Yes, you can technically put a steel bowl in an air fryer, but it’s not recommended due to safety and performance risks. Steel can block airflow, cause uneven cooking, and even damage your air fryer’s heating elements. For better results, opt for air fryer-safe alternatives like silicone or oven-safe glass dishes.
Air fryers rely on rapid hot air circulation to cook food evenly, and a steel bowl can disrupt this process. The thick metal walls block airflow, leading to longer cooking times and inconsistent results. Additionally, steel conducts heat differently than air fryer baskets, creating hot spots that may burn your food. Some air fryer models, like the Ninja Air Fryer, explicitly warn against using metal containers that aren’t designed for the appliance. If you’re experimenting with recipes, check out our air fryer conversion chart for adjusted cooking times.
Another concern is potential damage to your air fryer’s non-stick coating. Steel bowls can scratch the basket or tray, reducing its lifespan. For safer alternatives, browse our recipe collection that uses air fryer-friendly cookware.
Steel won’t melt in an air fryer’s typical temperature range (up to 200°C), but it can become dangerously hot. If the bowl touches the heating element, it could cause sparking or even a fire. Always ensure there’s ample space between metal items and the heating coil.
Silicone and oven-safe glass dishes are the best replacements for steel bowls in an air fryer. Silicone won’t block airflow as severely and is heat-resistant up to 250°C. For reheating leftovers, try our meal prep recipes designed for air fryer-safe containers.
If you must use metal, choose perforated steel pans specifically designed for air fryers. These allow proper airflow while containing liquids or small ingredients. After cooking, clean your appliance with our recommended air fryer cleaner to maintain performance.
If you’ve accidentally used a steel bowl, inspect your air fryer for scratches or damage. Test its heating function with a simple recipe like our crispy potatoes to ensure even cooking. Discontinue use if you notice malfunctions.
Most air fryer brands caution against unauthorised metal cookware. Philips and Ninja specify using only their branded accessories or oven-safe materials. Always check your model’s manual—some permit small metal utensils but ban full-sized bowls.
For those who love baking, our air fryer cake recipes use silicone moulds for perfect results without risking damage. Remember, steel bowls might seem convenient, but they’re rarely worth the potential hazards.
