What To Know
- Once the bacon is cooked to your desired crispiness, remove it from the oven and transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess grease.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and cook the frozen bacon for 15-20 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired crispiness.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the bacon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
Crispy, savory bacon is a beloved breakfast staple that can elevate any meal. However, cooking bacon on the stovetop can be messy, splatter-prone, and time-consuming. Oven-baked bacon offers a convenient and efficient alternative, resulting in evenly cooked, perfectly crisp bacon without the hassle.
Benefits of Oven-Baked Bacon
- Less mess: No more splattering grease or smoky kitchens.
- Even cooking: The oven’s consistent heat ensures that every slice of bacon cooks evenly.
- Time-saving: Bake a large batch of bacon at once, saving you time over multiple stovetop rounds.
- Healthier: Oven-baking bacon allows excess fat to drain away, reducing calories and saturated fat content.
Choosing the Right Bacon
The type of bacon you use will significantly impact the final product. Look for high-quality bacon with a good balance of fat and meat.
- Thick-cut bacon: Provides a satisfying bite and more flavor.
- Regular-cut bacon: A good all-purpose option that cooks quickly.
- Uncured bacon: Contains no added nitrates or nitrites, making it a healthier choice.
Preparing the Oven and Bacon
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
3. Separate the bacon slices and lay them flat on the prepared baking sheet, avoiding overlap.
Baking Time and Temperature
The cooking time for bacon in the oven varies depending on the thickness and desired crispiness.
- Thick-cut bacon: 15-20 minutes
- Regular-cut bacon: 10-15 minutes
- For crispy bacon: Cook for the full time or slightly longer.
- For chewy bacon: Remove from the oven a few minutes earlier.
Monitoring and Adjusting
- Keep an eye on the bacon while it cooks to prevent burning.
- If the bacon starts to curl, use a spatula to flatten it.
- Check the bacon’s doneness by bending a slice in half. If it snaps easily, it’s crispy.
Draining and Storing
1. Once the bacon is cooked to your desired crispiness, remove it from the oven and transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess grease.
2. Let the bacon cool slightly before serving or storing.
3. Store cooked bacon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Tips for Perfect Oven-Baked Bacon
- Use a wire rack on the baking sheet to allow for better air circulation and even cooking.
- Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the baking sheet.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet, as this will prevent the bacon from cooking evenly.
- If you don’t have parchment paper or aluminum foil, lightly grease the baking sheet with cooking spray.
- For extra crispy bacon, cook for a few minutes under a broiler after baking.
The Bottom Line: Savor the Perfect Crisp
Oven-baked bacon is an easy, mess-free, and time-saving way to enjoy crispy, flavorful bacon. By following these simple steps and tips, you can master the art of perfect oven-baked bacon and elevate your breakfast, sandwiches, and salads to new heights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use bacon that is already sliced?
A: Yes, you can use pre-sliced bacon for oven-baking. However, it may cook slightly faster than unsliced bacon.
Q: How long can I store cooked bacon in the refrigerator?
A: Cooked bacon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Q: Can I cook frozen bacon in the oven?
A: Yes, you can cook frozen bacon in the oven. However, it will take longer to cook than thawed bacon. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and cook the frozen bacon for 15-20 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired crispiness.
Q: Can I use a convection oven to cook bacon?
A: Yes, you can use a convection oven to cook bacon. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and cook the bacon for 10-15 minutes, or until cooked to your desired crispiness.
Q: What is the best way to reheat cooked bacon?
A: The best way to reheat cooked bacon is in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the bacon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Heat for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through.
