I’ve always been a fan of crispy, flavorful bacon, but I’ve also been mindful about finding healthier alternatives. Turkey bacon quickly became my go-to because it gives me that savory satisfaction without the same fat content as traditional pork bacon. Cooking it in the air fryer is a total game-changer — it comes out perfectly crisp, with less mess and minimal effort, and I love how fast it is.
Cooking turkey bacon in the air fryer has turned breakfast into a quick, stress-free routine for me. I no longer have to stand over a greasy pan or deal with splatters on the stove. Plus, the air fryer locks in flavor while still giving that satisfying crunch. Whether I’m making a weekend brunch or a weekday breakfast, this method never disappoints.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Turkey Bacon:
The star of this recipe is, of course, turkey bacon. It’s leaner than traditional bacon but still has that smoky, savory taste that makes it so crave-worthy. Look for slices that are not too thin so they crisp evenly in the air fryer without burning.
Cooking Spray (Optional):
While turkey bacon usually has enough fat to crisp up on its own, a light spray of cooking oil can help ensure an even golden-brown finish. I use a neutral oil like avocado or canola spray for the best results.
Seasonings (Optional):
You can enhance the flavor of your turkey bacon with simple seasonings. Black pepper, smoked paprika, or even a dash of brown sugar can add a little extra kick and caramelization, depending on your taste preferences.
Ingredients List
- 8 slices of turkey bacon
- Cooking spray (optional)
- Black pepper or preferred seasoning (optional)
How to Make Air Fryer Turkey Bacon
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3–5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the bacon starts crisping right away and cooks evenly.
Step 2: Arrange the Bacon
Lay the turkey bacon slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overlapping to make sure each slice cooks evenly. If your air fryer is small, you may need to cook in batches.
Step 3: Air Fry the Bacon
Cook the bacon at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes. About halfway through, pause the air fryer and flip the slices for even crisping. Adjust the time depending on how crispy you like your bacon.
Step 4: Remove and Serve
Once the bacon reaches your desired crispiness, carefully remove the slices and place them on a paper towel to absorb any excess grease. Serve immediately while still warm and crispy.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- For extra crispiness, make sure the bacon slices are spaced out and not overlapping.
- If your turkey bacon is very lean, a light spritz of oil helps achieve a golden finish.
- Keep an eye on cooking time — turkey bacon cooks faster than pork bacon in the air fryer.
- Experiment with seasonings like smoked paprika, chili powder, or brown sugar to enhance flavor.
- Clean your air fryer basket right after cooking to prevent grease buildup.
FAQs
Can I cook frozen turkey bacon in the air fryer?
Yes! You can cook frozen slices, but add 1–2 extra minutes to the cooking time and separate the slices as they thaw.
Do I need to flip the bacon while cooking?
Flipping helps ensure even crispiness, especially if your air fryer basket is small or your bacon slices are thick.
Can I cook more than one layer of bacon at a time?
It’s best to cook in a single layer. If you stack slices, they may not crisp evenly.
How long does turkey bacon stay crispy after cooking?
It’s best served immediately, but you can keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the air fryer to restore crispiness.