How to Cook Bacon in the Air Fryer?

As someone who loves the convenience of modern kitchen gadgets, I’ve discovered that using an Air Fryer for cooking Bacon is not just easy, but it transforms the way you enjoy this classic breakfast item. The beauty of this method lies in the crisp texture and evenly cooked slices that emerge, all under 10 minutes. It’s undoubtedly one of the easiest methods with the least cleanup.

Air Fryer Bacon

In my culinary adventures, I’ve found that using an Air Fryer to cook Bacon is not just a recipe for convenience but a gateway to an epic BLT Sandwich. This method is easier and faster than traditional stovetop or oven baking, offering extra crispy results with little to no oil.

The allure of Air Fryer Bacon goes beyond just bacon; it’s perfect for dishes like Chicken Wings, transforming them into crispy delights in half the time. Unlike an oven, there’s no need to pre-heat, making it a quick and less messy alternative. Every time I crave a crispy, savory treat, my air fryer delivers, proving that great taste doesn’t require complicated steps or a lengthy cleanup.

How Long to Cook Bacon in the Air Fryer?

When crafting the perfect recipe for Air Fryer Bacon, understanding the cook time is crucial. This varies depending on your desired doneness, the bacon’s thickness, and style. For Regular Cut Bacon, aiming for a softer texture, air fry at 350˚F for about 7 minutes.

If you prefer it crispy, extend the cook time to 8 or 9 minutes. On the other hand, Thick-Cut Bacon requires a bit more time. For a softer bite, air fry at 350˚F for 9-10 minutes; for that irresistible crispiness, cook it for 10-12 minutes. It’s essential to preheat the Air Fryer for uniform cooking.

Which Air Fryer is best?

Choosing the best Air Fryer for your kitchen requires a bit of a test. As someone who loves experimenting with various recipes, I’ve learned that not all air fryers are created equal. It’s essential to know your cooking needs and preferences.

For instance, if you enjoy a peek at your food to check on its progress or adjust timings, an air fryer with a viewing window is invaluable. In my quest, I tested 2 air fryers that catered to different needs: one excelled in even cooking and efficiency, while the other offered more space and versatility. The key is to find an air fryer that aligns with your cooking style and the types of dishes you frequently prepare.

Related Article: How Long to Cook Frozen Chicken Fries in Air Fryer?

1. Basket Style Air Fryer

The 5.8 Qt Cosori model is ideal if you require less counter space. It works perfectly for a family of 4, offering the easiest cleanup. Its basket comes with a liner that’s dishwasher-safe, simplifying your post-cooking routine. Whether it’s bacon or any other dish, its efficiency and size make it a top choice for small to medium families.

2. Toaster Oven Style Air Fryer

For those with bigger families or the need to cook larger batches of recipes, the Toaster Oven Style Air Fryer is a better fit. This model not only cooks faster but also provides a larger space to cook multiple items at once. When it comes to cooking bacon, the toaster oven style can handle it in about 8 to 9 minutes, compared to the basket style. Its versatility and capacity make it a favorite among larger households or those who frequently entertain.

Crispy Air Fryer Bacon

For crispy and crunchy Air Fryer Bacon, air-fry it for about 10 minutes. It’s an EASY way to elevate your breakfast with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

• Servings: Enough for one meal
• 5 slices of regular bacon (about 6 oz)
• Alternatively, 8-12 oz of thick-cut bacon for a heartier option

Instructions

• Place bacon strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cut the strips in half if needed to fit them properly.
• Air fry the regular cut bacon at 350˚F for 7-9 minutes until browned and reached desired crispiness. For thick-cut bacon, extend the time to 10-12 minutes.
• Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to serve. When cooking bacon in batches, discard any oil in the drip pan before repeating the process.

Notes

Check the nutrition label per slice of bacon and calculate based on the number of slices you eat for dietary tracking.

Nutrition

38kcal calories

1g carbs

3g protein

3g fat

Air Fryer Bacon Cook Time and Temperature

Cooking air fryer bacon is a delicate balance of cook time and temperature. For the perfect crispness, I’ve found that setting the air fryer to 400 degrees F and cooking for about 10 minutes works wonders. It’s helpful to use tongs to peek and re-space the bacon halfway through as it shrinks during cooking.

