The Best Air Fryer Accessories and What To Do With Them

These air fryer accessories have completely transformed my cooking experience.

My kitchen completely changed the day I got my air fryer. No more days of long, tedious, and complicated dinner preps followed by messy cleanups – the air fryer made everything simpler and more enjoyable. But here’s the thing: with the right accessories, you can take your air fryer game to a whole new level.

Watch me talk about the best and worst accessories in this YouTube Video.

I’ve spent countless hours testing different air fryer accessories and am excited to share my absolute favorites with you. The best part? You probably already have some of these hiding in your kitchen cabinets! I’ll show you which accessories are truly worth your money and space and how to use them.

I’ll walk you through my top air fryer accessories. My MUST HAVES, NICE TO HAVE, and CAN LIVE WITHOUT.
Each recommendation comes from actual experience, and I’ll tell you exactly how to use them to improve your air fryer cooking.

Top 7 Must-have Air Fryer Accessories

Before I share my must-have accessories, here’s a helpful tip: measuring the interior dimensions of the air fryer basket is essential. Having these measurements handy while shopping makes it easy to find perfectly-sized cookware. For reference, my Cosori Air Fryer measures 9x9x3.75 inches with a 5.8 quart capacity. Keep these in mind as I show you these air fryer accessories.

1. Pine & Pepper Instant Read Food Thermometer

The number one must-have accessory is a reliable meat thermometer. Since air fryers can vary in wattage and heating patterns, cooking times in recipes might need slight adjustments. The Pine & Pepper Instant Read Thermometer has become my go-to kitchen companion for perfect results every time.

What makes this thermometer special:

• The large LED display with backlight makes it incredibly easy to read temperatures, even in low-light conditions
• Quick readings within 2-3 seconds mean no more waiting around
• The ergonomic handle offers a comfortable grip, and I love how the probe folds away for safe storage
• It’s waterproof and easily cleanable – perfect for a busy kitchen
• Accurate temperature readings of ±1°F / ±1°C ensure food safety

For even better results, I pair this with the Pine & Pepper Magnetic Air Fryer Temperature Chart & Cheat Sheet, a handy guide for quick reference right on the fridge. It includes all the essential internal cooking temperatures plus cooking times for almost 90 popular air fryer foods. No more guessing or endless searching online!

PROS:

• Versatile for all cooking methods (air frying, grilling, baking)
• automatic shut-off feature
• pre-calibrated for convenience

CONS:

• None! A food thermometer is a kitchen essential worth every penny.

2. Silicone Turners, Spatula & Tongs

Most kitchens already have these essential tools. The non-stick coating in air fryers needs gentle handling, making silicone tools perfect for the job. After extensive testing, I’ve found that having the right combination of silicone tools makes air frying so much easier.

Here are my tried-and-tested recommendations:

1. Silicone-Tipped Tongs: The HOTEC Premium Stainless Steel Locking Kitchen Tongs with silicone tips are my go-to for most air fryer tasks. The 9-inch size is perfect for reaching into the basket, while the 12-inch keeps hands safely away from heat. The locking mechanism makes storage a breeze.
2. Silicone Spatulas: The StarPack Basics set has become my kitchen staple. Their one-piece design means no trapped food or bacteria and is heat resistant up to 480°F. I particularly love the smaller sizes for maneuvering inside the air fryer basket.
3. Cookie Spatula: The OXO Good Grips 3-inch Silicone Cookie Spatula might seem specific, but it’s perfect for lifting smaller items from the air fryer basket. The angled handle keeps hands away from heat, and the rounded corners are great for scraping those stuck bits.

PROS:

• Silicone tools are incredibly versatile for daily cooking
• It won’t scratch the non-stick coating
• Heat-resistant and dishwasher safe
• Most last for years with proper care
• Can be used with all types of cookware, not just air fryers

CONS:

• Silicone tongs can sometimes be less grippy than metal ones
• Need to replace if showing signs of wear to protect non-stick coating

Pro Tip: Having silicone tools of multiple sizes helps reach different areas of the air fryer basket. For easy access, I keep the whole set organized in a utensil holder right by my air fryer.

