Air-Fryer Bacon: How Long To Fry?

Cooking bacon in an air fryer is a quick, easy, and mess-free way to achieve crispy bacon with minimal effort. The air fryer's ability to circulate air ensures even cooking, eliminating the need to flip the bacon. This method also reduces the amount of grease, making it a healthier option. The cooking time varies depending on the desired doneness, thickness of the bacon, and the type of air fryer.

How to arrange bacon in the air fryer basket

When arranging bacon in an air fryer basket, it is important to not overcrowd the basket. Layering in too many slices will prevent the bacon from browning and becoming crispy. The key to air frying is to ensure there is airflow around each piece. A few folds are okay, but the basket should not be overcrowded.

Arrange the bacon slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. It is okay to have some overlap, but try to keep this to a minimum. Cut the strips in half if needed to fit more in the basket.

If you are cooking a large quantity of bacon, you may need to cook it in batches. In this case, be sure to empty the bacon grease from the lower portion of the air fryer basket before cooking the second batch.

How long to cook bacon in the air fryer

The length of time it takes to cook bacon in an air fryer depends on several factors, including the doneness and thickness of the bacon, as well as the style and model of the air fryer.

Temperature

Most sources recommend cooking bacon in the air fryer at a temperature of 350˚F. This is because the smoke point of bacon fat is 400˚F, and cooking at 350˚F helps to avoid any smokiness while cooking.

Timing

For regular cut bacon, cook for 7 minutes at 350˚F for softer bacon. For crispier bacon, cook for 8 to 9 minutes. For thick-cut bacon, cook for 9-10 minutes at the same temperature for softer bacon, and 10-12 minutes for crispier bacon.

However, cooking times can vary depending on the model of the air fryer. For example, one source recommends cooking at 400˚F for 10 minutes, while another suggests 8 minutes at 390˚F.

Therefore, it is important to keep an eye on the bacon while it is cooking and adjust the timing as needed. It is also recommended to check halfway through and rearrange the bacon slices with tongs if necessary.

Other Tips

• Avoid overcrowding the basket. Layering too many slices on top of each other prevents the food from browning and turning crisp.
• Cut the bacon slices in half crosswise before adding them to the air fryer to ensure more even cooking and a better fit in the basket.
• If cooking in batches, remember that the second batch will usually be quicker as the air fryer is already heated up.
• To prevent smoking, clean out the drip tray before and after cooking, and stick to the recommended temperature.

How to prevent the air fryer from smoking

Cooking bacon in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get perfect, crispy bacon. However, there are a few things to keep in mind to prevent the air fryer from smoking.

Firstly, it's important to know that the smoke point of bacon fat is 400˚F. Therefore, it is recommended to air fry at a lower temperature, around 350˚F to 370˚F, to avoid any smokiness. Cooking at a lower temperature may require a slight increase in cooking time, but it will help prevent smoking.

Secondly, if cooking in batches, be sure to clean the drip pan between batches. Wipe the pan with a paper towel to remove any excess oil or grease. Additionally, clean out the basket and the top burner to remove any leftover grease. Any grease remaining on the heating element may start to smoke, especially if it is not bacon grease.

Thirdly, you can add a little water to the air fryer to help prevent smoking. Covering the bottom of the air fryer tray with water will cool down the bacon grease that drips down during cooking. Alternatively, you can place a slice of bread underneath the grate to absorb the bacon grease.

Finally, some air fryers may require preheating, but it is not necessary for cooking bacon. By following these tips, you can help prevent your air fryer from smoking and enjoy perfectly cooked bacon every time.

How to store leftover bacon

Now you've cooked your bacon in the air fryer, you might be wondering how to store any leftovers. Here's how to ensure your leftover bacon stays crispy and delicious.

Short-term storage

If you're storing your bacon for a few hours or a few days, the refrigerator is your best bet. Allow the bacon to cool to room temperature, then blot off any excess grease with paper towels. Place the bacon in an airtight container or bag, squeezing out as much air as possible. You can also use a Ziploc bag or cover the original packet with plastic wrap. If using an airtight container, ensure it's not too big—if there's lots of spare room, add a layer of cling film over the bacon to minimize air contact. Stored this way, your bacon will keep for up to five days in the fridge.

