Can Bacon Be Made in an Air Fryer Discover the Crispy Truth

Yes, you can make perfectly crispy bacon in an air fryer—faster and with less mess than traditional methods. The air fryer circulates hot air to render fat and crisp each strip evenly, all without flipping or constant monitoring. Just set it to 375°F, cook for 8–12 minutes, and enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal cleanup.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, air fryers cook bacon perfectly—crispy and evenly, with less mess.
• Preheat for best results to ensure consistent crispiness and reduce cook time.
• Arrange bacon in a single layer to avoid steaming and promote even browning.
• No need to flip halfway—air fryers circulate heat effectively on their own.
• Drain excess grease promptly to prevent smoke and maintain appliance longevity.
• Adjust cook time for thickness—thicker slices need 2–3 extra minutes.

The Crispy Truth: Can Bacon Be Made in an Air Fryer?

Let’s be honest—few things smell as good as bacon sizzling in the morning. That smoky aroma drifting through the kitchen is enough to wake up even the deepest sleeper. But here’s a question I’ve asked myself more times than I care to admit: Can bacon be made in an air fryer? As someone who’s always looking for faster, cleaner, and more efficient ways to cook, I was skeptical at first. I mean, how could something as beloved and tradition-bound as bacon possibly work in a machine that looks like a sci-fi popcorn maker?

Well, after months of experimenting, burning my fair share of strips, and eating way too much bacon (not complaining), I’ve got answers. And the truth? It’s yes. Yes, you can make bacon in an air fryer. And not just edible bacon—crispy, juicy, restaurant-quality bacon. But like anything worth doing, it takes a little know-how. In this post, I’ll walk you through everything I’ve learned: how it works, what to avoid, which types of bacon work best, and even some pro tips to make your air-fried bacon the talk of the breakfast table. Whether you’re a bacon newbie or a seasoned pro, this guide is for you.

How Air Fryers Cook Bacon: The Science Behind the Sizzle

Before we dive into the “how,” let’s talk about the “why.” Why would anyone want to cook bacon in an air fryer instead of a pan or oven? The answer lies in how air fryers work—and how that process affects bacon.

What Makes an Air Fryer Different?

An air fryer isn’t actually a fryer. It’s more like a mini convection oven. It uses a powerful fan to circulate hot air (usually between 300°F and 400°F) around food at high speed. This rapid air movement creates a crispy exterior through the Maillard reaction—the same browning process that happens when you pan-fry or bake bacon. But unlike traditional frying, there’s no oil bath. Instead, the bacon’s own fat renders out and helps crisp the edges.

Think of it like this: when you lay bacon in a cold pan and slowly heat it up, the fat melts and the meat crisps. The air fryer speeds up that process. The hot air hits the bacon from all sides, rendering the fat faster and creating a more even crisp. Plus, the basket design allows excess grease to drip away, so your bacon isn’t sitting in a pool of oil.

Why Bacon Works So Well in Air Fryers

Bacon is perfect for air frying because it’s high in fat and thin in texture. The fat renders quickly under high heat, and the thin strips allow hot air to circulate evenly. Unlike thick-cut steaks or dense vegetables, bacon doesn’t need long cooking times—just a few minutes of intense heat.

I remember the first time I tried it. I loaded up my air fryer basket with five strips of regular bacon, set it to 375°F, and walked away for 8 minutes. When I returned, the bacon was perfectly crisp, with just a hint of chewiness. And the best part? No splatter on my stove, no smoke alarm going off, and a clean kitchen. It felt like magic.

But here’s the catch: not all air fryers are the same. Some are larger, some have stronger fans, and some heat unevenly. That’s why timing and technique matter. More on that later.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Cook Bacon in an Air Fryer

Alright, let’s get into the nitty-gritty. I’ve tested dozens of methods, and here’s the one I use every time—simple, consistent, and foolproof (as long as you follow the steps).

What You’ll Need

• Air fryer (any size, but larger ones handle more strips)
• Bacon (your favorite kind—more on that below)
• Tongs or a fork (for flipping)
• Paper towels or a wire rack (for draining)

The Process: My Go-To Method

Step 1: Preheat the air fryer (optional but recommended). Set it to 375°F for 3–5 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking from the start. I used to skip this, but I noticed my bacon cooked more evenly when I preheated—especially in larger batches.

Step 2: Arrange the bacon. Place strips in the basket in a single layer. Overlapping is okay, but avoid piling them. I usually fit 4–6 regular strips or 3–4 thick-cut ones. If they’re overlapping too much, cook in batches. Crowding leads to steam, not crisp.

Step 3: Cook for 6–10 minutes. Start at 6 minutes for thin bacon, 8–10 for thick-cut. Flip halfway through using tongs. This ensures even browning. I’ve found that flipping is key—especially if your air fryer has hot spots (many do).

