Can you Cook Bacon in the Microwave?

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Introduction

Bacon is a delicious and versatile food that can be enjoyed in many ways, from breakfast to burgers to BLTs. But cooking bacon can be messy and time-consuming, especially if you’re cooking it on the stovetop. Many people wonder if it’s possible to cook bacon in the microwave, and if so, is it just as tasty? In this blog post, we’ll explore whether you can cook bacon in the microwave and how to do it.

Can you Cook Bacon in the Microwave?

The Pros and Cons of Cooking Bacon in the Microwave

Before we dive into the specifics of how to cook bacon in the microwave, let’s take a look at some of the pros and cons of this cooking method.

Pros:

  • It’s quick: Cooking bacon in the microwave is much faster than cooking it on the stovetop. You can cook several strips at once, and it only takes a few minutes.
  • It’s easy: Cooking bacon in the microwave is also incredibly easy. All you need is a microwave-safe dish and some paper towels.
  • It’s less messy: Cooking bacon on the stovetop can be messy, with grease splattering everywhere. When you cook bacon in the microwave, the grease is contained in the dish, making clean-up a breeze.

Cons:

  • It’s not as crispy: One of the downsides of cooking bacon in the microwave is that it’s not as crispy as when you cook it on the stovetop. This is because the bacon steams instead of frying, which can leave it soggy.
  • It can be uneven: Depending on the wattage of your microwave, cooking bacon can be uneven, with some parts being overcooked and others undercooked.

How to Cook Bacon in the Microwave?

Now that we’ve looked at the pros and cons of cooking bacon in the microwave let’s get into the nitty-gritty of how to do it.

Step 1: Choose the Right Dish

The first step to cooking bacon in the microwave is choosing the right dish. You want to use a microwave-safe dish that is large enough to hold the bacon in a single layer. A microwave-safe plate or baking dish works well.

Step 2: Add Paper Towels

Once you have your dish, lay a layer of paper towels on the bottom. The paper towels will help absorb the grease and prevent it from splattering in the microwave.

Step 3: Lay Out the Bacon

Next, lay out the bacon strips in a single layer on top of the paper towels. Make sure they aren’t touching, or they may stick together as they cook.

Step 4: Cover with Paper Towels

Once the bacon is laid out, cover it with another layer of paper towels. This will help absorb the grease and prevent it from splattering in the microwave.

Step 5: Cook in the Microwave

Place the dish in the microwave and cook on high for 4-6 minutes, depending on the wattage of your microwave. Keep an eye on it, so it doesn’t overcook and become dry.

Step 6: Drain the Grease

Once the bacon is cooked, carefully remove the dish from the microwave and use tongs to remove the bacon strips. Place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain off any excess grease.

Tips for Cooking Bacon in the Microwave

Now that you know how to cook bacon in the microwave let’s go over a few tips to make sure you get the best results.

Tip 1: Use Thick-Cut Bacon

Thick-cut bacon works best for cooking in the microwave because it holds up better to the steaming process. Thin-cut bacon may become too crispy or overcooked, so it’s best to stick with the thick stuff.

Tip 2: Adjust Cooking Time for Your Microwave

The cooking time for bacon in the microwave can vary depending on the wattage of your microwave. If you have a higher wattage microwave, you may need to cook the bacon for a shorter amount of time, so it doesn’t overcook. Keep an eye on it and adjust the time as needed.

Tip 3: Try a Bacon Tray

If you plan on cooking bacon in the microwave often, you may want to invest in a bacon tray. A bacon tray is designed to hold the bacon in a single layer and has a tray underneath to catch any grease. This makes cooking bacon in the microwave even easier and less messy.

Tip 4: Add Some Flavor

If you want to add some flavor to your bacon, try seasoning it before cooking. You can sprinkle on some black pepper, garlic powder, or even brown sugar for a sweet and savory twist.

Conclusion

Cooking bacon in the microwave is a quick and easy way to enjoy this delicious food without the mess of cooking it on the stovetop. While it may not be as crispy as when you cook it on the stovetop, it’s still a tasty option. By following these tips and tricks, you can ensure that your bacon is cooked to perfection every time. So next time you’re in a rush and want to enjoy some bacon, give the microwave a try!

Can you Cook Bacon in the Microwave?
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