There is something downright magical about perfectly crispy bacon, and the Air Fryer Bacon Recipe is my go-to for fuss-free, mouthwatering results every single time. By using the air fryer, you get that golden, crunchy texture without the mess of stovetop splatters or the wait of oven baking. Whether you’re whipping up breakfast in a flash or adding a crunchy topping to salads and sandwiches, this recipe turns simple bacon into pure joy with a fraction of the effort. Trust me, once you try bacon cooked this way, you’ll wonder how you ever did it otherwise!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to make this Air Fryer Bacon Recipe is as simple as it gets, with just one essential ingredient that’s packed with flavor. Each slice of bacon delivers that perfect balance of salty, smoky, and rich taste, while the air fryer makes every strip crisp up beautifully without extra oil or fuss.
- ½ pound thin-cut or regular bacon: Thin to regular cut works best for even cooking and crispiness in the air fryer; thick-cut can be used but may require longer cook times and careful monitoring.
How to Make Air Fryer Bacon Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Begin by preheating your air fryer on the hottest setting for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial because a properly heated air fryer basket ensures your bacon starts cooking with a nice sizzle and crisps evenly right from the moment it hits the basket. No waiting around, just instant heat.
Step 2: Arrange the Bacon
Next, carefully place a single layer of bacon strips into the hot air fryer basket. My 5.5-quart basket comfortably holds about 6 to 8 slices, depending on their size. It’s important to avoid overlapping to let the hot air circulate freely around each slice, guaranteeing that perfect even crispiness we all crave.
Step 3: Cook the Bacon
Set your air fryer temperature to 350°F and cook the bacon for 5 minutes. Then, using tongs, flip each strip over to ensure both sides get that gorgeous, crisp texture. Continue cooking for an additional 2 to 4 minutes, keeping a close eye to hit your desired level of crunchiness. Every air fryer is a bit different, so checking the bacon regularly during this time prevents overcooking or burnt edges.
Step 4: Manage the Grease for Multiple Batches
If you’re making several batches, don’t forget to drain the grease from the drip tray and thoroughly wipe off all the remaining grease from both the basket and tray between batches. This little step helps keep your air fryer clean and avoids any smoky surprises as you cook, keeping the bacon tasting fresh and delightful.
How to Serve Air Fryer Bacon Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes to your crispy bacon elevates it from simple to spectacular. Sprinkle freshly cracked black pepper or toss a few chili flakes on top for a little kick. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can bring a lovely color contrast and a fresh note that balances the savoriness perfectly.
Side Dishes
Bacon is a classic partner in crime for just about any breakfast or brunch spread. Serve your air-fried bacon alongside fluffy scrambled eggs, crispy hash browns, or even sweet pancakes for a mouthwatering combination of flavors and textures. It also shines alongside fresh fruit or a light salad if you want to balance indulgence with a touch of freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, weave your bacon into a lattice for sandwiches or wrap it around asparagus or jalapeño poppers before cooking a batch in the air fryer. You can even crumble the crispy bacon over baked potatoes or creamy mac and cheese for an instant flavor upgrade. The possibilities are endless when you start with perfectly cooked bacon as your base.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover air-fried bacon, store the strips in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay delicious for up to 4 days, and you can quickly re-crisp them in the air fryer or oven before serving again.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked bacon by placing cooled strips on a parchment-lined tray and freezing until firm. Then transfer to a sealed freezer bag or container for up to a month. This makes it super easy to pull out and thaw whenever you want a quick crispy addition to your meal.
Reheating
To bring your bacon back to life, pop it in the air fryer at 350°F for 2 to 3 minutes, or bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for 5 to 7 minutes. This method restores the crispiness much better than microwaving and keeps it tasting fresh and irresistible.
FAQs
Can I use thick-cut bacon for this Air Fryer Bacon Recipe?
Yes, you can use thick-cut bacon, but it will require adjusting the cooking time. Start with the recommended time for thin-cut bacon, then add a few extra minutes as needed, flipping halfway through to cook evenly and reach your preferred crispness.
Do I need to add oil to the air fryer when cooking bacon?
No oil is necessary. Bacon is naturally fatty, and as it cooks, it releases enough grease to keep the strips from sticking or drying out. This makes the air fryer method a healthier and cleaner alternative to pan-frying.
Why is my bacon not crisping up in the air fryer?
If your bacon isn’t crisping properly, make sure the strips aren’t overlapping. Air circulation is key to crispiness. Also, check that the air fryer is well preheated and that you’re cooking at 350°F. You can try adding a couple more minutes if you like it extra crispy.
How do I prevent the air fryer from smoking while cooking bacon?
Grease buildup can cause smoking, especially when cooking multiple batches. After each batch, be sure to carefully drain excess grease and clean the basket and drip tray thoroughly to maintain a smoke-free cooking environment.
Can I cook frozen bacon in the air fryer using this recipe?
It’s best to thaw bacon before air frying to ensure even cooking and proper crispiness. Cooking frozen bacon may result in uneven texture and longer cooking times. For best results, defrost the strips in the fridge or microwave before air frying.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Bacon Recipe has truly changed the way I make bacon at home, turning a simple favorite into an effortless delight every time. Whether you want a quick breakfast fix or a snack that delivers big on flavor, this method makes cooking bacon easier and cleaner without sacrificing any crispness. Go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy bacon as it was meant to be—crispy, golden, and absolutely irresistible.
Print
Air Fryer Bacon Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Deliciously crispy and evenly cooked bacon made effortlessly in an air fryer, perfect for a quick breakfast or adding to your favorite dishes without the mess of stovetop frying.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- ½ pound thin-cut or regular bacon (see notes for thick-cut bacon)
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer on the hottest setting for 5 minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Arrange Bacon: Carefully place a single layer of bacon slices in the hot air fryer basket. For a 5.5 quart basket, 6-8 slices fit depending on their size.
- Air Fry Bacon: Cook the bacon at 350°F for 5 minutes initially. Then, flip each slice and cook for an additional 2-4 minutes at 350°F, checking regularly during the second cooking period to reach your desired level of crispiness.
- Clean Between Batches: If preparing multiple batches, drain the grease from the air fryer drip tray and thoroughly wipe off all grease from the basket and tray between batches to prevent smoke buildup.
Notes
- For thick-cut bacon, increase cooking time and check frequently to avoid burning.
- Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness of bacon and air fryer model.
- Always monitor bacon in final cooking stages to achieve your preferred crispness.
- Draining grease between batches prevents smoking and keeps your air fryer clean.
