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There’s something magical about the smell of bacon wafting through your home on a lazy weekend morning. While many of us are accustomed to frying bacon on the stovetop, there’s a simpler, less messy method that guarantees perfectly crispy strips every time—baking it in the oven. If you’re preparing breakfast for a crowd or simply want to streamline your morning routine, oven-baked bacon is a game changer.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Oven-baked bacon not only frees you from the hassle of stovetop splatters but also allows you to cook a larger batch all at once. This method is perfect for meal prepping or feeding a group, and it results in consistently crispy bacon. Plus, cleanup is a breeze!
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Aluminum foil
- Baking sheet(s)
- Tongs
- Paper towels
- Serving dish
Ingredients
- 1 to 2 pounds of bacon
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F: Turn on the oven and preheat it to 400°F. Place a rack in the lower third of the oven. If you are cooking multiple sheets of bacon, place a second rack in the upper third of the oven.
- Arrange bacon on a baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil to make cleanup easier. Place the bacon on the baking sheet in a single layer. The bacon can be close together, but it must not overlap, or the bacon will stick during baking. If necessary, use a second baking sheet.
- Bake the bacon: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake until the bacon is golden brown and crisp, 15 to 20 minutes. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of the bacon and how crispy you like it. Start checking at about 12 minutes to control the speed of the bacon cooking. The bacon grease will crackle and bubble as the bacon cooks but should not splatter as it does on the stovetop. Pour off the bacon grease as necessary so that the bacon is not completely submerged in the grease.
- Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate: Remove the bacon from the oven and use tongs to transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and finish crisping. Serve immediately. You can also refrigerate leftover bacon for up to a week or freeze it for up to 3 months; reheat bacon in the microwave before serving.
- Clean up: If you want to save the bacon grease, let it cool slightly, then pour it into a container and refrigerate. If you don’t want to save the grease, let it set on the baking sheet, then crumple the foil around it and discard.
Tips for Success
For the best results, make sure the bacon is arranged in a single layer without overlapping. This ensures even cooking and crispy results. Keep an eye on the bacon as it cooks, especially if you prefer it extra crispy.
Additional Tips or Variations
For a touch of sweetness, try sprinkling a little brown sugar or drizzling maple syrup over the bacon before baking. You can also add a dash of freshly cracked black pepper or a sprinkle of cayenne for a bit of heat.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Nutritional content will vary depending on the brand and thickness of the bacon. Typically, one slice of bacon contains around:
- Calories: 42
- Protein: 3 grams
- Fat: 3 grams
- Carbohydrates: 0 grams
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I cook turkey bacon this way? Yes, turkey bacon can also be baked in the oven. It may require less time, so check it frequently to avoid overcooking.
How do I store leftover bacon? Store leftover bacon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
Can I use this method for thick-cut bacon? Absolutely! Just be prepared to adjust the cooking time as thick-cut bacon will take longer to cook.
Conclusion
Oven-baked bacon is a simple, mess-free way to enjoy perfectly crispy bacon every time. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, give this method a try and savor the convenience and deliciousness it brings. I’d love to hear how your bacon turns out, so feel free to share your experiences and any variations you’ve tried!
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