wide-angle view of a professional commercial kitchen featuring bottles of avocado, olive, and peanut oil near a commercial air fryer, highlighting the best oils for air frying in a clean, well-lit setting

February 12, 2025 Lisa Santorelli

The Right Way to Oil an Air Fryer

Ever stared at your air fryer wondering, “Do I put oil in the bottom?” Short answer: Not really—but sometimes! While a commercial air fryer or home model benefits from a light oil mist, drowning it in oil defeats the magic. Stick around for pro tips on getting that perfect crisp!

When to Use Oil in the Bottom of an Air Fryer

For Certain Recipes

Some recipes turn out better with a small amount of oil at the bottom. If you're making homemade fries or breaded chicken, a light layer of oil can help prevent them from drying out. The key is moderation. Air fryers circulate hot air, not oil, so avoid overdoing it.

When Using Accessories

If you're using racks, trays, or silicone mats, a tiny bit of oil can prevent sticking. Lightly greasing accessories before placing food on them makes for easier release and better crisping. Just a quick spray or brush is all you need.

Preventing Smoking

Cooking fatty foods like bacon or sausage? The grease can drip and hit the heating element, causing smoke. A small amount of high-smoke-point oil, like avocado or grapeseed, on the bottom tray can help reduce smoke and prevent a smoky kitchen disaster.

When Not to Use Oil in the Bottom of an Air Fryer

Interfering with Airflow

Too much oil can mess with how an air fryer works. These appliances rely on hot air circulation to cook food evenly. If there's excess oil pooling at the bottom, it can block airflow, leaving your food more soggy than crispy.

Risk of Excess Grease

Pouring oil directly into the bottom can lead to grease buildup, making cleanup a nightmare. Instead, focus on lightly oiling your food rather than the fryer itself. This keeps things crispy, delicious, and easier to clean afterward.

A professional chef in a commercial kitchen carefully brushing a thin layer of oil onto sliced zucchini and bell peppers on a stainless steel countertop

Best Practices for Using Oil in Your Air Fryer

Use an oil spray or brush to apply a thin layer rather than pouring oil.
Choose high-smoke-point oils like avocado, peanut, or grapeseed to prevent burning.
Keep your air fryer clean to avoid old oil buildup affecting future meals.
When cooking fatty foods, use parchment paper or a drip tray instead of adding oil to the bottom.

A little oil goes a long way in an air fryer. Use it wisely, and you'll enjoy crispy, flavourful meals without the mess!