This Air Fryer Bacon Jerky recipe transforms thick-cut bacon into a crispy, smoky snack with a flavorful marinade made of brown sugar, black pepper, paprika, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. It’s easy to prepare, cooks quickly in the air fryer, and results in a savory, protein-packed treat. Perfect for snacking or adding to your favorite dishes!
Craving a savory, smoky snack? Try this Air Fryer Bacon Jerky! It’s super easy to make and delivers that perfect crispy, jerky texture with all the delicious bacon flavor. Whether you’re enjoying it as a snack or adding it to your favorite dish, this air fryer recipe is sure to satisfy your bacon cravings!
If you are looking for even more Air Fryer Bacon Recipes, some of my favorites are AIR FRYER TURKEY BACON, AIR FRYER MAPLE AND BROWN SUGAR BACON, INSTANT POT VORTEX AIR FRYER, BACON AND EGGS, and AIR FRYER, BACON AND CHEESE BREAKFAST PINWHEELS.
Why You Will Love This Recipe!
✅ Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just a few minutes of prep and cooks quickly in the air fryer.
✅ Crispy and Smoky: Enjoy bacon with the perfect crispy texture and smoky flavor, just like jerky!
✅ Customizable: Add your favorite seasonings or spices to tailor the flavor to your taste.
✅ Perfect Snack: It’s a savory, protein-packed snack that’s perfect for munching anytime!
Ingredients Needed
- Bacon: Thick-cut bacon works best for a chewy, jerky texture.
- Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps caramelize the bacon.
- Black Pepper: For a bit of spice and flavor.
- Smoked Paprika: Provides a smoky, rich flavor.
- Garlic Powder: Adds savory depth to the jerky.
- Soy Sauce: Enhances the umami and helps tenderize the bacon.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Adds complexity and a bit of tang.
How To Make Air Fryer Bacon Jerky
Prepare the Bacon: Cut the bacon into strips that will fit comfortably in your air fryer basket. You can cut them in half or into smaller pieces depending on the size of your air fryer.
Mix the Seasoning: In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce.
Coat the Bacon: Brush or rub the seasoning mixture onto the bacon strips, making sure they’re evenly coated.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
Air Fry the Bacon: Arrange the seasoned bacon strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry at 375°F for 8-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and has a jerky-like texture.
Cool and Serve: Let the bacon jerky cool for a few minutes, then enjoy as a savory snack or add it to your favorite dishes!
Air Fryer Bacon Jerky Recipe Tips
- Use Thick-Cut Bacon: Thick-cut bacon is best for achieving that jerky-like texture. It holds up better during air frying and creates a more satisfying chew.
- Watch the Time: Bacon can go from crispy to overcooked quickly, so check on it halfway through the cooking time to ensure it reaches the perfect jerky texture.
- Customize the Seasoning: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings like cayenne pepper for heat or maple syrup for sweetness to adjust the flavor to your preference.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Arrange the bacon strips in a single layer with space between them for even cooking and crisping. If necessary, cook in batches.
- Pat Bacon Dry After Cooking: If the bacon looks too greasy, gently pat it with paper towels to absorb excess fat and make it crispier.
- Storage: Store leftover bacon jerky in an airtight container for up to a week at room temperature, or refrigerate for longer storage.
- Experiment with Marinades: For extra flavor, marinate the bacon in your favorite sauce or spices for a few hours before air frying.
Storing
Once your bacon jerky has cooled, store it in an airtight container or resealable bag at room temperature for up to 5-7 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it, where it will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. If you want to keep it even longer, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before storing to avoid moisture buildup.
Air Fryer Bacon Jerky Recipe Faqs
Can I use regular bacon instead of thick-cut? While you can use regular bacon, thick-cut bacon works better for creating that jerky texture. It holds up better during the air frying process and results in a chewier bite.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can make the bacon jerky ahead of time and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate it for up to 2 weeks.
Can I use turkey bacon? Yes, you can use turkey bacon, but keep in mind that it may not get as crispy or have the same texture as pork bacon. The cooking time may also vary.
How can I adjust the seasoning? Feel free to customize the seasoning by adding spices like cayenne pepper for heat or maple syrup for sweetness. Adjust to your taste preference!
How do I prevent the bacon from curling up? To help prevent curling, you can place the bacon in a single layer and avoid overcrowding in the air fryer basket. If necessary, you can also use toothpicks to secure the ends.
Can I freeze bacon jerky? Yes! You can freeze your bacon jerky for up to 3 months. Just place it in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container and thaw it in the fridge before enjoying.
What is the best dipping sauce for bacon jerky? Bacon jerky pairs well with dipping sauces like spicy mustard, ranch dressing, or a smoky BBQ sauce. Try experimenting to find your favorite!
More Air Fryer Recipes
- AIR FRYER BBQ CHICKEN WRAPPED IN BACON
- AIR FRYER BACON WRAPPED SCALLOPS
- EASY AIR FRYER SAUSAGE, BACON, AND EGG SANDWICH
- AIR FRYER BACON-WRAPPED JALAPEÑO POPPERS
- AIR FRYER BLT WITH HARD-BOILED EGGS
Don’t Forget To Pin!
Share Your Creations! Are you active on Facebook? Join our Air Fryer Recipes Group, where hundreds of thousands of Air Fryer enthusiasts gather and share your photos! I’m always thrilled to see what you’ve made. For those on Instagram, don’t forget to tag me @forktospoon – I can’t wait to admire your culinary adventures!
Air Fryer Bacon Jerky
Description
Ingredients
- 1 pound thick-cut bacon
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Cut the bacon into strips that will fit your air fryer basket. Pat the strips dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce until combined.
- Brush the marinade onto both sides of the bacon strips, making sure they are evenly coated. Let them sit for 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavor.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
- Place the marinated bacon strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.
- Once done, remove the bacon jerky from the air fryer and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Equipment
- Cooking Spray
- Parchment Paper, optional
Nutrition
Share this recipe
We can’t wait to see what you’ve made! Mention @forktospoon or tag #forktospoon!