3. Oil Spray Bottle

 

One of my most crucial air fryer tips is about oil sprays – those aerosol cooking sprays can damage the non-stick coating of the air fryer basket. My solution? A high-quality refillable oil sprayer. The Olive Oil Sprayer has become my favorite kitchen companion, completely replacing traditional cooking sprays.

What makes this sprayer special is its patented spray technology that creates a perfect fan-shaped mist. I love that one full trigger pull delivers exactly 0.04 oz of oil – perfect for controlling oil usage while ensuring even coverage.

Beyond just oil, it works beautifully with vinegar, soy sauce, and cooking wine – making it versatile for different recipes. The ergonomic design means my hand doesn’t get tired even during longer cooking sessions.

PROS:

• Precise oil control for healthier cooking
• Better for the environment than disposable spray cans
• Multiple spray modes for different needs
• Works with various cooking liquids
• Made from food-grade materials
• No artificial propellants

CONS:

• Requires proper cleaning between different liquids
• You may need several primes to start spraying initially
• It doesn’t work well with oils containing particles

Pro Tip: Keep the sprayer about 6-8 inches from the food for optimal coverage. Remember to clean it thoroughly when switching between different oils or liquids.

4. Heat Resistant Surface

A heat-resistant surface is essential unless the air fryer sits on granite or concrete countertops. My favorite solution is an Acacia Wood Cutting Board – it’s both beautiful and practical. Made from premium acacia wood, this 16″ x 12″ board with a handle has become one of my most versatile kitchen tools.

What makes this board perfect for air fryer use:

• The generous size ensures the air fryer basket never hangs off the edge
• The 4-inch handle makes it easy to move, even when hot
• Being carved from a single piece of wood means no glues or toxic finishes
• The natural wood provides excellent heat resistance
• The hanging hole makes storage convenient

While some air fryer kits include silicone resting pads, I prefer this multi-purpose solution. When not protecting my counters from the air fryer, it is a stunning charcuterie board, breadboard, or kitchen decor. The rustic farmhouse finish adds a beautiful touch to my kitchen counter.

PROS:

• Multi-functional kitchen tool
• Beautiful enough to display
• Excellent heat resistance
• Easy to clean and maintain
• Made from food-safe materials
• Includes convenient handle and hanging hole

CONS: None! It’s a versatile piece that earns its counter space.

Pro Tip: Consider the larger 21″ x 16″ size if you have a bigger air fryer or love entertaining – it’s perfect for serving directly from the air fryer to the table.

5. Heavy Duty Foil

There are two great ways to use foil in your air fryer. If you are baking something long enough or at a high temperature and don’t want the top to burn, you’ll want to cover the top of your food with foil for most of the baking time.

You can also use foil as a sling to help lift food out of the air fryer. If you do this, leave plenty of room for airflow so the food can cook properly. Be sure that you never place foil in the air fryer without securing it by putting food on it or wrapping it tightly around a dish. Otherwise, it could blow around and get stuck in the fan or heating element.

PROS: You likely already have heavy-duty foil in your kitchen

CONS: If you aren’t careful, it could wear down the non-stick coating after time.

6. Oven Safe Pan or Dish

Having the right baking pans has opened up a whole new world of air fryer possibilities – from cakes and bread to pizzas and casseroles. The Universal Air Fryer Accessory Set includes a pizza pan and a baking barrel designed for air fryer use.

But your pan doesn’t have to be designed for the air fryer. You can also use something around the house, like a glass baking dish (such as a Pyrex bowl/container), cake pan, or, in most cases, a springform pan, which will work too! You can use it if it is oven-safe and fits in your air fryer without restricting airflow!

The baking barrel’s deep, even-walled construction is perfect for:

• Baking cakes
• Making bread
• Creating casseroles
• Cooking deeper dishes

The pizza pan works beautifully for:

• Crispy pizzas
• Delicate omelets
• Quesadillas
• Flatbreads and pies

This set is unique because both pieces are made from durable steel with a non-stick coating, making food release and cleanup incredibly easy. The built-in handles are a game-changer – no more awkward reaching into the hot air fryer basket!

