This crisp and crunchy Air-Fryer Turkey Bacon is so easy to make and more than just a breakfast staple!
As far as I’m concerned, bacon is one of humankind’s greatest inventions. If I could eat it every day, I would. But where would my waistline be if I did that? Not to mention all the cholesterol and sodium these little strips of heaven pack in. That’s why I’m all for healthier alternatives like turkey bacon—it lets me indulge a bit more often without the guilt.
For a while now, turkey bacon has been a popular choice for those looking to enjoy the flavor of bacon with less fat, but I’ve never been impressed. For one thing, it doesn’t taste that much like pork bacon at all. That, I’m okay with. My problem is that they’re deceptively difficult to fry up without turning rubbery or cooking unevenly. That’s where the air fryer comes in. This magical appliance crisps turkey bacon beautifully, delivering that satisfying savory and crispy flavor you’d expect, all with minimal prep.
So, if you’re new to air frying or want to change your breakfast routine, you really should try it. Yes, turkey bacon doesn’t taste the same as the real stuff—can’t change that. But my air fryer crisps them up so nicely that I almost don’t miss the local, smoked applewood bacon I get from the butcher. Almost.
Is Air-Fryer Turkey Bacon Healthy?
Compared to the pork variety, turkey bacon offers a lower-calorie, lower-fat alternative. Turkey bacon is typically leaner than pork bacon and can be a good fit for those following high-protein diets. Plus, making it in the air fryer doesn’t require any oil.
That said, not all turkey bacon is created equal. Some brands, especially the mass-produced variety, are heavily processed and loaded with salt. When possible, look for all-natural options that are nitrate-free and low-sodium.
Cleaning Your Air Fryer
Cleaning the air fryer may not be the most enjoyable part of cooking, but it’s important to keep things running smoothly. It’s like getting an oil change for your car! Though, if we’re being honest, I don’t always remember to clean it—no judgment here, folks. But for those new to air fryers, it’s actually not that difficult to clean.
The first thing you want to do is let your air fryer cool down. Then, remove the basket and tray, and give them a good wash in warm, soapy water. For stubborn spots, a soft brush will do the trick. You can also pop them in the dishwasher, preferably the top shelf.
As for the interior, a simple wipe-down with an old, damp cloth works. Every once in a while, check the heating element (usually located at the top of the air fryer) for any food particles that might affect its performance. You’d be amazed at how a quick clean now and then keeps your air fryer working optimally.
How to Make Ahead And Store
Honestly, turkey bacon is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to make it ahead, you can cook it in batches and store leftovers in the fridge. Place the cooked bacon in an airtight container, and it will keep for up to 3 days. Reheat the strips in the air fryer at 370°F for a minute or two to bring back their crispiness.
Serving Suggestions
I put air-fryer turkey bacon in everything! You can easily swap pork bacon for turkey bacon in your favorite quiche and casserole. For a filling breakfast, add a couple of slices to this Easy Omelet. It’s also great in this Healthy Paleo Sweet Potato Breakfast Hash.
Sometimes, I’ll also cook the bacon just a little longer and then crumble it over my Avocado Toast for a satisfying crunch that pairs perfectly with creamy avocado. And for lunches, it’s delicious in this Chicken Caesar Wrap or this panzanella kale salad. Bottom line—if you can put bacon on it, you can put turkey bacon on it!
Ingredients
- 1 pound package turkey bacon
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 370 degrees Fahrenheit for 4 minutes.
- Place 1/3 of the package of bacon strips in your air fryer (about 7-8 strips). It's okay if some overlap a little, but try to leave some space in between.
- Cook for 5 minutes. Check the bacon and move any strips around if necessary.
- Cook for an additional 2-4 minutes, or until desired crispiness is achieved. I like it with another 3 minutes.
- DEVOUR!
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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