DIAGNOSIS Melted cheese or other sticky foods (like sugary glazes) have acted as a glue between the mesh basket and the solid drip pan. Forcing it will bend the components.
FIX Submerge the entire assembled basket-and-pan unit in the sink with hot, soapy water for 30-60 minutes. The heat and water will soften the food glue. Then, gently twist the pan while pulling down—don't just yank straight out.
IF THAT DIDN'T WORK If twisting doesn't work, carefully pour a small amount of boiling water into the gap between the basket rim and the pan. Let it sit for a minute to further melt the bond, then try twisting again.
HEADS UP To prevent this, for very melty or sticky foods, consider using a parchment paper liner designed for air fryers. It creates a barrier and makes cleanup trivial. Never use cooking spray directly on the basket; it creates a sticky polymer residue that also causes sticking.