice: Silicone mini mitts or pinch grips ($10-15) specifically designed for air fryer use—compact, easy to store, perfect size for basket handles.

Oil Spray Bottle: Essential for Best Results

The second most important accessory after parchment:

Why Oil Sprayer is Essential

• Controlled application: Light, even coating without excess
• Healthier than aerosol: Use your choice of healthy oils
• Cost-effective: Refillable, not single-use cans
• Better crisping: Light oil coat enhances crispiness
• Prevents dryness: Keeps food moist during cooking
• Coating adherence: Helps seasonings stick

Aerosol Cans vs Refillable Sprayers

Why Refillable is Better:

• Safe for non-stick: No coating-damaging chemicals
• Your choice of oil: Olive, avocado, coconut, etc.
• Cost savings: $5 of oil lasts months vs buying spray cans
• Environmental: No aerosol propellants
• Fine mist: Even coating with minimal oil

Types of Oil Sprayers

Pump Sprayers (Best)

• How it works: Pump to pressurize, trigger to spray
• Mist quality: Fine, even mist
• Capacity: 3-4 ounces
• Price: $10-18
• Recommended brands: Evo, Misto

Continuous Spray Bottles

• How it works: Press trigger for continuous spray
• No pumping: More convenient
• Battery-free: Manual operation
• Price: $8-15

Electric Oil Misters

• How it works: Battery-powered spray mechanism
• Most convenient: Press button for fine mist
• Consistent spray: Every time
• Price: $20-35
• Worth it: If you use it daily

Best Oils for Air Frying

• Avocado oil: Highest smoke point (520°F), neutral flavor
• Olive oil: Good flavor, 400°F smoke point (works for most)
• Vegetable oil: Neutral, affordable, 400°F smoke point
• Coconut oil: 350°F smoke point, adds subtle flavor
• Grapeseed oil: 420°F smoke point, neutral

How to Use Oil Sprayer

1. Fill sprayer with your chosen oil
2. Pump 10-15 times (if pump style)
3. Hold 6-8 inches from food
4. Spray in sweeping motion
5. Quick 1-2 second spray is enough
6. Don't over-oil—light coating is goal

Silicone Tongs and Spatulas: Non-Scratch Tools

Protect your air fryer coating with proper utensils:

Why Silicone/Nylon Utensils are Required

• Metal damages coating: Scratches ruin non-stick surface
• Once scratched: Coating continues to peel
• Silicone is safe: Won't damage surface
• Heat resistant: Won't melt (up to 500°F)
• Extends air fryer life: Protects your investment

Essential Silicone Tools

Silicone-Tipped Tongs (Most Important)

• Use for: Flipping chicken, grabbing food, general handling
• Size: 9-12 inch length
• Features: Locking mechanism, heat-resistant tips
• Price: $8-15
• Why essential: Most-used air fryer tool

Silicone Spatula/Turner

• Use for: Flipping burgers, fish, removing cookies
• Type: Flexible or firm blade
• Features: Slotted for drainage
• Price: $6-12

Silicone Spoon/Scoop

• Use for: Stirring, scooping, mixing
• Less essential: But nice to have
• Price: $5-10

What to Avoid

• Metal tongs: Will scratch basket
• Metal spatulas: Damage coating
• Forks and knives: For checking doneness only, not handling
• Plastic tools: Can melt at high temperatures

Recommended Sets

• Budget: Amazon Basics Silicone Kitchen Tools ($10-15)
• Mid-range: OXO Good Grips Silicone Tools ($15-25)
• Premium: GIR (Get It Right) Silicone Tools ($20-30)

Grill Pan Insert: For Grill Marks

Optional accessory for aesthetics and drainage:

What is a Grill Pan Insert

• Description: Metal pan with raised ridges
• Purpose: Creates grill marks, drains fat
• Material: Non-stick coated steel
• Must fit: Your specific air fryer size
• Price: $15-25

Pros and Cons

Advantages:

• Aesthetic grill marks on food
• Elevates food off bottom
• Fat drains into valleys
• Slightly healthier cooking
• Good for burgers, steaks, chicken

Disadvantages:

• Another item to clean
• Takes up space
• Reduces air circulation slightly
• Grill marks are cosmetic only
• Not necessary for most foods

When to Use Grill Pan

• Burgers and steaks: For restaurant appearance
• Chicken breasts: Nice presentation
• Pork chops: Drain fat, add marks
• Vegetables: Grilled vegetable aesthetic
• Entertaining: When presentation matters

Is It Worth It?

