Crispy Bacon
There are some recipes that make busy mornings so much easier, and Crispy Bacon is definitely one of them. I first tried cooking bacon in the air fryer after a friend told me it was the easiest way to get perfectly crispy strips without the mess of grease splattering all over the stovetop. I was skeptical at first, but after one batch, I was completely convinced.
Last weekend, I made a big batch for my family to go with scrambled eggs and toast, and everyone loved how evenly crispy the bacon turned out. The best part was how little cleanup there was compared to frying it in a pan. Now it’s become my favorite way to cook bacon whenever we’re enjoying a weekend breakfast or adding crispy bacon to sandwiches and salads.
If you’re looking for the easiest way to make perfectly crispy bacon every time, this Air Fryer Crispy Bacon recipe is one you’ll use again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfectly crispy every time
- Less mess than stovetop cooking
- Ready in under 15 minutes
- No flipping required (optional)
- Easy cleanup
- Great for breakfast, sandwiches, and salads
Ingredients
- 8 slices thick-cut or regular bacon
- Freshly ground black pepper (optional)
- Brown sugar or maple seasoning (optional, for sweet bacon)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3 minutes.
Step 2: Arrange the Bacon
Place the bacon strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
Slight overlap is fine, but avoid stacking the slices.
Step 3: Air Fry
- Regular bacon: Cook for 8–10 minutes
- Thick-cut bacon: Cook for 10–12 minutes
Check the bacon during the last few minutes, as cooking times vary by air fryer and bacon thickness.
Step 4: Drain
Transfer the cooked bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess grease.
Allow it to cool for 1–2 minutes—it will become even crispier as it rests.
Step 5: Serve
Serve immediately with eggs, pancakes, waffles, breakfast potatoes, or use it in sandwiches, burgers, salads, or wraps.
Tips
- Cook in a single layer for even crispiness.
- Check the bacon early to prevent overcooking.
- Empty excess grease between batches if making a large amount.
- Use thick-cut bacon for extra meaty bites.
- Let the bacon rest briefly before serving for maximum crispiness.
Variations
- Sprinkle with cracked black pepper before cooking.
- Add a light dusting of brown sugar for candied bacon.
- Brush with maple syrup during the last 2 minutes for a sweet glaze.
- Season with Cajun spice for a spicy kick.
- Crumble cooked bacon over soups, salads, or baked potatoes.
Storage
Store cooled bacon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2–3 minutes, or enjoy it cold in salads and sandwiches.
Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Total Time
15 minutes
Servings
4 servings
Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 190
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 480mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to flip the bacon?
No. Most air fryers cook bacon evenly without flipping, but you can flip it halfway through if you prefer.
What temperature is best for air fryer bacon?
Cooking at 350°F (175°C) helps the bacon cook evenly and become crispy without burning.
Can I cook frozen bacon in the air fryer?
Yes. Cook it for 2–3 minutes to separate the slices, then arrange them in a single layer and continue cooking until crispy.
How do I reduce smoke in the air fryer?
If your bacon is very fatty, add a small amount of water to the bottom of the air fryer drawer (not the basket) to help reduce smoke and prevent grease from burning.
What can I serve with Air Fryer Crispy Bacon?
It pairs perfectly with scrambled eggs, omelets, pancakes, waffles, avocado toast, breakfast burritos, burgers, BLT sandwiches, salads, or baked potatoes.
Can I save the bacon grease?
Yes! Carefully strain the cooled bacon grease into a heat-safe container and refrigerate it for cooking vegetables, eggs, potatoes, or adding extra flavor to savory dishes.