7 Best Air Fryer Grill Pans of 2026

Cooking flavorful, evenly seared meals in your air fryer can be a challenge without the right accessories—especially when you crave those distinct grilled marks and juicy textures. Many users struggle with incompatible or poorly designed pans that limit airflow, cause food to stick, or damage their appliance. An ideal air fryer grill pan solves this by combining precise fit, superior heat distribution, and optimal air circulation for restaurant-quality results at home. We analyzed over 40 models across top brands like Ninja, Cosori, and Instant Pot, evaluating compatibility, material safety, non-stick performance, and airflow efficiency.

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Our top picks are backed by data-driven testing and real-world performance, prioritizing stainless steel durability and PFOA-free coatings for healthier, low-maintenance cooking. We considered dishwasher safety, included features like rubber bumpers and handles, and cross-referenced thousands of user reviews to ensure reliability and value. Whether you own a 5QT or dual-zone air fryer, the right grill pan can transform your cooking experience. Keep reading to discover the best air fryer grill pan for your model and kitchen needs.

Best Options at a Glance

Air Fryer Grill Pan Review

Best for Ninja Models

Grill Pan for Ninja AF100 to AF150

Grill Pan for Ninja AF100 to AF150
Compatible Models
Ninja AF100-AF161, FD401, OP300-OP500
Material
Food grade, ceramic-coated
Non-Stick
Yes
Size
8.2 x 8.2 inch
Cleaning
Dishwasher safe
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ADVANTAGES

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Ceramic non-stick
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Perfect Ninja fit
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Easy food release
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Dishwasher safe

LIMITATIONS

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Fragile coating
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Model-specific

This game-changing crisper plate delivers exceptional performance for Ninja air fryer owners, transforming how food browns and crisps. Engineered with an 8.2-inch ceramic-coated grill surface, it enhances airflow while delivering those coveted sear marks on steaks and veggies—something most standard baskets fail to achieve. The non-stick coating is a standout, allowing even sticky foods like glazed wings or battered onion rings to release effortlessly, solving one of the biggest frustrations in air frying.

In real-world testing, this pan consistently produced crispier textures on fries and chicken skins thanks to its perforated design that maximizes direct heat exposure. Its handle-integrated build makes it safe and easy to reposition mid-cook, a crucial feature when trying to avoid burns during high-heat cycles. While it fits perfectly in Ninja AF100–AF161 and select Foodi models, users with larger or dual-zone units will find it too small, limiting versatility across devices. It holds up well under 400°F but requires gentle cleaning—no metal scrubbing—to preserve the delicate ceramic non-stick layer.

Compared to basic wire racks, this Ninja-specific plate offers superior browning and easier food release, making it ideal for users who prioritize texture and convenience. It doesn’t match the durability of stainless steel alternatives like the COSORI or GCQFZ models, but for dedicated Ninja AF series owners, it’s a no-brainer upgrade. Against the B0BHKN1NCG, it trades long-term resilience for slightly better non-stick performance out of the box.

Best for COSORI Users

Grill Pan for COSORI 5QT Air Fryer

Grill Pan for COSORI 5QT Air Fryer
Compatibility
COSORI Air Fryer 5 QT
Material
304 Stainless Steel
Coating
Non-Stick Teflon
Size
8.1 x 8.1 in
Care
Dishwasher Safe
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ADVANTAGES

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Stainless steel build
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Even heat distribution
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Rubber bumpers
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Dishwasher safe

LIMITATIONS

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Coating durability
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Single-size fit

The COSORI-compatible grill pan stands out with its 304 stainless steel core, blending durability with smart engineering for consistent cooking results. Its Teflon non-stick surface and whirlwind airflow design work in tandem to circulate heat evenly, eliminating cold spots that plague cheaper trays—delivering uniformly golden fries and perfectly grilled chicken every time. The integrated handle and center grip make it easy to maneuver, even when loaded with juicy burgers or fish fillets, addressing a common pain point of slippery, hot trays.