This ensures even cooking and prevents overlapping. If you prefer your bacon well-done, adding an extra minute or two can achieve that desired texture. The result? Perfect, air-fried bacon strips with a crunchy outside and a chewy inside, featuring those deliciously dark edges.

For multiple batches, it’s important to empty the bacon grease before starting the second batch. This cooking method has been a revelation. As a big bacon eater, the convenience and results of cooking bacon in the air fryer have completely justified the purchase.

It has not only inspired me to explore more cooking with the air fryer but also to stay tuned for more recipes. If you like using an air fryer and have favorite things to make, or a wish list of foods you wish you knew how to make, feel free to comment below with your experiences.

How to Prevent Air Fryer from Smoking?

To prevent your air fryer from smoking, update your recipe with these tips that I’ve experienced to help tackle smoke issues.

1. The easiest solution is to add a cup of water to the lower pan of the air fryer to prevent smoking.
2. Alternatively, you can add a slice of bread to the lower pan to soak up the bacon grease.
3. A reader suggests adding rock salt (not regular salt) like the kind used for ice cream in big pieces that won’t blow around in the air, to the air fryer to soak up excess grease.
4. Use parchment paper to line the air fryer basket; opt for types specifically for air frying with little holes for air circulation. Always check your specific model for the correct dimensions as they vary in size and come in several sizes.

Related Article: How to Cook Bacon in the Microwave?

How Long is Leftover Bacon Good For?

Leftover bacon stays good for about 4 to 5 days in the fridge, and when it comes to cooked bacon, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to one month if placed in the freezer.

Air Fryer Bacon

Tantalizingly crisp and dangerously easy to make, Air Fryer Bacon is hands-down the best way to cook bacon. With an air fryer, you get crispy, evenly-cooked bacon in less time and with less mess, making your kitchen smell like the heavens.

Why you’ll Love This Crispy Air Fryer Bacon Recipe?

1. It Cooks Hands-Free (No Grease Splatters!)

Cooks Hands-Free and with No Grease Splatters – that’s the beauty of Baked Bacon in the air fryer. Unlike cooking bacon on a skillet or stovetop, air fryer bacon cooks completely without the need to flip it, offering a hassle-free experience.

2. It’s Fast.

Experience the speed – it’s Fast! Similar to how you’d cook Air Fryer French Fries or Air Fryer Chicken Wings, the air fryer crisps up food in just a fraction of the time compared to an oven. This is a major bonus when you have a table full of hungry people waiting for their BLT.

3. It’s Mouthwateringly Crispy!

Say goodbye to Soggy bacon; it’s not allowed in my house. This new way to cook bacon ensures it’s crisp every single time. Just like Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts, it turns out deliciously crispy.

4. Works for Thin or Thick-Cut Bacon.

Whether it’s Thin or Thick-Cut Bacon, the air fryer does a fantastic job of cooking it. Choose whatever type you prefer or have on hand; the air fryer can handle it all with ease.

5. Easy Clean Up.

One of the best parts about making bacon in the air fryer is the Easy Clean Up. Say farewell to the No greasy stove and hello to quick clean up, streamlining your kitchen routine.

Related Article: How to Cook Frozen Vegetables in an Air Fryer?

How to Use Air Fryer Bacon?

1. Salads: Enhance salads like Broccoli Cauliflower Salad or BLT Chopped Salad with bacon for a crunchy twist.
2. Sandwiches: Use leftover bacon to top Sandwiches, adding a savory touch to a Chicken Caesar Wrap or a Turkey Burger.
3. Pasta: Elevate pasta dishes such as Cauliflower Pasta with the notch of crispiness from crumbled bacon.
4. Pizza: As a topping, crispy bacon pieces work wonderfully on pizza, like a Brussels Sprouts Bacon Pizza.
5. Eggs: Pair Air fryer bacon with eggs for a match made in heaven, perfect for Egg Muffins or an easy grab-and-go breakfast.
6. Veggies: Make your veggies shine and more appealing to veggie-skeptics with bacon; try it in Spaghetti Squash Carbonara or as a topping for a classic Baked Potato.
7. Soups: Add a savory note to soups like Crockpot Potato Soup; top your bowl of favorite soup with crumbled bacon for extra flavor.

