If you love bacon, you’re in for a treat. Bacon lovers know there’s no wrong way to enjoy it, but this crispy twisted bacon in air fryer recipe takes things to a whole new level. Imagine the perfect balance of crunch and chew, a fun corkscrew shape that makes it as visually appealing as it is delicious, and a cooking method that’s quick, clean, and foolproof.
Whether you’re planning a lazy Sunday breakfast, a hearty brunch for friends, or a snack platter for game night, these twisted bacon strips will disappear fast. Best of all, they require just one main ingredient—good quality bacon—and a few minutes in your trusty air fryer.
Why Twisted Bacon Is a Game-Changer
Twisting bacon before cooking isn’t just for looks (although it’s undeniably Instagram-worthy). The twist changes the texture completely—parts of the bacon get extra crispy while others stay slightly chewy, giving you the best of both worlds.
Cooking it in an air fryer ensures:
- Even crisping without flipping halfway.
- Minimal mess compared to stovetop frying.
- Less grease absorption, making it slightly lighter but still indulgent.
- Consistent results every time.
Ingredient List – Simple & Flexible
This recipe truly embraces simplicity. All you need is:
Main Ingredient
- Bacon: Thick-cut works best as it holds its shape and gets beautifully crispy without overcooking. If you prefer a lighter bite, thin-cut bacon is fine but needs shorter cooking time.
Optional Flavor Boosters
- Brown sugar – for a caramelized sweet crunch.
- Cracked black pepper – adds depth and heat.
- Maple syrup – pairs beautifully with salty bacon.
- Cayenne pepper – a spicy kick for adventurous eaters.
- Smoked paprika – deepens the smoky flavor.
Essential Tools You’ll Need
- Air Fryer – Basket style or tray style both work, as long as there’s space for airflow.
- Tongs – For handling hot bacon safely.
- Paper towels or wire rack – For draining excess grease and keeping bacon crisp after cooking.
Prep Time, Cook Time & Servings
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 5 minutes |
| Cook Time | 13–15 minutes |
| Total Time | 18–20 minutes |
| Servings | 4 (about 8–10 strips) |
How to Make Crispy Twisted Bacon in Air Fryer
Step 1 – Twist the Bacon
- Hold both ends of a bacon strip.
- Gently twist until it forms a corkscrew shape.
- Keep the twists tight for extra crunch or looser for more chew.
- Repeat for all strips.
Pro Tip: If using thin-cut bacon, twist gently to avoid tearing.
Step 2 – Arrange in the Air Fryer
- Place twisted strips in the basket or on trays.
- Leave space between each strip for even airflow.
- Avoid stacking—crowding reduces crispiness.
Alternative Method: If you don’t have an air fryer, arrange them on a lined baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18–22 minutes.
Step 3 – Air Fry to Perfection
- Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook for 13–15 minutes for thick-cut bacon.
- Check at the 12-minute mark to prevent overcooking.
- For thin bacon, aim for 8–10 minutes.
Step 4 – Drain & Serve
- Transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate or a wire rack.
- Let it cool for 1–2 minutes—it will crisp up more as it cools.
- Serve immediately, or store for later.
Flavor Variations You’ll Love
1. Candied Twisted Bacon
- Sprinkle brown sugar before cooking for a sweet, caramelized finish.
2. Spicy Kick
- Dust with cayenne pepper or chili flakes for heat lovers.
3. Smoky Maple
- Brush with maple syrup halfway through cooking for a rich, smoky-sweet flavor.
4. Garlic-Herb
- Sprinkle with garlic powder and dried rosemary before air frying.
5. BBQ Glaze
- Brush with your favorite BBQ sauce in the last 3 minutes of cooking.
Serving Ideas – Beyond Breakfast
This bacon isn’t just for mornings. Try it:
- In a breakfast plate with scrambled eggs, hash browns, and toast.
- On salads for a crunchy topping.
- As an appetizer—wrap around asparagus, shrimp, or dates.
- As a garnish for a Bloody Mary cocktail.
- On sandwiches for an extra crunch factor.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store cooled bacon in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 1 month; reheat from frozen in the air fryer for 3–4 minutes.
Reheating Tip: Avoid microwaving—it can make bacon rubbery. Use the air fryer or oven instead.
Nutrition (per strip, thick-cut bacon)
- Calories: ~80
- Fat: ~7g
- Protein: ~5g
- Carbs: 0g (unless sweeteners added)
FAQs
Can I use turkey bacon?
Yes! It works well but cooks faster, so check at the 8-minute mark.
Do I need to flip bacon in the air fryer?
No—the circulating heat cooks it evenly on all sides.
Why twist bacon at all?
It changes the texture and makes it more fun to eat (plus it holds dips better).
Final Thoughts
This crispy twisted bacon in air fryer recipe proves that sometimes the simplest ideas are the most brilliant. It’s easy, quick, and guaranteed to impress whether you serve it at breakfast or as a party snack. Once you try it, you might never go back to flat bacon again.
