Why You’ll Love Making Bacon In The Oven
Fast. Ready in under 20 minutes with minimal hands-on time. Easy. No flipping required—just set it and forget it. Consistent. Achieve evenly cooked bacon without the risk of burning. Less Mess. Baking it means no stovetop splatters to clean up.
With the convenience of baking, you’ll have perfectly cooked bacon to elevate your breakfasts, sandwiches, salads, or any dish that craves a bacon boost.
Is It Better To Cook Bacon In The Oven Or Pan?
Ultimately, the choice between oven and stovetop cooking comes down to personal preference and the specific application. If you’re looking for convenience, especially when cooking for a crowd, or want to minimize mess, oven-baked might be the better option. If you prefer a quicker cooking time and enjoy the crispiness achieved on the stovetop, then cooking bacon in a pan may be your preferred method.
Can You Bake Bacon In The Oven Without Parchment Paper?
Yes, you can bake bacon in the oven without using parchment paper. While parchment paper can help make cleanup easier and prevent sticking, it’s not a strict requirement for baking bacon.
Should You Flip Bacon In The Oven?
Flipping bacon is not necessary, but it can be done if you want to ensure even cooking on both sides. If you prefer your bacon to be extra crispy on both sides or if you’re baking on a baking sheet without a wire rack, you may choose to flip the bacon halfway through the cooking time. This can help ensure that both sides cook evenly and become uniformly crispy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Bacon Strips- Choose your favorite type, whether it’s thick-cut, applewood-smoked, or any other variety.
Yep, that’s it! Just one ingredient to make some of the best tasting bacon you’ve ever tasted.
Equipment You’ll Need
Not sure what you’ll need to get started before you make bacon in the oven? Here’s what you’ll need to grab:
Baking Sheet- A rimmed baking sheet helps contain any drippings. Wire Rack- Elevate the bacon on a wire rack to allow excess fat to drip away.
How To Make Bacon In The Oven
Preheat the Oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Arrange Bacon on a Wire Rack. Place a wire rack on the prepared baking sheet. Lay the bacon strips on the wire rack in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap. Bake Until Crispy. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon reaches your desired level of crispiness. Keep an eye on it, especially in the last few minutes, to prevent overcooking. Remove and Drain. Once crispy, carefully remove the bacon from the oven. Transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess fat. Serve and Enjoy. Your oven-baked bacon is now ready to be enjoyed on its own, crumbled into salads, added to sandwiches, or served alongside your favorite breakfast items.
Tips And Tricks
Mastering oven-baked bacon is a breeze, but a few tips can make the process even smoother:
Use a Wire Rack. Elevating the bacon on a wire rack allows air to circulate, ensuring even cooking and allowing excess fat to drip away. This results in a crispier and less greasy outcome. Check Early and Often. Cooking times can vary based on the thickness of the bacon and your desired level of crispiness. Begin checking the bacon around the 12-minute mark to avoid overcooking. Adjust Temperature. If you prefer a slower cook for extra-crispy bacon, you can lower the oven temperature to 375°F and extend the cooking time. Save the Bacon Fat. Don’t discard that liquid gold! Strain and store the bacon fat in a jar for cooking or flavoring other dishes.
Variations
While oven-baked bacon is delightful on its own, you can also experiment with flavor variations:
Maple Glazed Bacon- Brush the bacon with a mixture of maple syrup and a pinch of cayenne pepper before baking for a sweet and spicy kick. Brown Sugar-Coated Bacon- Sprinkle brown sugar over the bacon before baking for a caramelized, candied effect. Black Pepper Bacon- Grind fresh black pepper over the bacon before baking to add a bold, peppery flavor.
What To Make With Oven Bacon
Oven-baked bacon pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:
Classic Breakfast- Serve alongside scrambled eggs, toast, and fresh fruit for a classic breakfast. BLT Sandwich- Create the ultimate BLT sandwich with oven-baked bacon, lettuce, tomato, and your favorite spread on toasted bread. Cobb Salad- Crumble oven-baked bacon over a classic Cobb salad for an extra layer of flavor.
How Long Does It Last?
Oven-baked bacon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. To reheat, place the desired amount on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 15-second intervals until warmed through.
Can You Freeze It?
Yes, you can freeze oven-baked bacon for future use. Allow the bacon to cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe bag or container with layers of parchment paper between the slices. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
More Recipes With Bacon
Instant Pot Green Beans With BaconBrussels Sprouts With BaconSavory OatmealCowboy ChickenMushroom Side Dish with Bacon
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