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Air fryer twisted bacon is my easy solution for turning everyday bacon into a fun appetizer or party snack with irresistibly crisp edges and juicy centers. I started making these for holiday brunches and they were always gone before anything else on the table.
My favorite part is how the twists create a perfect balance of chewy inside and crispy outside. The first time I brought a platter to a neighborhood potluck everyone asked for the recipe. Now it is always part of our weekend breakfast routine.
Ingredients
- Beef bacon: Quality matters as thicker slices hold their shape better when twisted and finish crisp and juicy
- Even marbling: Choose bacon with even marbling for best flavor and uniform crisping
- Freshness: Check for fresh bacon by looking for a deep red color and minimal liquid in the package
- Flavor: For bolder taste select smoked beef bacon but classic works as well
Instructions
- Prepare the Bacon:
- Grip both ends of a beef bacon slice and twist tightly until you create a corkscrew shape. The tighter you twist the chewier the center will be. If the bacon is cold it twists more easily and holds the shape.
- Arrange in the Air Fryer:
- Lay each twisted bacon strip in a single layer in your air fryer basket or on a rimmed tray. Make sure the twists do not overlap so the hot air can circulate for even crisping.
- Air Fry to Perfection:
- Set the air fryer to 177 degrees Celsius or 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Cook the bacon for 13 to 15 minutes. Thinner slices may need just 12 minutes while thick slices might take the full 15. Check at the 12 minute mark and cook longer for extra crispiness.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Carefully remove the twisted bacon with tongs and let it sit on a plate a minute so it firms up. Serve right away for the best texture. This bacon is fantastic on its own or as a topping for salads or breakfast sandwiches.
What I love most is watching the bacon transform in the air fryer. My kids get excited to help twist each slice. We have even tried experimenting with different kinds of bacon and everyone enjoys the taste test sessions.
Storage Tips
Let bacon cool fully before storing in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the air fryer a few minutes for that crispy fresh texture. Good in the refrigerator for up to four days but best the day made.
Ingredient Substitutions
Turkey bacon or chicken bacon work well for lighter versions. Pork bacon can be used with similar timing just keep an eye on the crisp level. Try smoked paprika or a light sprinkle of brown sugar for added flavor if you want a sweet and smoky twist.
Serving Suggestions
Stack the twisted bacon as a brunch platter centerpiece. Use as a crunchy garnish over creamy scrambled eggs or soups. Break into pieces to top salads or baked potatoes for texture and depth.
Cultural and Historical Context
Twisted bacon has risen in popularity thanks to social media and cooking forums. The shape is inspired by street food and skewered meats. Originally bacon was pan fried for breakfast but this method offers a modern twist and a fun way to serve a classic.
Seasonal Adaptations
Use with maple glazed bacon during holidays. Try with candied bacon mix for Halloween party snacks. Great addition to summer cookouts for a build your own sandwich bar.
Success Stories
My friend made this twisted bacon for a baby shower brunch and messaged me right after saying it was the only plate emptied before the quiche. Kids especially love helping with the twisting step as a fun cooking activity.
Freezer Meal Conversion
If you want to prep ahead twist your bacon strips and freeze them spaced out on a baking sheet. When ready to cook place frozen strips in air fryer and add a few extra minutes to the time. This is an easy way to always have a tasty snack ready for guests or busy mornings.
Crispy edges make it a favorite for bacon fans. Twisting creates a beautiful fun presentation. Air fryer cuts down on cook time and mess.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do you keep twisted bacon strips from unraveling?
Twist each slice firmly and place them in a single layer in the air fryer so the heat sets the shape while cooking.
- → What type of bacon works best?
Beef bacon is used here, but you can also try regular pork or turkey bacon. Thicker cuts hold their twist better.
- → Can you cook more bacon at once?
Arrange bacon strips without overlapping in the basket. Cook in batches for even crispiness and texture.
- → How do you tell when twisted bacon is done?
Bacon is ready when edges are deep golden and crisp. Adjust time for extra crunch as desired.
- → Do you need to preheat the air fryer?
Preheating is optional but helps start the cooking process faster, leading to more even results.