Crispy Air-Fried Bacon Strips offer a cleaner, faster method for cooking bacon to perfect crispness without the grease splatter. Whether for breakfast, salads, or sandwiches, these air-fried strips are uniformly golden and delicious every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ultra-crispy bacon without the mess
No need to flip or stand over a hot pan
Faster than oven-baking, with less cleanup
Evenly cooked strips every time
Ideal for batch-cooking and meal prep

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Bacon strips (regular or thick-cut)
Optional: black pepper, maple syrup, or brown sugar for flavor variations

Directions

Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
Place bacon strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket—do not overlap.
Air fry for 8–10 minutes, checking at the 5-minute mark and flipping if needed.
Remove when crispy and drain on paper towels.
Repeat in batches as necessary.

Servings and timing

Servings: Serves 4
Preparation time: 2 minutes
Cooking time: 8–10 minutes
Total time: 10–12 minutes

Variations

Peppered bacon: Sprinkle fresh cracked pepper on top before frying.
Sweet glaze: Brush strips with maple syrup or sprinkle with brown sugar before cooking.
Spicy version: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder.
Herbed bacon: Lightly dust with rosemary or thyme for aromatic bacon.
Turkey bacon: Use turkey bacon for a leaner, lower-fat option (adjust cooking time).

Storage/reheating

To store: Let cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
To freeze: Place cooked bacon in a freezer-safe bag separated by parchment paper; freeze up to 2 months.
To reheat: Air fry at 350°F for 2–3 minutes or microwave between paper towels for 15–30 seconds.

FAQs

Can I overlap the bacon strips in the air fryer?

No, bacon should be placed in a single layer for even cooking and crispiness.

Do I need to flip bacon in the air fryer?

Not always, but flipping halfway ensures even texture, especially for thick-cut bacon.

What is the best temperature to air fry bacon?

350°F (175°C) is ideal—hot enough to crisp without burning.

How do I prevent smoke while cooking bacon?

Add a tablespoon of water to the bottom tray or use parchment under the basket to catch grease.

Is air-fried bacon healthier than pan-fried?

Slightly—it renders more fat away from the meat, and requires no added oils.

Can I make large batches?

Yes, cook in multiple rounds and keep finished bacon warm in a low oven.

What should I do with the bacon grease?

Let it cool, then discard safely or save for cooking if desired.

Can I season the bacon?

Yes—season with herbs, spices, or sweeteners before air frying.

How crispy does it get?

Very crispy; adjust cooking time for preferred texture—less time for chewy, more for extra crisp.

Can I use pre-cooked bacon in the air fryer?

It’s not necessary; pre-cooked bacon just needs warming. Use raw for best results.

Conclusion

Crispy Air-Fried Bacon Strips are a game-changing way to enjoy one of the most beloved breakfast staples with less mess and more convenience. Fast, foolproof, and endlessly customizable, this method delivers perfect bacon every time—ready to elevate your breakfasts, burgers, and beyond.