Air Fryer Turkey Bacon is truly a game-changer for anyone seeking a quick, delicious, and healthier breakfast or snack. This method consistently delivers crispy, flavorful turkey bacon without the usual mess and fuss associated with pan-frying. It’s the ideal solution for hectic mornings, leisurely brunches, or even as a satisfying, crunchy topping for your favorite salads, sandwiches, or wraps.

“Turkey bacon in the air fryer is a total game changer! It is crispy, easy, and ready in minutes with zero mess.”

-Becky

Say goodbye to greasy splatters, constant flipping over a hot skillet, and the need to “babysit” your stove. This air fryer turkey bacon recipe ensures perfectly cooked strips in just minutes, whether you prefer them lightly browned or extra-crispy. The controlled, circulating hot air of the air fryer cooks bacon evenly and efficiently, making it foolproof every single time.

When you’re whipping up a batch of delicious turkey bacon in the air fryer, why not complete your meal with other fantastic air-fried accompaniments? For a hearty breakfast, pair it with fluffy Air Fryer Biscuits or golden-brown Air Fryer Hash Browns. If you’re craving a delightful balance of savory and sweet, consider serving it alongside a batch of warm Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls or convenient Air Fryer French Toast Sticks. The versatility of turkey bacon extends beyond breakfast; crumble it into a rich Baked Mac and Cheese for added texture and flavor, or use it to elevate Air Fryer Burgers.

Why Air Fryer Turkey Bacon is a Must-Try

Air fryer turkey bacon stands out as a superior choice for several compelling reasons. It’s a significantly leaner option compared to traditional pork bacon, offering a healthier profile without compromising on taste. Cooked in just minutes, it fits seamlessly into even the busiest schedules. Its quick preparation and minimal cleanup make it an ideal staple for quick meals. Pair it effortlessly with other breakfast foods like fluffy Air Fryer Egg Bites or delightful Air Fryer Blueberry Muffin Bites for a well-rounded meal. The air fryer ensures a perfect crispiness that’s hard to achieve with other cooking methods, locking in flavor while keeping your kitchen spotless. It’s truly a versatile ingredient that elevates everything from simple breakfasts to gourmet burgers or a savory crumble for your favorite casseroles.

Ingredients You Will Need

Making delicious air fryer turkey bacon requires only a few simple ingredients. The key is to start with quality turkey bacon and understand how to enhance its natural flavors.

• Turkey Bacon: The star of our recipe! Choose your favorite brand. For a healthier approach, I often opt for uncured and nitrate-free turkey bacon, which typically contains fewer artificial preservatives. Popular and reliable brands include Applegate, Oscar Mayer, and Trader Joe’s, known for their quality and flavor consistency.
• Optional: Olive Oil Spray: While turkey bacon generally contains enough fat to crisp up on its own, a very light mist of olive oil spray can be beneficial, especially for extra-lean varieties or if it’s your first time cooking with a particular brand. This can aid in achieving that perfect golden crisp.
• Optional: Cracked Pepper, Chili Flakes, or Maple Syrup: These are fantastic for customizing your bacon’s flavor profile. A sprinkle of fresh cracked black pepper adds a classic, aromatic touch. Chili flakes introduce a subtle (or not-so-subtle) spicy kick. For a sweet and savory experience, a light drizzle of maple syrup after air frying is divine.

A full list of ingredients and precise quantities are conveniently located in the recipe card below.

Recipe Variations for Enhanced Flavor

Elevate your air fryer turkey bacon with these simple yet impactful flavor variations. These additions are best applied after cooking to prevent burning and ensure maximum flavor impact.

• Sweet and Savory Delight: For a delightful contrast, lightly drizzle cooked turkey bacon with pure maple syrup or a touch of honey. The residual heat will slightly caramelize the sugars, adding a sticky, sweet glaze that pairs wonderfully with the savory bacon.
• Spicy Kick: If you crave a bit of heat, sprinkle your freshly cooked bacon with red chili flakes or a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper. This adds a vibrant warmth that can awaken your taste buds.
• Cracked Pepper Perfection: Achieve a sophisticated, deli-style finish by seasoning your turkey bacon with freshly coarse-ground black pepper immediately after it comes out of the air fryer. The fresh aroma and subtle bite of the pepper truly enhance the bacon’s savory notes.
• Everything Bagel Twist: For an unexpected burst of flavor, try sprinkling a little “everything bagel” seasoning (poppy seeds, sesame seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and salt) over your hot turkey bacon. It offers a unique, aromatic, and savory crunch.

How to Make Crispy Turkey Bacon in the Air Fryer

Preparing crispy turkey bacon in your air fryer is incredibly simple. Follow these steps for perfect results every time, ensuring even cooking and minimal effort.

1. Prepare and Arrange: Begin by preheating your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This ensures immediate and even cooking. Once preheated, carefully place the turkey bacon strips in a single layer within the air fryer basket. It’s crucial not to overlap the slices, as this will prevent them from crisping evenly. If needed, work in batches to maintain a single layer.

