How Long to Cook Bacon in Air Fryer: Easy Tips for Perfectly Crispy Results

If you’re looking for the easiest way to achieve perfectly crispy bacon without the mess, the air fryer is your new best friend. This kitchen gadget takes the guesswork out of cooking bacon, giving you consistent results every time. Whether you prefer your bacon lightly crisped or extra crunchy, the air fryer delivers in just minutes.

Cooking bacon in an air fryer isn’t just quick—it’s also cleaner and healthier. The excess grease drips away, leaving you with deliciously crisp strips and less cleanup. Plus, no more standing over a hot stove or dodging grease splatters. It’s a game-changer for breakfast, brunch, or anytime you’re craving bacon.

Ready to master the timing for that perfect sizzle? Let’s dive into how long it takes to cook bacon in an air fryer so you can enjoy flawless results with minimal effort.

Tools And Equipment Needed

To cook bacon in an air fryer, you’ll need a few essential tools and equipment to ensure the best results and a hassle-free process. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Air Fryer: Choose an air fryer with a large enough basket to lay the bacon strips in a single layer without overlapping.
• Tongs: Use silicone or heat-resistant tongs to safely turn or remove the bacon from the air fryer without scratching the basket.
• Paper Towels: Keep paper towels handy for blotting excess grease from the cooked bacon.
• Plates: Prepare a plate or a shallow dish lined with paper towels to transfer the bacon once it’s cooked.
• Kitchen Shears or Knife (Optional): If necessary, use kitchen shears or a knife to trim the bacon to fit your air fryer basket.

Having these tools ready will streamline your cooking process, leaving you free to enjoy perfectly crisp and delicious bacon with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

• Bacon Slices: Choose your preferred bacon type—thick-cut for chewy results or thin-cut for extra crispiness. Measure the bacon slices to fit your air fryer basket.
• Cooking Spray (Optional): Use a light spray for non-stick purposes if your air fryer basket is prone to sticking.
• Paper Towels: For blotting away excess grease after cooking.
• Optional Seasonings: Cracked black pepper, brown sugar, or maple syrup for added flavor.

Make sure the bacon is fresh and properly stored before use. Adjust quantities based on how many servings you are preparing. For a standard medium-sized air fryer, 4 to 6 slices of bacon typically fit without overlapping.

Directions

Cooking bacon in an air fryer is straightforward when you follow these simple steps. Ensure you have all ingredients and tools ready before getting started.

Prep The Bacon

1. Take your bacon out of its packaging.
2. If using thick-cut or long slices, trim them with kitchen shears or a knife to fit your air fryer basket.
3. Pat the bacon dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring crispier results during cooking.
4. Optionally, sprinkle any chosen seasoning such as cracked black pepper, brown sugar, or maple syrup evenly on both sides.

Preheat The Air Fryer

1. Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for thin-cut bacon or 350°F (175°C) for thick-cut bacon.
2. Allow the air fryer to preheat for 3-5 minutes to ensure even cooking.

1. Lay the bacon slices in the basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap. Overlapping will cause uneven cooking.
2. For a smaller air fryer, cook in batches for optimal results.
3. Close the air fryer and prepare to follow the recommended cooking times depending on the thickness of your bacon.

How Long To Cook Bacon In Air Fryer

Cooking bacon in an air fryer is quick and efficient. The cook time depends on the texture you desire and the thickness of the bacon slices. Follow these specific guidelines to achieve the results you want.

Cooking Time For Crispy Bacon

For perfectly crispy bacon, set your air fryer temperature to 375°F. Arrange the bacon slices in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap. Cook thin-cut bacon for 8 to 10 minutes. Check at the 8-minute mark to prevent overcooking. If you’re cooking regular or thick-cut slices, they may require an additional minute or two depending on your desired crispiness.

Cooking Time For Chewy Bacon

If you prefer a chewier texture, adjust the cook time slightly. Set your air fryer to 350°F. Thin-cut bacon cooks in roughly 6 to 8 minutes, while regular bacon may take 7 to 9 minutes. Keep an eye on the slices to retain their chewiness without drying them out.

Adjusting Cook Time For Thick-Cut Bacon

Thick-cut bacon requires more time to cook evenly. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Lay the bacon slices flat in one layer. Start with a cook time of 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning. For extra crispiness or a crunchier bite, add 1 to 2 minutes as needed. Always monitor during the last few minutes to avoid overcooking.

Tips For Perfectly Cooked Air Fryer Bacon

Achieving flawlessly cooked bacon in your air fryer requires attention to a few essential tips and techniques. Follow these practical pointers to ensure your bacon turns out crispy or chewy, just the way you like it, with consistent results every time.