PROS:

• Food-grade materials for safe cooking
• Non-stick coating for easy food release
• Convenient handles for safe handling
• Dishwasher safe
• Versatile for multiple cooking needs
• Perfect fit for most air fryers

CONS:

• Always check measurements to ensure they fit your specific air fryer model

Pro Tip: Before purchasing any air fryer baking accessories, measure your basket’s interior dimensions. Remember to leave some space around the pan for proper air circulation.

7. Super Soft Kitchen Cleaning Cloths

Proper cleaning is essential for maintaining an air fryer, and I’ve found that the appropriate cleaning cloth makes all the difference. Velvety dishcloths have become my go-to for air fryer maintenance. These coral velvet cloths are perfect for cleaning without risking any damage to the non-stick coating.

What makes these cloths perfect for air fryer care:

• The non-abrasive coral velvet material is gentle on non-stick surfaces
• Super absorbent fabric makes cleanup quick and thorough
• Quick-drying material prevents bacteria growth
• The perfect size for reaching all areas of the basket

My tried-and-true cleaning method is simple: a damp cloth with a small amount of dish soap keeps my air fryer basket spotless. The cloth’s non-abrasive texture means I never worry about scratching the coating.

PROS:

• Safe for non-stick surfaces
• Machine washable
• Lint-free cleaning
• Multiple cloths in one pack
• Versatile for other kitchen uses
• Long-lasting and durable

CONS: None! These clothes are kitchen essentials that earn their space in any drawer.

Pro Tip: Keep one cloth dedicated specifically for air fryer cleaning to avoid cross-contamination and ensure the longest life for both your cloth and air fryer.

8 “Nice to Have” Air Fryer Accessories

8. Silicone Molds & Cups

While not essential, silicone molds have opened up a new world of air fryer possibilities in my kitchen. From sweet treats to savory bites, these versatile accessories have expanded what my air fryer can do.

Donut Molds

I’ve found two excellent options for making air fryer donuts:

1. Walfos Full Size Donut Molds:
   • Perfect for larger 4-inch donuts
   • Made from food-grade, BPA-free silicone
   • Temperature resistant from -40°F to 500°F
   • It comes in a set of three for family-sized batches
2. LoveS 6-Cavity Donut Pan:
   • Great for smaller 3-inch donuts
   • Heat resistant up to 450°F
   • Space-saving foldable design
   • Perfect for quick batch cooking

Silicone Baking Cups

The Silicone Kitchen’s 12-pack of reusable baking cups has become another favorite. These 3-inch cups are perfect for:

• Egg bites
• Mini muffins
• Breakfast bombs
• Individual portions of meatloaf
• Personal-sized desserts

PROS:

• Multi-purpose use (works in instant pot and oven, too)
• Effortless food release with no sticking
• Dishwasher safe for easy cleanup
• Environmentally friendly – reusable
• Space-saving storage
• No need for cooking sprays

CONS:

• Center cups might need a slightly longer cooking time
• Requires some experimentation with cooking times
• Takes up storage space if you collect multiple sizes

Pro Tip: When using silicone molds, place them on the air fryer basket or tray rather than directly on the bottom of the basket, which helps with even cooking and easier removal.

9. Plate Gripper

 

 

I’ve found that a proper plate gripper is much more reliable for safely handling hot dishes in the air fryer. The SOLEADER Plate Gripper has become my go-to tool for safely removing hot containers.

What makes this gripper special:

• Made from food-grade 18/8 stainless steel for durability
• It comes with anti-slip silicone padded tongues for secure grip
• Perfect for reaching into tight spaces
• Can grip both sides of heavier dishes
• Works for multiple kitchen appliances beyond the air fryer

PROS:

• Safer and more precise than oven mitts
• Dishwasher safe
• Long-lasting stainless steel construction
• It comes in a set of two for heavy items
• Can be used with multiple kitchen appliances

CONS:

• It takes practice to master the grip technique
• Requires storage space for two pieces

Pro Tip: Keep both grippers handy when removing heavy or liquid-filled containers – using them on opposite sides provides the most stable grip.

10. Multi-Purpose Air Fryer Rack

This stainless steel rack has allowed me to cook lighter-weight items without fearing them blowing into the air fryer. Think of anything with a cheese topping or tortillas, like these Pizza Quesadillas.

