Oven Bacon

Cooking bacon in the oven is a culinary technique that transforms this breakfast favorite into a hands-off, crispy delight. The process begins with laying out strips of bacon on a baking sheet, allowing for easy and uniform cooking. This method, appreciated for its simplicity, involves placing the bacon in a preheated oven, usually around 400°F (200°C), and letting it bake to perfection. The oven's consistent heat not only ensures even cooking but also allows the bacon to achieve a delightful crispy texture without the need for constant flipping, as is often required on stovetops.

The oven-cooking approach to bacon has gained popularity for its convenience and the ability to prepare large quantities at once. As the bacon bakes, the fat renders, creating a crispy exterior while maintaining a tender interior. This method minimizes splattering and the need for vigilant attention, making it an efficient and mess-free way to achieve perfectly cooked bacon. Whether for breakfast, as a topping, or as a savory component in various recipes, cooking bacon in the oven has become a go-to method for those seeking a fuss-free and consistently delicious outcome.

Prep Time: 5 min

Cook Time: 25 min

Total Time: 30 min

Yield: 6 servings

Strips of bacon on two baking sheets with backing racks

Ingredients

  • 1 lb bacon

Equipment

  • 2 large edged baking sheets
  • 2 racks that fit the baking sheets

Instructions

Preheat

  1. 1.
    Evenly space the racks in the oven to allow for air circulation.
  2. 2.
    Preheat the oven to 400°F.

Prep

  1. 3.
    Line cookie sheets with aluminum foil and place racks on lined cookie sheets
  2. 4.
    Place bacon on racks, making sure individual strips of bacon are not touching.

Bake

  1. 5.
    Place baking sheets with bacon in the oven.
  2. 6.
    Bake for 10 minutes.
  3. 7.
    Rotate baking sheets and swap baking sheets between oven racks.
  4. 8.
    Bake for 10-15 more minutes. Thick cut bacon will take longer.
  5. 9.
    Remove bacon to drain on paper towels.

Notes

  • Any leftover bacon can be placed in a large (1 gallon) sealable plastic freezer bag. Reheat 1 or 2 slices at a time by wrapping the bacon in a paper towel and heating in the microwave on high for 30 to 45 seconds.
  • Handling bacon fat