Can You Do Bacon in an Air Fryer The Ultimate Guide

Yes, you can cook bacon in an air fryer—and it’s a game-changer. The air fryer delivers crispy, evenly cooked bacon in minutes, with less mess and no flipping required, making it a faster, healthier alternative to stovetop or oven methods.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can cook bacon in an air fryer—it’s fast, crisp, and less messy.
• No preheating needed for most models; saves time and energy.
• Use a single layer to ensure even cooking and maximum crispiness.
• Save the grease easily with the air fryer’s drip tray for later use.
• Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8–12 minutes, depending on thickness and crispness desired.
• Check frequently to prevent burning, especially with thin-cut bacon.

Can You Do Bacon in an Air Fryer? The Ultimate Guide

Let’s be real—bacon is a love language. Whether it’s the first thing you reach for on a lazy Sunday morning or the secret ingredient in your midnight snack, that crispy, salty, smoky goodness has a way of making everything better. But here’s the thing: cooking bacon the traditional way—whether on the stovetop or in the oven—can be a messy, splattery, and sometimes even dangerous affair. Enter the air fryer, the kitchen gadget that’s been quietly revolutionizing how we cook everything from fries to chicken wings. But can you do bacon in an air fryer? And more importantly—should you?

I remember the first time I tried cooking bacon in my air fryer. I was skeptical. Would it get crispy? Would it smoke up my kitchen? Would it even cook evenly? After a few experiments (and a couple of slightly overcooked strips), I realized this method wasn’t just possible—it was *better*. Less grease, less mess, and way more consistent results. If you’ve ever stood over a hot pan with bacon grease splattering like a tiny fireworks show, you’ll understand why this feels like a small miracle. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about cooking bacon in an air fryer, from the basics to pro tips, so you can make the perfect batch every time—without the drama.

Why Cook Bacon in an Air Fryer? The Pros and Cons

Before we dive into the how, let’s talk about the why. Why would you swap your trusty frying pan for an air fryer when it comes to bacon? The answer lies in convenience, cleanliness, and consistency.

The Big Advantages

• Less mess: No more grease splatter coating your stovetop or walls. The air fryer contains most of the fat, which drains into the basket or tray.
• Even cooking: The circulating hot air ensures every strip crisps up evenly, with no need to flip or rotate halfway through.
• Faster cleanup: Just wipe down the basket and tray—no scrubbing greasy pans or dealing with stuck-on bacon bits.
• Healthier results: Excess fat drains away during cooking, leaving you with less greasy bacon (though let’s be honest—bacon is still bacon).
• Multitasking magic: While your bacon cooks, you can prep eggs, toast bread, or brew coffee—no babysitting required.

The Not-So-Perfect Side

Of course, nothing is perfect. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Smoke potential: If your air fryer isn’t well-ventilated or you cook at too high a temperature, you might get some smoke. This is especially true with fatty bacon or if you overfill the basket.
• Basket size matters: Larger air fryers (5.8 quarts or bigger) work better for multiple strips. Smaller models may require cooking in batches.
• Texture variation: Some people find air-fried bacon slightly less “chewy” than pan-fried. It’s crisper, which is great for BLTs but might not be ideal for those who like it tender.
• Learning curve: Different models heat differently, so your first batch might not be perfect. But once you find the sweet spot? Game over.

For me, the pros far outweigh the cons. After cooking bacon in my air fryer for over a year, I can confidently say it’s my go-to method—even when I’m not in a rush. The consistency alone is worth it.

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

Ready to give it a try? Here’s a foolproof method that works for most air fryer models and bacon types. I’ll walk you through it like we’re in the kitchen together, spatula in hand.

Step 1: Choose Your Bacon

Not all bacon is created equal. Thick-cut bacon will take longer to cook but gives you that hearty, meaty bite. Regular-cut cooks faster and gets crispier. I’ve also tried turkey bacon (more on that later) and even plant-based bacon alternatives. For this guide, we’ll focus on traditional pork bacon, but the principles apply across the board.

• Thick-cut: Great for sandwiches or when you want chew.
• Regular-cut: Ideal for crumbling or when you want it super crispy.
• Center-cut: Leaner, with less fat—good if you’re watching grease.

Step 2: Prep the Air Fryer

No preheating needed! Most air fryers heat up fast, and bacon doesn’t require a preheated basket. Here’s what to do:

• Arrange the bacon: Lay the strips in a single layer, leaving a little space between them. Overcrowding = uneven cooking. If you’re cooking a lot, do it in batches.
• No oil needed: Bacon has plenty of fat. Adding oil can cause smoke.
• Optional: Use a liner: Some people use parchment paper liners to catch excess grease and make cleanup easier. Just make sure it’s air fryer-safe (not wax paper!).

Step 3: Set the Temperature and Time

This is where your air fryer model comes into play. Here’s a general guideline:

• Regular-cut bacon: 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes.
• Thick-cut bacon: 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes.
• Turkey bacon: 325°F (160°C) for 6–8 minutes (it burns faster!).

