Air Fryer Bar-S Applewood Smoked Thick Cut Bacon

Air Fryer Bar-S Applewood Smoked Thick Cut Bacon

Air frying Bar-S Applewood Smoked Thick Cut Bacon gives you crisp, smoky slices with a hearty chew and bold flavor in under 12 minutes. This naturally smoked, thick-cut bacon cooks evenly and cleanly in the air fryer—perfect for breakfast platters, sandwiches, or crumbling into salads and pastas.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Naturally Applewood Smoked

Slow-smoked for rich, slightly sweet flavor with a deep, savory finish.

Thick Cut for a Meaty Texture

Delivers a satisfying bite—crispy edges with a tender center.

Less Mess, More Crisp

The air fryer crisps every slice without stovetop splatter or grease buildup.

Great for Any Meal

Serve at breakfast, layer into sandwiches, or crumble over casseroles and salads.

Ingredients

• 1 package Bar-S Applewood Smoked Thick Cut Bacon

Optional:

• Fresh cracked black pepper or brown sugar for seasoning

• Paper towels for draining

• Tongs for flipping and serving

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 2–3 minutes.

Step 2: Arrange the Bacon

• Lay bacon strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket or tray.

• Avoid overlapping—cook in batches if needed.

• For small air fryers, cut strips in half to fit.

Step 3: Air Fry to Perfection

• Cook at 375°F for 9–12 minutes, depending on thickness and desired crispiness.

• Begin checking at 8–9 minutes.

• Bacon is done when the fat is rendered and edges are golden and curled.

Step 4: Drain & Serve

Transfer immediately to a paper towel–lined plate. Let rest for 1–2 minutes to finish crisping.

Pro Tips for the Best Results

Watch the Final Minutes

Thick-cut bacon can turn from crispy to burnt quickly—monitor closely near the end.

Use a Crisper Tray if Available

Promotes even air circulation and crisper results.

Drain Immediately

Placing cooked bacon on paper towels helps remove excess grease and preserve crispness.

Clean Basket Promptly

Wipe down or wash the tray after it cools to prevent smoke from leftover grease.

What to Serve With Bar-S Applewood Smoked Thick Cut Bacon

Breakfast Favorites

• Scrambled Eggs or Omelets – A smoky side with rich flavor

• Pancakes or Waffles – Sweet and salty combination

• Toast, English Muffins, or Bagels – Easy pairings for breakfast plates

• Hash Browns or Breakfast Skillets – Hearty and filling

Creative Serving Ideas

• BLTs or Club Sandwiches – Add thick, smoky slices for extra bite

• Bacon-Wrapped Veggies – Wrap around asparagus or green beans

• Crumbled Over Salads – Adds crunch to Caesar or spinach salads

• Bacon & Cheddar Baked Potatoes – Finish with sour cream and chives

Storage & Reheating Instructions

How to Store Leftovers

Let cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

How to Reheat in the Air Fryer

Reheat at 350°F (177°C) for 2–3 minutes, or until hot and crisp.

Can You Freeze Cooked Bacon?

Yes—wrap slices in parchment or wax paper and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen at 375°F for 4–5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Bar-S Applewood Smoked Bacon Fully Cooked?

No—it is raw and must be cooked until the fat is rendered and the bacon is fully crisped or browned to your liking.

Can I Cook It From Frozen?

Thawing is recommended for best texture, but it can be cooked from frozen with slightly extended time and regular flipping.

Is Applewood Bacon Sweeter?

Yes—it has a naturally sweeter, wood-smoked finish compared to traditional hickory bacon.

Do I Need to Use Oil or Spray?

No—bacon renders its own fat and crisps naturally without any added oil.

Make Bar-S Applewood Smoked Thick Cut Bacon in the air fryer for smoky, crispy, meaty slices—ready in under 12 minutes with no greasy mess. Full instructions, pro tips, and serving ideas included.