Air Fryer Twisted Bacon: The Ultimate Guide to Perfectly Crispy & Chewy Bacon

Get ready to revolutionize your breakfast routine with the latest internet sensation: Air Fryer Twisted Bacon! This isn’t just any bacon; it’s a culinary masterpiece that combines a delightful crispness with a satisfying chewiness in every curl. Gone are the days of unevenly cooked strips or excessive grease splatters. With your trusty air fryer, achieving this trendy, delicious bacon is not only simple but also yields consistently perfect results.

The trend of Twisted Bacon took the internet by storm, largely thanks to creators like Abby Durlewanger from the @houseofketo TikTok account. While many initially prepared this fun snack in a traditional oven, we’re taking it a step further. Our commitment to the air fryer means we’ve perfected the method to get that ideal texture and flavor with minimal fuss. If you already love making bacon in your air fryer, prepare to be amazed by this twisted variation!

This recipe isn’t just about a fun new way to enjoy bacon; it’s about optimizing the cooking process for superior results. Air-fried twisted bacon offers a unique balance: the exterior crisps up beautifully, while the twisted shape ensures pockets of tender, meaty goodness remain within. It’s the perfect accompaniment to a stack of air fryer pancakes or any breakfast spread, and it even makes for a fantastic standalone snack or garnish.

We’ve personally tested this in various models, including the Cosori 5.8 Quart and the Dash 2 Quart air fryers, consistently achieving that ideal crispy-yet-tender finish. Once you experience the convenience and quality of air-fried twisted bacon, you’ll wonder why you ever made it any other way.

Why the Air Fryer is Best for Twisted Bacon

While ovens and stovetops have their place, the air fryer truly shines when it comes to making crispy twisted bacon. Here’s why it’s our preferred method:

• Unmatched Crispness & Texture: The rapid circulation of hot air in an air fryer ensures that every part of the twisted bacon gets direct exposure to heat. This results in an incredibly crispy exterior, while the twisted shape helps to trap some moisture, giving you that perfect balance of crisp and tender.
• Faster Cooking Time: Air fryers typically cook faster than conventional ovens due to their compact size and efficient heat distribution. You’ll have perfect twisted bacon on your plate in significantly less time.
• Less Mess & Easier Cleanup: One of the biggest advantages of air frying bacon is the reduced mess. Unlike pan-frying, which can leave grease splatters all over your kitchen, the air fryer contains the mess. Many air fryer baskets are also non-stick and dishwasher-safe, making cleanup a breeze. Using air fryer parchment paper with holes can further simplify the process by catching excess grease.
• Consistent Results: The precise temperature control and even heat distribution of an air fryer mean you’ll get consistently cooked bacon every time, without hot spots or undercooked areas.
• Healthier Option: While bacon is inherently fatty, the air fryer allows excess grease to drip away into the basket below, potentially making it a slightly “lighter” option than pan-fried bacon which often reabsorbs some of its own fat.

What You Need to Make Air Fryer Twisted Bacon

You’ll be surprised at how minimal the requirements are for this delicious recipe. Beyond your air fryer, you really only need a few simple things:

• Bacon: The star of the show! We recommend a good quality, standard-cut bacon. While thick-cut bacon can work, it might require a slightly longer cooking time and may not twist as easily. Regular-cut bacon generally provides the best results for this specific method.
• Air Fryer: Any basket-style or oven-style air fryer will work. If you have a tray air fryer, ensure you have a small baking sheet with rimmed edges to catch the grease. This is crucial to prevent grease from dripping onto the heating element, which can cause smoke.
• Optional: Air Fryer Parchment Paper: While not essential, we highly recommend air fryer parchment paper with holes. It significantly cuts down on cleanup time by preventing bacon grease from sticking to your air fryer basket.

How to Make Air Fryer Twisted Bacon: Step-by-Step

Making twisted bacon in your air fryer is incredibly straightforward. Follow these steps for perfect results:

1. Gather Your Ingredients:

You’ll need approximately one pound of your favorite bacon. We often use Oscar Meyer, as their standard packs are typically 16 ounces, ensuring a true pound of deliciousness. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different bacon flavors – hickory smoked, applewood smoked, honey glazed, or peppered varieties can add an exciting twist to your twisted bacon!