Storage Tips

1. To Store: Refrigerate the bacon strips in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.
2. To Reheat: Reheat your bacon in the air fryer to Recrisp the leftovers at 350 degrees F for best results.
3. To Freeze: Freeze the bacon strips in an airtight, freezer-safe storage container or ziptop bag. Reheat from frozen as desired.

What to Serve With Air Fryer Bacon?

1. Pancakes: Bacon perfectly pairs with Pancakes, especially with Banana Oatmeal Pancakes or a classic Oven Pancake.
2. Eggs: For a hearty breakfast or brunch, try Eggs with your bacon, like a Potato Frittata, Broccoli Quiche, or a French Omelette.
3. Crepes: Combine crispy bacon with both Savory Crepes and Strawberry Crepes for a delightful contrast of flavors.
4. Something Sweet: Balance the savoriness with Something Sweet like Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls, Stuffed French Toast, or Coffee Cake Muffins – all scrumptious options.

Related Article: How to Cook Chicken Sausage in Air Fryer?

Recipe Tips and Tricks

1. How You Cut Matters: Cut your bacon slices in half crosswise to help them cook evenly and fit comfortably in the air fryer basket.
2. Buy the Best Bacon: Always purchase the Best Bacon you can find, often available at the grocery store butcher counter for the same price as prepackaged but with better quality.
3. Stop the Smoking: To Stop Smoking in your air fryer, empty excess grease between batches. A useful trick is to place a slice of bread in the air fryer basket to absorb extra bacon drippings.
4. Don’t Worry About Foil: There’s no need to line the basket with Foil for an easy clean; most air fryers work without the use of foil to avoid it touching the heating element or fan.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Bacon stands out as a game-changer in the kitchen. It’s not just about convenience; it’s a healthier, faster, and more efficient way to enjoy this beloved breakfast staple. From Crispy Air Fryer Bacon to its versatility in salads, sandwiches, and even soups, the air fryer offers a myriad of culinary possibilities. The ease of cooking, coupled with essential Storage Tips and Recipe Tips and Tricks, makes it an indispensable tool. Whether you’re seeking a hands-free cooking method, craving mouthwateringly crispy bacon, or looking for a quick and easy cleanup, the air fryer meets all these needs while keeping the flavors intact. This method, indeed, revolutionizes how we cook and savor bacon, making it a must-try for every bacon lover and culinary enthusiast.

FAQs about Cook Bacon in the Air Fryer

Is it better to air fry or pan fry bacon?

Air frying bacon is often healthier than pan frying, as the excess fat is rendered off while cooking in the air fryer basket, making air-fried bacon healthier than those cooked in an oven or on the stovetop.

Do you put foil in the air fryer when cooking bacon?

It's optional to use foil in the air fryer when cooking bacon; you can place aluminum foil in the outer basket or use slices of bread at the bottom to soak up grease.

How healthy is air fried bacon?

Air fried bacon is healthier compared to traditional methods as the fat is removed by draining away, resulting in a lower calorie count than pan-fried or deep-fried bacon.

Why does my air fryer smoke when I cook bacon?

Smoke in the air fryer when cooking bacon can occur due to fatty bacon at high temps causing fat to drip off and the lean parts of the bacon dripping onto the hot fat, creating smoke in the kitchen.

Can I use turkey bacon?

Yes, you can use turkey bacon in your recipe; it works similarly to cook as regular bacon with minor changes in time or temperature.

Do I have to preheat the air fryer?

Preheating the air fryer depends on your model; while not always necessary for bacon, it's often recommended for best results.

Should I add oil to the bacon?

There's no need to add oil to the bacon; it will naturally release grease while cooking, and you can spray the tray to prevent sticking.

How to prevent bacon smoking?

To prevent bacon smoking in the Air Fryer, air fry at a lower temperature like 350˚F to avoid exceeding the smoke point of the fat. Also, try cooking in batches, drain the drip pan regularly, and wipe it clean with a paper towel to keep the air fryer your new favorite way to cook bacon perfectly crisp.