The rack is made from stainless steel and opens up many other cooking possibilities:

• Creates an extra cooking level for multiple foods
• Allows better air circulation under food
• Perfect for keeping delicate items from sticking
• Works as a cooling rack after cooking
• Can be used in other appliances, too

PROS:

• Adds an extra cooking level
• Dishwasher safe
• Versatile for multiple uses
• Sturdy stainless steel construction
• It helps with even cooking and browning

CONS:

• Requires adjusting cooking times for dual-level cooking
• May reduce air fryer capacity slightly

Pro Tip: When cooking on multiple levels, place foods that need less browning on the bottom rack and items that benefit from more direct heat on top.

11. Ramekins

Ramekins have become one of my favorite air fryer companions. These small ceramic dishes fit perfectly in the air fryer basket, have made it easier to make individual-sized treats and meals, and help with portion control! My air fryer adventures with ramekins include:

• Personal-sized lava cakes that ooze perfectly
• Individual egg bakes for breakfast
• Mini bread loaves that cook evenly
• Single-serving fruit crisps
• Personal mac and cheese portions

Beyond the air fryer, these versatile dishes are perfect for serving dips, holding mise en place ingredients while cooking, or presenting individual desserts. The  6 oz to 8 oz size works best for most air fryer recipes.

PROS:

• Perfect for individual portions
• Oven, microwave, and dishwasher safe
• Great for portion control
• Doubles as serving dishes
• Ideal for meal prep

CONS:

• Can be tricky to remove from a hot air fryer
• Need extra care when cleaning baked-on foods
• Takes up cabinet space to store

Pro Tip: Place a small strip of parchment paper under the ramekin to create a “sling” for easier removal from the hot air fryer basket.

12. Dawn Platinum Powerwash Dish Spray

 

Cleaning the air fryer just got easier! While regular dish soap works fine, I’ve discovered that Dawn Platinum Powerwash Dish Spray makes cleanup significantly quicker and more effective. The concentrated spray formula is perfect for tackling those tough, baked-on bits that sometimes stick to the air fryer basket.

What makes it particularly great for air fryer cleaning:

• The spray nozzle helps reach all corners of the basket
• Concentrated formula cuts through grease quickly
• No need to pre-soak in most cases
• Perfect for spot-cleaning between uses
• Works well with the gentle cleaning cloths mentioned earlier

PROS:

• Convenient spray bottle design
• It comes with economical refills
• Fresh scent
• Safe for non-stick surfaces when used properly

CONS:

• Powerful cleaning without heavy scrubbing
• Slightly more expensive than regular dish soap
• You need to rinse thoroughly to avoid any residue

Pro Tip: For stubborn spots, spray and let sit for 30 seconds before wiping – this usually eliminates the need for any scrubbing that might damage the non-stick coating.

13. Mandoline Slicer

Mandoline Slicer (or as my family calls it, the “Mandalorian Slicer”)

This tool is a game-changer, especially when you’re prepping for the air fryer. Whether it’s slicing potatoes, sweet potatoes, apples, or anything else you plan to roast, the mandoline slicer makes the job fast, easy, and uniform. It’s perfect for those moments when you want perfectly even slices without the hassle of using a knife.

PROS:

• It is swift and precise, making it ideal for slicing vegetables and fruits.
• It keeps your slices thin and uniform for even cooking.
• Versatile and can handle a variety of kitchen tasks.

CONS:

• While handy, it’s not essential.
• You could always just grab a knife and eyeball your slices if you’re in the mood for a more hands-on approach.

14. Silicone Basting Brush

Chances are, you already have one of these in your kitchen. The silicone basting brush is perfect for evenly applying oil to your food, especially when you want a more controlled coat than you’d get with a spray bottle.

PROS:

• A basting brush is versatile, making it useful for more than just oiling air-fried foods.
• It’s great for glazing, spreading sauces, and even buttering baked goods.
• You can spread oil in the air fryer basket instead of using the sprayer.

CONS:

• You could always use a paper towel or your hands to apply the oil instead.

15. Parchment Paper

I’ve discovered that proper air fryer liners are a game-changer for cooking and cleanup. The Pine & Pepper Air Fryer Liners have completely transformed my air frying experience. 

