Air Fryer Bacon: Is It Possible?

Cooking bacon in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to achieve crispy bacon with less fat and mess. It is also a safer option as the grease collects underneath the basket in a drawer, reducing the risk of hot grease splatters. The cook time for bacon in an air fryer can vary depending on the thickness of the bacon, the amount being cooked, and the style of the air fryer. However, on average, it takes around 5-10 minutes to cook bacon in an air fryer, making it a convenient option for those looking for a quick and tasty breakfast or BLT sandwich.

Air fryer temperature and timing

The temperature and timing for cooking bacon in an air fryer depend on the type of bacon and the desired doneness. The air fryer temperature should be set between 350˚F and 390˚F (180˚C and 200˚C). The cooking time for regular bacon ranges from 5 to 9 minutes, while thick-cut bacon may require up to 12 minutes.

For regular cut bacon, it is recommended to cook at 350˚F for 7 minutes for softer bacon, and 8 to 9 minutes for crispier bacon. If you prefer your bacon crispy, you can cook it for an additional 2 to 3 minutes. However, be cautious to avoid burning the bacon, especially at higher temperatures like 390˚F.

Thick-cut bacon requires a longer cooking time. At 350˚F, cook thick-cut bacon for 9 to 10 minutes for softer bacon, and 10 to 12 minutes for crispier bacon. Again, you can adjust the cooking time based on your desired level of crispiness.

It is important to note that some air fryers may require preheating, while others do not. Additionally, the size of your air fryer basket will determine the number of bacon rashers you can cook at once, and you may need to cook in batches.

When cooking bacon in an air fryer, it is generally recommended to place the bacon strips in a single layer, with some overlap being acceptable. The bacon will shrink as it cooks, so it is fine for the strips to touch initially.

Thickness of bacon

The cooking time for bacon in an air fryer depends on several factors, including the thickness of the bacon, the desired doneness, and the model of the air fryer.

For regular-cut bacon, the cooking time ranges from 7 to 9 minutes for softer bacon and 8 to 9 minutes for crispy bacon. However, if you are using thick-cut bacon, you will need to increase the cooking time. The cooking time for thick-cut bacon ranges from 9 to 12 minutes for softer bacon and 10 to 12 minutes for crispy bacon.

It is important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the specific air fryer model and the desired doneness of the bacon. Some air fryers may require longer or shorter cooking times to achieve the desired results. Additionally, if your bacon strips are sliced a little thick, you will need to add extra time to ensure they are cooked all the way through.

To ensure even cooking, it is recommended to place the bacon strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket, with some overlap being acceptable. If the strips are too long, trimming them down can help prevent curling and uneven cooking.

When cooking thick-cut bacon, it is important to keep an eye on it as it may create more smoke due to its higher fat content. Adjusting the cooking time based on the thickness of the bacon and your desired level of crispiness is crucial.

Overlapping bacon

Yes, you can cook raw bacon in an air fryer. However, it is recommended that you avoid overlapping the bacon strips to ensure even cooking and crispiness. If you are cooking a large quantity of bacon and need to overlap the bacon, be sure to cut the bacon strips in half so they fit in a single layer. This will help you achieve the best results.

When cooking bacon in an air fryer, it is important to note that the cook time can vary depending on the desired doneness, the thickness of the bacon, and the style of your air fryer. For regular cut bacon, cook at 350˚F for 7-9 minutes for softer bacon, and 8 to 9 minutes for crispy bacon. If you are using thick-cut bacon, cook at 350˚F for 9-12 minutes for softer bacon and 10-12 minutes for crispy bacon.

If you are cooking in batches, be sure to drain the drip pan of any oil and wipe it clean with a paper towel between batches. This will help to prevent smoking and make cleaning easier. Additionally, placing a thin slice of bread at the bottom of the air fryer can help absorb grease and reduce smoking.

It is not necessary to preheat the air fryer before cooking bacon. Simply place the bacon strips in a single layer, without overlapping, and adjust the cooking time according to your desired level of crispiness.

Clean-up

Cooking bacon in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to make crispy bacon with minimal cleanup.

It is recommended that you clean your air fryer after every use to prevent any grease or food residue from building up. This will ensure that your air fryer remains in good condition and functions as expected. Bacon grease can be particularly stubborn and difficult to remove once it has cooled and solidified.

To make cleaning easier, you can wipe down the interior of the air fryer with a paper towel or cloth while it is still warm. This will help to remove any excess grease and prevent it from sticking to the surface of the air fryer. You can also use a baster to remove grease from the fryer.

If you have cooked bacon in batches, be sure to drain the drip pan of any oil and wipe it clean with a paper towel before repeating the process. You can also put a thin slice of bread in the bottom of the air fryer to absorb grease and simplify cleaning.

Once you have removed the excess grease, you can soak the basket, tray, and any other detachable parts in hot water mixed with dish soap for about 10 to 15 minutes. This will soften any remaining grease and make it easier to clean. If you have a non-stick air fryer, avoid using abrasive cleaning tools that can scratch the coating. A soft sponge or cloth should be used instead.

Finally, burn off any remaining grease by heating the air fryer at its highest setting for about five minutes. Ensure that the air fryer is well-ventilated during this process.

Batch cooking

Yes, you can cook raw bacon in an air fryer. It is a quick and easy way to make crispy bacon with less fat and a mess. Batch cooking bacon in an air fryer is an efficient way to prepare a large quantity of bacon with minimal cleanup. Here is a step-by-step guide to batch cooking bacon in an air fryer:

Step 1: Prepare the Air Fryer and Bacon

Firstly, ensure your air fryer is clean and ready to use. You don't need to preheat the air fryer, but if your model recommends it, set the temperature to 350˚F (180˚C). Line the drip pan with a thin slice of bread or some kitchen paper to absorb grease and simplify cleanup. Cut the bacon strips in half to fit more inside the air fryer, ensuring they lie in a single layer with minimal overlap.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

Place the bacon in the air fryer basket and follow a recommended cook time based on your desired outcome. For softer, regular-cut bacon, cook for 5-7 minutes at 350˚F. For crispy, regular-cut bacon, cook for 8-9 minutes at 350˚F. If you're using thick-cut bacon, increase the cooking time to 9-12 minutes for crispy bacon. Check the bacon halfway through and adjust the timing as needed.

Step 3: Post-Cooking Cleanup

Once the bacon is cooked to your liking, transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess grease. Be sure to discard the oil in the drip pan and wipe it clean before starting a new batch. The second batch may cook faster due to the air fryer already being heated up. Repeat the process until you've cooked your desired quantity of bacon.

Tips for Batch Cooking Bacon in an Air Fryer:

• Experiment with different timings and temperatures to find your preferred level of crispiness.
• Cut the bacon strips in half to ensure even cooking and crispiness, especially if they overlap in the air fryer.
• Use the cooked bacon for various dishes like BLT sandwiches, breakfast sandwiches, wraps, salads, or as a topping for eggs or other meals.
• If you're cooking a large batch, prepare a plate with paper towels to place the cooked bacon on while you continue frying the rest.

Frequently asked questions