Air Fryer Canadian Bacon is a simple way to get crispy, golden slices that are ready in no time. This lean and healthier option fits perfectly into breakfast sandwiches, wraps, or even as a quick snack. Say goodbye to the fuss and hello to easy, delicious mornings!
Canadian bacon is lower in fat compared to streaky bacon, making it a great choice for a lighter, protein-packed breakfast. Using the air fryer minimizes oil, resulting in a crispy texture without the mess of frying pans or ovens. I’ve found this method the easiest and most consistent way to cook Canadian bacon, especially when I’m in a hurry!
❤️ Why you will love this recipe
- Easy Recipe: Cooking bacon has never been simpler—this air fryer method ensures perfect results every time.
- Crispy Bacon: Thanks to the hot air circulation, the bacon strips come out golden and crisp without the mess of a frying pan.
- Quick Cook Time: Ready in just 8-10 minutes, making it an easy breakfast option.
- Low Calorie: Lean Canadian bacon is a healthier alternative to traditional bacon, with little fat content.
- Versatile Uses: Serve it in Canadian bacon egg cups, sandwiches, or simply enjoy a slice of bacon on its own!
🗝️ Key ingredients & substitutions
- Canadian Bacon: This cut of bacon, also called back bacon, is lean, flavorful, and perfect for air frying. Use turkey bacon, vegetarian bacon, or British bacon for a similar low-calorie option.
- Optional additions: Add a touch of black pepper for extra flavor, or a sprinkle of brown sugar or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness. You can also use cooking spray if your air fryer sticks. My ninja doesn’t need it so I skipped it.
🥣 How to make air fryer Canadian bacon
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set it to 200°C/400°F for the best crispiness.
- Layer the Bacon: Place Canadian bacon slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overlapping.
- Cook for 5-7 Minutes: Check halfway through to ensure even cooking. Adjust cooking time based on desired crispiness.
- Remove Carefully: Use tongs to transfer bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess grease.
- Serve and Enjoy: Pair with eggs, use in a breakfast sandwich, or crumble over salads.
🪄 Recipe notes & tips
- No Overlapping: Cook in batches if needed to avoid uneven results.
- Adjust Time: Thicker cuts may need an extra minute or two.
- Check Doneness: Look for golden, crispy edges without burning.
- Use Liners: Air fryer liners make cleanup even easier!
🫙 Storage instructions
- Airtight Container: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in Air Fryer: Warm for 1-2 minutes at 180°C/350°F for crispy results.
- Freeze for Later: Place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
✨ Variations
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle with cayenne pepper for a bold flavor.
- Turkey Bacon Option: Swap Canadian bacon for turkey bacon for a leaner choice.
- Breakfast Cups: Dice and add to silicone muffin cups with egg whites for a complete breakfast.
🍽️ What to serve with air fryer back bacon
- Egg Dishes: Pair with scrambled eggs, poached eggs, an omelette, or my easy ham and cheese frittata.
- Bread Options: Serve with toast, English muffins, or bagels.
- Fruits and Veggies: Add a side of sliced avocado, roasted bell peppers, or fresh berries.
- Breakfast Classics: Pair with pancakes, crepes, waffles, or hash browns.
❓ Frequently asked questions
Yes, definitely! Regular bacon, streaky bacon, turkey bacon, and thick-cut bacon all work wonderfully in the air fryer. Just adjust the cook time based on the type—turkey bacon cooks quicker, while thick-cut bacon might need a minute or two extra. The air fryer’s even heat ensures crispy bacon strips, no matter the variety!
Nope, Canadian bacon has enough moisture to cook perfectly without any added oil. If you’re using leaner options like turkey bacon, a quick spritz of cooking spray can be a good idea to prevent sticking—but generally, no extra oil is needed for this easy recipe!
Keep an eye on the cook time! Stick to the 5-7 minute range and check halfway through for doneness. For extra moisture, you can brush a tiny bit of maple syrup on the bacon before cooking—it adds flavor and helps retain juiciness.
Yes, you can! Just add a couple of extra minutes to the cook time and check for doneness. No need to thaw beforehand—another reason the air fryer is the easiest way to cook bacon!
Canadian bacon is a low-calorie, high-protein option with less fat content than streaky or traditional bacon. On average, one slice contains about 30 calories and 5 grams of protein, making it a healthy choice for breakfast.
😋 More air fryer recipes you will love
- Easy Air Fryer Breakfast Sausage Patties
- How to cook Turkey Bacon in an Air Fryer
- Air Fryer Sweet Potato Toast
- How to cook Sausage Links in an Air Fryer
- Can I use a glass bowl in an air fryer?
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📖 Recipe
Air Fryer Canadian Bacon Recipe
Equipment
- Air Fryer I use a ninja foodi
Ingredients
- 6 slices Canadian bacon also called back bacon
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 200°C/400°F.
- Add the Canadian bacon to the air fryer basket and air fry for 5-7 minutes. No need to flip them over.6 slices Canadian bacon
- Halfway through, check for doneness and increase or reduce the remaining time as needed. You want the fat to be crispy and golden, not burnt.
- Remove the cooked bacon from the air fryer carefully with tongs.
- Place it on a plate lined with kitchen paper to absorb the excess grease.
- Serve as it is or in sandwiches, wraps, or crumbled on salads. Enjoy!
Notes
- No Overlapping: Cook in batches if needed to avoid uneven results.
- Adjust Time: Thicker cuts may need an extra minute or two.
- Check Doneness: Look for golden, crispy edges without burning.
- Use Liners: Air fryer liners make cleanup even easier!
Storage instructions
- Airtight Container: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in Air Fryer: Warm for 1-2 minutes at 180°C/350°F for crispy results.
- Freeze for Later: Place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.