Medium-term storage

If you want to keep your bacon a little longer, you can freeze it. First, lay the bacon on a parchment-lined baking tray and flash-freeze it for about an hour. Then, transfer the semi-frozen bacon to an airtight container or bag. For extra protection against freezer burn, wrap portions of 2-3 rashers in plastic wrap before placing them in the container. Label the container and place it in the freezer, where it will keep for up to a month.

Reheating

When you're ready to enjoy your leftover bacon, you can reheat it in a skillet, the oven, the microwave, or an air fryer. Here are some tips for each method:

• Skillet: Heat a skillet (preferably cast iron) on medium-low. Place the bacon strips in the pan and heat for 1-2 minutes—no oil is needed.
• Oven: Preheat the oven to 400ºF and lay the bacon on a foil-lined baking tray. Heat for 5-10 minutes, depending on your desired level of crispness.
• Microwave: Place the bacon on a paper towel-lined plate and cover with another paper towel. Microwave for around 10 seconds per slice.
• Air fryer: Set your air fryer to 350ºF and cook the bacon for 3-4 minutes. Keep a close eye on it, as it will burn quickly!

Food safety

It's important to note that cooked bacon should not be left at room temperature for more than two hours. It's best to store it in the refrigerator, where it will last much longer. If you must keep it at room temperature, place it in a sealed bag or under a plate to protect it from bugs.

What to do with leftover bacon

So, you've cooked up a batch of bacon in your air fryer, but now you're wondering what to do with the leftovers. Well, wonder no more! Here are some tips and ideas to make the most of your leftover bacon:

Storing Leftover Bacon

First things first, if you have any uncooked bacon left over, it's a good idea to cook it up. That way, you can save it for later and make the most of your bacon feast. Once cooked, let the bacon cool completely, drain off any excess grease, and store it in an airtight container or bag in the refrigerator. Properly stored, your leftover bacon will stay fresh for up to five days in the fridge. Alternatively, you can freeze cooked bacon, wrapped tightly in a paper towel, for up to a month.

Reheating Leftover Bacon

When you're ready to use your leftover bacon, simply reheat it! You can pop it in the oven or air fryer at around 350 degrees Fahrenheit for five to ten minutes to restore some of its crunch. If you're in a hurry, you can also reheat it in a pan on the stove or in the microwave. For the microwave, arrange the bacon in a single layer on a plate lined with paper towels and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.

Recipes for Leftover Bacon

Now that your leftover bacon is ready to use, what can you make with it? Here are some mouth-watering ideas:

• Corn and Bacon Chowder: A creamy and comforting recipe that's perfect for cooler evenings. Use as much or as little bacon as you have on hand.
• Bacon, Caramelized Onion, and Goat Cheese Rugelach: These miniature crescent-rolled pastries may look fancy, but they're simple to make and perfect for impressing your guests.
• Bacon and Roasted Corn Salad: A hearty and fresh salad that comes together in less than 30 minutes, perfect for a quick and tasty weeknight meal.
• Bacon Cheeseburger Tacos: A gluten-free and keto-friendly option that's easily customizable for the whole family. Don't forget the pickle chips, ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise!
• Brussels Sprouts and Bacon: A classic side dish that's always a crowd-pleaser. Bring it to your next get-together or keep it in your weekly dinner rotation.

Bonus: Using Leftover Bacon Grease

Don't forget about your leftover bacon grease! Allow it to cool, then strain it into a glass jar or airtight container. Refrigerated, it can last up to three months. Here are some ways to use it:

• In place of cooking oil: Use it to sauté vegetables or fry meat, adding a smoky bacon flavour to your dishes.
• As a butter substitute: Use it instead of butter to add richness to creamy dishes like mashed potatoes.
• Replacing other fats: You can often replace other fats with bacon grease at a 1:1 ratio, or just use half bacon grease for a subtle hint of flavour.

Frequently asked questions