Name: Crispy Twisted Bacon in Air Fryer
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 pound thick-cut bacon

Some mornings just call for bacon—but not just any bacon.

This Crispy Twisted Bacon in Air Fryer is the ultimate upgrade to your breakfast, brunch, or even snack routine.

Why I Love This Recipe

I fell in love with this method the first time I tried it. Here’s why it’s become my go-to:

You only need bacon—seriously, that’s it!

The air fryer keeps everything neat and mess-free.

The twists are crispy outside, chewy inside, and so much fun to eat.

It’s quick, effortless, and works every time.

Whether you’re prepping for a family brunch or looking for a clever game day snack, this recipe never disappoints.

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

This is truly one of the simplest recipes you’ll ever make. Here’s what you need:

Bacon: Thick-cut is ideal because it holds its twist better and gets super crispy without overcooking.

Thin bacon will work too, but you’ll need to adjust the cook time.

Air fryer: The real MVP here. It ensures even cooking and that coveted crunch with minimal oil.

Optional Extras: For flavor boosts, you can add brown sugar, cracked black pepper, maple syrup, or even cayenne before cooking.

Pro Tips Before You Start

A few quick tips to help you get the most out of your crispy twisted bacon in air fryer experience:

Use thick-cut bacon for more control and better shape retention.

Twist tightly for extra crispness, or leave it slightly looser if you prefer some chewiness.

Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket—give each piece space to crisp evenly.

Keep a close eye during the last few minutes—bacon can go from golden to burnt fast.

How to Make Crispy Twisted Bacon in Air Fryer

Step 1: Twist the Bacon

Hold both ends of a bacon strip and gently twist it into a tight spiral.

It should look like a corkscrew when done.

Repeat with the remaining bacon strips until all are twisted.

Step 2: Arrange in the Air Fryer

Place the twisted bacon strips into the air fryer basket.

Make sure there’s space between each piece for airflow.

If you don’t have an air fryer, you can also place them on a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment or foil.

Step 3: Air Fry to Perfection

Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).

Cook for 13–15 minutes, depending on the thickness of your bacon and how crispy you want it.

Start checking around the 12-minute mark, especially if using thinner bacon.

Step 4: Cool & Serve

Once crispy, remove the bacon and let it cool on a paper towel-lined plate or a wire rack.

It will continue to crisp as it cools.

Serve immediately—or if you’re like me, sneak a piece before anyone notices!

What to Serve It With

These crispy spirals are more than just a breakfast side.

Here are some of my favorite pairings:

Classic breakfast: eggs, toast, pancakes, or waffles

Over salads for a crunchy topping

Wrapped around dates or asparagus as an appetizer

Dipped in spicy aioli, ranch, or maple syrup as a party snack

As a Bloody Mary stirrer—trust me, it’s a crowd-pleaser!

Variations / Substitutions

Want to switch things up? Try these fun variations:

Candied Twisted Bacon: Sprinkle with brown sugar or drizzle with maple syrup before air frying.

Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for heat lovers.

Smoky Sweet: Brush with BBQ sauce before or after cooking.

Turkey Bacon: A great lower-fat alternative, though it may require a shorter cooking time.

Peppered Bacon: Press cracked black pepper onto each twist before cooking.

Storage & Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (though I rarely do!), here’s how to store them:

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezer: Freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat directly from frozen in the air fryer.

To reheat, place bacon in the air fryer at 350°F for 2–3 minutes.

Avoid microwaving—it can make bacon rubbery instead of crisp.

FAQs

Can I use thin-cut bacon for this recipe?
Yes, but reduce the cook time to avoid burning.

Thin-cut also doesn’t hold its twist as well.

How do I keep the bacon from unraveling?
Twist it tightly. If needed, you can secure each end with a toothpick, especially for thick strips.

Do I need to flip the bacon in the air fryer?
Nope! The circulating heat cooks it evenly on all sides.

Can I prep these ahead of time?
Yes—twist the bacon and refrigerate it overnight. Cook fresh when ready.

Will the air fryer get greasy?
A little. Use a drip tray or parchment liner for easier cleanup.

What’s the best way to serve these at a party?
Stack them in a mason jar like bacon “twigs” or lay them out on a platter with dipping sauces.

Are these keto-friendly?
Yes! As long as you’re using plain bacon with no added sugars or sauces.

Final Thoughts

This crispy twisted bacon in air fryer recipe proves that sometimes, the simplest ideas are the most genius.

One ingredient, one method, and one wildly delicious result.

It’s quick, fun, and guaranteed to be the first thing gone at any gathering.