Who doesn’t love bacon? It’s crispy, savory and all-around delicious. The simplest and easiest way to cook bacon may be to fry it on the stove, but there’s another way to enjoy it that is quick, easy, and hassle-free – oven cooking. Plus, it leaves your stovetop free for other cooking. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, oven cooking bacon gives you perfect strips every time. Here’s how to do it:
Why Cook Bacon in the Oven?
There are numerous reasons why oven cooking bacon is the best and easiest way to cook this crispy delicacy. Firstly, oven cooking bacon enables you to cook large quantities of bacon all at once. This is particularly convenient when cooking for a large family or for guests during a brunch gathering.
Better Taste
Oven cooking bacon also results in a much better taste as it allows for a more even cooking process, resulting in perfectly crispy bacon. The bacon remains flat and straight in the oven, unlike the stovetop method, which results in bacon that is often curled or unevenly cooked. In addition, oven cooking bacon results in less shrinkage compared to the traditional stovetop method, so you are left with more bacon to enjoy.
Less Mess
Oven cooking bacon is also a less messy method compared to the stovetop. The grease splatter and pop that often occur when using the stovetop method are eliminated with oven cooking, ensuring a more hassle-free clean-up process. Additionally, oven cooking bacon allows for the grease to drain off the bacon for a healthier cooking option.
What Equipment Do You Need?
If you are planning to cook bacon in the oven, there are a few essential kitchen tools and equipment needed to make the process hassle-free. The following are the list of materials you need:
Baking Sheets
You will need baking sheets to cook bacon in the oven, which typically comes in two sizes – half-sheet and quarter-sheet. Depending on your preference, you can use any of it to cook your bacon. Line the sheet with an aluminum foil or parchment paper as they prevent sticking and makes cleaning easy.
Aluminium Foil or Parchment Paper
Aluminium foil or parchment paper is essential to line the baking sheets. It prevents bacon from getting stuck on the sheet and makes cleaning up super easy. You can also use aluminium foil to wrap individual bacon slices. It helps to preserve the flavor and moisture content of the bacon while cooking.
Wire Rack
The wire rack is optional, but it’s highly recommended. A wire rack can be placed on top of a baking sheet, which helps bacon to cook uniformly by allowing the heat to circulate correctly. Wire racks also prevent the bacon from getting greasy by lifting them away from the fat that drains while cooking. It makes bacon crispy and perfect every time.
How Do You Prepare the Bacon?
Preparing bacon before cooking it in the oven is important to ensure that it comes out crispy and delicious. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to properly prepare bacon for oven cooking:
Step 1: Choose the Right Bacon
Choose bacon that is thick and has a good meat-to-fat ratio. This type of bacon will not only taste better, but it will also hold its shape better when cooking in the oven. Avoid bacon that is too thin or too fatty.
Step 2: Line the Baking Sheet with Foil
Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil. This will make it easier to clean up later and also prevent the bacon from sticking to the pan.
Step 3: Arrange the Bacon
Arrange the bacon on the foil-lined baking sheet. Make sure that the bacon strips do not overlap each other to ensure even cooking. If you have extra space on the baking sheet, you can add more bacon or any other ingredients you want to cook with the bacon.
- If you want to add some flavor to the bacon, you can sprinkle some seasonings on top. Some great options include black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, or brown sugar.
- You can also try brushing the bacon with maple syrup or honey for a sweet and savory flavor.
What is the Oven Temperature and Cooking Time?
When it comes to oven cooking bacon, getting the temperature and cooking time just right is crucial. Follow these guidelines to achieve crispy and delicious oven-cooked bacon:
Oven Temperature
The recommended oven temperature for cooking bacon is 400°F (204°C). Preheat your oven before cooking to ensure that the bacon cooks evenly.
Cooking Time
The cooking time for bacon in the oven can vary based on the thickness of the bacon. Here are some general guidelines to follow:
- Thin-sliced bacon: 10-12 minutes
- Regular sliced bacon: 12-15 minutes
- Thick-sliced bacon: 18-20 minutes
It’s important to check the bacon periodically while it cooks to avoid burning it. When the bacon is golden brown and crispy, it’s done.
Adjusting Cooking Time
If you prefer your bacon less crispy or more well-done, adjust the cooking time accordingly. Keep in mind that the thickness of the bacon will also impact the cooking time.
Tip: If you want to reduce splatter and make cleaning up easier, line your baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil before cooking the bacon.
How to Store and Reheat Bacon?
