Can I Make Bacon in an Air Fryer The Ultimate Guide

Yes, you can make perfectly crispy bacon in an air fryer—quick, easy, and with minimal mess. The air fryer cooks bacon evenly in 8–12 minutes at 375°F (190°C), eliminating the need for constant flipping and reducing grease splatter. It’s the ultimate hands-off method for delicious, restaurant-quality bacon every time.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can! Air fryers cook bacon quickly with less mess.
• No preheating needed: Saves time and energy when cooking bacon.
• Use single layers: Ensures even crisping and avoids sticking.
• Monitor closely: Prevents burning due to fast cook times.
• Drain excess grease: Pause mid-cook to remove rendered fat safely.
• Try different cuts: Adjust time for thick or thin bacon slices.

The Ultimate Guide to Making Bacon in an Air Fryer

Let’s be honest: bacon is one of those foods that can instantly elevate a meal—or even a mood. Whether it’s crispy strips on a weekend breakfast plate, crumbled over a salad, or wrapped around a juicy scallop, bacon has a way of making everything better. But cooking it? That’s where things get messy. Traditional pan-frying means splatters everywhere, smoke alarms going off, and that lingering bacon smell in your kitchen for days. Enter the air fryer: the modern kitchen gadget that promises crispy results with less mess. So, can you make bacon in an air fryer? Absolutely—and it might just be the best way to cook it.

I remember my first attempt at air fryer bacon. I was skeptical. Would it be rubbery? Soggy? Would it still taste like bacon? I followed a few tips, crossed my fingers, and 10 minutes later, I had perfectly crispy, evenly cooked bacon with almost no cleanup. Since then, I’ve experimented with different cuts, temperatures, and techniques—and I’ve learned a lot. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making bacon in an air fryer, from choosing the right kind to storing leftovers. Whether you’re a bacon newbie or a seasoned pro, this guide is for you.

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

When it comes to cooking bacon, most of us default to the stovetop. But the air fryer offers a game-changing alternative. Let’s break down the advantages and drawbacks of using this appliance.

Pros: The Perks of Air Fryer Bacon

• Less mess, less fuss: No more grease splatters on your stovetop, backsplash, or clothes. The air fryer’s closed chamber contains the mess, making cleanup a breeze. Just wipe down the basket or pop it in the dishwasher.
• Even cooking: The hot air circulates around the bacon, ensuring it cooks evenly on both sides. No more flipping halfway through or dealing with one side being burnt and the other underdone.
• Healthier (slightly): Because the fat drips away during cooking, you end up with slightly less grease in your final product. Plus, you’re not adding extra oil like you might with a pan.
• Faster and more efficient: No need to preheat a pan. Just set the timer and temperature, and the air fryer does the rest. It’s also great for cooking multiple strips at once.
• Versatile: You can cook bacon at the same time as other foods (like chicken tenders or sweet potato fries), saving time and energy.

Cons: What to Keep in Mind

• Not all air fryers are equal: Smaller models may only fit 4-6 strips at a time, which could be frustrating if you’re cooking for a crowd.
• Overcrowding leads to soggy bacon: If you pack too many strips in, they’ll steam instead of crisp up. Always leave space between each piece.
• Smoke potential: While less than stovetop cooking, fatty bacon can still produce smoke, especially if your air fryer doesn’t have a good grease tray. Use a lower temperature or drain excess fat mid-cook.
• Texture variation: Some people prefer the chewiness of pan-fried bacon. Air fryer bacon tends to be crisper and lighter, which might not be for everyone.

Overall, the pros far outweigh the cons—especially if you value convenience and cleanliness. And with a few tricks, you can minimize the downsides.

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

Now that you’re sold on the idea, let’s get into the nitty-gritty: how to cook bacon in an air fryer perfectly every time. This method works for most air fryer models, whether you have a basket-style (like Ninja or Instant Vortex) or an oven-style (like Cosori or Breville).

Step 1: Choose Your Bacon

Not all bacon is created equal. Here’s what to look for:

• Regular cut (thin or thick): Thin-cut cooks faster and gets crispier. Thick-cut takes longer but has a meatier texture. Both work well in an air fryer.
• Center-cut bacon: Leaner, with less fat, so it’s less likely to smoke or splatter.
• Turkey bacon or plant-based alternatives: These also cook well but may need a lower temperature (around 350°F) and slightly less time.
• Avoid pre-cooked or microwave bacon: These are already partially cooked and won’t crisp up properly in an air fryer.

Pro tip: For best results, use bacon that’s not overly fatty or overly lean. A good balance ensures flavor and crispiness without excessive smoke.

Step 2: Prep the Air Fryer Basket

• No need to preheat (though some models recommend it—check your manual).
• Line the basket (optional): You can use parchment paper with holes poked in it or a reusable silicone liner to catch drippings and make cleanup easier. Avoid aluminum foil—it can block airflow.
• Arrange the bacon: Lay the strips in a single layer, slightly overlapping if needed, but avoid stacking. Leave at least ¼ inch between strips for even air circulation.

