What To Know
- Adjust the time depending on the thickness of the bacon and your desired level of crispiness.
- Remove the bacon from the air fryer and transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess grease.
- Thaw the bacon slightly before cooking and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Indulge in the irresistible crunch and smoky aroma of perfectly cooked bacon, all in the convenience of your air fryer. With our comprehensive guide on how to air fryer bacon, you’ll master the art of creating crispy, flavorful slices that will elevate any breakfast, brunch, or snack.
Step 1: Preparing the Bacon
- Choose high-quality bacon with the desired thickness and smoke level.
- Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Lay the bacon strips flat in a single layer, leaving some space between them.
Step 2: Setting the Temperature and Time
- For crispy bacon: 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes.
- For slightly chewy bacon: 375°F (190°C) for 6-8 minutes.
- Adjust the time depending on the thickness of the bacon and your desired level of crispiness.
Step 3: Cooking the Bacon
- Place the air fryer basket in the appliance and close the lid.
- Cook the bacon for the recommended time, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Monitor the bacon closely to prevent overcooking.
Step 4: Checking for Doneness
- The bacon is done when it reaches your desired level of crispiness.
- For crispy bacon, it should be golden brown and slightly curled.
- For chewy bacon, it should still have a hint of flexibility.
Step 5: Draining and Serving
- Remove the bacon from the air fryer and transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess grease.
- Serve the bacon immediately with your favorite breakfast or snack.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Bacon
- Use thick-cut bacon for a more substantial crunch.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking.
- Shake the basket regularly to prevent the bacon from sticking.
- If the bacon starts to smoke excessively, reduce the temperature or cooking time.
- Season the bacon with your preferred spices or herbs before cooking for added flavor.
Healthier Bacon Options
- Choose turkey bacon or Canadian bacon for a lower-fat alternative.
- Reduce the cooking time slightly for a less crispy, but still flavorful result.
- Drain the bacon thoroughly to remove excess grease.
Conclusion: Savor the Perfect Bacon
With this comprehensive guide, you now possess the knowledge to air fry bacon to perfection. Whether you crave crispy or chewy, smoky or seasoned, your air fryer will become your go-to appliance for this beloved breakfast staple.
FAQ
1. Can I use frozen bacon in my air fryer?
Yes, you can. Thaw the bacon slightly before cooking and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
2. What is the best way to store leftover air fryer bacon?
Store leftover bacon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
3. Can I make bacon in a different air fryer brand?
Yes, but cooking times and temperatures may vary slightly. Adjust the settings accordingly.
4. Why is my bacon chewy instead of crispy?
The bacon may not have been cooked long enough. Increase the cooking time by 1-2 minutes.
5. How do I prevent the bacon from sticking to the air fryer basket?
Line the basket with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
