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Think Twice Before Putting Parchment Paper in the Oven …Here’s What You Need to Know
Parchment paper is a kitchen favorite — and for good reason. It keeps cookies from sticking, makes cleanup a breeze, and is perfect for roasting vegetables or baking pastries.
But here’s the part many home cooks overlook: parchment paper can catch fire if used incorrectly.
Let’s break down why this happens, how to avoid it, and what safer alternatives you can use when things heat up.
⚠️ Why Parchment Paper Can Catch Fire
Parchment paper is coated with a thin layer of silicone, which gives it non-stick and heat-resistant properties. However, it’s not flame-proof and not designed for extreme temperatures.
Most brands are safe up to 420°F (215°C) — some up to 450°F, but that’s the absolute limit.
Go past that, and you risk smoking, charring, or even open flames.
Even worse, exposing parchment to direct heat — like a broiler, grill, or touching oven coils — can ignite it within seconds.
Common Mistakes That Can Lead to Fires
1. Using It Under a Broiler
Broilers often exceed 500°F with direct, top-down heat. That’s far beyond what parchment can handle.
Never use parchment paper for broiling.
2. Letting the Edges Hang Over the Pan
Loose or curled edges can drift upward in the oven and touch heating elements, especially in small or convection ovens.
Solution: Trim parchment so it fits cleanly inside the baking tray.
3. Using It in a Toaster Oven or Air Fryer
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