Bacon is undoubtedly one of the most loved meat products, famous for its irresistible aroma and crispy texture. However, leftover bacon can be a challenge to store and reheat without losing its deliciousness. To help you preserve your cooked bacon and restore its crispiness, we have compiled some easy ways to store and reheat bacon.
Storing Cooked Bacon
The key to keeping your cooked bacon fresh is to store it correctly. One way to store it is to wrap the bacon in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and then place it in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. You can also store it in a glass container with a lid, making sure that each slice is separated by wax paper.
If you plan to freeze your cooked bacon, wrap each slice separately in foil or plastic, then place them in a freezer bag. Place them flat in the bag, and make sure to remove the excess air before sealing it. You can store them in the freezer for up to six months.
Reheating Cooked Bacon
Reheating bacon can be done in a variety of ways, depending on your preference. Here are some methods to get your bacon tasting crispy and delicious again:
- Oven: To reheat bacon in the oven, preheat your oven to 350°F, line a baking sheet with foil, place the bacon slices on the sheet, and bake it for 5-10 minutes, or until it reaches your desired texture.
- Microwave: To microwave bacon, place your bacon slices on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a paper towel. Cook the bacon in the microwave for 15-30 seconds or until heated through.
- Skillet: For a quick and easy reheating method, place the bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat for about a minute on each side. This method gives the bacon a crispy texture and restores its flavor.
Tip: Avoid cooking bacon over high heat as it may cause the bacon to become dry and hard.
What are Some Delicious Bacon Recipes?
When it comes to bacon recipes, there are countless possibilities that can be explored in the kitchen. By incorporating bacon into your dishes, you can add a savory flavor and crispy texture to just about anything. Here are some delicious bacon recipes to try:
Bacon-Wrapped Pork Loin
For a hearty main course, consider preparing a bacon-wrapped pork loin. This dish is perfect for impressing dinner guests or simply enjoying a cozy family meal at home. Start by seasoning your pork loin with salt, pepper, and your choice of other spices. Then, wrap thick slices of bacon around the exterior of the pork loin, securing with toothpicks. Roast in the oven until the pork is cooked through and the bacon is crispy.
Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus
If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious side dish, bacon-wrapped asparagus is a great option. Start by blanching your asparagus spears in boiling water, then wrap them tightly with strips of bacon. Place the wrapped asparagus in the oven and bake until the bacon is crispy.
Bacon-Wrapped Dates
If you’re looking for an appetizer that’s packed with flavor, try bacon-wrapped dates. To prepare this dish, remove the pits from Medjool dates and stuff them with goat cheese. Then, wrap each date with a strip of bacon and skewer with a toothpick. Bake in the oven until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is melted.
Bacon-Wrapped Scallops
If you’re a seafood lover, bacon-wrapped scallops are a must-try. Simply season your scallops with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, then wrap each one with a piece of bacon. Broil in the oven until the bacon is crispy and the scallops are cooked through.
Bacon Macaroni and Cheese
For a comfort food classic with a bacon twist, try making bacon macaroni and cheese. Cook your favorite pasta according to the package instructions, then mix in a cheese sauce made with cheddar, Gouda, and a touch of mustard. Add crispy bacon bits to the pasta and bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Bacon Deviled Eggs
If you’re looking for a unique take on deviled eggs, try adding crispy bacon to the mix. Start by boiling and halving your eggs, then mix the yolks with mayonnaise, mustard, and your choice of spices. Crumble bacon and mix it into the yolk mixture, then scoop the filling back into the egg halves and garnish with a small piece of bacon.
Thank You for Reading!
We hope that this article has simplified the process of oven cooking bacon for you! With these easy-to-follow steps, you can enjoy crispy and delicious bacon without the hassle of frying. So, next time you’re craving bacon for breakfast or brunch, give oven cooking a try and enjoy the benefits! Don’t forget to visit our website again later for more helpful tips and tricks.
Crispy and Delicious: Oven Cooking Bacon Simplified
Learn the simplified process of oven cooking bacon with these easy-to-follow steps. Enjoy crispy and delicious bacon without the hassle of frying.
- 1 pound thick-cut bacon
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a large baking sheet with foil.
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and black pepper. Place the bacon in a single layer on the baking sheet. Sprinkle the brown sugar mixture over the bacon, pressing it lightly to adhere.
- Bake the bacon for 18-20 minutes, or until crispy and golden. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to cool and crisp.
- Serve the bacon hot and enjoy the crispy and delicious flavor!
