Air Fryer Bacon: 8 Steps to Crunchy Perfection

Name: Air Fryer Bacon: 8 Steps to Crunchy Perfection
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 slices of bacon

By:

Christina R. Jones

June 1, 2025

This post may contain affiliate links learn more

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Let me tell you, making bacon in an air fryer is an absolute game changer! If you’ve ever craved that crispy, delicious bacon without the hassle of splattering grease all over your stove, then you’re in for a treat. This air fryer bacon is not just easy; it’s remarkably efficient, cooking up in a fraction of the time it takes on the stovetop. The best part? You get that perfect crunch with less mess and minimal cleanup. I can’t stress enough how this little recipe has transformed my breakfast routine. No more waiting around or dealing with greasy pans—just perfectly crispy slices every time. Trust me, once you try this air fryer bacon, you’ll never go back!

Air Fryer Bacon - detail 1

Ingredients List

To whip up the most delicious crispy air fryer bacon, you only need one simple ingredient. Here’s what you’ll need:

8 slices of bacon

That’s it! Just eight slices for a breakfast that feels indulgent yet is incredibly easy to prepare. I love using thick-cut bacon for that extra crunch, but feel free to go with your favorite kind. Just remember, the thickness can affect cooking time, so keep that in mind when you’re choosing your bacon. You’re just a few slices away from a breakfast treat that will have everyone asking for seconds!

How to Prepare Air Fryer Bacon

Now, let’s dive into how to prepare this crispy air fryer bacon like a pro! It’s a straightforward process, and I promise you’ll have everything down in no time. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be savoring those delicious bites before you know it!

Preheating the Air Fryer

First things first, preheating your air fryer is key to achieving that perfectly crispy bacon. Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it heat up for about 5 minutes. This step ensures the bacon starts cooking evenly right away, helping it to crisp up beautifully without any rubbery bits. Trust me, skipping this can lead to less-than-ideal results, so don’t rush this part!

Arranging the Bacon

Once your air fryer is preheated, it’s time to arrange the bacon. Lay the 8 slices of bacon in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Be careful not to overcrowd the basket; you want enough space for the hot air to circulate around each slice. If your air fryer is smaller, don’t hesitate to cook in batches. This way, you’ll ensure every piece gets that crispy goodness we all crave. And remember, bacon shrinks as it cooks, so it’s okay if it looks a bit crowded at first!

Cooking Process

Now, it’s time for the magic to happen! Cook the bacon for about 8-10 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through for even cooking. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes—every air fryer is a little different, so you might find your perfect timing falls somewhere in between. If you like your bacon extra crispy, don’t hesitate to add a minute or two! Just remember, it can go from perfect to burnt in a flash, so check on it frequently.

Checking for Crispiness

To check for that ideal crispiness, gently lift a slice with tongs or a fork. You want it to be golden brown and firm to the touch. If it bends easily or looks too pale, it probably needs a little more time in the air fryer. I love the sound of that satisfying crunch when it’s just right! Once done, carefully remove the bacon and set it on paper towels to drain any excess grease. And voilà! You’re now ready to enjoy some of the best bacon you’ve ever made!

Tips for Success

Now that you’re ready to whip up some fantastic air fryer bacon, here are my top tips to ensure you get it just right every time!

Don’t skip the preheat: This step is crucial! It helps the bacon cook evenly and achieve that delightful crispiness.
Use a single layer: Lay the bacon slices flat without overlapping for the best results. If necessary, cook in batches to avoid crowding.
Experiment with timing: Each air fryer is unique, so keep an eye on the bacon, especially after the 8-minute mark. Adjust the cooking time based on your preference for crispiness.
Drain the grease: Letting the bacon rest on paper towels helps remove excess fat, ensuring every bite is perfectly crispy.
Try different bacon types: Feel free to experiment with thick-cut or flavored bacon for a fun twist!

With these tips, you’ll be on your way to air fryer bacon perfection in no time!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to enjoying crispy air fryer bacon, it’s good to know what you’re getting in each delicious bite. Here are the estimated nutritional values for a serving of air fryer bacon (2 slices):

Calories: 80
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 320mg
Carbohydrates: 0g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 6g
Sugar: 0g

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the brand and type of bacon you choose. Whether you’re following a ketogenic diet or just looking for a tasty breakfast, this air fryer bacon packs a satisfying punch without the guilt!

FAQ Section

Can I cook other foods in the air fryer with bacon?

Absolutely! One of the beauties of the air fryer is its versatility. You can cook other foods alongside bacon, like veggies or potatoes, as long as they have similar cooking times. Just keep in mind that bacon has a lot of fat, so it might make other foods a bit greasy. For the best results, cook items that can benefit from that delicious bacon flavor, like Brussels sprouts or potatoes. Just be sure to arrange everything in a single layer to ensure even cooking!

How do I store leftover air fryer bacon?

If you happen to have any leftover air fryer bacon (which is rare in my house, trust me!), it’s super easy to store. Just let the bacon cool completely, then place it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to a week. To reheat and maintain that scrumptious crispiness, pop the slices back in the air fryer for a couple of minutes at 350°F (175°C). It’ll taste just as good as when you first made it!

What type of bacon is best for air frying?

When it comes to bacon for air frying, I recommend going for thick-cut bacon if you want that extra crunch. It holds up well during cooking and gives you that chewy, crispy goodness. However, regular-cut bacon works perfectly fine too! Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as thinner slices may cook faster. You can also experiment with flavored bacon—think maple or peppered varieties—to add a fun twist to your air fryer bacon experience!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re still on the fence about making bacon in the air fryer, let me share why you’re going to fall in love with this recipe! Not only does it deliver that fantastic crunch we all seek, but it also comes with a whole lot of benefits that keep breakfast simple and satisfying.

Quick Preparation: In just 15 minutes, you can have crispy bacon ready to go! No more slaving over the stove.
Mess-Free Cooking: Say goodbye to grease splatters and messy pans. The air fryer contains all the mess, making cleanup a breeze.
Perfectly Crispy Every Time: The air fryer ensures even cooking, giving you that delightful crunch without any rubbery bits.
Ketogenic-Friendly: With minimal carbs and high healthy fat content, this bacon fits perfectly into a ketogenic diet.
Versatile: This recipe is just the beginning! Use your crunchy bacon in salads, sandwiches, or as a topping for your favorite dishes.

Trust me, once you start making air fryer bacon, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!