Step 4: Check for crispness. Bacon continues to crisp as it cools, so don’t overcook it. Remove when it’s slightly less crispy than you want. I like mine crisp but not brittle, so I pull it at 7 minutes for thin strips.

Step 5: Drain and serve. Place cooked bacon on a paper towel or wire rack. This prevents soggy bottoms. I prefer a wire rack—it lets air circulate on all sides, keeping the bacon crisp longer.

Pro Tips for Success

• Use a liner or parchment paper with holes. It catches drips and makes cleanup easier. I use perforated parchment sheets—no sticking, no mess.
• Save the bacon grease! Drain it into a jar. It’s amazing for cooking eggs, roasting potatoes, or even making popcorn.
• Don’t open the basket too early. Every time you pull it out, you lose heat and extend cooking time. Trust the process.
• Adjust for your model. Smaller air fryers (2–3 quarts) cook faster. Larger ones (5+ quarts) may need an extra minute.

I once tried cooking 10 strips at once in my 5.8-quart air fryer. The outer strips were perfect, but the center ones were rubbery. Lesson learned: less is more.

Best Types of Bacon for Air Frying (And Which to Avoid)

Not all bacon is created equal—and that’s especially true in an air fryer. The type of bacon you choose can make or break your results. Here’s what I’ve learned after testing everything from turkey bacon to artisanal dry-cured varieties.

Top Picks: The Winners

• Regular (thin-cut) bacon: My go-to. Cooks fast (6–8 minutes), crisps evenly, and fits well in most baskets. I love Applegate or Oscar Mayer for consistent quality.
• Thick-cut bacon: Takes longer (9–11 minutes) but delivers that meaty, chewy texture. Look for brands like Niman Ranch or local butchers. Just make sure it’s not too thick—some cuts are better suited for the grill.
• Center-cut bacon: Lower in fat, so it’s leaner and less greasy. Great if you’re watching calories. Just keep an eye on it—it can dry out faster.

Good, But Not Great

• Turkey bacon: Cooks faster (5–7 minutes) and is less greasy, but it’s thinner and can overcook quickly. I’ve had success with Jennie-O or Butterball, but it lacks that classic porky flavor. Best for lighter meals.
• Canadian bacon (back bacon): Thicker and rounder, so it doesn’t crisp the same way. It’s more like ham—better for breakfast sandwiches than crispy strips. Still tasty, but not “bacon” as you know it.

Bacon to Avoid (or Use with Caution)

• Extra-thick or “double-cut” bacon: Often too thick for even cooking. The outside burns before the inside is done. Save this for the grill or oven.
• Bacon-wrapped foods (e.g., asparagus, scallops): Can work, but the bacon often doesn’t crisp properly. The air can’t circulate around the wrapping. I’d recommend the oven for these.
• Pre-cooked or microwave bacon: Skip the air fryer. It’s already cooked—reheating can make it rubbery.

One time, I tried cooking maple-glazed bacon. The sugar caramelized too fast and burned in spots. Now I cook plain bacon first, then brush on glaze after cooking. Works like a charm.

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Even with the best intentions, things can go wrong. I’ve made every mistake in the book—overcrowding, undercooking, burning, you name it. Here’s how to avoid (or fix) the most common issues.

Problem: Bacon is Soggy or Rubbery

Cause: Overcrowding, not flipping, or cooking at too low a temperature.

Fix: Cook in batches, flip halfway, and make sure your air fryer is set to at least 375°F. Also, drain on a rack—not paper towels—to keep it crisp.

Problem: Uneven Cooking (Some Strips Burn, Others Are Raw)

Cause: Hot spots in your air fryer or uneven placement.

Fix: Rotate the basket halfway through. If your model has a tray, flip it. I’ve noticed my air fryer heats more from the back, so I rotate the strips from front to back.

Problem: Too Much Smoke or Grease Buildup

Cause: Fat dripping onto the heating element or not using a liner.

Fix: Always use a perforated liner or parchment. Clean the basket and drawer after each use. If you see smoke, pull the bacon out immediately—it’s likely burning.

I once ignored a little smoke because I thought it was “just bacon.” Big mistake. The smoke got worse, and I ended up with a kitchen full of fumes. Now I keep a fire extinguisher nearby (kidding… mostly).

Problem: Bacon Sticks to the Basket

Cause: Not enough fat rendered or using non-stick spray (which can damage the coating).

Fix: Let the bacon cook a little longer. The fat will naturally release it. If it still sticks, use a silicone liner or lightly oil the basket with bacon grease (not spray).

Bonus Tip: Reheating Leftover Bacon

Yes, you can reheat bacon in an air fryer! 3–4 minutes at 350°F brings it back to crisp perfection. No microwave sogginess.

Air Fryer Bacon vs. Other Methods: A Side-by-Side Comparison

How does air fryer bacon stack up against the classics? Let’s break it down with real-world results.

