Make perfectly crispy air fryer bacon every time with this easy breakfast recipe. Quick, mess-free, and delicious. Try it for your next meal!
Air Fryer Bacon
If you’re craving perfectly crispy, mess-free bacon for breakfast, air fryer bacon is your new best friend. Cooking bacon in the air fryer creates evenly cooked slices with just the right crisp. Plus, it’s fast and keeps your stove top grease-free, making cleanup a breeze. In this guide, I’ll show you how to make the best air fryer bacon that’s ideal for busy mornings or weekend brunch.
Why You’ll Love It
Air fryer bacon cooks faster than traditional methods and requires less attention. There’s no grease splatter, and the results are super crispy without drying out. Whether you prefer it chewy or extra crisp, the air fryer lets you customize your bacon perfectly every time. Plus, it frees up your stove for other breakfast items — check out our easy weeknight dinners for more meal inspiration.
Ingredients
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon (for best results)
- Optional: freshly ground black pepper or brown sugar to add flavor
For substitutions, you can use turkey bacon or center-cut bacon if you want a leaner alternative. Plant-based bacon works too, just adjust cooking time according to package instructions.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.
- Arrange the bacon slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t overlap for even cooking.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes. Flip the bacon halfway through the cooking time to ensure both sides get crispy.
- Once done, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to soak up any excess grease.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your crispy air fryer bacon!
Expert Tips
For extra crispy bacon, add an additional 1-2 minutes of cook time but watch closely to avoid burning. If your bacon is thinner, reduce cooking time slightly.
Try sprinkling a little brown sugar or black pepper on the slices before air frying to add a savory-sweet flavor profile. Use tongs for easy flipping.
Want an easier cleanup? Line your basket with parchment paper or reusable silicone liners made for air fryers.
Storage
Store leftover air fryer bacon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place strips back in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes until warmed and crisp.
You can freeze cooked bacon as well. Lay strips flat on parchment, freeze until hard, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Reheat directly from frozen in the air fryer.
Variations
- Vegan: Use store-bought vegan bacon and adjust cooking times as needed.
- Gluten-Free: Most bacon is naturally gluten-free; just check the label for additives.
- Flavor Boost: Add spices like smoked paprika or cayenne powder for a smoky or spicy kick.
- Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free.
FAQ
- How long does air fryer bacon take?
- It usually takes 8 to 10 minutes at 400°F to cook bacon to crispy perfection.
- Can I cook frozen bacon in the air fryer?
- Yes, but it’s best to thaw it first for more even cooking. Frozen bacon may take a few extra minutes and require careful flipping.
- Is air fryer bacon healthier?
- Air frying bacon allows some fat to drain away during cooking, which can reduce grease compared to pan-frying.
- What’s the best way to avoid grease splatters with air fryer bacon?
- Using an air fryer basket allows most grease to drip below, and lining the basket with parchment paper can make cleanup easier and reduce splatters.
- Can I add seasoning to air fryer bacon?
- Absolutely! Try brown sugar, black pepper, or smoked paprika for extra flavor without overpowering the bacon’s natural taste.
Call to Action
Have you tried air fryer bacon yet? Share your experience in the comments below! Don’t forget to rate this recipe if you loved it, save it for your next breakfast, and share it with friends who need quick and easy meal ideas. For more delicious recipes, explore our breakfast recipes and Food Network for inspiration.
