Air fryer bacon is crisp, even and hands-off — and the cleanup is far easier than frying. The only thing to watch is the rendered fat, which we'll sort below. Here's exactly how long it takes.
Key takeaways
Q: How long does bacon take in an air fryer?
A: Air fry bacon at 200°C (400°F) for 7–10 minutes. Streaky takes about 7–8 minutes; thicker back bacon needs 8–10.
Q: How do you make air fryer bacon crispy?
A: Lay it in a single layer and add 1–2 minutes at the end. The more space between rashers, the crispier the result.
Times by type
| Bacon | Temp | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Streaky (crispy) | 200°C / 400°F | 7–9 min |
| Back (chewy) | 200°C / 400°F | 8–10 min |
| Back (crispy) | 200°C / 400°F | 10–12 min |
Method
- Single layer, slightly spaced — no overlap.
- No oil needed.
- Check at 7 minutes, then add time to taste.
- Drain on kitchen paper for maximum crisp.
Stopping the smoke
Bacon fat dripping onto a hot element is what causes smoke. Add a tablespoon of water to the drawer beneath the basket, or empty rendered fat halfway through. This keeps things clean and smoke-free. Pair it with air fryer sausages for a full fry-up, and check the cooking times chart for the rest of the plate.
Frequently asked questions
Why is my air fryer smoking when I cook bacon?
Rendered fat is hitting the hot element. Add a little water to the drawer below the basket, or pour off the fat halfway through.
Can you cook a full breakfast in an air fryer?
Yes — sausages, bacon, eggs and hash browns can all be staggered so they finish together, since they cook at similar temperatures.
Is air fryer bacon healthier?
It needs no added oil and the fat drains away from the rashers, so it's generally lighter than pan-fried bacon.