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The sizzle of bacon crisping up always draws me back to lazy weekend mornings with my family. There’s something about that aroma filling the kitchen that signals comfort and togetherness. When I finally tried cooking bacon in the air fryer, it was a revelation — less mess, consistent crispiness, and almost hands-free.
I first discovered this method when I was craving bacon on a weekday morning but didn’t want to wait around or deal with cleanup. Using the air fryer instantly became my go-to. It’s incredible how this gadget makes a traditionally messy process so straightforward, and I love that I can pop in a batch, walk away, and come back to bacon that’s just right.
Essential Ingredients
- Bacon slices: Choose your favorite cut—regular or thick cut. Thick cut takes a little longer but delivers a meatier bite. Look for slices with a nice balance of fat and meat for optimal crispiness.
- No other ingredients needed — the air fryer does the work!
When shopping, look for fresh bacon with a firm texture and vibrant pink color for the best flavor and cooking results. Avoid packages with excess liquid or a sour smell.
Cooking Process
- Preheating Power:
- Warm the air fryer to 350ºF (177ºC) for about 3 minutes. This ensures the bacon starts cooking immediately and evenly.
- Basket Arrangement:
- Lay the bacon slices in the basket. If they don’t fit whole, slicing in half works fine. Allow some wiggle room so air circulates around every edge for crisping.
- Air Fry to Crisp:
- Cook for 8-10 minutes depending on your preferred crispiness and cut thickness. No need to flip—the circulation crisps both sides. Thick slices might take 9-12 minutes; halves about 7-9.
- Drain and Serve:
- Transfer cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to soak up excess grease and keep each strip perfectly crisp.
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I once tried cooking a triple batch without draining the basket grease first and ended up with smoky bacon (lesson learned!). Now, I make sure to drain grease if I’m doing back-to-back batches. For a twist, sprinkling a little black pepper or smoked paprika on before air frying adds a fun smoky kick.
Make-Ahead Strategies
Cooked bacon stores well refrigerated up to 5 days and freezes beautifully for up to 6 months. Warm it up in the air fryer or microwave to bring back that fresh-crisp texture, perfect for quick breakfast sandwiches or salads during the week.
Flavor Variations
Try maple-glazing the bacon slices before air frying for a sweet-savory combo. Or toss on a pinch of brown sugar and cayenne for a bacon that’s both sweet and spicy—ideal for brunch gatherings.
Kitchen Tool Recommendations
An air fryer with a sturdy basket and good airflow is key here. Look for models with easily removable baskets for quick grease draining and hassle-free cleaning. I’ve found a 3-4 quart size perfect for 4-5 slices.
Cooking Secrets
1. Don’t overcrowd the basket—air circulation is what makes the bacon crispy.
2. Drain bacon grease between batches to avoid smoking and uneven cooking.
3. Keep a close eye near the end of cook time; bacon can go from perfect to burnt fast.
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Common Questions
- → What temperature should I set the air fryer for bacon?
Preheat your air fryer to 350ºF (177ºC) to ensure even, crispy bacon.
- → How long does it take to cook bacon in an air fryer?
Cooking times range from 8 to 10 minutes for regular slices and up to 12 minutes for thick cuts.
- → Do I need to flip the bacon during cooking?
No flipping is needed; the air fryer circulates heat evenly for consistent crispiness.
- → Can I cook half slices of bacon in the air fryer?
Yes, half slices usually take about 7 to 9 minutes to reach the desired crispiness.
- → How should I store leftover cooked bacon?
Place cooled bacon in an airtight container and refrigerate up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 6 months.
- → What’s the best way to reheat air fried bacon?
Reheat in the air fryer, microwave, or skillet, and drain on paper towels to keep it crispy.