How to Cook Perfect Crispy Bacon in a Ninja Air Fryer

Bacon is a breakfast staple loved by many for its savory salty, smoky flavor and satisfying crunch. While frying bacon in a skillet on the stovetop is the traditional cooking method using a Ninja air fryer is a convenient, easy and healthier way to make deliciously crispy bacon at home.

When you cook bacon in the Ninja air fryer, you don’t have to deal with greasy pans and splattering oil. Instead, you can enjoy perfectly crispy bacon with little work. Here are some tips, step-by-step instructions, and answers to some of the most common questions about how to use your Ninja to make the best air-fried bacon ever.

Benefits of Cooking Bacon in the Ninja Air Fryer

There are several key advantages that make using the Ninja air fryer an exceptional way to cook bacon:

• Uses less oil and fat: The Ninja air fryer uses rapidly circulating hot air rather than cooking in grease or oil. This significantly reduces the fat and calories compared to pan frying.

• Quick cook time The Ninja air fryer preheats and cooks very rapidly allowing you to cook a batch of bacon in just 8-15 minutes.

• Crispy texture The hot air ensures the bacon gets evenly crispy and browned on all sides not just the edges.

• Minimal mess: With less grease, there is far less splattering and mess than stovetop methods.

• Consistent results: The air fryer settings allow you to perfectly customize temperature and cook times.

• Hands-off: Simply set the air fryer and let it cook the bacon for you while you relax.

• The Ninja air fryer can cook a lot of different foods, like chicken, fries, vegetables, and more.

Tips for Cooking Perfect Bacon in the Ninja Air Fryer

Follow these tips for getting the best results when making air fried bacon:

• Let the air fryer fully preheat before adding bacon to prevent sticking.

• Use thin sliced bacon which will cook evenly. Thick bacon needs more time.

• Make sure bacon lays in a single layer without overlapping.

• 400°F is ideal, hot enough to crisp without burning.

• Cook 8-12 minutes for thin bacon, 10-15 for thick. Check often.

• Flip bacon halfway through cooking for even crispness.

• Lightly spray bacon with oil for more even browning if needed.

• Drain on paper towels before serving to remove excess grease.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps for perfect crispy bacon every time:

Prep

• Pat bacon slices dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Excess moisture can cause splattering.

• Optionally line the air fryer basket with foil or a liner for easy cleanup.

Cook

• Pre-heat air fryer to 400°F. Allow to fully preheat for 3-5 minutes.

• Add bacon slices in a single layer to air fryer basket. Do not overlap.

• Cook for 8-10 minutes for thin sliced bacon, 10-12 for thicker.

• Halfway through, flip and rearrange bacon for even cooking.

• Cook until desired level of crispness is reached.

Finish

• Remove cooked bacon from air fryer and transfer to a paper towel lined plate to drain.

• Let sit 1-2 minutes before serving to allow crispness to set after removing.

• Enjoy your hot, crispy air fried bacon on its own or on burgers, in sandwiches and more!

Cooking Different Types of Bacon

The Ninja air fryer can accommodate any bacon variety. Follow these general guidelines:

• Thin sliced bacon – Cook at 400°F for 8-10 minutes total. Flipping halfway.

• Thick cut bacon – Takes 12-15 minutes at 400°F to fully crisp thick cut.

• Turkey or chicken bacon – Cook at 400°F for just 6-8 minutes since it’s leaner.

• Flavored bacon – Cook flavored bacon varieties like maple or applewood smoked using the same method based on thickness.

Always keep an eye on the bacon and adjust cook times as needed based on your preferred level of crispness.

Helpful Questions Answered

Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about cooking bacon in the Ninja air fryer:

Does the bacon splatter a lot?

There may be some light popping but much less splatter compared to stovetop frying. Properly preheating the air fryer and patting bacon dry helps minimize this.

Should you flip the bacon while cooking?

Yes, flipping halfway through is recommended for evenly crisped bacon. The air circulates but flipping ensures both sides cook evenly.

How much bacon fits in the Ninja air fryer?

This depends on the model, but you can typically fit at least 6-8 slices in a single layer in the basket. Work in batches for larger amounts.

How long does cooked bacon last refrigerated?

Cooked bacon will keep 3-4 days properly stored in the fridge. Let cool before refrigerating in an airtight container.

Can you reheat leftover bacon in the air fryer?

Yes! Place cooled bacon in a single layer in the air fryer basket and reheat at 300°F for 4-5 minutes until warmed through.

What’s the best way to clean the Ninja air fryer after cooking bacon?

After cooking, carefully wipe basket and drawer with paper towels to absorb excess grease. Then wash all parts with hot soapy water and dry thoroughly.

Get Crispy Air Fried Bacon Any Time

One of the best features of the Ninja air fryer is the ability to make tasty crispy bacon any time with minimal effort and cleanup. Follow the tips and instructions in this guide for perfect results.

In just minutes you can be enjoying your morning bacon on a sandwich or using it to top salads, baked potatoes and more. The air fryer makes it easy to cook up just the amount you need when cravings strike. Give air fried bacon a try and see why it’s one of the most popular uses for this versatile kitchen appliance!