Bacon Cooking Styles

There are few things that smell as delicious as bacon cooking. Whether you have been cooking bacon for years or want to try making this breakfast staple for the first time, it is important to know the best ways to cook bacon. Your preferred method will vary depending on how you like your bacon, but we will take a look at some of the best ways to cook it.

Stovetop Bacon

If you have cooked bacon before, you have most likely cooked it on your stovetop. Cooking on a non-stick or cast-iron skillet is one of the best ways to make bacon on the stovetop, and if you have a skillet with a raised bottom, you can allow the fat to flow away from it for a better result. You will need to turn the bacon frequently, so be sure to have a pair of tongs available. While you could attempt to turn it with a fork, tongs will give you a better result without having to worry about bacon splatter as much. How long you will need to cook it will depend on your personal preferences, and if you like crispier bacon, try to get a thinner cut.

Microwave

When you want your bacon fast, nothing can beat the microwave. Not only is this the fastest method, but it will also result in less grease to clean up afterward than other methods. When you cook bacon in the microwave, you may get a slightly chewier result than other methods, but it will still be crispy. Start by cooking the bacon for 4 minutes, then add an additional minute until your bacon reaches the crispiness levels you are looking for.

Start by lining a microwave-safe plate with 3 layers of paper towels. Place your bacon on top of the paper towels without overlapping any pieces. Cover your bacon with another 2 layers of paper towels, then microwave on high for 4 to 6 minutes. Pause the microwave and check your bacon halfway through. Depending on the thickness of your bacon and the model of your microwave, you may need less time to fully cook your bacon.

Oven-Baked Bacon

If you have never cooked bacon in your oven, you are missing out on a great way to make it. This is the most hands-off approach to cooking bacon available. There are a few ways to cook bacon in the oven. The first involves placing the bacon directly on the rack in your oven and allowing the fat to drip down onto a pan underneath. Another method is to place tinfoil on a baking pan or sheet, then spread your bacon slices across the pan. Whichever you choose, you can expect crispier bacon than other cooking methods. The main choices for temperature are 350, 375, 400, and 425 degrees Fahrenheit, but we tend to stick to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Not only will your bacon cook faster than lower temperatures, but you can also expect crispier bacon. If you like your edges slightly burned, 425 degrees will be perfect for you. Whichever temperature you choose, you should know the optimal cooking times.

• 350 degrees Fahrenheit: Cook your bacon for 22 to 27 minutes.
• 375 degrees Fahrenheit: Cook your bacon for 20 to 25 minutes.
• 400 degrees Fahrenheit: Cook your bacon for 18 to 23 minutes.
• 425 degrees Fahrenheit: Cook your bacon for 15 to 20 minutes.

One of the greatest benefits of cooking baking in the oven is that you will not have to worry about your bacon splattering. Cooking baking in the oven will also allow you to cook larger batches of bacon at once compared to cooking on the stovetop or in a microwave. Both methods we discussed will allow you to easily dispose of or reserve your bacon grease after cooking. Just tilt the pan over a container and allow the grease to pour in. If you do this while the pan is still hot, be sure to use an oven mitt to avoid burns.

No matter what method you choose to cook your bacon, you are sure to have a delicious breakfast staple in no time.