Step 3: Set Temperature and Time

Here’s the golden rule: 375°F for 8-12 minutes, depending on your preference and bacon type.

• Thin-cut bacon: 8-10 minutes. Great for crispy, crumbled bacon on salads or baked potatoes.
• Regular or thick-cut bacon: 10-12 minutes. Perfect for chewy-crispy strips on sandwiches or with eggs.
• Turkey bacon: 8-10 minutes at 350°F. Watch closely—it burns faster.

Pro tip: Start with less time. You can always cook it longer, but you can’t un-burn bacon.

Step 4: Monitor and Drain (If Needed)

• Check at the halfway mark: Flip the bacon if your model doesn’t circulate air evenly (most modern ones do, but it’s good to check).
• Drain excess fat: If the basket is collecting too much grease, carefully pour it out halfway through. This reduces smoke and prevents soggy bacon.
• Watch for smoke: If you see or smell smoke, pause the cook and drain the grease. Reduce temperature to 350°F for the rest of the cook.

Step 5: Remove and Rest

• Use tongs to transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate. This absorbs any residual grease and keeps it crisp.
• Let it rest for 1-2 minutes: This allows the bacon to firm up and prevents burning your fingers.

And that’s it! You’ve made perfect air fryer bacon. Now, let’s talk about how to make it even better.

Expert Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Bacon Every Time

Now that you know the basics, let’s level up. These pro tips and tricks will help you avoid common pitfalls and get restaurant-quality bacon at home.

Tip 1: Use a Wire Rack (If Your Model Allows)

Some air fryers come with a wire rack or crisper plate. If yours does, use it! Placing the bacon on a rack elevates it, allowing hot air to circulate underneath. This means even crispier bacon with less flipping. Just make sure the rack is oven-safe and fits snugly in your basket.

Tip 2: Cook in Batches for Large Quantities

If you’re cooking for a crowd, don’t try to cram 12 strips in at once. Cook in batches of 4-6 strips, and keep cooked bacon warm in a low oven (200°F) on a baking sheet. This keeps it crisp while you finish the rest. Pro tip: Cover loosely with foil to prevent drying out.

Tip 3: Adjust for Your Air Fryer Model

Every air fryer is different. Here’s how to adapt:

• Basket-style (Ninja, Cosori, etc.): These cook faster due to compact size. Start with 8 minutes for thin bacon.
• Oven-style (Breville, Philips, etc.): These have more space, so bacon may take longer. Add 1-2 minutes to the time.
• Small models (2-3 quart): Cook 2-3 strips at a time. It’s worth the extra time for better results.

Keep a small notebook or sticky note with your model’s ideal time and temp—it’ll save you guesswork.

Tip 4: Make It Extra Crispy (or Chewy)

• Extra crispy: Add 1-2 minutes to the cook time. Or, cook at 390°F for the last 2 minutes (watch closely).
• Chewy bacon: Reduce time by 1-2 minutes and cook at 360°F. Great for BLTs or wrapping around asparagus.

Tip 5: Save the Bacon Grease (Yes, Really!)

Don’t toss that liquid gold! Save it in a jar and use it to:

• Fry eggs for a smoky flavor
• Roast vegetables (potatoes, Brussels sprouts)
• Add to soups or stews for depth

Just strain it through a fine-mesh sieve and store in the fridge for up to 1 month.

Tip 6: Clean Your Air Fryer Properly

Bacon grease can build up and affect performance. After each use:

• Wash the basket and tray with warm, soapy water (or dishwasher-safe).
• Wipe down the interior with a damp cloth.
• Check the heating element for grease buildup—clean with a soft brush if needed.

This keeps your air fryer running efficiently and prevents smoke during future cooks.

Beyond Plain Bacon: Creative Recipes and Ideas

Now that you’ve mastered basic air fryer bacon, let’s get creative. The air fryer is perfect for cooking bacon in unique ways—and pairing it with other foods for delicious results.

1. Bacon-Wrapped Everything

The air fryer is ideal for bacon-wrapped appetizers. Try:

• Bacon-wrapped jalapeños: Fill halved jalapeños with cream cheese, wrap in bacon, and air fry at 375°F for 12-15 minutes.
• Bacon-wrapped scallops: Wrap raw scallops in bacon and cook at 375°F for 10-12 minutes. Flip halfway.
• Bacon-wrapped asparagus: Wrap spears in bacon and cook at 375°F for 10 minutes. Drizzle with balsamic after.

Pro tip: Secure with toothpicks if needed, but remove before eating.

2. Air Fryer BLT

Make the ultimate BLT in minutes:

• Cook bacon (8-10 minutes).
• While it cooks, toast bread in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes.
• Assemble with lettuce, tomato, mayo, and your crispy bacon.

