Crispy Oven Bacon

If you want to make the crispiest oven cooked bacon, low heat is crucial. This method will take a little more time but it helps cook the bacon evenly.

Everyone talks about pan frying bacon. But using the oven is so much easier (and less messy). It’s quickly become my favorite method, especially when cooking a large amount.

A pan will work fine if you’re only cooking 2-3 slices. But anything more than that will make a huge mess all over your kitchen. Plus, the pan can only fit so many slices at one time.

If you like a crispy outside, set the oven temperature to 350°F. Bacon can cook more evenly at a lower oven temperature. And even though it will take longer, it should be ready in about 30 minutes.

Ingredients

This is one of my easiest recipes, because you only need bacon! I’m using lower sodium bacon with this recipe to avoid too much salt. But you can choose whatever variety you prefer.

Just keep in mind that not all bacon will look the same. I noticed the lower sodium option I typically use is thinner compared to other brands.

That’s why you need to factor thickness when it comes to cooking time. Thin slices of bacon won’t require as much time in the oven. It always helps to check on the oven periodically, so you don’t burn your breakfast!

Some people like to add their own seasoning to bacon. You can sprinkle on freshly ground black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. And if you like spicy food, there’s always the option of adding chili powder.

Instructions

Anyone can cook bacon in the oven! Scroll down to the recipe card for more detailed instructions. Here are the basic steps:

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. Then line a baking sheet with foil, or parchment paper and spray it with non-stick cooking oil.

If you want to cook the bacon with less grease, you can try using a wire rack. I skipped this step simply for the fact that I didn’t want to wash one more thing at the end!

Arrange the bacon slices in a single layer on the pan or wire rack. Make sure they are not touching, because this will help them cook evenly (it will also prevent them from sticking together).

Finally, place the sheet in a preheated oven for 20-30 minutes. The exact amount of time will vary depending on the cut of bacon. Thin bacon will be quicker and thick slices will require more time.

Make sure to use oven mitts when removing your sheet from the oven. You can then transfer the bacon to a plate with tongs. If you do choose to use a wire rack, the good news is that you won’t need to drain any grease from the bacon.

How to Prevent Grease Splatters

One of the things I don’t like about pan fried bacon is the mess. Even when cooking on low heat, there’s always a chance for grease splatters.

The good news is that you can avoid this mess when cooking bacon in the oven. The first step is to always use a rimmed baking sheet with an edge.

This will prevent any grease from spilling out and landing on the bottom of your oven (potentially causing a grease fire).

You should also adjust the oven rack to the middle position. If the rack is in the upper position for example, grease will land on the oven coils and create loads of smoke.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Do you flip bacon in the oven?

You do NOT need to flip bacon slices halfway through as they cook in the oven. Bacon is a very thin cut of meat and every slice will cook evenly (even without a wire rack).

• How long to cook bacon in oven at 350?

Bacon will take anywhere from 20-30 minutes in the oven at 350°F. This range in time comes down to how thick each slice is (thicker slices of bacon will take longer).

• What is the best way to bake bacon?

The best way to bake bacon in the oven is at 350°F. This method will take a little longer, but a lower oven temperature will ensure that each slice of bacon cooks perfectly even.

Do you follow a low fat diet? Try cooking turkey bacon in the microwave or try air fryer turkey bacon!