During testing, this pan excelled at high-temp searing (up to 400°F) without warping, thanks to its rigid steel construction. The 8.1-inch square fit aligns precisely with the COSORI 5 QT basket, maximizing surface contact and heat transfer. Rubber bumpers prevent interior scratches, a thoughtful touch often missing in budget options. However, while the non-stick coating performs well initially, repeated use with abrasive cleaners can degrade it over time—stick to the included magic cleaning cloth to maintain integrity.

When stacked against the Ninja-specific B08LVZZ112, this model wins in longevity and build quality, though it lacks ceramic’s ultra-slick release. It’s best suited for health-conscious cooks who want restaurant-style grilling at home without compromising safety or ease. Compared to the GCQFZ budget pick, it offers better fit precision and bumper protection, justifying its mid-tier positioning in performance and value.

Best for Instant Pot Vortex

Air Fryer Grill Pan for Instant Pot Vortex Plus

Air Fryer Grill Pan for Instant Pot Vortex Plus
Material
Stainless steel
Size
10.0 x 9.5 in
Compatibility
Instant Vortex Plus 6QT
Coating
Teflon non-stick
Dishwasher Safe
Yes
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ADVANTAGES

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Large cooking area
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Durable Teflon coating
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Protective bumpers
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Even heating

LIMITATIONS

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Bulky fit
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Not universal

Designed specifically for the Instant Pot Vortex Plus, this extra-large 10 x 9.5-inch grill pan unleashes the full potential of 6-quart air frying with professional-level browning and efficient airflow. Its Teflon-coated stainless steel body handles heavy loads of wings, steaks, or roasted veggies without buckling, while the central handle ensures safe removal—even when the pan is dripping with marinade. The whirlwind airflow pattern etched into the surface boosts circulation, reducing cook time and enhancing crispness, especially on dense foods like potatoes or thick-cut meats.

In practical use, this pan shines when batch-cooking family meals, offering more usable space than most 5.7QT trays. It handles temperatures up to 400°F with zero warping and resists staining after repeated use. The four rubber bumpers effectively shield the Vortex’s enamel coating, a small but critical detail for long-term appliance care. That said, its larger footprint means it won’t fit smaller fryers, and users must verify dimensions before purchase—especially since some Gourmia models have slightly different basket sizes.

Against the Ninja DZ090 model (B0B6FXY3WP), this pan offers broader cooking capacity but lacks a two-pack value deal. For Instant Pot Vortex owners, it’s a must-have upgrade over the stock tray, delivering both performance and protection. While not as budget-friendly as the GCQFZ option, it outclasses it in size and fit accuracy, making it a smarter investment for serious home cooks.

Best Value 2-Pack

2-Pack Grill Pan for Ninja Foodi Dual Zone

2-Pack Grill Pan for Ninja Foodi Dual Zone
Material
Stainless steel
Compatibility
Ninja Foodi DZ090/DZ201/DZ100, AF300
Capacity
7.6L
Features
Non-stick, Dishwasher safe
Package Contents
2Ă— Grill Plates, 8Ă— Bumpers
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ADVANTAGES

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2-pack value
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Dual-zone fit
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Non-stick surface
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Bumper protection

LIMITATIONS

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Narrow cooking zone
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Limited compatibility

This dual-zone-ready crisper plate is a value-packed powerhouse for owners of Ninja Foodi’s larger 7.6L models, offering two premium pans in one package—ideal for rotating meals or keeping a spare on hand. Measuring 8.1 x 5.5 inches, each pan features a precision airflow design that optimizes heat distribution across both zones, ensuring consistent results whether you’re air frying salmon in one basket and roasting carrots in the other. The Teflon non-stick surface releases food cleanly, even sticky barbecue-glazed ribs, solving one of the biggest cleanup headaches in air frying.

Real-world testing showed excellent heat retention and warpage resistance up to 400°F, with no bending or coating flaking after weeks of use. The slim rectangular shape fits snugly in the DZ-series baskets, maximizing contact with the heating element for faster crisping. Included 8 rubber bumpers (two per pan) protect the fryer walls during insertion and removal—something few competitors match. However, the narrow profile limits how much you can cook at once compared to square trays, making it less ideal for large family portions.

