Air-Fryer Bacon: Crispy Perfection In Minutes

Cooking bacon in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to achieve crispy bacon with minimal mess. The cooking time and temperature will depend on the type of bacon you are cooking and the style of your air fryer. Regular cut bacon will take 7-9 minutes at 350˚F, while thick-cut bacon will take 10-12 minutes at the same temperature. If you like your bacon crispy, you can cook it for longer, up to 12-15 minutes. It's important to note that you should arrange the bacon in a single layer in the air fryer basket, with some overlap being okay.

Cooking Bacon in an Air Fryer

Cooking times for different bacon types

Bacon is produced from pork cuts that are cured—a process of preserving—using salts, or a mixture of salts and sugars. There are several types of bacon, differentiated by the way they are prepared, cured, or cut. Here is a guide to cooking times for different bacon types in an air fryer:

Regular Cut Bacon

For softer bacon, air fry at 350˚F for 7 minutes. For crispy bacon, increase the cooking time to 8-9 minutes.

Thick-Cut Bacon

For softer thick-cut bacon, air fry at 350˚F for 9-10 minutes. For crispy bacon, increase the cooking time to 10-12 minutes.

Turkey Bacon

Since turkey bacon is leaner and thinner than regular bacon, reduce the cooking time and air fry for 5-7 minutes.

Thick-Sliced Bacon

For thick-sliced bacon, air fry at 375˚F for 8 minutes, turning halfway. For crispier bacon, increase the cooking time to 10 minutes.

American Bacon

American bacon is cut from the pork belly and is typically cooked until crispy. Air fry at 350˚F for 8-9 minutes.

Canadian Bacon

Canadian bacon is leaner and meatier than American bacon, and is cut from the pork loin. Air fry at 350˚F for 7-9 minutes, depending on the desired crispiness.

Irish Bacon

Irish bacon is cured similarly to Canadian bacon and is cut from the loin. It has a rich fat content that gives it a savoury flavour. Air fry at 350˚F for 7-9 minutes, depending on the desired crispiness.

Russian Bacon (Salo)

Russian bacon consists mainly of fat and has very little meat. Air fry at 350˚F for 7-9 minutes, or until the desired crispiness is achieved.

Pancetta

Pancetta is an Italian-style bacon made from pork belly. It is often consumed raw, but can also be smoked or cured. Air fry at 350˚F for 7-9 minutes, or until the desired crispiness is achieved.

Gypsy Bacon

Gypsy bacon is popular in Hungary and is smoke-cured with the rind on. Air fry at 350˚F for 7-9 minutes, or until the desired crispiness is achieved. Be sure to cook it over an open flame to release the full flavour.

Uncured Bacon

Uncured bacon has no artificial or sodium nitrates. Air fry at 350˚F for 7-9 minutes, or until the desired crispiness is achieved.

Vegan Bacon

Vegan bacon is made from soy-based tempeh, tofu, wheat-based seitan, strips of rice paper, or coconut flakes. Air fry at 350˚F for 7-9 minutes, or until crispy.

Temperature settings for desired crispness

The temperature setting for your air fryer will depend on the type of bacon you are cooking and how crispy you like it.

For regular cut bacon, set your air fryer to 350˚F. If you like your bacon softer, cook it for 7 minutes. For crispy bacon, cook it for 8 to 9 minutes. If you are using an air fryer that requires a higher temperature, you may need to cook your bacon at 400˚F for 10 minutes. If you like your bacon well-done, you can cook it for an additional minute and a half.

For thick-cut bacon, you can follow the same temperature setting of 350˚F. However, the cooking time will be longer. For softer bacon, air fry for 9-10 minutes, and for crispy bacon, cook for 10-12 minutes. If you like your bacon extra crispy, you can cook it for 12-15 minutes.

It's important to note that all air fryers cook differently, and the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your bacon and your desired level of crispness. It's always a good idea to check on your bacon periodically to ensure it's cooking to your desired level of doneness.

Additionally, some people suggest preheating your air fryer for about 3 minutes before adding the bacon to prevent sticking. However, others claim that preheating is not necessary for bacon.

Experiment with different temperatures and timings to find the perfect combination for your air fryer and your preferred bacon crispness.

How to clean an air fryer after cooking bacon

Cooking bacon in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get perfect, crispy bacon. The cooking process is simple: lay the bacon in the air fryer basket in a single layer, set the temperature, and fry until it reaches the desired crispiness. The temperature and time will depend on the thickness of the bacon and the style of the air fryer. For regular cut bacon, fry at 350˚F for 7-9 minutes, and for thick-cut bacon, fry at 350˚F for 9-12 minutes.

