Crispy Air Fryer Tempeh Bacon 

Lately, my new air fryer has been doing some serious heavy lifting in the kitchen. I’ve been tossing everything into it, from air fryer roasted tomatoes to crispy, smoky air fryer tempeh bacon, and I’m not mad about it. It’s become my go-to for quick, low-effort meals that still feel a little fancy.

Honestly, the air fryer is clutch during these hot summer months. When the sun is blazing and the last thing I want is to turn my kitchen into a sauna, I just let the air fryer do its thing, no need to fire up the oven or stand over a hot stove.

Now, if you’ve been around here before, you know my all-time favorite meatless bacon is mushroom bacon (it’s rich, savory, and ridiculously good). But this tempeh version? It absolutely earns a spot in the rotation. It’s hearty, packed with protein, and perfect for those times when you want something a little more filling.

What makes air fryer tempeh bacon such a win? For starters, it’s budget-friendly, super simple to prep, and only takes about 20 minutes to cook from start to finish. We’re talking just 6 ingredients. No complicated shopping list or mystery items you’ll use once and forget in the back of the fridge.

Minimal ingredients. Maximum flavor!

Jump to:

• What Is Tempeh
• Where to Buy Tempeh 
• Why You’ll Love This 
• Ingredients & Substitutions 
• Step by Step Recipe 
• Tips for the Best Air Fryer Tempeh Bacon 
• What to Serve with Air Fryer Tempeh Bacon
• More Air Fryer Recipes 
• How To Store 
• Recipe FAQs 
• More Recipes with Soy 
• Crispy Air Fryer Tempeh Bacon

What Is Tempeh

Soy tempeh is a fermented food made from whole soybeans that have been naturally bound and pressed into firm, compact cakes. This traditional plant-based protein originated in Indonesia, where it has been a staple for centuries, particularly on the island of Java. The word “tempeh” comes from the Javanese term “témpé,” reflecting its deep cultural and culinary roots.

Tempeh is a great way to pack more protein into a plant-based diet without relying on heavily processed options. A 100 gram serving of soy tempeh contains about 20.3 grams of protein, making it one of the most protein-rich whole food sources available to vegans and vegetarians. Along with protein, it provides essential nutrients like potassium, iron, magnesium, calcium, and vitamin B6.

The flavor of tempeh is distinct, nutty, earthy, and slightly bitter, especially when raw. Its firm, chewy texture holds up well in stir fries, sandwiches, and bowls but softens nicely when steamed, simmered, or marinated. For the best flavor, try cooking it with your favorite sauces or spices to balance its natural boldness.

Where to Buy Tempeh 

Tempeh can be found at a variety of stores, making it easy to add this nutritious, plant-based protein to your meals.

• Asian Grocery Stores: These stores often carry fresh or refrigerated tempeh, usually in the refrigerated tofu or fermented products section. Look for brands specializing in traditional tempeh or locally made varieties for the freshest options.
• Major Grocery Chains: Most large supermarkets stock tempeh in the refrigerated section near tofu, vegan, or mock meat products. Stores like Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s, Kroger, Safeway, and Walmart typically carry several brands and varieties, including organic and flavored options.
• Health Food Stores: Specialty health food stores and co-ops often have a wide selection of tempeh, including artisanal or locally produced options.

Why You’ll Love This 

• It’s loaded with umami. To get that savory punch, we’re working with ingredients like soy sauce, smoked paprika, and garlic powder to bring depth and richness to each slice of tempeh.
• Made with pantry-friendly, affordable ingredients. The marinade is simple and fuss-free, using staples you probably already have—no fancy or expensive stuff required.
• Big flavor on a budget. This air fryer tempeh bacon is perfect for layering into sandwiches, wrapping around breakfast plates, or tossing into bowls for a smoky, protein-packed bite.

Ingredients & Substitutions 

• Tempeh: This is the star of the show. Tempeh’s firm texture makes it perfect for slicing into “bacon” strips that crisp up nicely and hold flavor well. If you don’t have tempeh, extra-firm tofu can work in a pinch,just press it well and know it’ll be softer and less chewy. 
• Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: Soy sauce brings the salt and umami we need to mimic that savory bacon flavor. I prefer low-sodium to keep things balanced, but regular soy sauce or tamari (for a gluten-free option) will work just fine. Coconut aminos can also be used if you want something a little sweeter and less salty.
• Ketchup: Ketchup gives us a hit of sweetness and tang, rounding out the smoky and salty notes. It also helps the marinade stick to the tempeh. No ketchup? A mix of tomato paste and a tiny splash of vinegar or maple syrup will do the trick.
• Smoked Paprika: This is where the smoky bacon flavor comes to life. Smoked paprika adds depth without needing liquid smoke, making it a pantry-friendly win. If you want to amp up the smokiness, a dash of liquid smoke can be added too.
• Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper brings in a little heat and bite. It’s a small ingredient that makes a big difference. Adjust the amount based on how peppery you like your faux bacon.
• Nutritional Yeast: Nutritional yeast adds a boost of umami and a slightly cheesy, savory flavor. It also helps create a more textured coating on the tempeh when it cooks. If you're out, it's okay to skip it, but you’ll miss a little extra flavor magic.

Got mushrooms? Check out our vegan mushroom bacon recipe! 

Step by Step Recipe 

1. Prep the Tempeh and Marinade: Start by steaming or simmering the tempeh for a few minutes to remove bitterness and soften the texture. While that’s happening, mix your marinade using soy sauce, ketchup, smoked paprika, black pepper, and nutritional yeast. Taste and tweak it. If you like it sweeter, add a touch of maple syrup or more ketchup.
2. Slice and Marinate: Once the tempeh is cool enough to handle, slice it into thin, bacon-like strips. Use a pastry brush to coat each side with the marinade, then let the strips soak up the flavor for at least 30 minutes. Don’t toss any leftover marinade—you’ll want it for later.
3. Cook Until Crispy: Arrange the marinated strips in a single layer in your air fryer. Cook at 325°F for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway and brushing with more marinade if you’d like a stronger flavor. The smoked paprika gives them that rich, reddish-brown bacon look—no liquid smoke needed.

Tips for the Best Air Fryer Tempeh Bacon 

For the best air fryer tempeh bacon, start by steaming or simmering the tempeh to mellow out its natural bitterness and help it soak up more flavor. Slice it thin for crispy edges and even cooking, and don’t skip the marinating time, about 30 minutes or more lets those smoky, savory flavors really settle in. For extra bold flavor, brush on more marinade during cooking, and if you like it crispier, let it go a minute or two longer in the air fryer (just keep an eye on it to avoid burning).

What to Serve with Air Fryer Tempeh Bacon

Tempeh bacon is versatile and pairs well with a variety of comforting, plant-based meals. Serve it alongside a warm tofu scramble or savory oats for a hearty, protein-packed breakfast. It also makes a great addition to whole wheat pancakes, stacked sandwiches, crisp salads, creamy mashed potatoes, or a bowl of vegan mac and cheese—adding a smoky, savory bite to any dish.

More Air Fryer Recipes 

How To Store 

Store cooked tempeh bacon in a reusable silicone bag or air-tight container.in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, pop it in the air fryer, oven, or a skillet for a few minutes until warmed and crispy again. It also freezes well, just separate layers with parchment paper for easy grab-and-reheat portions.

Recipe FAQs 

More Recipes with Soy 

Did you try out this air fryer tempeh bacon? Please leave a comment below, share it, rate it, or tag a picture @plantbasedandbroke on Instagram and hashtag it #plantbasedandbroke. Show off that creation with us!