2. Prepare the Bacon: The Twist!

This is where the magic happens. Take one strip of bacon and hold one end in each hand. Then, simply twist the strip in opposite directions along its entire length. You want a firm twist, but not so tight that it tears. The goal is to create a compact, spiral shape. This twisting action is what gives the bacon its unique texture – both crispy and chewy – and allows it to cook beautifully in the air fryer.

3. Arrange in the Air Fryer:

Once twisted, place each piece side-by-side in your air fryer basket or on your air fryer tray. Unlike traditional flat bacon where you need ample space between strips, twisted bacon can be placed relatively close together. The vertical structure of the twists allows for better airflow around each piece, promoting even cooking without overcrowding.

Click Here to Get the Top Ten Air Fryer Questions Answered

4. Air Fry to Perfection:

Preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175°C). This initial heat helps the bacon start cooking immediately and contributes to that desirable crispness. Once preheated, cook the twisted bacon for 13-15 minutes. The exact cooking time can vary slightly depending on your air fryer model and your preferred level of crispness. For extra crispy bacon, you might add another minute or two. For a slightly chewier result, aim for the lower end of the time frame.

5. Monitor and Adjust:

Around the 10-minute mark, it’s a good idea to check on your bacon. You can gently flip the pieces if you wish, though often the air circulation is sufficient for even cooking without flipping. Look for a deep golden-brown color and the desired level of crispiness. Remember that bacon will crisp up a bit more as it cools.

6. Drain and Serve:

Once cooked, carefully remove the twisted bacon from the air fryer and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess grease. Let it rest for a minute or two before serving. This brief resting period allows the bacon to finish crisping up and cool slightly.

Air Fryer Twisted Bacon: Pro Tips and FAQ’s

Why does my air fryer smoke when I make bacon?

Smoking can occur because bacon fat drips down and can burn if it gets too hot, particularly if it touches the heating element directly. Our research shows that cooking bacon at 350°F (175°C) helps significantly prevent this. If you still experience smoking, try these tips:

• Add Water or Bread: Place a small amount of water (about 1/4 cup) or a slice of bread at the very bottom of the air fryer drawer, underneath the basket. This absorbs or dilutes the dripping grease, preventing it from smoking.
• Use Parchment Paper: As mentioned, air fryer parchment paper with holes can also help by catching much of the grease before it reaches the bottom.
• Clean Regularly: Ensure your air fryer is clean, especially the heating element, as old grease can also cause smoking.

How long can I store unused bacon?

If you don’t cook the entire package, promptly wrap any unused bacon in an airtight container or heavy-duty foil. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Cooked twisted bacon can also be stored similarly in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, both raw and cooked bacon can be frozen for several weeks (raw) to a few months (cooked).

Can I make twisted bacon in advance?

Yes, you can cook a batch of twisted bacon ahead of time. While it’s best enjoyed fresh for maximum crispness, you can reheat it in the air fryer at 300°F (150°C) for 3-5 minutes until warmed through and re-crisped.

What kind of bacon is best for twisting?

Regular-cut bacon works best for twisting as it’s pliable enough to form tight spirals without breaking easily. Thick-cut bacon can be used, but it might be harder to twist and may require a longer cooking time to achieve desired crispness.

Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Twisted Bacon

This versatile twisted bacon isn’t just for breakfast! Here are some ideas:

• Breakfast Star: Serve alongside eggs, pancakes, waffles, or French toast.
• Snack Time: Enjoy it on its own as a savory, satisfying snack.
• Salad Topping: Crumble the crispy twisted bacon over salads for an added burst of flavor and texture.
• Sandwich & Burger Enhancement: Add a few twists to your BLT, burger, or club sandwich for an elevated experience.
• Bacon Candy: Brush with a mix of maple syrup and a pinch of cayenne pepper before air frying for a sweet and spicy treat.

Embrace the fun and deliciousness of Air Fryer Twisted Bacon. It’s an easy air fryer recipe that promises a delightful twist on a classic favorite, delivering perfectly crispy, yet wonderfully chewy bacon with every single bite. Enjoy the process and the fantastic results!

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