1. Preheat Your Air Fryer

Always preheat your air fryer before cooking bacon. This step ensures even heat distribution and helps the bacon cook uniformly, preventing undercooked or overcooked spots. Most air fryers take about 3 to 5 minutes to preheat.

2. Use A Single Layer

Lay the bacon slices in a single, even layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overlapping slices, as this can lead to uneven cooking and soggy spots. Cook in batches if needed to maintain this arrangement.

3. Trim If Necessary

If the bacon is too long for your air fryer basket, use kitchen shears or a knife to trim the slices. This not only avoids curling but also promotes even air circulation.

4. Choose The Right Temperature And Time

Cooking time and temperature are critical for perfect results. Use 375°F for crispy bacon or 350°F for a chewier texture, and adjust based on the thickness of your bacon slices:

• Thin-cut bacon: 6–10 minutes
• Regular bacon: 7–12 minutes
• Thick-cut bacon: 10–15 minutes

Check the bacon during the last few minutes to ensure desired doneness.

5. Flip For Even Browning

For regular or thick-cut bacon, flip the slices halfway through the cooking process. This ensures the edges are evenly crisped and improves the overall texture.

6. Drain The Grease

Carefully drain the grease that collects at the bottom of the basket between batches, especially for larger amounts. This prevents smoke and keeps your kitchen cleaner.

7. Use Cooking Spray Sparingly

If your air fryer basket isn’t non-stick, lightly spray it with cooking spray before adding bacon. Avoid over-spraying, as bacon naturally releases grease during cooking.

8. Pat Bacon Dry After Cooking

Use paper towels to blot excess grease from the cooked bacon before serving. This not only enhances crispiness but also makes the bacon lighter and less greasy.

9. Monitor Close To The Finish

Bacon can go from perfect to burnt in seconds. Keep a close eye during the last 1 to 2 minutes of cooking and adjust the time to match your preferred texture.

10. Clean Your Air Fryer Thoroughly

Always clean your air fryer after cooking bacon to remove residual grease and bits. This prevents smoke and ensures the air fryer stays in top condition for future use.

Cleaning And Maintaining Your Air Fryer After Cooking Bacon

Proper cleaning and maintenance of your air fryer after cooking bacon ensure its longevity and prevent lingering odors or grease buildup. Follow these steps to keep your air fryer in excellent condition:

1. Let The Air Fryer Cool Down

Allow your air fryer to cool completely before starting the cleaning process. Hot surfaces can cause burns or damage if cleaned right away.

2. Remove The Basket And Tray

Detach the basket and tray from your air fryer. These are the primary areas where bacon grease tends to accumulate.

3. Dispose Of Bacon Grease

Pour out any collected grease from the tray into a disposable container. Avoid pouring grease down the sink as it can clog your pipes. Let the grease solidify if needed for easy disposal.

4. Wash Removable Parts

Use warm, soapy water to clean the basket and tray thoroughly. Gently scrub with a non-abrasive sponge or brush to remove grease and food particles. Check if your air fryer components are dishwasher safe and use a dishwasher if applicable for convenience.

5. Wipe Down The Interior

Using a damp, soft cloth or sponge, wipe the interior of your air fryer to remove grease splatters. Avoid abrasive cleaners or brushes as they can damage the non-stick coating.

6. Clean The Heating Element

Inspect the heating element for any grease or debris. Use a soft, damp cloth to gently wipe it clean. For stubborn buildup, refer to your air fryer manufacturer’s guidelines.

7. Clean The Exterior

Wipe the exterior of the air fryer with a damp cloth to remove any smudges, grease, or fingerprints. Avoid getting water into the electrical components or vents.

8. Dry Thoroughly

Allow all parts to air-dry completely or dry them with a clean towel. Reassemble your air fryer only when all components are completely dry to avoid moisture-related issues.

9. Perform Regular Deep Cleaning

For optimal maintenance, deep clean your air fryer once a month. Remove any stubborn grease or residue that regular cleaning might miss. Use a mixture of baking soda and water to scrub tough spots if safe for your appliance.

By maintaining a clean air fryer after cooking bacon, you ensure its efficiency, prevent unpleasant odors, and prepare it for consistent use without any hassle.

Conclusion

Cooking bacon in an air fryer is a game-changer for both convenience and taste. With the right preparation, timing, and tools, you can achieve perfectly crispy or chewy bacon with minimal mess. The added bonus of healthier cooking and easy cleanup makes it an excellent choice for your kitchen routine. Whether you’re a fan of thick-cut or thin-cut bacon, the air fryer delivers consistent results every time. By following the tips and maintenance steps outlined, you’ll enjoy hassle-free cooking and keep your air fryer in top shape for years to come.