Updated 11 August 2026 · Written by Daniel Wright
Air fryers are not good for foods with wet batter, lightweight leafy greens, lots of loose cheese, or anything that needs to boil or steam in liquid. Wet batter drips off before it sets, leafy greens blow around in the fan, melted cheese runs through the basket, and the air fryer cannot cook foods submerged in liquid. Stick to foods that crisp in dry heat.
Avoid wet batter, leafy greens, loose cheese, and liquid-cooked foods. Air fryers crisp with dry air, not boil or steam.
Foods to Avoid
- Wet-battered foods: the batter drips off in the airflow before it sets.
- Leafy greens: light leaves blow around and cook unevenly.
- Lots of loose cheese: it melts and drips through the basket.
- Liquid dishes: soups, rice and pasta need to cook in liquid, which the air fryer cannot do.
- Popcorn: loose kernels can fly into the heating element.
What Works Instead
Air fryers shine with foods that crisp in dry heat: fries, wings, roasted vegetables, frozen snacks and meats. For battered foods, use a dry coating like breadcrumbs instead of wet batter, and cook greens or saucy dishes on the stove. If food keeps smoking or sticking, see why air fryers smoke and how to cook frozen food in an air fryer. Compare models at the best air fryers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you cook rice or pasta in an air fryer?
No. Rice and pasta need to cook submerged in boiling water, which an air fryer cannot do. Cook them on the stove, then you can crisp cooked rice or pasta bakes in the air fryer.
Why can’t you air fry wet batter?
The fast-moving air blows the wet batter off the food before it has a chance to set, making a mess. Use a dry coating like seasoned breadcrumbs instead.
