Air Fryer Crispy Turkey Bacon: The Perfect Method

Turkey bacon cooked in an air fryer is a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods. It is quick and easy to make, and results in a crispy texture without the grease and mess. The circulating hot air of the air fryer surrounds the bacon, ensuring even cooking and removing excess fat. This method also requires minimal clean-up, as there is barely any oil or grease left behind.

Preheat the air fryer to the right temperature

Preheating your air fryer is crucial to achieving the perfect crispiness in your turkey bacon. Depending on the model of your air fryer, preheat the appliance to between 350°F and 400°F. This step should take around 3 to 5 minutes. While you're waiting, you can take the bacon out of its packaging and lay the slices flat.

It is also recommended to pat the bacon dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. You can then lightly spray the bacon with avocado oil or olive oil spray, although this is optional.

Preheating your air fryer ensures that your bacon cooks evenly and crisps up nicely. It helps to achieve that perfect balance of a crispy edge and a tender centre.

Use the right type of turkey bacon

The type of turkey bacon you use will have a significant impact on the crispiness of your bacon and the overall cooking experience. Here are some tips to help you choose the right type of turkey bacon for your air fryer:

Uncured vs Cured Bacon

When it comes to turkey bacon, you have the option of choosing between uncured and cured varieties. Uncured turkey bacon is cured without the use of sodium nitrates or nitrites, while cured bacon uses these additives for preservation. Uncured bacon is generally considered healthier and is recommended for air frying. It is also said to have a better flavour.

Sugar Content

Some turkey bacon products contain added sugars, which can burn in the air fryer. It is best to opt for sugar-free or no sugar added varieties to avoid this issue.

Thick-Cut Bacon

Thicker slices of bacon will result in crispier bacon. Aim for slices that are at least 1/8 inch thick. Thicker cuts will also give you more time to achieve the perfect crispiness without burning.

Natural Brands

Look for quality natural brands that do not contain artificial ingredients or fillers. Check the ingredient list to ensure there are no unwanted additives. Some recommended brands include Applegate, Oscar Mayer, Butterball, and Trader Joe's uncured turkey bacons.

Minimal Added Fat

When choosing turkey bacon, opt for varieties with minimal added fat. This will help you achieve the desired crispiness without the bacon becoming too greasy.

No Fillers or Thickeners

Check the ingredient list to ensure that your chosen turkey bacon does not contain any fillers or thickeners. These additives can affect the texture and crispiness of the bacon.

By following these guidelines, you can select the right type of turkey bacon to achieve the perfect crispiness in your air fryer. Remember to also consider your personal preferences and taste when making your selection.

Arrange the bacon in a single layer

Arranging the bacon in a single layer is crucial for achieving the desired crispiness and even cooking. Here's a detailed guide on how to do it:

First, ensure you have the right type of bacon. For the air fryer, opt for thick-cut turkey bacon, ideally with minimal added fat and no added nitrates or nitrites. Thicker slices will result in crispier bacon. Also, check the ingredient list to avoid fillers or thickeners. Some recommended brands include Trader Joe's, Applegate, Oscar Mayer, and Butterball.

Now, let's get to arranging the bacon. Once you've preheated your air fryer, take the bacon out of its packaging and lay the slices flat. It's important to pat the bacon dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. You can also lightly spray the bacon with avocado oil or another cooking spray for maximum crispiness, though this step is optional.

Next, place the bacon slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure the slices don't overlap and that there is a little space between each piece. Avoid overcrowding the basket, as this will hinder even cooking. If necessary, cook the bacon in batches.

Finally, follow the recommended cooking times and temperatures for your specific air fryer model. For example, some sources suggest cooking at 350°F to 400°F for 4 to 10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the bacon and your desired level of crispiness. Don't forget to flip the bacon halfway through the cooking time!

By arranging the bacon in a single layer and following these simple steps, you'll achieve perfectly crispy and delicious turkey bacon every time.

Flip the bacon halfway through

Flipping the turkey bacon halfway through the cooking process is an important step in achieving evenly cooked, crispy bacon.

When cooking bacon in an air fryer, it is crucial to avoid overcrowding the basket and to arrange the bacon slices in a single layer. This ensures that the hot air circulates evenly around each slice, crisping it up on all sides. Flipping the bacon allows both sides to be exposed to the hot air, resulting in a consistent texture and colour.

Additionally, flipping the bacon allows you to check on its progress and determine if any adjustments are needed. You can assess whether the bacon is cooking evenly and decide if it requires more or less time to reach your desired level of crispiness.

For thicker slices of bacon, it is advisable to cook them for a longer duration, typically 6-8 minutes. Uncured bacon may also need an extra minute or two. Flipping halfway through ensures that you can monitor the cooking process and prevent overcooking or burning.

By following this step, you can ensure that your turkey bacon is cooked to perfection, with a delightful crispy texture and a tempting golden-brown colour.

Blot the cooked bacon with paper towels

Blotting the cooked bacon with paper towels is an important step in the air fryer turkey bacon process. This step ensures that any excess grease is removed from the bacon, which is important for both the taste and texture of the final product.

When cooking bacon in an air fryer, the circulating hot air helps to crisp it up evenly on all sides, without the need for added grease or oil. However, turkey bacon is known to release some grease during the cooking process, and this can affect the overall taste and texture of the cooked bacon. By blotting the cooked bacon with paper towels, you can absorb and remove this excess grease, ensuring that your bacon is crisp, dry, and tasty.

In addition to improving the texture and taste, blotting the cooked bacon with paper towels can also help to reduce the mess and cleanup time. The grease released by turkey bacon can be difficult to clean if it is not properly absorbed or caught during the cooking process. By blotting the bacon with paper towels, you can avoid having to deal with greasy pans or splatters, making the cleanup process quicker and easier.

It is also important to note that blotting the cooked bacon with paper towels is just one part of the overall process of cooking turkey bacon in an air fryer. Other steps, such as preheating the air fryer, laying out the bacon strips in a single layer, and cooking the bacon for the appropriate amount of time, are also crucial to ensuring the best results.

Overall, blotting the cooked bacon with paper towels is a simple yet important step in the air fryer turkey bacon process. It helps to improve the taste, texture, and overall experience of cooking and enjoying this healthier alternative to traditional bacon.

Frequently asked questions