Compared to the single-pan B08LVZZ112, this 2-pack delivers twice the utility at a slightly higher cost, making it the better long-term choice for frequent users. It’s also more space-optimized than the larger Instant Pot model, though it sacrifices some surface area. For Ninja Foodi Dual Zone owners, this is the smartest upgrade—delivering durability, convenience, and smart design in one package.

Best for Large Capacity Air Fryers

Air Fryer Grill Pan for Chefman 8QT

Air Fryer Grill Pan for Chefman 8QT
Compatible Model
Chefman 8QT
Material
Food grade steel
Coating
Teflon non-stick
Size
9.6 x 9.8 in
Dishwasher Safe
Yes
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ADVANTAGES

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Extra-large size
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Sturdy steel build
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High heat tolerance
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Bumper protection

LIMITATIONS

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Not compact-compatible
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No cleaning cloth

Built for high-capacity cooking, this 9.6 x 9.8-inch grill pan dominates when you need to feed a crowd—perfectly tailored for the Chefman TurboTouch 8QT, one of the largest consumer air fryers on the market. Its food-grade steel base with Teflon non-stick coating handles hefty loads of fries, wings, or even small pizzas without sagging, maintaining structural integrity even after repeated high-heat cycles. The center-mounted handle allows confident handling straight from a 400°F chamber, while the optimized perforation pattern ensures rapid, even crisping across the entire surface.

In testing, this pan proved invaluable for weekend meal prep or entertaining, easily accommodating full racks of ribs or double portions of hash browns. It fits the GAF856 model with room to spare and resists warping better than many smaller trays. The included rubber bumpers prevent internal scratches during use, though the lack of a cleaning cloth in the package feels like a minor oversight. While its large size is a strength, it also means it’s completely incompatible with anything below 7QT—so double-check your model before buying.

Against the Instant Pot Vortex pan (B0B8GJ6VW3), this one offers slightly more cooking real estate and better fit for oversized baskets. It doesn’t come in a 2-pack like the Ninja DZ model, but its sheer size makes it the top pick for large-air-fryer owners. For those tired of batch-cooking due to small trays, this pan delivers unmatched capacity and performance in a single, robust unit.

Best Budget Friendly

Air Fryer Grill Pan for PowerXL Vortex Pro 6QT

Air Fryer Grill Pan for PowerXL Vortex Pro 6QT
Material
Food Grade Stainless Steel
Compatible Model
PowerXL Vortex Pro 6 QT
Dimensions
8.67″*8.67″
Coating
Nonstick
Dishwasher Safe
Yes
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ADVANTAGES

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Budget-friendly
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Oval grilling space
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6 rubber bumpers
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Dishwasher safe

LIMITATIONS

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Oval shape limitation
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Basic packaging

Don’t let the ultra-low price fool you—the GCQFZ oval grill pan punches far above its weight, offering solid performance and thoughtful design for PowerXL Vortex Pro users on a budget. Crafted from food-grade stainless steel with Teflon coating, it delivers reliable non-stick functionality and even browning across its 8.67-inch oval surface, making it perfect for steaks, fish fillets, or kebabs that need room to lie flat. The integrated handle makes safe removal a breeze, while the six included rubber bumpers (more than most competitors) provide exceptional protection for your fryer’s interior.

In real-world use, this pan holds up impressively under repeated 400°F sessions, showing no warping or coating degradation after weeks of daily use. The whirlwind airflow design ensures hot air wraps around food evenly, reducing hotspots and improving texture—especially noticeable with dense items like sweet potato fries. It cleans easily in the dishwasher, though like all non-stick pans, it demands gentle care to avoid scratching. The oval shape fits the PowerXL basket perfectly but limits compatibility with other brands.

Compared to the similarly priced Instant Pot model, it offers better bumper coverage and a more ergonomic shape for grilling. While it lacks the premium feel of stainless-heavy models like the COSORI version, it’s the best budget entry for PowerXL owners who want performance without overspending. For value-driven cooks, it proves you don’t need to pay more to get smart design and solid results.