What makes these liners special:

• Made from premium, food-grade, unbleached parchment paper
• Oil and water-resistant to prevent messy drips
• Heat resistant up to 425°F (218°C)
• The basket-style design comes up about two inches on the sides
• Perfect for sticky foods like cheese pizzas or saucy chicken dishes

My favorite part? These liners make lifting delicate foods out of the air fryer basket incredibly easy. I’ve even started baking cookies in my air fryer because the liners prevent sticking and make transfer simple.

Important Safety Tips:

• Always place food on the liner before use
• Never use liners without food to weigh them down
• When preheating, add the liner and food together afterward
• Ensure proper airflow around food

PROS:

• Eliminates messy cleanup
• Environmentally friendly (recyclable and compostable)
• No toxic chemicals or PFAs
• Prevents food residue buildup
• Perfect for sticky or delicate foods
• Saves time on cleanup

CONS: None! These liners are a significant upgrade from using foil, protecting your air fryer and the environment.

Pro Tip: Keep a stack of these liners next to your air fryer for quick access. They’re convenient for foods like breaded chicken or anything with cheese that might otherwise stick to the basket.

Three Air Fryer Accessories You Can Live Without

16. Bread Rack

A bread rack is often in accessory kits, but honestly, it’s not something I reach for much. You can use it to toast bread, though sometimes the slices end up too close to the heating element. It can also handle frozen hashbrowns, but beyond that, it doesn’t have many practical uses.

PROS:

• It can help you cook more flat foods at once with airflow.
• Prepare foods simultaneously instead of lying them flat.

CONS:

• It’s not ideal for some items it’s intended for, like French toast. and overall,
• It doesn’t have much versatility.

17. Silicone Pot

A silicone pot is great for my air fryer cleaning routine. This reusable liner is a fantastic upgrade from disposable parchment paper, offering durability and better functionality. Available in two sizes (3-5QT and 5.3QT & up) to fit most air fryer baskets perfectly.

What makes this liner special:

• 3x thicker than standard silicone liners for better stability
• Built-in grills promote proper air circulation
• Premium food-grade silicone that’s LFGB-tested and BPA-free
• Round design works in both square and round baskets
• Handles make removal easy and safe

PROS:

• More eco-friendly than disposable liners
• Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning
• Lifetime warranty
• Prevents food residue buildup
• Works with messy, sticky foods
• There is no risk of flying into heating elements like paper liners

CONS:

• Higher upfront cost than disposable options
• Takes up storage space
• It needs proper drying after washing
• It doesn’t allow for as much airflow.

Pro Tip: Before first use, wash the liner thoroughly and dry completely. For best results, spray or brush with a small amount of oil before cooking particularly sticky foods.

Final Thoughts

Starting with an air fryer doesn’t require investing in every available accessory. The key is to begin with the essential items and gradually add others based on specific cooking needs. Here’s my practical advice:

1. Start with the must-have basics:
   • Instant read thermometer
   • Silicone utensils
   • Quality spray bottle
   • Heat-resistant surface
   • Air fryer liners
   • Basic cleaning supplies
2. Add nice-to-have items as needed:
   • Consider which recipes you make most often
   • Think about what would make your cooking easier
   • Look for multi-purpose accessories that serve several functions
3. Choose additional accessories thoughtfully:
   • Focus on items that complement your cooking style
   • Consider multi-purpose tools first
   • Add specialized items as your needs grow

The best air fryer setup fits your specific cooking style and needs. Start simple, cook often, and let your cooking adventures guide your accessory choices.

• Air fryer tips and tricks

  • Air Fryer 101
  • Learn these common Air Fryer Mistakes!
  • All about the Best and Worst Air Fryer Accessories
  • How to Clean Your Air Fryer
  • How to Cook Any Recipe in the Air Fryer
  • FREE Download → Air Fryer Tips & Temps
  • Air Fryer Buying Guide
  • Watch Fabulessly Frugal YouTube Channel for Air Fryer Recipes

Plus, a few of my favorite Air Fryer Recipes:

• The Easiest Air Fryer Chicken Fajitas
• Quick & Easy Air Fryer Chicken Wings
• Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp with Piña Colada Dipping Sauce