Breakfast & Brunch > Breakfast Meats > Pork > Bacon Recipe (Crispy)

Oven-Baked Crispy Bacon

Achieve perfectly crispy bacon every time with this easy oven-baked method. No more splattering grease or unevenly cooked bacon! This recipe ensures consistent results and minimal cleanup, making it ideal for a delicious breakfast or brunch.

Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time
15-20 minutes
Servings
4-6
Ingredients
  • 1 lb Bacon strips (regular or thick-cut)
  • to taste Black pepper (optional)
  • 1-2 tablespoons Maple syrup (optional)

Preparation

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This makes cleanup much easier and prevents the bacon from sticking.

Arranging the Bacon

Lay the bacon strips in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure the strips aren't overlapping, as this will prevent them from crisping evenly. For easier cleanup, you can place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet and lay the bacon on the rack.

Baking

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of the bacon and your oven, so keep an eye on it.

Optional Seasoning

About 5 minutes before the bacon is done, you can brush it with maple syrup for a sweet and savory flavor. Alternatively, sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper for a more savory taste.

Cooling and Serving

Once the bacon is cooked to your liking, remove the baking sheet from the oven and transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain off any excess grease. Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your perfectly crispy bacon!

FAQ

  • Why bake bacon instead of frying it?

    Baking bacon is a much cleaner and easier method than frying. It results in evenly cooked, crispy bacon without the splattering grease and constant monitoring. Plus, you can cook a large batch at once.
  • Can I use thick-cut bacon for this recipe?

    Yes, you can use thick-cut bacon. However, you may need to increase the cooking time by a few minutes to ensure it is fully cooked and crispy.
  • How do I store leftover bacon?

    Store leftover bacon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.