Air fryer turkey bacon cooks differently than regular pork bacon because it's leaner and contains much less fat. That means it won't crisp the same way unless you adjust the cooking method slightly.
This air fryer turkey bacon recipe shows you exactly how to cook turkey bacon so it turns crispy without drying out, including the best temperature, timing, and tips to prevent burning.
If you're looking for instructions for pork bacon instead, see my air fryer bacon recipe, which uses a different technique.
Why Turkey Bacon Cooks Differently Than Regular Bacon
Turkey bacon is much leaner than traditional pork bacon, which means it doesn't render as much fat while cooking. In an air fryer, this can cause turkey bacon to cook faster and dry out if it's not monitored closely.
Unlike pork bacon, turkey bacon:
- Releases very little grease
- Cooks faster at high temperatures
- Can burn or become brittle if overcooked
Because of these differences, turkey bacon benefits from slightly lower heat and closer attention compared to regular pork bacon in the air fryer.
Is Turkey Bacon Healthy
Turkey bacon generally has less fat and fewer calories than pork bacon, making it a good alternative for people who avoid pork or are watching their fat intake.
Uncured turkey bacon can be a better option for those who are heart-conscious or monitoring cholesterol. However, like pork bacon, turkey bacon is still high in sodium and saturated fat.
It's best enjoyed in moderation. Look for reduced-sodium options and avoid adding extra salt during cooking.
What is the best turkey bacon?
Uncured turkey bacon is often preferred because it isn't cured with sodium nitrates.
Some of my favorite brands are Applegate Turkey Bacon and Trader Joe's turkey bacon. Other brands like Natural Promise are very easy to find if you live in the New England area at any Stop&Shop grocery store, but if you prefer Oscar Mayer or Butterball, they also work well - choose the one that fits your taste and dietary preferences.
How Long to Cook Turkey Bacon in the Air Fryer
Turkey bacon typically takes 8-10 minutes in the air fryer at 360°F, depending on the thickness of the slices and how crispy you like it.
Tools I use
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- Air Fryer
- Silicone liners (optional, for easy cleanup)
How to Cook Turkey Bacon in an Air Fryer
This method is specifically designed for turkey bacon and is different from the technique used for regular air fryer bacon.
Step 1. Preheat the air fryer to 360F.
Step 2. Place as many slices as fit in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
Step 3. Cook for 5 minutes. Open the air fryer and turn the bacon over.
Step 4. Place the basket back in the air fryer and continue to cook for 5 more minutes, or until the bacon is cooked to your liking.
Step 5. Repeat with the remaining bacon slices
Tips for Crispy Air Fryer Turkey Bacon
Because turkey bacon is lean, a few small adjustments can make a big difference in texture. These tips help prevent turkey bacon from drying out or burning in the air fryer.
- Avoid overlapping the slices so air can circulate evenly
- Start checking for doneness early, as turkey bacon cooks faster than pork bacon
- Flip the slices halfway through cooking for even browning
- Don't expect turkey bacon to crisp the same way as pork bacon - it will be slightly firmer rather than bubbly
FAQ's
A light spray can help the surface brown better, but it's optional - turkey bacon has some natural fat that browns on its own.
Watch the bacon closely the first time you air fry it to ensure it meets the crispness you want. Once you know the timing that works for your air fryer, you'll get consistent results every time.
Turkey bacon typically has fewer calories and less fat, but sodium and processed content vary by brand.
It's usually due to low fat and crowding in the basket - spread slices apart and consider a 1-2 minute additional cook time.
More Air Fryer Bacon Recipes
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AIR FRYER TURKEY BACON
Air fryer turkey bacon cooked until lightly crispy using a method designed for lean turkey bacon. Includes the best temperature, timing, and tips to prevent drying out.
Ingredients
- 1 package uncured turkey bacon
Instructions
- Preheat air fryer to 360F.
- Place as many slices that fit in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 5 minutes. Open the air fryer and turn the bacon over.
- Place the basket back in the air fryer and continue to cook for 5 more minutes, or until the bacon is cooked to your liking.
- Repeat with remaining bacon slices
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 2 slicesAmount Per Serving: Calories: 7Total Fat: 1gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 3mgSodium: 41mgCarbohydrates: 0gFiber: 0gSugar: 0gProtein: 1g
Please keep in mind that the nutritional information is calculated using a nutrition facts calculator. It is a rough estimate and can vary significantly based on products used. When the recipe list salt to taste the amount of salt is not calculated, only the sodium in the other ingredients is calculated.
Thank you For reading. Enjoy Clean Eating. If you make this recipe, don't forget to rate it and leave a comment. It could help some of our readers like you.
Ruth M says
How do I convert other air fryer recipes for use with the Instant Pot Air Fryer Lid?
Veronica says
Use the same time and temperature. With meat, an instant meat thermometer is highly recommended.
xoxo
Vero