Air Fryer Bacon: Can You Do It?

Cooking bacon in an air fryer is a quick, easy, and convenient way to get crispy bacon without the mess. It's faster than cooking bacon in the oven and there's less splatter than cooking it on a stovetop. The cook time depends on the thickness of the bacon and how crispy you want it to be. For example, regular cut bacon can be cooked at 350˚F for 7-9 minutes, while thick-cut bacon may need 9-12 minutes. The key to preventing smoking is to cook the bacon at a temperature lower than the smoke point of bacon grease, which is 400˚F. So, cooking at 350˚F is ideal.

How long to cook bacon in an air fryer

Yes, you can cook bacon in an air fryer! The cooking time will depend on the type of bacon you are using and how crispy you like it.

For regular cut bacon, air fry at 350˚F for 7-9 minutes. If you like softer bacon, air fry for 7 minutes, and for crispy bacon, cook for 8 to 9 minutes.

For thick-cut bacon, air fry at 350˚F for 9-12 minutes. For softer bacon, air fry for 9-10 minutes, and for crispy bacon, cook for 10-12 minutes.

If you are using a toaster oven-style air fryer, you may need to increase the cooking time. One user reported cooking bacon in a toaster oven-style air fryer for 8 minutes, while it took 9 minutes in a basket-style air fryer.

Some recipes suggest cooking at a higher temperature of 400˚F. However, the smoke point of bacon fat is 400˚F, so you may want to stick to 350˚F to avoid any smokiness. At 400˚F, thin-cut bacon will be ready in 5-6 minutes, while thick-cut bacon will take 9 minutes.

If you like your bacon extra crispy, you can increase the cooking time by a minute or two. One user reported cooking their bacon for an extra minute and a half to get it to their desired level of doneness.

When cooking bacon in an air fryer, it is important to arrange the bacon slices in a single layer, with minimal overlap. This ensures that the air can circulate around each slice, crisping it up nicely. You may need to cut the bacon strips in half to achieve this.

You don't need to preheat the air fryer before adding the bacon, and there is no need to flip the bacon halfway through cooking. Simply arrange the bacon in the air fryer basket, set the temperature and timer, and let it cook!

Once the bacon is done to your liking, use tongs to transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to blot and drain off any excess grease. If you are cooking multiple batches, be sure to discard any grease in the drip pan and wipe the pan clean with a paper towel before adding more bacon to the air fryer.

How to prevent bacon from smoking

Yes, you can cook bacon in an air fryer! However, it is important to be cautious of the smoke point of bacon fat, which is 400˚F. To prevent your bacon from smoking, follow these steps:

Firstly, avoid cooking at temperatures higher than 350˚F. This will prevent the grease from splattering and smoking. Set your air fryer to 350˚F or lower to ensure the bacon cooks safely and effectively.

Secondly, use a single layer of bacon strips in the air fryer basket. Cut the bacon strips in half if they are too long to fit comfortably in a single layer. This will ensure even cooking and prevent overcrowding.

Thirdly, for air fryer baskets, place a slice of bread or a small amount of water underneath the basket to catch any grease drips. Alternatively, use a drip tray or a piece of aluminium foil under the crisper tray to prevent grease from overflowing.

Additionally, if cooking in batches, be sure to drain the drip pan of any oil between batches and wipe it clean with a paper towel. This will help to reduce the risk of grease buildup and subsequent smoking.

Finally, keep in mind that thinner bacon slices will require less cooking time, so adjust your timing accordingly to prevent overcooking and potential smoking.

By following these steps, you can safely cook bacon in your air fryer and prevent it from smoking. Enjoy your crispy bacon without the worry of smoke!

How to store and reheat air fryer bacon

Storing Air Fryer Bacon

Allow the cooked bacon to cool completely before storing. Blot the bacon slices with paper towels to remove excess grease, and then place them in an airtight container or zip-top bag. Push out any excess air and store the container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating Air Fryer Bacon in the Air Fryer

The air fryer is a great option for reheating leftover bacon and making it crispy again. Preheat your air fryer to between 370°F and 375°F. Place the bacon slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between each slice to allow for air circulation. Reheat for 2-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Thicker bacon slices may require a higher temperature and longer cooking time. For optimal crispiness, pat off any excess grease with paper towels.

