Crispy Air Fryer Bacon: Perfectly Crunchy Every Time

This air fryer bacon is super crispy and a healthier alternative to pan-fried bacon. It’s a breakfast favorite that’s quick and ready in about 10 minutes.

Air fryer bacon on a black plate with egg on the side.

Bacon lovers take note: this crispy Ninja Foodi air fryer bacon delivers great texture with less mess and less grease than traditional stovetop frying. It crisps quickly, and the air fryer keeps grease contained so you avoid hot splatters and extra cleanup. Serve it with eggs, in a breakfast sandwich, or chopped into salads and other recipes. This method is simple, consistent, and fast.

Kitchen Tools

  • An Air Fryer: The directions are written for a 6.5 quart Ninja Foodi. If you use a different model, you may need to adjust time and temperature for ideal crispiness.
  • Tongs
  • A Large Plate
  • Paper Towels: Place cooked bacon on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease.

Ingredients

  • Bacon: Use your preferred bacon—thick or regular cut works. This recipe uses about 1 lb of bacon.
prep image showing four pictures of bacon cooking in an air fryer.

How to Air Fry Bacon

  1. Arrange 4–5 strips of bacon in the air fryer basket in a single layer. No oil is needed.
  2. Close the lid and press START.
  3. Select AIR CRISP and set the temperature to 400°F (204°C).
  4. Set the timer for 8–10 minutes. The first batch usually takes about 10 minutes; subsequent batches may take closer to 8 minutes.
  5. Flip the bacon halfway through cooking with tongs for even browning.
  6. When the bacon reaches your desired crispiness, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and cool slightly.
  7. Serve immediately with eggs, on a sandwich, or use in your favorite recipes.

Common Questions

How do you store leftover bacon?

Store cooked bacon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Wrapping the bacon in foil before placing it in the container helps preserve some crispiness.

Can you freeze cooked bacon?

Yes. Wrap individual strips in foil or parchment, place them in a freezer bag, and freeze for 3–4 months. Rewarm in the oven or microwave when ready to use.

Ninja Foodi with hand showing how to make bacon.

More Meaty Recipes

Crockpot Pork Carnitas Tacos
Pepper Crusted Steak Recipe
Grilled Skirt Steak with Chimichurri Sauce
Crockpot Beef Short Ribs
Bacon Blackberry Sandwiches

Crispy bacon on a black plate on a black counter.

Pairing Ideas

  • Jalapeño Popper Dip: Crispy bacon makes this appetizer even better for game days and parties.
  • Everything Bagel Cheese Balls: A tasty finger food for brunch gatherings.
  • Bacon and Egg Breakfast Tacos: Combine bacon, eggs, and potatoes for a delicious breakfast or brunch.
  • Make-Ahead Breakfast Sandwiches: Add crispy bacon for an easy grab-and-go meal.
  • Baked Cajun Fries with Cheese Sauce: Top fries with bacon pieces and green onions for a crowd-pleasing side.
  • Chopped Brussels Sprouts Salad: Toss bacon into a Brussels sprouts salad for flavor and crunch.
  • Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup: Use bacon as a garnish or mix-in for extra depth.
  • Chocolate Bark with Bacon and Almonds: A sweet-and-salty treat using leftover bacon.
Close up of crispy bacon with egg in the background.

This Ninja Foodi air fryer bacon is a favorite in our kitchen — crispy, fast, and with much less mess than pan-frying. I hope you enjoy it!

Happy Eating!

"Caitlyn" signature in black cursive.
Bacon on a black plate with an egg and coffee on the side.

Crispy Air Fryer Bacon Recipe

Caitlyn Erhardt

This air fryer bacon is super crispy and perfect for breakfast or adding to recipes. Ninja Foodi instructions included.
5 from 6 votes
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Prep Time 5 mins
Cook Time 10 mins
Total Time 15 mins

Course Breakfast, Brunch
Cuisine American

Servings 6 Servings
Calories 210 kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Bacon

Instructions

  • Add 4–5 strips of bacon to the basket of your Ninja Foodi Air Fryer. Close the lid then press START. Press AIR CRISP and set the temperature to 400°F. Set the time for 8–10 minutes and press START to begin.
  • Flip the bacon halfway through with tongs. When done, transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Cooking Time: The first batch usually takes around 10 minutes; subsequent batches may take about 8 minutes.
  • Leftover Storage: Store cooked bacon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Wrapping the bacon in foil before storing helps keep it crisper.
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Nutrition

Calories: 210kcal
Carbohydrates: 0.6 g
Protein: 16.4 g
Fat: 16.1 g
Sodium: 910 mg
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