Canadian Bacon Air Fryer — If you’ve been wondering how to get that crispy, salty flavor of Canadian Bacon without frying it in a pan, we have the answer – air fryer!

Canadian Bacon Air Fryer
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Not only does an air fryer cook up bacon perfectly every time, but it also requires very little oil, making for healthier eating. From preparing perfect thin-cut bacon strips to topping your favorite breakfast sandwich, we’ll show you all the tips and tricks to make restaurant-quality Canadian Bacon right in your kitchen. Keep reading to learn how easy it is to make delicious bacon at home!

What Is Canadian Bacon?

Canadian bacon, also known as back bacon or peameal bacon, is popular in Canada and other parts of the world. It differs from the more common streaky bacon (often called “bacon” in North America), which comes from pork belly. On the other hand, Canadian bacon is made from pork loin, specifically the lean-back part of the pig.

Preparing Canadian bacon involves bringing or curing the pork loin in a mixture of salt, sugar, and spices. It is then rolled in cornmeal or ground yellow peas, where “peameal bacon” comes from. This cornmeal or pea coating helps preserve the meat and adds a unique texture and flavor.

Canadian bacon is typically leaner than traditional streaky bacon and has a milder, slightly sweet flavor. It is usually sold in round slices or medallions and is pre-cooked, making it ready to eat or easy to cook. Canadian bacon is often used in sandwiches, pizzas, or as a breakfast meat alternative to regular bacon. It’s a popular choice for those looking for a leaner and less fatty bacon option.

Canadian Bacon Air Fryer

​Why Make Canadian Bacon In Air Fryer?

Making Canadian bacon in the air fryer offers several benefits that make it a convenient and delicious cooking method:

  • Quick and Efficient Cooking: Air fryers use hot circulating air to cook food, which means Canadian bacon can be cooked quickly and evenly. It saves time compared to traditional stovetop or oven cooking methods.
  • Healthier Option: Air frying requires little to no added oil, making it a healthier alternative to pan-frying or deep-frying Canadian bacon. The excess fat drips away, producing a leaner, less greasy final product.
  • Crispy Texture: Air fryers are excellent at achieving a crispy exterior, similar to traditional frying methods. The cornmeal or pea coating on Canadian bacon can turn wonderfully crispy in the air fryer, adding a delightful texture to the dish. The hot air is the perfect way to cook bacon.
  • Convenient Cleanup: Air fryers are easy to clean since there’s no splattering oil or grease to deal with. Most air fryer baskets are dishwasher-safe, making cleanup a breeze.
  • Consistent Results: Air fryers offer consistent and reliable cooking results. You can expect your Canadian bacon to turn out perfectly cooked each time you use the air fryer without worrying about uneven cooking or burning.
  • Versatility: Besides cooking pre-cooked Canadian bacon, you can use the air fryer to reheat leftover bacon or cook other items simultaneously. It’s a versatile kitchen appliance that can handle various cooking tasks.
  • No Need for Preheating: Unlike ovens, air fryers typically don’t require preheating. You can start cooking right away, saving you time and energy.

By making Canadian bacon in the air fryer, you can enjoy a healthier and hassle-free cooking experience with delicious results. It’s an excellent way to cook this lean and flavorful bacon alternative without the need for excessive oil or complicated cooking techniques.

Canadian Bacon Air Fryer Recipe​

Get ready to experience a mouthwatering and healthier twist on the classic Canadian Bacon with this easy Air Fryer Recipe! 🍁🥓 Air frying brings out the delectable flavors of lean Canadian Bacon, resulting in crispy edges and a tender, savory center.

Perfectly cooked in just a matter of minutes, this recipe offers a delightful balance of sweet and smoky notes that will leave you craving more. Whether you serve it alongside your favorite breakfast dishes, add it to sandwiches, or enjoy it as a satisfying snack, this Air Fryer Canadian Bacon will become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into this fuss-free and delicious recipe that celebrates the essence of Canadian cuisine! ✨

Ingredients Needed For Air Frying Canadian Bacon

Air frying Canadian bacon is a delicious way to transform your favorite porky treat into an even tastier delight! Not only will you get that classic crispy exterior from air-frying, but you’ll also enjoy a flavor like no other.

You can create the perfect snack or breakfast for any occasion with simple ingredients and careful preparation. Read on to find out exactly what ingredients are necessary for air-frying Canadian bacon – it’s quick and easy, so let’s get started!

Ingredients Needed For Air Frying Canadian Bacon

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information. 

