Air Fryer Bacon

Air fryer bacon comes out evenly crispy, perfectly rendered, and with none of the stovetop splatter or greasy cleanup. The circulating heat crisps every strip the same, while the fat drips away below.
It's hands-off and fast — set it and walk away. Make a big batch for breakfast, BLTs, or crumbling over salads and baked potatoes.
Ingredients
Instructions
Arrange
Lay the bacon strips in a single layer in the basket, overlapping as little as possible (cut strips in half to fit if needed).
Air fry
Air fry at 400°F for 8–10 minutes, until it reaches your preferred crispness. No need to flip, but check from 8 minutes on.
Drain
Transfer to paper towels to drain. Carefully pour off the rendered fat before the basket cools.
- Thick-cut bacon needs 10–12 minutes; thin strips closer to 8.
- Empty the grease tray between batches to prevent smoking.
- A slice of bread or a little water under the basket catches grease and cuts smoke.
Frequently asked
How long does bacon take in the air fryer?
8–10 minutes at 400°F for regular bacon, or 10–12 for thick-cut. Check from the 8-minute mark.
Why is my air fryer smoking with bacon?
Rendered fat is pooling and burning. Pour it off between batches, or add a little water or a slice of bread under the basket.
Do I need to flip the bacon?
No — the circulating air crisps both sides. You can flip once for extra-even results if you like.

