Perfect and Crispy Frozen Bacon in air fryer

Bacon has been one of the staples in my kitchen; I especially love my bacon crispy. But cooking frozen bacon in an air fryer has been my go-to method and a game changer as it always gives delicious crispy bacon.

There are days I forget to thaw my bacon in the fridge overnight and want to fix a quick breakfast in the morning. However, I have since found that using the air fryer is the easiest way to cook my frozen bacon in less time, with no need to defrost. 

I have tried oven-baked bacon and microwave bacon but prefer the mess-free air fry bacon. Also, this method provides an easy cleanup with less grease.

Ingredients for crispy air fryer bacon:

• 1 package of bacon Frozen bacon slices – The only ingredient needed. Any type of bacon can be used.

Instructions

Step 1 – Preheat Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 360°F (182°C). Let it preheat for about 3 minutes. Add 1/2 cup of cold water or a slice of bread to the bottom of the air fryer 

Step 2 – Cook the bacon: Drop the frozen bacon in the air fryer and cook for 8 minutes to allow the bacon to defrost; flip the halfway through to make separating the slices of bacon easier.

Step 3 – Arrange Bacon: Use the kitchen tongs to gently separate the frozen bacon strips into individual pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Ensure you don’t overcrowd when cooking. You can cook in batches to prevent overcrowding. 

Step 4 – Cooking Time: Cook for about 10-15 minutes. Halfway through, flip the bacon to ensure it cooks evenly with kitchen tongs.

Step 5 – Check for Crispiness: After 10 minutes, check the bacon. If it’s not as crispy as desired, cook for an additional 2-5 minutes.

Serve: Once cooked to your liking, remove the bacon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Serve hot.

Why you will love this easy air fryer bacon recipe 

This method works for both thick-cut bacon and thin cuts; add 5-6 minutes for thicker cuts. 

The air fryer cooking method gives less mess and perfect bacon each time!

My PRO tips for the crispiest bacon

Add 1/2 cup of water or a piece of bread to the bottom of the basket before cooking to prevent smoking from the bacon grease. 

Cook your bacon at a lower temperature to avoid smoking. I suggest cooking at 360°F (182°C). The smoke point of bacon fat is at 374 degrees f

Don’t overcrowd your air fryer basket; place the bacon pieces evenly. You can cook in batches. 

Store leftover bacon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

FAQs About Cooking Frozen Bacon in an Air Fryer

Do I need to thaw the bacon before air-frying it? 

No, you can cook it straight from frozen. If your air fryer has the defrost setting, you can use it. 

Should I use oil spray on the bacon? 

It’s unnecessary, as bacon already contains fat that helps it cook. I usually skip this step for a much healthier bacon.

Can I use aluminum foil or parchment paper in the air fryer? 

Yes, this also helps to reduce the amount of fat and helps with having a clean air fryer

How do I know when the bacon is done?

​Look for a golden-brown color and desired crispiness.

Can I reheat cooked bacon in the air fryer? 

​Yes, for a few minutes at 360°F.

Is air-fried bacon healthier?

​It can be, as it allows fat to drip off the bacon.

4 Reasons Why Using an Air Fryer is the Better Option

1. Healthier Cooking: Air frying reduces the amount of fat compared to traditional frying, making it a healthier option.
2. Convenience: Cooking directly from frozen saves time and effort in meal preparation.
3. Consistent Crispiness: Air fryers circulate hot air around the food, ensuring even cooking and consistent crispiness.
4. Easy Clean-Up: Air fryers typically have non-stick surfaces, and many components are dishwasher safe, simplifying the clean-up process.

Ideas of what to serve with frozen Bacon in air fryer

1. Loaded Baked Potatoes: Top baked potatoes with crumbled bacon, sour cream, chives, and shredded cheese.
2. Bacon and Eggs in a Basket: Cut a hole in a slice of bread, fry it in a pan, and cook an egg in the middle, adding bacon on the side.

I hope you love this easy Frozen Bacon in-air fryer recipe. When you make yours, kindly share your experience with me.