Air Fryer Bacon

Air Fryer Bacon is one of the easiest and cleanest ways to enjoy perfectly cooked bacon at home. Using an air fryer allows the bacon to cook evenly with circulating hot air, resulting in crisp edges, tender centers, and far less mess than stovetop frying. There is no splattering grease, no constant flipping, and no need to stand over the pan.

This method also helps excess fat drip away, making the bacon slightly lighter while still keeping its signature flavor. Whether you like your bacon chewy or extra crispy, the air fryer gives you full control and consistent results every time, making it ideal for quick breakfasts, brunch spreads, or adding to other dishes.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it is effortless and reliable. The air fryer does all the work while I focus on the rest of the meal. Cleanup is minimal, the bacon cooks evenly, and the texture turns out exactly how I want it. It is one of those recipes that once you try it, you rarely go back to traditional frying.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This is a must-try dish because it saves time, reduces mess, and produces excellent results with very little effort. If you enjoy bacon regularly, this method simplifies cooking while giving you crisp, flavorful strips every time. It is perfect for busy mornings or when you need bacon for multiple recipes.

Recipe Overview

Preparation Time: 2 minutes
Cooking Time: 8–12 minutes
Total Time: 10–14 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 180 calories per serving
Course: Breakfast, Side Dish
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

• 12 slices bacon, regular or thick-cut

Optional Additions

• Black pepper
• Brown sugar
• Maple syrup

Cooking Directions

The bacon is placed in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cooked until it reaches your desired level of crispness. Excess grease drips away during cooking, resulting in evenly cooked bacon.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Preheat the air fryer to 190°C for 2–3 minutes.
2. Arrange the bacon slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Slight overlapping is fine, but avoid stacking.
3. Cook for 8 minutes for chewy bacon or up to 12 minutes for extra crispy bacon.
4. Halfway through cooking, flip the bacon for even browning.
5. Carefully remove the bacon and place it on a plate lined with paper towels.
6. Let it rest for 1 minute before serving, as it will crisp slightly more.

How to Serve

Serve Air Fryer Bacon hot alongside eggs, toast, pancakes, or waffles for a classic breakfast. It can also be crumbled over salads, added to sandwiches, wrapped around vegetables, or used as a topping for baked potatoes and pasta dishes.

Recipe Tips

• Choose similar-sized bacon slices for even cooking.
• Check the bacon frequently during the last few minutes to avoid overcooking.
• Pour out excess grease from the basket carefully if cooking in batches.
• Thick-cut bacon may need an additional 2–3 minutes of cooking time.

Variations

Sweet Bacon
Lightly brush bacon with maple syrup or sprinkle brown sugar before air frying for a sweet, caramelized finish.

Peppered Bacon
Sprinkle freshly ground black pepper over the bacon before cooking for added spice.

Spicy Bacon
Add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne for a subtle heat.

Turkey Bacon
Use turkey bacon and reduce cooking time slightly, checking after 6–7 minutes.

Extra Crispy Bacon
Cook at a slightly lower temperature for a longer time to render more fat without burning.

Freezing and Storage

Cooked bacon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in the air fryer at 170°C for 2–3 minutes until warmed and crisp.

Special Equipment Needed

• Air fryer
• Tongs
• Paper towels

Conclusion

Air Fryer Bacon is a simple, efficient, and mess-free way to enjoy one of the most loved breakfast staples. With perfect texture, minimal cleanup, and consistent results, this method is ideal for everyday cooking or special breakfasts alike. Once you make bacon in the air fryer, it quickly becomes your go-to technique.