Best Air Fryer Bacon Recipe for Breakfast
Say goodbye to greasy stovetop splatters and hello to perfectly crisp bacon with this effortless air fryer method. Whether you prefer streaky or back bacon, the air fryer delivers a golden, crispy texture while reducing excess fat for a lighter bite.
With just a few simple steps, you can achieve restaurant-quality bacon in minutes. The air fryer’s circulating heat ensures even cooking, giving you control over crispness—from just-done to ultra-crispy perfection. Plus, it’s quicker and cleaner than traditional frying, making breakfast prep easier than ever.
Enjoy your air-fried bacon on its own, in a classic sandwich, or as the perfect topping for salads and burgers. No more hovering over a hot pan—this foolproof method guarantees delicious results every time. Ready to upgrade your bacon game? Let’s get cooking!
Air Fryer Bacon Ingredients: The Key to Crispy Perfection
Streaky Bacon – The ultimate choice for crispy, flavorful bites, its rich marbling renders beautifully in the air fryer, creating irresistibly crunchy edges and a deep, smoky taste.
Back Bacon – A leaner alternative with a hearty bite, delivering a balance of meaty texture and savory goodness, perfect for those who love a more substantial bacon experience.
Air Fryer Bacon: Crispy, Delicious, and Easy
Air fryer bacon is a game-changer for breakfast lovers and bacon enthusiasts alike. It delivers perfectly crispy results with less mess and minimal effort. Whether you’re craving a quick snack or building the ultimate bacon sandwich, this method guarantees crispy, golden perfection every time.
Recipe Tips
- Avoid Overcrowding for Even Crispiness
To achieve the best texture, lay the bacon in a single layer without overlapping. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and soggy spots. If cooking multiple batches, keep in mind that the second batch may cook faster due to residual heat in the air fryer. - Use the Right Temperature for Your Preferred Crispiness
Cooking at 200°C (400°F) ensures a crispy, golden finish. Streaky bacon crisps up in 6-10 minutes, while back bacon takes about 4-8 minutes. If you prefer extra crunch, extend the cooking time slightly, but keep an eye on it to prevent burning. - Drain Excess Grease for a Lighter Bite
Once the bacon is done, transfer it to a plate lined with kitchen paper to absorb excess oil. This step enhances the texture and prevents greasy bites while keeping the bacon’s rich, savory flavor intact.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Bacon
- Classic Bacon and Eggs
Pair your crispy air-fried bacon with scrambled, fried, or poached eggs for a hearty and protein-packed breakfast. Add a side of toast or avocado for extra flavor and texture. - Bacon Sandwich
Elevate a simple bacon sandwich by layering your crispy bacon on toasted bread with butter, mayo, or even a fried egg. For an extra kick, add a slice of tomato or a dollop of spicy mustard. - Salads and Wraps
Crumble air-fried bacon over a fresh Caesar salad or wrap it in a tortilla with lettuce, chicken, and ranch dressing for a flavorful, protein-packed meal. The crispy texture adds a satisfying crunch to any dish.
FAQ
1. Can I cook bacon in the air fryer without preheating it?
Yes! While preheating isn’t necessary, starting with a hot air fryer can slightly speed up the cooking process. If you skip preheating, just add an extra minute or two to your cook time.
2. Will the air fryer smoke while cooking bacon?
It can if there’s excessive grease buildup. To prevent smoking, place a small piece of bread or a bit of water in the bottom of the air fryer to absorb excess fat.
3. Can I cook thick-cut bacon in the air fryer?
Absolutely! Thick-cut bacon will take longer, typically around 10-14 minutes. Be sure to check and flip if needed to ensure even crispiness.
4. How do I store and reheat leftover bacon?
Store leftover bacon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the air fryer at 180°C (350°F) for 2-3 minutes to restore its crispiness.
Enjoy your perfectly crispy air fryer bacon in all your favorite meals!
Air Fryer Bacon
Ingredients
- 3 rashers of back bacon
- 6 rashers of streaky bacon
- Method
Instructions
- Step 1
- Arrange the bacon in a single, even layer at the base of the air fryer basket, ensuring the pieces do not overlap. The quantity you can cook at once will depend on the size of your air fryer.
- Step 2
- Set the air fryer to 200°C and cook the bacon to your preferred level of crispness. Streaky bacon requires approximately 6-10 minutes—6 minutes for a tender texture and up to 10 minutes for a crispier result. Back bacon will take between 4-8 minutes, depending on doneness preference. If preparing multiple batches, note that subsequent batches may cook faster due to residual heat.
- Step 3
- Using tongs, carefully transfer the cooked bacon onto a plate lined with kitchen paper to absorb any excess oil. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
