Air Fryer Bacon with Basil
Crispy air-fried bacon enhanced with fresh basil adds fragrant flavor, perfect for salads, sandwiches, or breakfast. A quick, simple twist that elevates classic bacon with optional pepper or honey.
Equipment
- 1 air fryer
- 1 plate lined with paper towels
Ingredients
- 12 slices bacon
- ≈ 1 bunch fresh basil leaves
- Optional: ground black pepper
- Optional: light drizzle of honey
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 350 °F (180 °C) for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Arrange bacon slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overlapping.
- Cook bacon for 8 to 12 minutes, checking halfway and flipping if needed until crispy.
- Transfer cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
- Top warm bacon with fresh basil leaves to lightly wilt and release aroma.
- Optionally sprinkle black pepper or drizzle honey for a sweet-savory contrast.
- Serve immediately with eggs, sandwiches, salads, or on its own.
Notes
- Add basil just before serving to keep its color and fragrance.
- Enhance with lemon juice or red pepper flakes for brightness or heat.
- Raise air fryer to 375 °F (190 °C) for last 2 minutes for extra crispiness.
- Cook bacon ahead and briefly reheat in air fryer before serving.