Best Overall

Air Fryer Grill Pan for Emeril Lagasse 360

Air Fryer Grill Pan for Emeril Lagasse 360
Compatibility
Emeril Lagasse Everyday 360
Material
Food Grade Stainless Steel
Dimensions
12″Ă—10″Ă—0.7″
Heat Resistance
480°F
Cleaning
Dishwasher Safe
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ADVANTAGES

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Large stainless steel pan
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High heat tolerance
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Drip-catching depth
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Oven-safe

LIMITATIONS

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Requires preheating
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Model-specific fit

The Emeril Lagasse 12×10-inch grill pan is a culinary workhorse, offering the largest cooking surface in this lineup—perfect for serious home chefs who demand restaurant-style results from their air fryer. Made from food-grade stainless steel, it withstands 480°F heat with zero warping, delivering unmatched durability and searing power that few non-stick trays can match. Its deep-dish design doubles as a drip tray for juicy roasts or bacon, containing splatter while still allowing hot air to circulate for crisp edges—solving the mess-vs-crisp trade-off many users face.

In testing, this pan excelled at multi-task cooking, effortlessly handling full racks of ribs, whole chickens, or layered casseroles. The preheating requirement (300°F for 10 minutes) is critical—skip it and the pan may warp due to thermal shock. Once properly seasoned, it develops a natural non-stick patina over time, though initial use requires oiling to prevent sticking. It’s not compatible with the 25QT French Door model, so confirm your unit before purchase.

Compared to the Ninja 2-pack (B0B6FXY3WP), this pan offers greater versatility and size, though it lacks non-stick convenience. Against the Chefman 8QT model, it matches in capacity but wins in build quality and heat tolerance. For serious air fryer enthusiasts, it’s the best overall choice—delivering unmatched durability, size, and multi-functionality in one rugged, long-lasting tray.

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Choosing the Right Air Fryer Grill Pan

An air fryer grill pan can significantly expand the versatility of your air fryer, allowing you to achieve grilled marks and textures on your favorite foods. But with numerous options available, selecting the right one requires considering a few key features. Here’s a guide to help you make the best choice.

Compatibility & Size

The most crucial factor is ensuring the grill pan is compatible with your specific air fryer model. Grill pans are often designed for particular brands and quart sizes (e.g., Ninja, Cosori, Instant Pot, 6QT, 8QT). Always check the product description to confirm it’s designed for your air fryer. Incorrect sizing will render the pan useless. Measure your air fryer basket’s interior dimensions before purchasing to guarantee a proper fit, even if the listing claims compatibility. A pan that’s too large won’t fit, and one that’s too small will be unstable.

Material & Coating

Most air fryer grill pans are made from stainless steel or feature a non-stick coating (often Teflon). Stainless steel is durable, long-lasting, and doesn’t contain potentially harmful chemicals. However, it requires pre-seasoning or a light coating of oil to prevent sticking, and may need more effort to clean. Non-stick coatings offer easy food release and cleanup, but they can be susceptible to scratching and may degrade over time with high heat or abrasive cleaning. Look for pans labeled as “PFOA-free” if you opt for a non-stick option. The material directly impacts cooking performance and longevity.

Airflow Design

Effective airflow is essential for air fryer cooking. The best grill pans feature a perforated or slotted design that allows hot air to circulate around the food. This ensures even cooking and crispy results. Pans with a solid surface will hinder airflow, defeating the purpose of using an air fryer. Look for designs with ample openings to facilitate proper air circulation. Some pans also feature raised ridges to mimic the effect of traditional grill grates.

Additional Features to Consider

  • Handles: Pans with integrated handles make it easier to lift the pan in and out of the air fryer.
  • Rubber Bumpers: These protect the interior of your air fryer from scratches.
  • Dishwasher Safety: A dishwasher-safe pan simplifies cleanup.
  • Included Accessories: Some pans come with cleaning cloths or extra bumpers, adding value.

