These Air Fryer Basil, Bacon, and Cheddar Cheese Savory Muffins are a deliciously hearty treat bursting with flavor in every bite. Fluffy, cheesy, and loaded with crispy bacon and fresh basil, they’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an anytime snack.

Golden air fryer savory muffins with bacon, basil, and melted cheddar
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If you’re craving a savory, flavor-packed muffin, these Air Fryer Basil, Bacon, and Cheddar Cheese Savory Muffins are exactly what you need.

Each bite is fluffy and cheesy, with crispy bacon and fragrant fresh basil adding layers of deliciousness.

Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a quick snack, these muffins are easy to make, cook quickly in the air fryer, and deliver big flavor without the fuss.

Golden air fryer savory muffins with melted cheddar, crispy bacon, and fresh basil

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

  • Flavor-Packed: Crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and fresh basil in every bite.
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in minutes using your air fryer with minimal prep.
  • Fluffy and Tender: Light, soft muffins with a golden, slightly crisp top.
  • Perfect for Any Meal: Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a savory snack.
  • Customizable: Add extra herbs, spices, or cheese to suit your taste.

Ingredients Needed

Ingredients needed for Air Fryer Basil, Bacon, and Cheddar Cheese Savory Muffins on kitchen table.
  • All-purpose flour – Provides structure and tender crumb for soft muffins
  • Shredded cheddar cheese – Adds sharp, melty, and flavorful cheesy goodness
  • Baking powder – Helps muffins rise light and fluffy
  • Dried basil – Infuses savory, aromatic herb flavor throughout the muffins
  • Salt – Enhances overall flavor and balances other ingredients
  • Olive oil – Adds moisture, richness, and a subtle fruity taste
  • Egg – Binds ingredients and contributes to light, fluffy texture
  • Milk – Moisturizes batter and creates tender, soft muffins
  • Cooked, crumbled bacon – Adds smoky, crispy, savory flavor and texture

How To Make Air Fryer Basil, Bacon, and Cheddar Cheese Savory Muffins

Dry ingredients including flour, shredded cheddar, baking powder, basil, and salt being mixed in a bowl

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, shredded cheddar cheese, baking powder, dried basil, and salt. Stir until evenly mixed.

Step 2: Mix in the olive oil, egg, crumbled cooked bacon, and milk. Stir until the batter is smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Lightly spray your muffin tins or silicone cups with non-stick cooking spray or olive oil spray.

Muffin cups filled about two-thirds full with savory batter

Step 4: Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.

Step 5: Set your air fryer to 350°F (air fryer setting) and cook the muffins for 15 minutes.

Step 6: Insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin. If it comes out clean, the muffins are done. If not, cook for an additional 5 minutes and check again.

Step 7: Carefully remove the hot muffin tin from the air fryer and let the muffins cool slightly. Repeat the process with any remaining batter until all muffins are cooked.

     Golden, fluffy air fryer basil, bacon, and cheddar muffins cooling in muffin tin

    Air Fryer Basil, Bacon, and Cheddar Cheese Savory Muffins Recipe Tips

    • Use crispy bacon: Pre-cooked bacon adds flavor and prevents soggy muffins.
    • Don’t overmix: Stir batter just until combined for tender, fluffy muffins.
    • Air fryer spacing: Cook muffins in a single layer for even baking.
    • Check early: Air fryer models vary; start checking a minute or two before the recommended time.
    • Customize flavors: Add extra herbs, spices, or cheese for a personalized twist.

    Storing Instructions

    • Room temperature: Store cooled muffins in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
    • Refrigerate: Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days; warm slightly in the air fryer or microwave before serving.
    • Freeze: Wrap muffins individually in plastic wrap or a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months; thaw and reheat before serving.
    Golden air fryer savory muffins with crispy bacon, cheddar, and fresh basil

    Other Cooking Instructions

    • Oven Method: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spoon the batter into a greased or lined muffin tin and bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
    • Mini Muffins: Use a mini muffin pan and fill each cup about 2/3 full. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 8–10 minutes, checking early for doneness.
    • Skillet Option: Spoon the batter into a lightly greased oven-safe skillet or ramekins. Cover and cook over medium-low heat until muffins are set and lightly golden on top.

    Air Fryer Basil, Bacon, and Cheddar Cheese Savory Muffins Recipe Faqs

    Can I make these muffins ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the batter in advance and cook them just before serving.

    How long will they stay fresh? Store at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

    Can I freeze these muffins? Yes, wrap them individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the air fryer or microwave before serving.

    Can I use turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon? Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking method if needed to ensure it’s crispy.

    How do I make these extra fluffy? Don’t overmix the batter and make sure your baking powder is fresh.

    Can I make these dairy-free? Yes, use a plant-based butter and dairy-free cheddar to make a dairy-free version.

    More Air Fryer Muffin Recipes

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    Air Fryer Basil, Bacon, and Cheddar Cheese Savory Muffins

    Air Fryer Basil, Bacon, and Cheddar Cheese Savory Muffins

    4.23 from 9 votes
    Prep Time: 10 minutes
    Cook Time: 12 minutes
    Total Time: 22 minutes
    Servings: 12 Servings

    Description

    Air Fryer Basil, Bacon, and Cheddar Cheese Savory Muffins are fluffy, cheesy, and packed with crispy bacon and fresh basil. Quick and easy to make, they’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a savory snack.

    Ingredients 

    • 2 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
    • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar)
    • 2 teaspoons baking powder
    • 1 teaspoon dried basil
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
    • 1 large egg
    • 1 cup milk
    • 1/4 cup bacon, cooked and crumbled

    Instructions

    • Start by mixing the 2 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar), 2 teaspoons baking powder, 1 teaspoon dried basil and 1 teaspoon salt together.
    • Mix in the 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, 1 large egg crumbled 1/4 cup bacon, and 1 cup milk, mix well.
    • Spray your muffin tins with non-stick cooking spray, fill your muffin tins, about 2/3’s full.
    • Set your air fryer to air fryer temperature of 350 degrees F, and set the cook time for 12-15 minutes.

    Equipment

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1ServingCalories: 182kcalCarbohydrates: 21gProtein: 7gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0.02gCholesterol: 29mgSodium: 370mgPotassium: 83mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 121IUVitamin C: 0.001mgCalcium: 120mgIron: 1mg

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