3. Crumble It for Salads and Pasta

Air fryer bacon crumbles beautifully. Use it in:

• Caesar salad (instead of store-bought)
• Pasta carbonara (add crumbled bacon at the end)
• Loaded baked potatoes or nachos

4. Bacon and Egg Cups

Make individual breakfast cups:

• Line muffin tins with bacon strips.
• Add an egg and cheese.
• Air fry at 350°F for 10-12 minutes.

Perfect for meal prep!

5. Maple-Balsamic Glazed Bacon

For a sweet-savory twist:

• Brush raw bacon with a mix of maple syrup and balsamic vinegar.
• Air fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes.
• Brush again halfway through.

Serve as a snack or with pancakes.

Data Table: Air Fryer Bacon Cooking Times and Temperatures

Here’s a quick-reference table to help you cook bacon perfectly every time. Remember, these are guidelines—adjust based on your air fryer and preference.

Bacon Type	Temperature	Time (Minutes)	Texture	Notes
Thin-cut (regular)	375°F	8-10	Crispy	Great for crumbles; check at 8 min
Regular-cut	375°F	10-12	Crispy-chewy	Ideal for breakfast plates
Thick-cut	375°F	12-14	Chewy-crispy	Drain fat halfway if needed
Center-cut	375°F	10-12	Leaner, crisp	Less smoke; good for health-conscious
Turkey bacon	350°F	8-10	Lightly crisp	Watch closely; prone to burning
Plant-based bacon	350°F	7-9	Texture varies	Follow package directions; may need less time
Bacon-wrapped items	375°F	12-15	Depends on filling	Flip halfway; secure with toothpicks

Storing, Reheating, and Safety Tips

Got leftovers? Great! Bacon is one of the few foods that reheats well. Here’s how to store and reheat it without losing that crispy texture.

Storing Cooked Bacon

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container or zip-top bag for up to 5-7 days. Separate layers with paper towels to prevent sticking.
• Freezer: Wrap individual strips in parchment paper, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating Bacon

• Air fryer: The best method! Reheat at 350°F for 2-3 minutes. It’ll be just as crispy as when it was first cooked.
• Oven: Spread on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Use only if you’re in a hurry. Place on a microwave-safe plate with a paper towel on top. Heat in 20-second bursts until warm. Note: It’ll be less crispy.

Safety and Hygiene Tips

• Never leave raw bacon out for more than 2 hours (1 hour if it’s hot outside).
• Wash hands and surfaces after handling raw bacon to avoid cross-contamination.
• Don’t reuse cooking grease that’s been sitting out—it can harbor bacteria.
• Use separate tongs for raw and cooked bacon to avoid foodborne illness.

And remember: if bacon smells off or looks slimy, throw it out. It’s not worth the risk.

Conclusion: Is Air Fryer Bacon Worth It?

So, can you make bacon in an air fryer? Yes—and you should. It’s faster, cleaner, and produces evenly cooked, delicious bacon every time. Whether you’re cooking a few strips for breakfast or a whole pack for a party, the air fryer delivers consistent results with minimal effort.

Sure, it’s not perfect. Smaller models have space limitations, and you’ll need to adjust times for different cuts. But once you get the hang of it, you’ll wonder why you ever used a pan. The reduced mess, the even cooking, and the versatility (hello, bacon-wrapped everything!) make it a total win.

My advice? Start simple. Cook a few strips at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, then tweak based on your taste. Save the grease. Try a new recipe. And enjoy the fact that your kitchen will smell like bacon heaven—without the smoke alarm going off.

Bacon is more than a food. It’s a ritual, a comfort, a little slice of joy. And with the air fryer, making it is easier—and more fun—than ever. So go ahead, fire up your air fryer, and make some bacon. Your taste buds (and your stovetop) will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make bacon in an air fryer without making a mess?

Yes, cooking bacon in an air fryer is surprisingly clean! The basket contains grease, and the circulating air reduces splatter compared to stovetop frying.

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

Arrange bacon strips in a single layer (don’t overlap) and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8–12 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispiness. Adjust time based on thickness and desired texture.

Do I need to preheat my air fryer before cooking bacon?

Preheating isn’t required, but it can help achieve crispier bacon faster. If skipping preheat, add 1–2 minutes to your cook time for similar results.

How much bacon can I cook at once in an air fryer?

Most air fryer baskets hold 6–8 strips in a single layer. Overcrowding leads to uneven cooking, so cook in batches if needed. The keyword here is *air fryer bacon* efficiency!

Is air-fried bacon healthier than pan-fried bacon?

Yes! The air fryer drains excess fat as it cooks, reducing grease by up to 70%. This method also cuts down on harmful compounds linked to high-heat frying.

Can I cook frozen bacon in an air fryer?

Absolutely. No thawing needed—just increase cook time by 2–3 minutes. The air fryer’s heat circulates evenly, preventing cold spots in *frozen bacon cooked in air fryer*.