Pro tip: Start checking at the lower end of the time range. Bacon continues to crisp as it cools, so pull it out just before it looks “perfect” to avoid overcooking.

Step 4: Monitor and Adjust

Every 3–4 minutes, open the basket and peek. If you see excessive smoke, reduce the heat by 25°F or pause cooking to let it settle. For extra-crispy bacon, you can flip the strips halfway through—though I’ve found it’s not always necessary.

Step 5: Drain and Rest

Once the bacon is cooked to your liking:

• Remove carefully: Use tongs or a fork to avoid burning yourself on hot grease.
• Drain on paper towels: This removes excess oil and prevents sogginess.
• Let it rest for 1–2 minutes: The residual heat will finish crisping the edges.

And that’s it! I remember my first attempt—I set it for 10 minutes at 350°F, pulled it out, and was shocked at how evenly golden and crisp it was. No flipping, no splatter, no stress. Just bacon, ready to eat.

Air Fryer Bacon Cooking Times and Temperatures: A Data Table

Because every air fryer and bacon type is a little different, I’ve put together a handy reference table based on real-world testing and common models (like Ninja, Cosori, and Instant Vortex). Use this as a starting point, then tweak based on your preferences.

Flavorings may caramelize faster—reduce heat if needed.

Bacon Type	Temperature	Cooking Time	Notes
Regular-cut pork bacon	350°F (175°C)	8–10 minutes	Check at 8 minutes. Ideal for crispy bacon.
Thick-cut pork bacon	350°F (175°C)	12–15 minutes	May need flipping at 10 minutes for even crisp.
Center-cut bacon	350°F (175°C)	7–9 minutes	Leaner, so less grease and smoke.
Turkey bacon	325°F (160°C)	6–8 minutes	Burns easily—check early. Less crispy than pork.
Plant-based bacon	325°F (160°C)	5–7 minutes	Texture varies by brand. Watch closely.
Smoked or flavored bacon (e.g., maple, pepper)	350°F (175°C)	9–11 minutes

Important: These times assume a 5–6 quart air fryer. Smaller models (4 quarts or less) may cook faster, so reduce time by 1–2 minutes. Larger models (7+ quarts) may need an extra minute.

I keep this table taped to my fridge for quick reference. It’s saved me from overcooking more than once—especially with turkey bacon, which I’ve accidentally turned into charcoal a few times (lesson learned).

Pro Tips for the Best Air Fryer Bacon

Now that you’ve got the basics down, let’s level up. These are the tips I wish I’d known when I started—little tricks that make a big difference.

1. Use the Right Basket or Tray

If your air fryer has a removable crisper tray, use it! It elevates the bacon, allowing fat to drip below. This prevents soggy spots and reduces smoke. If you don’t have one, just arrange the bacon so it’s not touching the basket’s bottom directly.

2. Control the Smoke

Smoke is the #1 complaint with air fryer bacon. Here’s how to minimize it:

• Don’t overcrowd: Leave space between strips so hot air can circulate.
• Use a lower temperature: Try 325°F for fatty bacon or if your kitchen is small.
• Line the bottom tray: Place a sheet of aluminum foil or parchment under the basket to catch drips. Just don’t block the airflow.
• Ventilate: Run a fan or open a window. Some people even cook near a stovetop hood.

3. Save the Bacon Grease

Don’t toss it! Bacon grease is liquid gold for cooking. After cooking, let the grease cool slightly, then pour it into a glass jar through a fine-mesh strainer. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 months. Use it for:

• Frying eggs or potatoes
• Adding flavor to roasted veggies
• Baking (yes, even cookies!)

4. Make It Extra Crispy

Craving that perfect crunch? Try these hacks:

• Pat the bacon dry: Before cooking, dab it with a paper towel to remove surface moisture.
• Add a quick broil: If your air fryer has a broil function, run it for 1–2 minutes at the end.
• Double-cook: For ultra-crispy strips, cook for 6 minutes, drain, then cook again for 2–3 minutes.

5. Cook in Batches

If you’re feeding a crowd, cook in batches and keep the cooked bacon warm in a 200°F oven while you finish the rest. Just spread it on a baking sheet so it stays crisp.

One of my favorite tricks? I’ll cook a big batch on Sunday, let it cool, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It reheats beautifully in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes—perfect for busy mornings when I need a quick bacon fix.

Bacon Beyond Breakfast: Creative Uses for Air-Fried Bacon

Once you’ve mastered cooking bacon in the air fryer, it’s time to think outside the breakfast sandwich. Air-fried bacon is versatile, flavorful, and ready to star in all kinds of dishes. Here are some of my favorite ways to use it:

1. Crumble It for Salads and Veggies

Chop air-fried bacon into small pieces and toss it into:

• Caesar salad (instead of croutons)
• Roasted Brussels sprouts
• Grilled corn salad
• Mashed potatoes (yes, really)

The crisp texture holds up better than pan-fried bacon, which can get soggy when mixed with dressings.