Verdict: Nice-to-have but not essential. Buy if you care about presentation or want easy fat drainage. Skip if you're happy with regular basket cooking.

What NOT to Buy: Unnecessary Accessories

Save money by avoiding these gimmicky or redundant items:

Skip These Accessories

Air Fryer Liners with Solid Bottom

• Problem: No holes = blocks airflow
• Result: Uneven cooking, longer times
• Better option: Perforated liners only

Plastic or Melamine Accessories

• Problem: Not heat-safe for air fryer temps
• Can melt: At 400°F+ temperatures
• Safety risk: Melting plastic is toxic
• Better option: Metal or silicone only

Egg Bite Molds (Unless You'll Really Use)

• Very specific use: Only for egg bites
• Limited versatility: Can't use for much else
• Better option: Silicone muffin cups (more versatile)
• Exception: If you make egg bites weekly

Novelty Pans (Hot Dog Roller, Donut Maker, etc.)

• Single purpose: Can only make one specific thing
• Gimmicky: Usually work poorly
• Waste of money: Regular basket works fine
• Better option: Use versatile accessories

Cookbook/Recipe Cards

• Available free: Thousands of recipes online
• Not necessary: Most foods are intuitive
• Better option: Free recipe websites and YouTube
• Exception: If you really prefer physical books

"Complete" Accessory Sets with 20+ Pieces

• Mostly filler: Many useless items
• Low quality: Jack of all trades, master of none
• Clutter: End up using 3-4 items, rest waste space
• Better option: Buy 5-6 quality items you'll actually use

Bamboo Skewers (If You Have Metal)

• Disposable waste: When reusable option exists
• Must presoak: Extra step
• Can burn: Even when soaked
• Better option: Reusable metal skewer set

Magnetic Cheat Sheets

• Not needed: Learn temperatures after a few uses
• Generic times: May not match your model
• Better option: Trial and error, take notes

The Minimalist Approach

Everything you truly need:

1. Perforated parchment liners ($10)
2. Oil spray bottle ($12)
3. Silicone tongs ($10)

Total cost: $32 for complete functionality

Add other accessories only as you discover specific needs through regular use.

Where to Buy Air Fryer Accessories

Best sources for quality accessories at good prices:

Online Retailers

Amazon

• Pros: Huge selection, customer reviews, fast shipping
• Cons: Quality varies, some cheap knockoffs
• Tip: Read reviews carefully, check ratings
• Best for: Comparing options, quick delivery

Manufacturer Websites

• Pros: Guaranteed compatibility with your model
• Cons: More expensive, limited selection
• Examples: Ninja, Cosori, Instant Pot sites
• Best for: Model-specific accessories

Target/Walmart Online

• Pros: Reasonable prices, store pickup option
• Cons: Smaller selection than Amazon
• Best for: Common accessories at fair prices

Physical Stores

Target, Walmart, Bed Bath & Beyond

• Pros: See before buying, immediate availability
• Cons: Limited selection, may not have your size
• Best for: Basics like tongs, mitts, pans

Kitchen Supply Stores

• Pros: Quality items, knowledgeable staff
• Cons: Higher prices
• Best for: Premium quality tools

What to Check Before Buying

• Size compatibility: Will it fit your air fryer?
• Material: Heat-safe for air fryer temperatures?
• Reviews: What do other buyers say?
• Brand reputation: Known quality or unknown?
• Return policy: Can you return if it doesn't fit?
• Price comparison: Check multiple retailers

Money-Saving Tips

• Buy multi-packs: Parchment liners in bulk are cheaper
• Generic brands: Often same quality as name brands
• Accessory sets: Can be good value IF you'll use everything
• Wait for sales: Kitchen items often on sale
• Start minimal: Buy only what you need now