7 Air Fryer Accessories and Tips That Make Family Meals Easy

Air fryers have completely changed how I cook for my family. These simple accessories make weeknight dinners faster, healthier, and easier.

Collage of air fryer accessories including racks, liners, tongs, molds, and spatulas

From crisping veggies to reheating leftovers without drying them out, the right tools make a real difference. Here are my 7 favorite air fryer accessories and how I use them.

1. Air Fryer Basket Liners

Reusable silicone basket liners prevent sticking and make cleanup much easier. They’re great for delicate foods like fish or roasted veggies.

I place the liner in the basket, preheat for 3 to 5 minutes, then add the food.

Air fryer basket with silicone liner insert on kitchen counter

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2. Air Fryer Racks

Stackable racks let you cook multiple foods at once without overcrowding. Air circulates better, so everything cooks evenly.

I use them for wings, chicken tenders, or roasted vegetables.

Stackable metal rack set beside an air fryer on countertop

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3. Baking Pans & Silicone Molds

Mini silicone molds are perfect for cornbread, muffins, or egg bites. I lightly spray them with olive oil, add the batter, and cook at 320°F for 10 to 15 minutes.

They’re also great for single-serve desserts or savory snacks.

Silicone baking molds and small pans arranged near air fryer

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4. Air Fryer Grill Pan

The grill pan is my go-to for indoor grilling. The raised ridges create a nice sear while allowing excess fat to drip away.

Chicken breasts, salmon fillets, and veggie kabobs cook perfectly in about 5 to 7 minutes per side.

Round air fryer crisper plate accessory on kitchen surface

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5. Tongs and Spatulas

Silicone-tipped tongs and heat-resistant spatulas make handling hot food safer. They help flip wings, nuggets, or fries without scratching the basket.

I keep a dedicated pair just for the air fryer.

Kitchen tongs and silicone spatula next to an air fryer

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6. Perforated Parchment Paper

Perforated parchment paper is ideal for fries, roasted potatoes, shrimp, or anything that may stick. The holes allow proper airflow for even crisping.

It also helps keep the basket cleaner.

Air fryer basket lined with perforated parchment paper

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7. Silicone Mats and Trivets

Silicone mats and trivets protect countertops from heat and spills. I place hot baskets or molds on them right after cooking.

They’re especially helpful when preparing multiple dishes at once.

Air fryer with cooked wings on silicone mats on countertop

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Air Fryer Cooking Tips

Preheat when possible – A few minutes of preheating helps food crisp faster.
Don’t overcrowd – Leave space between foods for even cooking.
Shake or flip halfway – This ensures uniform crispiness.
Use a light coating of oil – A small amount helps food crisp without excess fat.
Check food early – Air fryer times vary, so start checking a few minutes before the recipe suggests.

FAQ

Q1: Can I use any silicone molds in my air fryer?
Yes, as long as they’re heat-resistant up to 400°F.

Q2: Do basket liners affect cooking times?
Slightly for baked items, usually adding 1 to 2 minutes. No adjustment needed for fries or chicken.

Q3: Can I put metal pans in my air fryer?
Yes, as long as they don’t block airflow or overcrowd the basket.

Q4: How do I clean accessories safely?
Soak in warm, soapy water. Silicone accessories are dishwasher safe, while metal racks are best hand-washed to prevent rust.