Air Frying Canadian Bacon is a simple and tasty way to enjoy this lean and flavorful bacon alternative. Here’s a detailed ingredient list:

Canadian Bacon slices or medallions (as many as you desire)

That’s it! Air Frying Canadian Bacon requires no additional ingredients. Canadian bacon is typically pre-cooked and ready to eat, so you won’t need to marinate or season it beforehand.

However, if you prefer extra flavor or want to experiment with different tastes, sprinkle a pinch of black pepper or a light dusting of your favorite seasoning on the Canadian bacon before air frying. But this step is entirely optional as Canadian bacon is delicious.

With Canadian bacon and an air fryer, you can create a quick and healthy breakfast, use it as a protein-packed addition to salads and sandwiches, or even serve it as a side dish for any meal. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of Air Frying Canadian Bacon!

How To Cook Canadian Bacon In Air Fryer

Are you looking for a new way to cook Canadian bacon that doesn’t involve standing over the stove? Say goodbye to grease and smoke – hello, air fryer! This amazing appliance makes making everyone’s favorite go-to breakfast food easy without all the greasy mess. This blog post will teach you how to cook Canadian bacon in an air fryer to enjoy crispy, delicious bacon anytime with minimal effort! Plus, find tips on getting the most perfect slice of Canadian Bacon every time – let’s get started!

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Eggs Benedict

Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees F (200°C). Preheating helps ensure even cooking and a crispy texture.

Arrange the Canadian Bacon: Place the Canadian bacon slices or medallions in a single layer in the air fryer basket or on the baking tray. Avoid overcrowding, as this can prevent proper air circulation and even cooking.

Toast the English Muffin and Cook Canadian Bacon in Air Fryer

Cook the Canadian Bacon: Slide the air fryer basket back into the air fryer and set the cook time for 5-7 minutes. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the bacon and your desired level of crispiness.

Flip or Shake: About halfway through the cooking time, flip the Canadian bacon slices or gently shake the basket to ensure even browning on both sides.

Check for Doneness: Canadian bacon is pre-cooked, so it doesn’t take long to heat through. Once the bacon is heated and slightly crispy, it can be removed from the air fryer.

Serve and Enjoy: Remove the Canadian bacon from the air fryer and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess grease. Serve the delicious crispy Canadian bacon slices as a standalone snack, in sandwiches, on salads, or as a side dish.

That’s it! Cooking Canadian bacon in the air fryer is a quick process that yields flavorful and crispy results. With minimal effort and no added oil, you can enjoy a healthier and more delicious bacon option in just a few minutes.

Close up of poached eggs served as eggs benedict

Pro Tips For The Best Air-Fried Canadian Bacon

To achieve the best air-fried Canadian bacon with excellent flavor and texture, consider these pro tips:

  • Select High-Quality Canadian Bacon: Choose high-quality Canadian bacon for the best taste and texture. Look for slices or medallions with a good meat-to-fat ratio, ensuring a balance of flavor and juiciness.
  • Use Pre-Cooked Canadian Bacon: Air frying is ideal for pre-cooked Canadian bacon, as it simply needs to be heated through and crisped up. Using pre-cooked bacon saves time and ensures consistent results.
  • Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheating the air fryer is crucial for even cooking and a crispy texture. Allow the air fryer to preheat before placing the Canadian bacon inside.
  • Don’t Overcook: Canadian bacon is leaner than regular bacon, so it can dry out if overcooked. Keep a close eye on it to avoid overcooking, and adjust the cooking time if needed, depending on the thickness of the slices. Check frequently during the cooking process. 
  • Add Seasoning or Spice: While Canadian bacon is delicious, you can enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of black pepper, celery powder, sea salt, a sprinkle of garlic powder, or a light dusting of your favorite seasoning before air frying.
  • Space Out the Bacon: Arrange the Canadian bacon slices or medallions in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to allow proper air circulation for even cooking.
  • Flip or Shake Midway: Halfway through the cooking time, consider flipping the Canadian bacon slices or giving the basket a gentle shake to ensure even browning on both sides.
  • Drain Excess Grease: Place the air-fried Canadian bacon on a plate lined with paper towels after cooking to absorb any excess grease. This step helps keep the bacon crispy and less greasy.
  • Serve Fresh: Air-fried Canadian bacon is best when served immediately after cooking. Enjoy it while it’s hot and crispy for the ultimate taste experience.

By following these pro tips, you’ll be able to savor the deliciousness of perfectly air-fried Canadian bacon with ease and confidence. Enjoy this lean and flavorful bacon alternative as a tasty snack or a delightful addition to your favorite dishes!