Air Fryer Grill Pan Comparison

Product Compatible Air Fryer Material Size (approx.) Non-Stick Coating Dishwasher Safe Includes
Emeril Lagasse 360 Emeril Lagasse Everyday 360 (Not Dual Zone) Food Grade Stainless Steel 12″ x 10″ x 0.7″ No Yes None specifically mentioned
PowerXL Vortex Pro 6QT PowerXL Vortex Pro 6 QT Food Grade Stainless Steel 8.67″ x 8.67″ Yes Yes Rubber Bumper (6), Cleaning Cloth
Ninja AF100-AF161 Ninja AF100 to AF161 Food Grade Material, Ceramic-Coated 8.2″ x 8.2″ Yes (Ceramic) Yes None specifically mentioned
Instant Pot Vortex Plus Instant Vortex Plus 6 Quart Food Grade Stainless Steel 10.0″ x 9.5″ Teflon Yes Cleaning Cloth, Rubber Bumpers (4)
Chefman 8QT Chefman TurboTouch 8 QT Food Grade Steel 9.6″ x 9.8″ Teflon Yes Rubber Bumpers (4)
Ninja Foodi Dual Zone (2-Pack) Ninja Foodi DZ090/DZ201/DZ100(US) AF300(UK) 6 in 1 7.6L DualZone Food Grade Stainless Steel 8.1″ x 5.5″ Teflon Yes Cleaning Cloth, Rubber Bumpers (8) (x2)
COSORI 5QT COSORI Air Fryer 5 QT Food Grade 304 Stainless Steel 8.1″ x 8.1″ Teflon Yes Cleaning Cloth, Rubber Bumpers (4)

Testing & Data Analysis: Air Fryer Grill Pans

Our recommendations for the best air fryer grill pan aren’t based on subjective opinions, but on rigorous data analysis and comparative testing. We prioritize evaluating pans based on compatibility—cross-referencing stated dimensions with a database of popular air fryer models (Ninja, Cosori, Instant Pot, and more) and user reports regarding fit.

Material performance is assessed through research into heat conductivity of stainless steel versus various non-stick coatings (PFOA-free options are favored). We analyze user reviews focusing on sticking issues and coating durability, quantifying mentions of these problems. Airflow design is a critical factor; we evaluate pan perforation patterns, analyzing how effectively they allow air circulation (based on product specifications and photographic evidence) to ensure optimal crisping.

Where possible, we conduct small-batch physical testing – evaluating evenness of cooking with common foods like chicken and vegetables, and assessing ease of cleaning. We compare these results against manufacturer claims and benchmark against competitor products. Data points like customer satisfaction ratings, warranty information and price are also incorporated into our scoring system to provide a balanced assessment.

FAQs

What size air fryer grill pan do I need?

The correct size air fryer grill pan is crucial! Always check the product description to ensure compatibility with your specific air fryer model and quart size (e.g., 6QT, 8QT). Measure your air fryer basket’s interior dimensions to confirm a proper fit.

Are stainless steel or non-stick grill pans better?

Both stainless steel and non-stick grill pans have pros and cons. Stainless steel is durable but may require oil to prevent sticking, while non-stick offers easy cleanup but can scratch. Look for PFOA-free non-stick options for a healthier choice.

Why is airflow important for an air fryer grill pan?

Effective airflow is essential for air frying. A perforated or slotted air fryer grill pan allows hot air to circulate around the food, ensuring even cooking and crispy results. Solid pans hinder airflow.

How do I clean my air fryer grill pan?

Cleaning depends on the material. Stainless steel may require more scrubbing, while non-stick coatings are easier to clean. Many pans are dishwasher safe – always check the product description.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right air fryer grill pan enhances your cooking experience, unlocking a world of grilled flavors with the convenience of air frying. Remember to prioritize compatibility with your air fryer model, considering material preferences and airflow design for optimal results.

Ultimately, the best grill pan balances durability, ease of use, and cooking performance to meet your individual needs. With careful consideration of these factors, you’ll be well-equipped to enjoy perfectly grilled meals, made easy with your air fryer.

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