Air Fryer Accessories: Expert Recommends £3 Insert to Double Cooking Space

Ruth, TechRadar's Collections Editor and a former Homes Editor, said that while an air fryer is efficient on its own, the right accessories allow it to tackle a wider range of tasks with better results and less effort. She highlighted silicone basket liners as an excellent investment for easier cleaning, noting that collapsible versions save storage space but may break faster due to fold lines. Disposable liners are also suggested for particularly messy cooking,

For increasing capacity, Ruth recommended inserts that create a second tier within the air fryer basket. Larger baskets can even accommodate multiple stacked racks, with vented designs helping hot air circulate for crisper, more even cooking. She also mentioned mesh baskets, which work like liners but offer more open structure for crispier results, and some models include slots for skewers to enable 360-degree cooking. Before buying, she advised measuring the inside of the basket carefully to ensure a proper fit.

Ruth also suggested several utensils to simplify air fryer use: a heatproof mat or trivet for safely setting down the hot basket, silicone tongs and spatulas to avoid scratching the non-stick surface, and a pastry brush for lightly coating food with oil for extra crispiness without excessive oil. A meat thermometer is useful for ensuring cuts of meat are cooked through, especially for those still adapting to air fryer timings, and a potato chipper allows users to make homemade chips.

She emphasized that these accessories are mostly inexpensive, making them a smart investment in convenience rather than cost. For those without an air fryer, TechRadar's general air fryer guide offers recommendations.