Make Xl Bacon: Fryer Tips And Tricks

Cooking bacon in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to achieve crispy, evenly cooked bacon without the mess of grease splatters. The air fryer circulates hot air around the bacon, ensuring it cooks evenly on all sides with minimal effort.

How long to cook bacon in a Power XL air fryer

The cooking time for bacon in an air fryer depends on the thickness of the bacon and the desired crispiness. For thin-cut bacon, air fry at 350°F for 5 to 9 minutes. For thick-cut bacon, air fry at 350°F for 10 to 12 minutes.

If you are using a Power XL air fryer, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. The Power XL air fryer cooks food a bit quicker than larger air fryers. It is recommended to start checking your bacon after 7 minutes to ensure it doesn't burn.

Step 1: Prepare the Air Fryer

Before you begin, ensure your air fryer is clean, especially the drip tray, to prevent smoking. You can also add a slice of bread to the drip tray to absorb excess fat.

Step 2: Prepare the Bacon

Cut the bacon slices in half crosswise. This helps them cook more evenly and fit more comfortably in the air fryer basket.

Step 3: Arrange the Bacon in the Air Fryer

Place the bacon slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the basket, as this can prevent the bacon from browning and becoming crispy. A little overlap is okay, but try not to stack the bacon slices.

Step 4: Air Fry the Bacon

Set your Power XL air fryer to 350°F. For thin-cut bacon, air fry for 5 to 9 minutes. For thick-cut bacon, air fry for 10 to 12 minutes. Check the bacon frequently, especially during the last few minutes, to ensure it doesn't burn.

Step 5: Check for Doneness and Cook Longer if Needed

Depending on your desired level of crispiness, you may need to cook the bacon for a few minutes longer. If you like your bacon extra crispy, add 1-2 minutes to the cooking time.

Step 6: Remove the Bacon and Blot Excess Grease

Use tongs to remove the cooked bacon from the air fryer and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess grease.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Bacon:

• Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook the bacon in batches if necessary to ensure proper air circulation.
• Check for doneness frequently during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Use a rack to elevate the bacon strips if your air fryer includes one. This helps improve air circulation and cooks the bacon more evenly.
• Drain excess grease by placing the cooked bacon on paper towels or a paper towel-lined plate.

By following these steps and adjusting the cooking time based on your desired level of crispiness, you can cook delicious, crispy bacon in your Power XL air fryer.

How to prevent bacon from sticking to the Power XL air fryer

To prevent bacon from sticking to your Power XL air fryer, there are several steps you can take. Firstly, avoid overcrowding the basket. Layering too many slices of bacon together will prevent the food from crisping up and browning evenly. Make sure there is adequate airflow around each piece.

You can also try lining your air fryer basket with parchment paper. There are parchment papers designed specifically for air fryers, with holes to allow for air circulation. Check the correct dimensions for your air fryer model.

Another tip is to ensure you are cooking at the right temperature. The smoke point of bacon fat is 400˚F, so it is recommended to air fry at 350˚F to avoid any smoking. If you are cooking in batches, be sure to drain the drip pan of any oil between batches and wipe it clean with a paper towel.

Finally, to prevent sticking, you can also try adding a slice of bread to the drip tray to absorb excess fat.

How to clean a Power XL air fryer after cooking bacon

Now that you've cooked your bacon, it's time to clean your Power XL air fryer. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Unplug the Air Fryer and Allow it to Cool Down

Before you start cleaning, make sure the air fryer is unplugged and switched off. Let it cool down completely before proceeding. This is important for safety reasons.

Step 2: Remove the Basket and Drip Tray

Take out the air fryer basket and the drip tray. These are the parts that will need cleaning. Some models may have additional components, like a trivet or wire rack, which you should also remove.

Step 3: Dispose of Excess Grease

Bacon tends to produce a lot of grease, so it's essential to get rid of the excess fat before cleaning. Use tongs or a heat-resistant spatula to remove any large pieces of bacon grease or residue from the basket and drip tray. You can discard this grease in the trash or save it for later use if you prefer.

Step 4: Wash the Basket and Drip Tray

Fill your sink with warm, soapy water. Carefully wash the basket and drip tray with a soft sponge or cloth. Make sure to pay extra attention to areas where grease may have built up. Rinse them thoroughly with clean water and dry them with a clean cloth or paper towel.

Step 5: Wipe Down the Exterior

Use a damp cloth to wipe down the exterior of the air fryer. Be gentle and avoid getting water into any vents or electrical components. You can also use a mild cleaning solution if needed, but be sure to dry the exterior thoroughly afterward.

Step 6: Reassemble and Store

Once all the parts are completely dry, reassemble your Power XL air fryer. Store it in a cool, dry place until your next cooking adventure.

By following these steps, you'll be able to keep your Power XL air fryer clean and ready for your next bacon-cooking session or any other delicious recipes you decide to try!

How to prevent a Power XL air fryer from smoking while cooking bacon

To prevent a Power XL air fryer from smoking while cooking bacon, you can try the following:

• Add a cup of water to the lower pan.
• Add a slice of bread to the lower pan to absorb the grease.
• Use rock salt (not regular salt) in the lower pan to soak up the grease.
• Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper.
• Clean the drip tray before and after cooking.
• Don't cook at a temperature higher than the smoke point of bacon fat.

How to store leftover bacon from a Power XL air fryer

Now that you've cooked your bacon in the Power XL air fryer, it's important to know how to store your leftovers properly to ensure they stay fresh and safe to eat. Here are some detailed instructions on how to store leftover bacon:

Storing Leftover Bacon in the Refrigerator:

• Allow the cooked bacon to cool to room temperature.
• Place the leftover bacon in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in aluminium foil or plastic wrap.
• Store the bacon in the refrigerator.
• Consume the refrigerated bacon within 4 to 5 days.

Storing Leftover Bacon in the Freezer:

• Lay the cooked bacon strips on a baking sheet or plate in a single layer.
• Place the bacon in the freezer until it is completely frozen, which usually takes a few hours.
• Transfer the frozen bacon strips to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Label the container with the date and store it in the freezer for up to one month.

Reheating Leftover Bacon:

• To reheat refrigerated or frozen bacon, preheat your Power XL air fryer to 350°F.
• Place the desired amount of bacon in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
• Air fry for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the bacon is heated through and crispy.
• Remove the bacon from the air fryer and enjoy!

Remember to practise good food safety habits and always ensure your bacon is heated thoroughly before consuming. Enjoy your leftover bacon from your Power XL air fryer!

Frequently asked questions