This air fryer bacon burnt ends recipe transforms regular bacon into delicious, crispy bites that are perfect for snacking or as a party appetizer. The combination of sweet and smoky flavors makes these burnt ends irresistible.
Using an air fryer allows for a quicker cooking time while achieving that perfect crispy texture without the need for excessive oil. This recipe is simple and requires minimal ingredients.
Quick and Easy Air Fryer Bacon Burnt Ends
Transforming bacon into crispy bites is a delightful culinary experience.
These air fryer bacon burnt ends are not only quick to prepare, but they also deliver an explosion of flavor that is hard to resist.
With a cooking time of just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for those looking to whip up a tasty appetizer or snack.
Start by cutting thick-cut bacon into cubes, which will allow for even cooking and maximum crispiness.
The seasoning blend adds a sweet and smoky touch that elevates the dish, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Ingredients That Shine
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity.
With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that is bursting with flavor.
Thick-cut bacon serves as the star, while brown sugar, smoked paprika, black pepper, garlic powder, and optional cayenne pepper provide a delightful seasoning mix.
Don’t forget the barbecue sauce!
This is the final touch that brings everything together, adding a rich, tangy element that complements the sweetness of the bacon.
Preparation Steps Made Simple
Getting started is a breeze.
Begin by cutting the bacon into 1-inch cubes and placing them in a large mixing bowl.
This is where the magic begins as you mix the seasoning ingredients in a separate bowl and then toss them over the bacon until every piece is coated.
Preheating the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) is essential for achieving that perfect crispy texture.
Once heated, arrange the seasoned bacon cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they have enough space to cook evenly.
Cooking to Perfection
Cooking the bacon takes about 10-12 minutes, and it’s important to shake the basket halfway through.
This helps to ensure that all sides get that beautiful caramelization.
The result is perfectly crispy bacon burnt ends that are golden brown and irresistibly delicious.
After cooking, carefully transfer the bacon back to the mixing bowl and toss it with barbecue sauce.
This step adds a glossy finish and enhances the flavor profile, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Serving Suggestions
Once the bacon burnt ends are ready, it’s time to serve!
Transfer them to a serving platter and garnish with chopped green onions for a pop of color.
This not only adds visual appeal but also a fresh flavor that balances the richness of the bacon.
Pair the dish with a small bowl of barbecue sauce for dipping.
This allows guests to enjoy an extra burst of flavor with each bite, making it a perfect appetizer for parties or game day gatherings.
Nutritional Information
With each serving containing approximately 300 calories, these bacon burnt ends are a satisfying treat that won’t break the calorie bank.
They offer a good balance of protein and fat, making them a hearty option for those looking to indulge without overdoing it.
At just 10 grams of carbohydrates, they fit well into various dietary preferences, allowing everyone to enjoy this delightful dish.
Whether served as an appetizer or a snack, these air fryer bacon burnt ends are sure to impress!
Quick and Easy Air Fryer Bacon Burnt Ends
These bacon burnt ends are made by cutting bacon into cubes, seasoning them, and air frying until they are crispy and caramelized. The recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish and serves 4 as an appetizer.
Ingredients
- 1 pound thick-cut bacon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce (for tossing after cooking)
Instructions
- Prepare the Bacon: Cut the bacon into 1-inch cubes and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Mix the Seasoning: In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar, smoked paprika, black pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Sprinkle the mixture over the bacon cubes and toss until evenly coated.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Bacon: Place the seasoned bacon cubes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and caramelized.
- Toss with Barbecue Sauce: Carefully remove the bacon from the air fryer and place it back in the mixing bowl. Add barbecue sauce and toss to coat evenly.
- Serve: Transfer the bacon burnt ends to a serving platter and enjoy hot as a snack or appetizer.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 300kcal
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 10g