Praised for its quick, light cooking, the air fryer has earned a permanent spot on the countertop. In the process, some people line the basket with parchment paper, thinking it will keep mess to a minimum. A potential mistake: it hampers airflow, the texture suffers, and the risk of overheating goes up—enough that Philips has issued warnings. Here are the right habits to use it well, without unnecessary add-ons.
Air fryer: a powerful ally for modern cooking
The air fryer has revolutionized the way we cook. This appliance, which delivers quick, light results with little to no oil, has won over millions of users worldwide. Versatile, it can handle a multitude of dishes, from classic golden fries to indulgent desserts like sweet palmiers. But with such a handy tool comes a recurring question: should you put parchment paper in it?
The lure of parchment paper: a good idea?
Using parchment paper in an air fryer can seem like a good idea at first. Many assume it makes cleanup easier or keeps food from sticking to the basket. Yet it’s not without downsides. Experts, including those at Philips, warn about risks that aren’t obvious at first glance. Why? Because the air fryer relies on a key principle: optimal circulation of hot air.
- Risk of uneven cooking: With parchment paper in place, air can’t circulate properly around the food, which affects both texture and flavor.
- Overheating hazard: If the paper isn’t secured or sticks out of the basket, it can lift and touch the heating elements. That can cause overheating—or worse, a fire.
- Impact on the appliance: Over time, it can impair the proper functioning of your trusty air fryer.
Make the most of your air fryer without parchment paper
To avoid these pitfalls, trust the air fryer’s built-in strengths. Space the food out in the basket and it will cook evenly thanks to the airflow. What’s more, modern baskets are often designed with nonstick coatings, making an extra layer unnecessary. A simple precaution? If you’re set on using parchment (for delicate preparations, for instance), cut it precisely to the size of the basket, punch holes if needed to let air through, and keep it pinned down under the food—never preheat with paper alone.
A few ideas to get the most out of your appliance
Keen to tap the full potential of your air fryer? Try seasoned roasted vegetables, curry-marinated chicken fillets, crispy falafel, glazed salmon, or fruit muffins. Shake the basket halfway through to even things out, mist lightly with oil if needed, and avoid overcrowding to maintain healthy cooking and consistent results.
After all, the air fryer is designed to make your life easier, without superfluous accessories or anything that blocks airflow
- A superfood that boosts memory and protects the brain, according to new research - 24 November 2025
- Bone broth: the anti-aging broth experts rave about for glowing skin - 23 November 2025
- The 10-minute Halloween recipe everyone will love - 23 November 2025
