Pyrex Dish Air Fryer Safety: Can You Do It?

Air fryers are a common kitchen appliance for those who want to enjoy fried foods without the oil or deep-frying. They work by raising the temperature quickly to reduce cooking time. However, this can cause issues with the cookware used, leading to the question: can you put a Pyrex dish in an air fryer?

Pyrex dishes are safe for air fryers

Secondly, avoid sudden temperature shifts when using Pyrex in an air fryer. Do not put chilled glass directly into a hot air fryer, as this can cause cracking. Instead, allow the glass dish to come to room temperature before placing it inside the air fryer. Preheating the empty glass dish gradually as you preheat the air fryer can help prevent thermal shock and ensure your dish can withstand the heat.

Thirdly, ensure the Pyrex dish does not block the airflow inside the air fryer. While glass bakeware is a popular choice due to its non-toxicity and ease of use, it often lacks holes to circulate air. If the airflow is blocked, food may take longer to cook or be unevenly cooked. Therefore, choose a Pyrex dish that fits comfortably inside the air fryer without taking up the entire space.

By following these precautions, you can safely use Pyrex dishes in your air fryer.

Avoid high temperatures

Pyrex dishes are made of glass, which can be used in an air fryer. However, it is important to avoid high temperatures when using glass in an air fryer.

Air fryers can reach very high temperatures, often around 500°F, and some ordinary glass bowls may shatter or explode when exposed to such high temperatures. Therefore, it is crucial to use high-quality glass bakeware designed to withstand high temperatures, such as those made of borosilicate glass.

Pyrex dishes, for example, are typically safe to use at temperatures up to 425°F. However, some glass dishes may only be safe up to around 350°F. It is essential to check the manufacturer's guidelines and temperature ratings for your specific glassware to ensure safe use in an air fryer.

Additionally, it is important to avoid sudden temperature changes when using glass in an air fryer. Glass should be allowed to adjust to room temperature before being placed in the air fryer. Similarly, heated glass should not be placed directly into a cold environment, as this can cause thermal shock and cracking.

By following these precautions and using suitable high-quality glassware, you can safely use Pyrex dishes in an air fryer while avoiding the risks associated with high temperatures.

Avoid sudden temperature changes

Pyrex dishes are made of glass, which is susceptible to thermal shock. This is when different parts of the glass expand at different rates due to sudden or extreme changes in temperature, causing cracks and stress in the glass.

To avoid thermal shock, do not put a Pyrex dish straight into an air fryer if it has been in the fridge or freezer. Allow the dish to come to room temperature first. Similarly, do not put a hot Pyrex dish straight into a fridge or freezer. Always allow it to cool down to room temperature first.

You should also avoid placing a hot Pyrex dish on a cold or wet surface, such as a countertop or sink. Instead, place it on a dry dish towel or metal cooling rack to cool.

Pyrex dishes made of borosilicate glass are more resistant to thermal shock than those made of tempered soda lime glass. However, even borosilicate glass can break if exposed to extreme temperature changes.

Don't block airflow

When using an air fryer, it's important to remember not to block the airflow. This is because air fryers work by circulating hot air around the food, creating a crispy exterior while cooking the interior evenly. If the airflow is blocked, your food might take longer to cook, be unevenly cooked, or not cook at all.

To ensure proper airflow, choose bakeware that doesn't take up the entire space inside the air fryer. It's also important to avoid using liners or mats that obstruct the airflow. While these can be convenient for easy cleanup, they can create a barrier that reduces cooking efficiency and compromises crispiness.

If you do choose to use a liner, there are a few tips to minimize airflow obstruction:

• Use fitted liners designed specifically for your air fryer model.
• Trim any excess liner that extends beyond the edge of the basket.
• Poke holes in liners made of parchment paper or silicone to allow for some airflow.
• Avoid using aluminum foil, as it can significantly block airflow.
• Cook in smaller batches if you're cooking large amounts of food.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your air fryer functions optimally while still enjoying the convenience of liners or mats for easy cleanup.

Check for structural weaknesses

Pyrex dishes can be used in an air fryer, but it is important to check for any structural weaknesses before use. Here are some detailed steps to help you determine if your Pyrex dish is safe for air frying:

• Check the Glass Type: Pyrex dishes made of soda-lime glass are not suitable for air frying due to their low heat resistance. Instead, opt for borosilicate or tempered glass Pyrex dishes, which are designed to withstand high temperatures.
• Inspect for Cracks and Scratches: Before using your Pyrex dish in an air fryer, hold it up to the light and carefully examine the surface. Look for any small cracks, scratches, uneven surfaces, or colour changes. If you spot any of these weaknesses, do not use the dish in the air fryer or a traditional oven.
• Assess Dish Size: Ensure that your Pyrex dish does not block the airflow inside the air fryer. Choose a dish that is not too big and fits comfortably inside the air fryer without obstructing the airflow.
• Verify Temperature Range: Check the bottom of your Pyrex dish for a temperature range or an "oven-safe" label. Pyrex dishes are typically safe at temperatures up to 425°F (218°C) to 450°F (232°C). Stay within this range to avoid the risk of cracking or shattering.
• Avoid Sudden Temperature Changes: Do not put a chilled Pyrex dish directly into a hot air fryer. Allow the dish to come to room temperature before placing it inside. This helps prevent thermal shock and reduces the risk of breakage.
• Test with an Empty Dish: If you're unsure about the safety of your Pyrex dish, conduct a test run. Place the empty dish in the air fryer several times to verify its ability to withstand the heat without cracking or shattering.

Remember, it is crucial to inspect your Pyrex dish for any structural weaknesses before using it in an air fryer. By following these steps, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable cooking experience.

Frequently asked questions