Oven-cooked bacon is an easy and mess-free way to achieve perfectly crispy strips every time. This method allows for even cooking and reduces the splatter associated with frying on the stovetop.
With just a few simple steps, you can prepare a large batch of bacon that is ideal for breakfast, sandwiches, or salads.
The Art of Cooking Bacon
Cooking bacon to perfection is a skill that many aspire to master. The allure of crispy, golden-brown strips can elevate any breakfast experience.
Using the oven to cook bacon not only simplifies the process but also ensures even cooking without the mess of frying.
With just a few steps, anyone can achieve that ideal crispy texture that makes bacon a beloved breakfast staple.
Preparing for Success
Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to gather all necessary ingredients and tools.
For this method, thick or regular cut bacon works well, depending on personal preference.
Having parchment paper or aluminum foil on hand can make cleanup a breeze, allowing you to focus on enjoying your meal.
Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).
This temperature is ideal for achieving that crispy finish without burning the bacon.
Next, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This step is crucial for easy cleanup later on.
Arranging the Bacon
Once the baking sheet is ready, lay the bacon strips in a single layer.
It’s important to avoid overlapping the strips to ensure they cook evenly.
With the bacon arranged, it’s time to place the baking sheet in the oven.
Baking to Perfection
Allow the bacon to bake for 15-20 minutes, keeping an eye on it as it cooks.
The cooking time may vary based on the thickness of the bacon and personal preference for crispiness.
Once the bacon reaches the desired level of crispness, remove it from the oven.
Serving Suggestions
After cooking, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels.
This will help absorb any excess grease, leaving you with perfectly crispy strips.
Serve the bacon immediately alongside eggs and toast for a classic breakfast that never disappoints.
Simple Oven-Cooked Bacon Recipe
This recipe yields crispy bacon strips cooked in the oven, taking about 20-25 minutes. It serves 4-6 people, depending on portion size.
Ingredients
- 12 slices of bacon (thick or regular cut)
- Parchment paper or aluminum foil (optional for easy cleanup)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easier cleanup.
- Arrange the Bacon: Lay the bacon strips in a single layer on the baking sheet, making sure they do not overlap.
- Bake the Bacon: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon reaches your desired level of crispiness.
- Drain and Serve: Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease. Serve immediately.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4-6 servings
- Calories: 42kcal per slice
- Fat: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 0g