oven bacon

Oven Bacon

Bacon strips are arranged on a baking sheet and cooked in the oven until evenly crisped. The slow, consistent heat allows the fat to render gradually, producing a golden, crunchy exterior while keeping the meat flavorful and slightly chewy in the center.

As the bacon cooks, the edges caramelize and the rendered fat can be reserved for other uses. Baking ensures uniform texture and reduces splatter compared with stovetop methods. The preparation emphasizes gentle, even heat for tender, flavorful bacon with a perfectly crisp finish.

Print Recipe
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Bacon
Servings: 6

Equipment

  • 2 large baking sheets

Ingredients

  • 1 lb bacon

Instructions 

Preheat

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

Prep

  • Line baking pans with aluminum foil.
  • Place bacon on the baking pans, making sure individual strips of bacon are not touching.

Bake

  • Place baking pans with bacon in the oven.
  • Bake for 10 minutes.
  • Rotate baking sheets and swap baking sheets between oven racks.
  • Bake for 10-15 more minutes. Thick cut bacon will take longer.
  • 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.
  • Add steps for handling bacon fat.