Canadian Bacon on Plate after air frying

Is Canadian bacon the same as regular bacon?

No, Canadian bacon is different from regular bacon. While regular bacon is made from pork belly and is often streaky with layers of fat, Canadian bacon comes from the pork loin and is leaner with less fat content. It is also typically pre-cooked and has a milder, slightly sweet flavor.

Can I air fry frozen Canadian bacon?

It’s best to thaw Canadian bacon before air frying to ensure even cooking. Air frying frozen bacon may result in uneven results, and the cooking time will be longer.

Can I use the air fryer for other bacon types?

Yes, you can use the air fryer to cook various bacon types, including regular bacon, turkey bacon, and even thick-cut bacon. Adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly for different bacon thicknesses.

How long does it take to air fry Canadian bacon?

The cooking time for air-fried Canadian bacon depends on the thickness of the bacon and the desired level of crispiness. Typically, it takes around 5-7 minutes at 400°F (200°C) for pre-cooked Canadian bacon.

Can I add a glaze to Canadian bacon before air frying?

Yes, you can add a glaze or marinade to Canadian bacon before air frying to add extra flavor. Just be mindful that some glazes might contain sugar, which can cause the bacon to burn if cooked at high temperatures for too long. Serve with maple syrup or a dash of mozzarella cheese right before serving. 

Can I reheat leftover air-fried Canadian bacon?

Yes, you can reheat leftover air-fried Canadian bacon in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore its crispiness. Be cautious not to overheat, as it can dry out the bacon.

Can I use the air fryer to cook other breakfast items with Canadian bacon?

Absolutely! The air fryer is versatile and can cook various breakfast items alongside Canadian bacon. You can cook eggs, hash browns, or toast in the air fryer to create a complete breakfast meal.

Can I cook Canadian bacon without preheating the air fryer?

Preheating the air fryer is recommended for even cooking and achieving a crispy texture. However, if your air fryer doesn’t require preheating, you can still cook Canadian bacon without it, but the cooking time might be slightly longer.

What’s the difference between traditional bacon, Irish bacon, British Bacon, and Canadian Bacon?

In summary, while all three varieties share the name “bacon,” each type has distinct characteristics based on the cut of meat used, fat content, flavor, and preparation methods. Traditional bacon is made from pork belly and is streaky with layers of fat. Irish bacon comes from the pork loin and is leaner with a milder taste. Canadian bacon is also made from pork loin, but it is rolled in cornmeal or ground yellow peas and is pre-cooked, making it lean and slightly sweet in flavor. Each bacon type brings its delicious twist to culinary creations, catering to various preferences and tastes. If you are a fan of bacon, you should try all three versions! 

Air Fryer Canadian Bacon Egg Cups

More Air Fryer Recipes

We hope you loved this recipe for Canadian Bacon it’s a great option, and the easiest way to cook bacon is in the air fryer. Check out my recipe for Canadian Bacon Cups, which means a quick breakfast perfect for busy mornings. 

Canadian Bacon Air Fryer

Canadian Bacon Air Fryer

5 from 1 vote
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 7 minutes
0 minutes
Total Time: 12 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings

Description

Canadian Bacon Air Fryer — If you’ve been wondering how to get that crispy, salty flavor of Canadian Bacon without frying it in a pan, we have the answer – air fryer!

Ingredients 

  • 1 pound Canadian Bacon, raw

Instructions

  • Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Preheating helps ensure even cooking and a crispy texture.
  • Arrange the Canadian Bacon: Place the Canadian bacon slices or medallions in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding, as this can prevent proper air circulation and even cooking.
  • Cook the Canadian Bacon: Slide the air fryer basket back into the air fryer and cook the Canadian bacon at 400°F (200°C) for about 5-7 minutes. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the bacon and your desired level of crispiness.
  • Flip or Shake: About halfway through the cooking time, you can flip the Canadian bacon slices or give the basket a gentle shake to ensure even browning on both sides.
  • Check for Doneness: Canadian bacon is pre-cooked, so it doesn’t take long to heat through. Once the bacon is heated and slightly crispy, it’s ready to be removed from the air fryer.
  • Serve and Enjoy: Remove the Canadian bacon from the air fryer and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess grease. Serve the delicious crispy Canadian bacon slices as a standalone snack, in sandwiches, on salads, or as a side dish.

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Cooking Spray
  • Parchment Paper, optional

Nutrition

Serving: 1ServingCalories: 119kcalCarbohydrates: 1gProtein: 16gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 38mgSodium: 683mgPotassium: 260mgCalcium: 6mgIron: 1mg

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