2. Elevate Your Pasta

Try it in:

• Carbonara (use the bacon instead of pancetta)
• Alfredo sauce (crumble it on top)
• Pasta salads (add it with cherry tomatoes and mozzarella)

I once made a bacon and avocado pasta that my friends still ask about. The air-fried bacon stayed crisp even after tossing with warm pasta—a win!

3. Make the Ultimate Snack Mix

Combine air-fried bacon bits with:

• Roasted chickpeas
• Pretzels
• Cheese crackers
• Spicy nuts

Store in a jar for a protein-packed, salty-sweet snack.

4. Upgrade Your Baked Goods

Believe it or not, bacon works in sweet dishes too:

• Bacon chocolate chip cookies (yes, it’s a thing)
• Banana bread with bacon swirls
• Cinnamon rolls with a bacon glaze

I tried bacon-studded brownies at a friend’s party and was skeptical—until I took a bite. The salty-sweet combo was addictive.

5. Use It in Appetizers

Impress guests with:

• Bacon-wrapped dates or asparagus
• Bacon-stuffed mushrooms
• Deviled eggs with bacon topping

Pro tip: Air-fry the bacon first, then use it to wrap or stuff other ingredients. It’s easier to handle when crisp.

The beauty of air-fried bacon is that it’s ready to go—no need to cook it again, and it won’t make your other ingredients greasy. It’s like having a secret ingredient that makes everything taste better.

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Even the best cooks make mistakes. Here are the most common bacon-in-air-fryer issues I’ve seen (and made myself), plus how to avoid them.

1. Overcooking or Burning

Why it happens: Bacon shrinks as it cooks, so it’s easy to underestimate how fast it crisps. Also, residual heat continues cooking it after you pull it out.

How to fix: Set a timer for the lower end of the recommended time. Pull the bacon out when it’s *almost* done, then let it rest. Remember: it keeps crisping as it cools.

2. Soggy Bacon

Why it happens: Overcrowding the basket or not draining the grease.

How to fix: Leave space between strips. Use a crisper tray or elevate the bacon. Drain on paper towels immediately after cooking.

3. Too Much Smoke

Why it happens: Fatty bacon or high heat causes smoke. Small kitchens with poor ventilation make it worse.

How to fix: Use leaner bacon, reduce the temperature, or cook in batches. Place a damp towel near the air fryer to catch smoke particles.

4. Uneven Cooking

Why it happens: Bacon strips touching the basket’s bottom or overlapping.

How to fix: Arrange strips in a single layer with space. Flip halfway through if needed (though it’s usually not necessary).

5. Sticking to the Basket

Why it happens: Bacon fat can stick, especially if the basket isn’t nonstick.

How to fix: Lightly spray the basket with oil (just a mist) or use parchment paper. Avoid metal utensils—use silicone or wooden tongs.

I’ve made all these mistakes (and more). The key is to stay calm, adjust your method, and keep trying. After a few batches, you’ll develop a feel for what works with your air fryer and your taste.

Conclusion: Should You Cook Bacon in an Air Fryer?

So, can you do bacon in an air fryer? Absolutely. And after testing it extensively, I’d say you *should*. It’s faster, cleaner, and more consistent than stovetop or oven methods. The bacon comes out evenly crisp, with less grease and zero splatter. Plus, you can multitask while it cooks—something I appreciate on busy mornings.

Is it perfect? Not quite. You might get a little smoke if you’re not careful, and the texture is slightly different from pan-fried bacon. But for most people, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. Whether you’re making a quick breakfast, prepping for a crowd, or just craving a snack, the air fryer delivers reliable, delicious results every time.

My advice? Give it a try. Start with a small batch of regular-cut bacon at 350°F for 8–10 minutes. Adjust from there. Once you taste that first perfectly crisp strip, you’ll wonder how you ever cooked bacon any other way. And who knows—you might even start thinking about all the creative ways you can use it beyond the breakfast plate.

Happy cooking, and may your bacon always be crisp, your kitchen always be clean, and your mornings always be delicious.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you do bacon in an air fryer without making a mess?

Yes, cooking bacon in an air fryer is surprisingly clean. The basket contains splatter, and excess grease drains to the bottom, making cleanup easier than pan-frying.

What’s the best way to cook bacon in an air fryer?

Arrange bacon strips in a single layer (don’t overlap) and air fry at 350°F–375°F for 8–12 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispiness. Adjust time for thicker cuts.

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

Most bacon cooks in 8–12 minutes at 375°F. Thinner slices may need less time, while thicker cuts or extra-crispy preferences may require up to 15 minutes.

Does air fryer bacon taste as good as pan-fried?

Absolutely! Air fryer bacon is evenly crispy with less grease, and the circulating hot air gives it a similar texture to pan-fried—without constant flipping.

Can you cook frozen bacon in an air fryer?

Yes, you can air fry frozen bacon. Add 1–2 minutes to the cooking time and separate slices as they thaw to ensure even results.

Is air fryer bacon healthier than traditional methods?

Cooking bacon in an air fryer reduces excess grease since it drips away, resulting in slightly lower fat content. It’s a healthier twist on a classic favorite.