Cooking Time and Effort

Air fryer: 6–10 minutes, minimal supervision. Flip once. Cleanup: easy with a liner.

Stovetop: 10–15 minutes, constant attention to avoid splatter. Cleanup: greasy stove and pans.

Oven: 15–20 minutes (plus preheating), hands-off but longer. Cleanup: baking sheet needs washing.

Texture and Taste

Air fryer: Crispy edges, tender center. Even browning. Less greasy because fat drips away.

Stovetop: Crispier overall (if you like it super crunchy), but can be uneven. More greasy.

Oven: Uniform, but often less crisp unless you broil at the end. Can dry out.

Health and Cleanup

Air fryer: Less oil used (bacon’s own fat), easy cleanup. No splatter.

Stovetop: More oil splatter, greasier bacon, harder cleanup.

Oven: Moderate cleanup (baking sheet), but can smoke if fat drips onto the heating element.

Method	Time	Cleanup	Crispness	Best For
Air Fryer	6–10 min	Easy (with liner)	High (even)	Quick meals, small batches, low mess
Stovetop	10–15 min	Hard (splatter)	Very high	Traditional taste, large batches
Oven	15–20 min	Moderate	Medium (unless broiled)	Large batches, hands-off cooking

I’ve used all three, and honestly? The air fryer wins for everyday cooking. It’s fast, clean, and consistent. But I still love the stovetop for special occasions—when I want that extra-crispy, slightly charred edge. And the oven? Great for cooking 20 strips at once for a big breakfast.

Beyond Breakfast: Creative Ways to Use Air-Fried Bacon

Okay, so you’ve mastered cooking bacon. Now what? Don’t just eat it with eggs—get creative! Here are some of my favorite ways to use air-fried bacon.

In Salads and Bowls

Crumble bacon over a Cobb salad, Caesar, or grain bowl. The air fryer gives it that perfect crunch that doesn’t get soggy when dressed. I love it in a kale salad with avocado, cherry tomatoes, and ranch.

As a Topping

Sprinkle over mac and cheese, baked potatoes, or even pizza. I once put air-fried bacon on a margherita pizza—game-changer.

In Sandwiches and Wraps

BLT? Yes. Bacon club? Absolutely. I even use it in veggie wraps for a smoky kick.

For Snacking

Crispy bacon strips make a great protein-packed snack. I keep a jar in the fridge (in a paper towel) for quick bites.

As a Flavor Booster

Chop and add to soups, stews, or even scrambled eggs. A little goes a long way. I once stirred it into a tomato soup—best decision ever.

And don’t forget: bacon grease is gold. Use it to sauté onions, cook eggs, or make aioli. I keep a small jar in my fridge and use it weekly.

Final Thoughts: Is Air Fryer Bacon Worth It?

So, can bacon be made in an air fryer? Absolutely. And in my experience, it’s one of the best ways to cook it—especially if you value speed, cleanliness, and consistent results. The air fryer delivers crispy, juicy bacon with minimal effort and no mess. It’s perfect for busy mornings, small kitchens, or anyone who hates cleaning up bacon grease.

But it’s not magic. You still need to watch the time, avoid overcrowding, and use the right type of bacon. And while it’s great for everyday cooking, I’ll still reach for the stovetop when I want that extra-crispy, slightly charred edge.

At the end of the day, the air fryer isn’t replacing tradition—it’s giving us a new way to enjoy it. So go ahead, try it out. Cook a few strips, flip them halfway, and enjoy that first bite of perfectly crispy bacon. You might just find yourself asking: “Why didn’t I do this sooner?”

Happy frying—and happy eating!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can bacon be made in an air fryer?

Yes, bacon can be perfectly cooked in an air fryer, delivering crispy results with less mess than traditional stovetop or oven methods. The air fryer’s circulating hot air renders fat efficiently while achieving a delicious crunch.

How long does it take to cook bacon in an air fryer?

Cooking bacon in an air fryer typically takes 8–12 minutes at 350°F–375°F, depending on thickness and desired crispiness. Flip halfway through for even cooking and optimal texture.

Is air fryer bacon healthier than pan-fried bacon?

Air fryer bacon is slightly healthier because excess fat drips away during cooking, reducing overall grease. The air fryer requires no added oil, making it a leaner option compared to pan frying.

Can you cook thick-cut bacon in an air fryer?

Absolutely—thicker bacon slices may need 12–15 minutes at 375°F in the air fryer. Arrange them in a single layer without overlapping to ensure even crisping and proper airflow.

Does bacon splatter in an air fryer?

Unlike frying in a pan, the enclosed air fryer basket minimizes splatter, keeping your kitchen cleaner. Place a piece of bread beneath the basket to catch excess drips if desired.

What’s the best way to store leftover air fryer bacon?

Store cooled bacon in an airtight container or resealable bag in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the air fryer for 1–2 minutes to restore crispiness.