2. Air Fry to Perfection: Air fry the bacon at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 6 minutes for lightly crisp bacon. For a crispier texture, extend the cooking time to 8–9 minutes. If your air fryer tends to brown unevenly, it’s a good idea to flip the bacon halfway through the cooking process. Keep a close eye on it during the last few minutes, as turkey bacon can go from perfectly crispy to overcooked quickly.

3. Rest and Serve: Once the turkey bacon reaches your desired crispiness, carefully remove it from the air fryer and place it on a paper towel-lined plate. Let it rest for 1 minute. This resting period is essential as the bacon will continue to crisp up as it cools, achieving that ideal crunchy texture. Repeat the process for any remaining batches.

I achieve consistently great results making turkey bacon in my Cosori Air Fryer. Remember that cooking times can vary by 1-3 minutes depending on your specific air fryer model, its size, and wattage. Always monitor your bacon closely, especially during the first few batches, to find the perfect timing for your appliance.

To further enhance your air frying experience, consider exploring the BEST accessories available. We’ve compiled a comprehensive guide featuring our favorite Air Fryer Accessories to help you get the most out of your appliance and make cooking even easier.

Expert Tips for Perfect Turkey Bacon

• Enhance Flavor After Frying: For the best taste and presentation, apply seasonings or drizzles after the turkey bacon has finished cooking. A touch of maple syrup adds a delicious sweetness, fresh cracked pepper provides a zesty kick, or even a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning can introduce a fun, savory twist.
• Line the Basket for Easy Cleanup (Optional): To make cleanup a breeze and prevent sticking, consider lining your air fryer basket with parchment paper liners or a reusable silicone insert specifically designed for air fryers. This catches any minimal grease and keeps your basket pristine.
• Batch Cook for Convenience: Prepare a larger quantity of turkey bacon at once to save time throughout the week. Store the cooked strips in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for just 2–3 minutes until warm and crispy again.
• Adjust Cooking Time Based on Thickness and Air Fryer Model: Turkey bacon brands vary in thickness, which directly impacts cooking time. Thicker slices may require an extra minute or two, while thinner ones will cook faster. Furthermore, different air fryer models have varying wattages and airflow patterns. Always start with the lower end of the suggested cooking time and add or subtract minutes until you discover the perfect crispness for your specific bacon and appliance.
• Pat Dry for Extra Crispiness: Before placing the turkey bacon in the air fryer, gently pat the slices dry with a paper towel. Removing excess surface moisture helps the bacon crisp up more effectively and reduces the chance of it steaming instead of frying.
• Avoid Overcrowding the Basket: For optimal results, always arrange turkey bacon in a single layer without overlapping. Overcrowding prevents the hot air from circulating properly around each slice, leading to uneven cooking and less crispy bacon. Work in batches if necessary.

Are you new to air fryers? If you’re just starting your air frying journey, we have a fantastic introductory article titled What is an Air Fryer. It covers everything from how this innovative appliance works to the diverse range of foods you can prepare, essential usage tips, and much more. It’s a great resource to get you comfortable and confident with your new kitchen gadget.

Turkey Bacon FAQs

5 from 1 vote

Servings:
5

Air Fryer Turkey Bacon

By
Becky

This air fryer turkey bacon is quick, easy, and perfectly crispy every time. Whether you like it lightly cooked or extra crisp, the air fryer makes it in minutes with no mess or greasy splatter. Great for breakfast, brunch, or as a topping for salads and sandwiches!

Prep:

5 minutes
mins

Cook:

8 minutes
mins

Total:

13 minutes
mins

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Equipment

• Air Fryer

Ingredients 

• 
  ▢
  
  
  10
  slices
  Turkey Bacon

Cook Mode

Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions 

• Preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175°C). Place the bacon slices flat in the basket of the air fryer in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap for even crisping.
• Air fry at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175°C) for 8-10 minutes. For even cooking, flip the bacon halfway through the cooking process. After 8 minutes, check the bacon for your desired crispiness. If you prefer it extra crispy, add another 1-2 minutes of cook time, monitoring closely.
• Remove the cooked bacon from the air fryer and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to cool. The bacon will continue to crisp up as it rests. Repeat the cooking process for any remaining slices until all your turkey bacon is perfectly done.

Notes

• Line the basket (optional) – Using parchment liners or a silicone insert can significantly simplify cleanup and prevent sticking, especially for leaner bacon varieties.
• Batch cook for the week – Cook a larger quantity and store the cooled turkey bacon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2–3 minutes for quick meals.
• Add flavor after frying – Enhance your bacon with a touch of maple syrup for sweetness, fresh cracked pepper for a zesty kick, or even a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning for a unique twist once it’s cooked.
• Adjust time as needed – Bacon thickness and air fryer models vary. Start with the recommended time and adjust by a minute or two until you find the ideal crispness for your specific brand and appliance.

Nutrition

Calories:
107
kcal

,

Carbohydrates:
1
g

,

Protein:
8
g

,

Fat:
8
g

,

Saturated Fat:
2
g

,

Polyunsaturated Fat:
2
g

,

Monounsaturated Fat:
3
g

,

Cholesterol:
27
mg

,

Sodium:
640
mg

,

Potassium:
111
mg

,

Calcium:
3
mg

,

Iron:
1
mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

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