How Long to Cook Thick Cut Bacon in Air Fryer?

By Avi Green October 01, 2023

Cooking bacon can be an art form, especially when you're dealing with thick cut bacon. For many kitchen professionals, finding the most efficient and delicious method to prepare bacon is crucial. If you've been wondering how long to cook thick cut bacon in air fryer, this guide will provide comprehensive insights into achieving that perfect crispy texture.

Air fryers are a fantastic tool in any kitchen, as they utilize hot air circulation to achieve that crispy, fried texture without excessive oil. This article will explore the ideal cooking times, temperature settings, and techniques to ensure your thick cut bacon comes out perfectly every time.

how long to cook thick cut bacon in air fryer

Why Choose the Air Fryer for Bacon?

Using an air fryer for cooking thick cut bacon comes with numerous advantages. Firstly, air fryers cook bacon evenly, reducing the chances of burning. Secondly, they produce less grease due to the way the cooking process works and collects the fat through a drip tray. Plus, it's quicker compared to traditional methods. Knowing how long to cook thick cut bacon in air fryer can save valuable time in a busy kitchen.

Getting Started: Preparing the Bacon

Before you begin, there are a few points to consider regarding your thick cut bacon. Thicker slices usually take a bit longer to cook compared to regular bacon. You will want your air fryer preheated to around 400F (200C) to initially start cooking the bacon effectively.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat: Switch your air fryer on and set it to 400F (200C).
Add Bacon: Arrange your thick slices of bacon in a single layer in the fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding for optimal air circulation.
Cook Time: Cook for approximately 10-15 minutes. Flip the bacon halfway through for even cooking.
Watch Closely: As air fryers can vary in efficiency, keep an eye on the bacon around the 10-minute mark. Adjust cooking time depending on your desired crispiness.

For additional cooking tips, you might want to check out our related guides on cooking meat pie and cooking frozen sliders in the air fryer.

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Air Fryer Bacon

Here are a few additional tips to consider when cooking thick cut bacon in an air fryer:

Use Quality Bacon: The quality of bacon can heavily impact the taste and texture. Look for fresh, high-quality thick cut bacon.
Season If Desired: While bacon is flavorful on its own, feel free to experiment with seasonings such as pepper, garlic powder, or even a hint of maple syrup on your bacon slices.
Keep It Clean: Post-cooking, its important to clean your air fryer basket and tray to maintain hygiene and efficiency.

Alternative Cooking Times

When it comes to defining how long to cook thick cut bacon in air fryer, it mainly depends on the thickness of the slices and your specific air fryer model:

Regular Thickness: 8-12 minutes
Thick Cut: 10-15 minutes
Extra Thick: 12-18 minutes

Use this as a guide and adjust based on your preferences for crispiness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To help you navigate the process better, here are a few common mistakes to avoid when cooking bacon in the air fryer:

Overcrowding the Basket: This can lead to uneven cooking. Always lay the bacon flat and in a single layer.
Not Preheating: Skipping the preheating process may lead to bacon not crisping properly.
Ignoring Smoke: If your air fryer begins to smoke, it may be due to too much fat. Keep the grease to a minimum by choosing leaner cuts.

Cleanup Tips for Your Air Fryer

Cleaning your air fryer after cooking thick cut bacon is simple and essential for maintaining the quality of your appliance. Make sure to wipe down both the interior and exterior of the air fryer and wash the basket properly to avoid any grease buildup.

Variations for Bacon Lovers

Once youve mastered how long to cook thick cut bacon in air fryer, consider trying these variations:

Honey-Glazed Bacon: Drizzle honey over before cooking for a sweet twist.
Spicy Bacon: Sprinkle with chili powder for a kick.
Cheesy Bacon: Top with parmesan for a gourmet touch.

Each variation adds unique flavors that can enhance any breakfast or dish you're preparing.

Conclusion

By following the tips and guidelines highlighted in this article, you now have all the knowledge needed to master how long to cook thick cut bacon in air fryer. Enjoy crispy, flavorful bacon that serves as the perfect complement to any meal.

For more air fryer inspiration and recipes, visit Jamie Oliver's Air Fryer Recipes.