Other Methods for Reheating Air Fryer Bacon

You can also reheat bacon in a skillet on the stovetop, in the oven, in the microwave, in a toaster oven, on a griddle, or in a convection oven. To reheat in a skillet, heat the skillet over medium heat and cook the bacon for a few minutes until it is sizzling, turning it over once or twice for even cooking. To reheat in the oven or toaster oven, preheat to 350°F and arrange the bacon slices on a baking sheet. Heat in the oven for about 8-10 minutes, or in the toaster oven for 5-7 minutes, until crispy. When reheating in the microwave, place the bacon on a microwave-safe plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess grease. Heat in 30-second intervals on 50% or medium power until the bacon is heated through.

Air fryer temperature for cooking bacon

Yes, you can cook bacon in an air fryer! The optimal temperature for cooking bacon in an air fryer depends on the thickness of the bacon and how crispy you want it to be.

For regular cut bacon, air fry at 350˚F for 7-9 minutes. If you want softer bacon, air fry for 7 minutes, and for crispy bacon, cook for 8 to 9 minutes.

For thick-cut bacon, the air fryer temperature should be the same as for regular cut bacon, 350˚F, but the cooking time should be longer. For softer thick-cut bacon, air fry for 9-10 minutes, and for crispy bacon, cook for 10-12 minutes.

Some recipes suggest a higher temperature of 360˚F for regular cut bacon, cooked for 7-9 minutes, and 12-14 minutes for thick-cut bacon.

If you like your bacon very crispy, you can air fry at 400˚F for 9 minutes for thick-cut bacon. However, be aware that cooking bacon at a higher temperature may cause smoking, so it is recommended to cook at 350˚F or less to avoid this issue.

Additionally, the cooking time may vary depending on the specific air fryer model, so it is important to keep an eye on the bacon while it is cooking to prevent overcooking or burning.

How to clean an air fryer after cooking bacon

Yes, you can cook bacon in an air fryer! It's a lot quicker than cooking bacon in the oven, and there's less mess. The grease collects underneath the basket in the drawer, so there are no grease splatters in the kitchen, and it's easy to discard.

Cleaning an air fryer basket after cooking bacon is important to keep your fryer in good condition and to prevent a build-up of grease. Here is a step-by-step guide:

• Prepare the Air Fryer Basket: After cooking bacon, remove the basket from the air fryer and let it cool down. If there are any large chunks of food residue, use a soft sponge or cloth to wipe them away gently. Be careful, as the basket will be hot.
• Create a Cleaning Solution: In a small bowl, mix two tablespoons of baking soda with the juice of half a lemon. Then, add a teaspoon of hot water to create a paste. Baking soda has a fine, abrasive texture that can help lift stuck-on food and grease without scratching the surface. Meanwhile, lemon has natural antibacterial properties and can leave a fresh scent.
• Apply the Paste: Pour the paste directly into the air fryer basket. Using a soft toothbrush or sponge, gently scrub the paste onto the basket's surface. Ensure you use a toothbrush or sponge dedicated to cleaning, as harder bristles or scrubbers may damage the coating.
• Rinse and Dry: Once you've scrubbed the basket, rinse it with warm water to remove any remaining residue, grease, or cleaning solution. Dry the basket thoroughly with a clean cloth or paper towel before placing it back into the air fryer.

Additionally, here are some tips for cleaning and maintaining your air fryer:

• Regular Cleaning: It's important to clean your air fryer basket after each use, especially after cooking greasy foods like bacon. This will prevent a build-up of grease and grime, making it easier to clean and maintaining the air fryer's performance.
• Drip Pan: If your air fryer has a drip pan, be sure to clean it after each use as well. Pour out any excess grease and wipe it down with a paper towel before the grease hardens and becomes more difficult to remove.
• Grease Disposal: Properly dispose of the grease collected in the air fryer's drawer or drip pan. Let it cool, and then pour it into a container with a secure lid, such as a jar or bottle. You can also use paper towels or napkins to absorb the grease and then throw them away. Do not pour grease down the sink, as it can cause clogs.
• Manufacturer's Instructions: Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions or manual for specific cleaning guidelines for your air fryer. Some air fryers may have particular dos and don'ts regarding cleaning solutions or methods.

By following these steps and tips, you can keep your air fryer clean and well-maintained, ensuring it remains in good working condition and is ready for your next cooking adventure!

Frequently asked questions