Air Fryer Bacon: Quick, Crispy, And Delicious

Cooking bacon in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to achieve crispy bacon with minimal mess and less fat. The air fryer's ability to circulate air means there is no need to flip the bacon during cooking, and the grease collects conveniently in the drawer underneath the basket, making it easy to discard. The cook time for bacon in an air fryer depends on the desired doneness, the thickness of the bacon, and the style of the air fryer.

How to cook bacon in an air fryer

Air fryer temperature and timing

The ideal temperature and timing for cooking bacon in an air fryer depend on several factors, including the desired doneness, the thickness of the bacon, and the style of the air fryer.

Most sources recommend cooking regular or thin-cut bacon at 350˚F (176.6˚C) for 7-9 minutes for softer bacon, and 8-9 minutes for crispy bacon. However, some sources suggest cooking at a higher temperature of 375˚F (190.5˚C) for 8 minutes, turning the bacon halfway, or cooking at 390˚F (200˚C) for 8 minutes, and then flipping and cooking for an additional 7 minutes.

For thick-cut bacon, it is recommended to cook at 350˚F (176.6˚C) for 9-12 minutes, depending on the desired doneness. However, one source suggests cooking at 400˚F (204.4˚C) for 9 minutes.

It is important to note that the smoke point of bacon fat is 400˚F (204.4˚C), so cooking at a lower temperature of 350˚F (176.6˚C) can help avoid any smokiness. Additionally, if cooking in batches, it is important to drain the drip pan of any oil and wipe it clean between batches.

Some air fryers may also require preheating, although it is not necessary for bacon. For those that do require preheating, it is recommended to preheat the air fryer for 3 minutes at 200˚C (390˚F) or according to the manufacturer's instructions.

How to layer the bacon

When layering bacon in an air fryer, it is recommended to place the bacon in a single layer, with some sources suggesting that a small amount of overlap is okay. The size of the air fryer basket will determine how many rashers you can cook at once. If you are cooking a large batch of bacon, you may need to cut the bacon strips in half to fit more in the basket.

It is important to note that the bacon will shrink as it cooks, so while the rashers can touch, they should not be stacked on top of each other. You can cook as many rashers as your air fryer basket can fit in a single layer.

If you are cooking thick-cut bacon, you will need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Thick-cut bacon will require a longer cooking time than thin-cut bacon. For example, thin-cut bacon should be checked after 5-6 minutes, while thick-cut bacon may need 9-12 minutes, depending on the desired doneness.

Additionally, if you are cooking in batches, be sure to drain the drip pan of any oil and wipe it clean between batches to prevent smoking. You can also place a thin slice of bread in the bottom of the air fryer to absorb grease and reduce smoking.

How to clean the air fryer

Cooking bacon in an air fryer is easy and results in evenly cooked bacon with minimal cleanup. However, it is important to clean your air fryer regularly to maintain its performance and ensure food safety. Here is a detailed guide on how to clean your air fryer:

Step 1: Unplug and Cool

Before you start cleaning, always remember to unplug the air fryer from the power source for safety. Allow the air fryer to cool down completely before handling. This is an important safety precaution to prevent burns and make cleaning safer.

Step 2: Remove Removable Parts

Most air fryers have removable parts such as the basket, tray, and pan. Carefully take out these components and set them aside for separate cleaning.

Step 3: Wash Removable Parts

Fill your sink with warm water and add a mild dish soap or liquid soap. Use a soft cloth, sponge, or non-abrasive scrubber to wash the removable parts. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrubbers, as they can scratch the non-stick coating of your air fryer. If your air fryer parts are dishwasher-safe, you can also use the dishwasher, but some people find that this can affect the non-stick coating over time. Make sure to dry the parts thoroughly before reassembling.

Step 4: Wipe Down the Interior and Exterior

Use a damp cloth, sponge, or paper towel to wipe down the inside and outside of the air fryer. You can also use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently clean tough-to-reach areas, like the holes in the grate and around the heating element. Be careful not to damage any components or bend the heating elements.

Step 5: Reassemble and Store

Once all the parts are clean and completely dry, reassemble the air fryer according to the manufacturer's instructions. Ensure everything is properly aligned and secure. Store your air fryer in a clean, dry place when not in use to prevent dust or grime buildup.

Deep Cleaning

For a deeper clean, especially if you notice a buildup of grease or burnt food particles, you can use a mixture of baking soda and water to create a thick paste. Apply this paste to the affected areas and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Rinse and dry thoroughly.

Additionally, you can use the air fryer's steam-cleaning function by filling the tray with water, adding liquid soap and lemon, and running it for 10-15 minutes. Repeat this process until the water is clear.

Remember to always refer to your specific air fryer model's owner's manual for any particular cleaning instructions or recommendations.

How to store cooked bacon

To store cooked bacon, let the bacon slices cool down completely. This will allow excess grease to drain off. Then, place the slices in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. Make sure to squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent the bacon from going rancid.

Cooked bacon can be stored in the refrigerator for four to five days. It can also be frozen and stored in the freezer for up to one month. If you're freezing the bacon, arrange the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them. Once frozen, transfer the slices to a freezer-safe bag.

It's important to note that the shelf life of bacon may vary depending on factors such as the type of bacon, whether the package has been opened, and the storage method. Additionally, always store bacon in the refrigerator or freezer, as it should not be kept at room temperature.

Some sources suggest that cooked bacon bits or slices can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. However, the majority of sources indicate a shorter shelf life of four to five days.

Crispy bacon vs soft bacon

Cooking bacon in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to make crispy bacon with minimal cleanup. The air fryer method is less messy than stovetop or oven cooking, and there is no need to preheat the oven.

To make crispy bacon in an air fryer, set the temperature to 350˚F to avoid any smokiness while cooking. Place the bacon strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket, cutting them in half if necessary to fit more. Regular cut bacon will cook in 7-9 minutes, while thick-cut bacon will take 10-12 minutes. For even crispier bacon, you can increase the temperature to 390˚F and cook for 8 minutes, then flip the bacon and cook for another 7 minutes.

If you prefer your bacon soft, simply reduce the cooking time. For regular cut bacon, 7 minutes at 350˚F will give you softer bacon, while thick-cut bacon will be softer after 9-10 minutes.

The beauty of cooking bacon in an air fryer is that you can easily customize the texture to your liking. Whether you like it crispy or soft, the air fryer will give you perfectly cooked bacon with no greasy splatters in the kitchen.

Frequently asked questions