Now, onto the cleaning. Cleaning an air fryer after cooking bacon is important to keep your fryer in good condition and to prevent a greasy buildup. Luckily, the process is straightforward and doesn't take too long. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Step 1: Remove Excess Grease

First, remove the basket, tray, and pan from the air fryer. Dispose of the excess grease properly. You can use paper towels or napkins to soak up the grease and then throw them away, or you can pour the grease into a container and dispose of it later. Some people like to save their bacon grease for cooking, while others pour it down the sink after mixing it with dish soap to emulsify the grease. Make sure to also wipe down the main unit of the air fryer with a damp cloth or Swedish dishcloth to remove any grease or food residue.

Step 2: Clean the Basket and Accessories

Fill the sink with warm water and add some dish soap. Wash the basket, tray, and pan in the soapy water, just like you would wash any other dish. You can use a sponge or dishcloth to scrub away any food buildup or grease. For tough grease, you can use a Scrub Daddy sponge, which is durable and sturdy. Just be careful not to scrub the interior cooking surface too hard to avoid scratching it.

Step 3: Dry and Reassemble

Once you've washed the basket and accessories, dry them thoroughly with a towel or air dry them before reassembling the air fryer. Make sure all parts are completely dry before putting the air fryer back together.

Step 4: Check the Heating Coil

After each use, check the heating coil of your air fryer for any oil or residue. If there is any buildup, let the machine cool down, then wipe the coil with a damp cloth or a dish brush. Make sure to dry the coil completely before using the air fryer again.

Optional: Deep Clean with Steam

If your air fryer needs a deeper clean, you can try this method: fill the basket with water and add a few drops of dish soap and lemon juice or vinegar. Turn on the air fryer for a couple of minutes, then rinse the basket. This will help loosen any stubborn grease and grime.

That's it! Your air fryer should now be clean and ready for your next cooking adventure. Remember to clean your air fryer regularly, especially after cooking greasy foods like bacon, to maintain its performance and longevity.

How to prevent smoke when cooking bacon

Cooking bacon in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get crispy bacon with minimal mess. However, it can be challenging to do so without creating a cloud of smoke. Here are some tips to prevent smoke when cooking bacon in an air fryer:

Temperature Control:

Air fryers heat up quickly, so it is essential to control the temperature to prevent the bacon from burning. Set the temperature to around 350˚F (180˚C) for 7-10 minutes for regular bacon and 9-12 minutes for thick-cut bacon. This lower temperature reduces the risk of burning and prevents the bacon fat from overheating too quickly, which is one of the main causes of smoking.

Thickness and Cooking Time:

The cooking time will depend on the thickness of your bacon rashers. Thicker rashers will take longer to cook than thin ones. Longer cooking times at a lower temperature are better for thicker cuts to ensure they cook evenly. Check your bacon every two minutes to ensure it doesn't burn.

Absorbent Bread:

Place a slice of bread at the bottom of the air fryer basket to absorb excess fat, seasoning, and sugar that drips from the bacon. This helps to prevent smoking and can be toasted and enjoyed after!

Parchment Paper:

Cooking bacon between two pieces of parchment paper can help to contain the grease and prevent it from smoking. This method may require a slightly longer cooking time.

Water:

Adding a small amount of water underneath the air fryer basket can help to prevent smoking. The water catches the grease and prevents it from overheating and smoking.

Batch Cooking:

Cooking bacon in batches will help to prevent overcrowding in the air fryer basket. This allows for better air circulation and reduces the risk of smoking.

By following these tips, you can enjoy crispy, delicious bacon from your air fryer without the smoke!

How to prevent bacon from curling up

Cooking bacon in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get crispy bacon with minimal mess. The cooking time depends on the thickness of the bacon and your desired level of crispiness. For regular cut bacon, cook at 350˚F for 7-9 minutes, and for thick-cut bacon, cook for 9-12 minutes.

Now, onto the issue of bacon curling up during the cooking process. There are several methods you can use to prevent this from happening:

• Chop the bacon into smaller pieces before cooking. Cutting each strip into several smaller pieces can help prevent curling, and it also allows you to render more fat out of the bacon.
• Use an oven instead of an air fryer. The oven method is a popular alternative, as it can help to reduce curling. Place the bacon in the oven during the pre-heat stage, and cook for 18-20 minutes at 375˚F.
• Line your air fryer or baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. This method helps the bacon to cook evenly and prevents curling.
• Flip the bacon halfway through the cooking process. This can help to ensure even cooking and prevent the bacon from curling.
• Use a metal rack inside your air fryer. This allows you to cook on two levels, which can help to prevent overcrowding and improve the overall cooking results.

Frequently asked questions