Air Fryer Frozen Bacon: Quick, Crispy, Delicious

Cooking bacon in an air fryer is a quick, mess-free, and easy way to get crispy bacon. You can cook bacon from frozen in an air fryer, but it will take an extra few minutes on each side.

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

Yes, you can cook bacon straight from frozen in an air fryer. The cooking time will depend on the type of bacon you are using and your desired level of crispiness.

For thin-cut bacon, it will take 7-9 minutes in the air fryer at 350°F (180°C). For thick-cut bacon, it will take 10-12 minutes at the same temperature. If you are using an air fryer at 390°F (200°C), the cooking time will be shorter, around 4 minutes on each side or until thawed. For extra crispy bacon, you can increase the cooking time by a few minutes.

It is important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the make and model of your air fryer, so it is recommended to keep an eye on the bacon as it cooks and adjust the timing as needed.

What temperature should the air fryer be set to?

The ideal temperature for cooking bacon in an air fryer depends on the type of bacon and the desired crispiness. For regular-cut bacon, a temperature of 350°F to 400°F for 5 to 7 minutes is recommended. For thicker bacon, a slightly lower temperature of 360°F to 375°F for 6 to 12 minutes is ideal.

It is important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the desired crispiness and the type of air fryer being used. For a crispier texture, increase the cooking time by a few minutes.

Additionally, when cooking frozen bacon, it is advisable to start at a lower temperature of 350°F until the bacon is thawed and can be separated into individual slices. Then, increase the temperature to 400°F for the desired crispiness.

How to prevent the air fryer from smoking

Yes, you can cook frozen bacon in an air fryer. Here is a step-by-step guide:

How to Cook Frozen Bacon in an Air Fryer:

• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (180°C).
• Cut the frozen bacon strips in half so they fit in the air fryer basket.
• Place the bacon strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
• Cook for 7-9 minutes for regular bacon or 10-12 minutes for thick-cut bacon, flipping the bacon halfway through.
• Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain the excess grease.
• Clean your air fryer regularly: Grease and food residue can build up and burn, causing smoke. Wash the basket, drip tray, and accessories with warm soapy water after each use.
• Use high-quality oils: Opt for oils with a higher smoke point, such as avocado oil, olive oil, or peanut oil.
• Avoid overcrowding the basket: Ensure proper air circulation by not overfilling the basket. Space out the bacon strips in a single layer.
• Reduce cooking time: Limit cooking times to 15-20 minutes to prevent overheating and the buildup of smoke.
• Trim excess fat: Before cooking, trim excess fat from meats to reduce dripping and smoke.
• Use water: Adding a tablespoon of water to the drip tray can help diffuse the grease drips and prevent smoking.
• Use slices of bread: Bread placed at the bottom of the air fryer can absorb dripping grease and prevent smoking.

How to store and reheat frozen bacon

Storing Frozen Bacon

There are a few ways to store frozen bacon, depending on how long you want to keep it for.

For short-term storage, the oven is your best option. Set the temperature to 200ºF and centre a baking rack. Lay your cooked bacon strips on a baking sheet and place them in the oven, where they will stay crispy for a few hours.

For medium-term storage, use the refrigerator. Allow the bacon to cool to room temperature, then place it in an airtight bag. Remove as much air as possible and seal the bag before placing it in the refrigerator. Bacon stored this way will stay fresh for up to five days.

For long-term storage, use the freezer. As with refrigerating, allow the meat to cool before sealing it in an airtight bag. Frozen cooked bacon will stay fresh for about a month.

Reheating Frozen Bacon

There are several ways to reheat frozen bacon.

If you're aiming for a savoury crunch, the oven is the best option. Preheat your oven or toaster oven to 400ºF. Lay your bacon out in a single layer on a baking sheet and pop it into the oven for about five minutes. Once you hear your bacon begin to sizzle, it's ready to eat!

If you're in a hurry, you can also reheat your bacon on the stovetop. Turn a burner on to medium-high heat and allow a frying pan to heat up. Once the pan is hot, place a single layer of bacon on it and cook for a few minutes until crispy.

Another option is to use an air fryer. Preheat your fryer to 350ºF and cook your bacon for three to four minutes.

If you're reheating a small amount of bacon, you can use a non-stick skillet. There's no need for additional oil or butter in the pan. Try to keep the bacon as flat as possible on the surface so that each side heats evenly.

If you're reheating frozen bacon, the first step is to defrost it. Move the bag of bacon to the refrigerator and allow it to defrost for at least eight hours. If you're short on time, you can also defrost it in the microwave.

What to serve with frozen bacon cooked in an air fryer

Yes, you can cook bacon straight from frozen in an air fryer. It's super easy and convenient, and you'll be left with super crispy bacon!

Bacon is a versatile ingredient that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas on what to serve with your frozen bacon cooked in an air fryer:

• Breakfast classics: Bacon goes perfectly with scrambled eggs, pancakes, waffles, breakfast potatoes, and hash browns. You can easily prepare these while your bacon is cooking in the air fryer.
• Toppings: Chop up the cooked bacon and sprinkle it on deviled eggs, Irish nachos, potato soup, pizza, or baked potatoes.
• Mix-ins: Toss the cooked bacon into salads, egg scrambles, omelets, or macaroni and cheese.
• Sandwiches: Include the bacon strips in BLTs, cheesesteaks, cold-cut subs, club sandwiches, or other sandwiches.
• Sides: Serve the bacon with eggs and toast for a classic breakfast combination.
• Recipes: Use your air-fried bacon in recipes such as Slow Cooker Cauliflower Soup, Creamy Pasta with Bacon and Peas, Roasted Cabbage Steaks with Bacon, or Warm German Potato Salad.

Frequently asked questions