Go Back
+ servings
Bacon slices are cooked in a stainless steel skillet.
Print Recipe
5 from 3 votes

How to Cook Bacon (3 Ways)

Wondering How to Cook Bacon so you get perfectly crispy strips and no mess? Below you'll find 3 simple methods to choose from: the traditional stovetop way, by baking in the oven, or quickly in the air fryer. No matter which way you slice it, you'll be enjoying bacon by itself or in all your favorite recipes.
Prep Time1 minute
Cook Time9 minutes
Total Time10 minutes
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Servings: 8
Author: Jennifer Deppa

Ingredients

  • 4-8 oz. bacon strips regular or thick-cut

Instructions

  • SKILLET: Place bacon in a single layer in a cast iron or stainless steel skillet over medium-high heat. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until crispy. Let drain on a paper towel
    4-8 oz. bacon strips
  • AIR FRYER: Place bacon in a single layer and cook at 350 for 9-11 minutes.
    4-8 oz. bacon strips
  • OVEN: Place bacon in a single layer on a large sheet pan either lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil and a wire rack. Lift up pieces of the bacon to give it a wavy appearance, if you’d prefer. Bake in a preheated 400 degree oven for 15-25 minutes. Regular-cut bacon will take 15-20 minutes while thick-cut bacon will take closer to 20-25 minutes.
    4-8 oz. bacon strips
  • Drain Bacon: Remove bacon from the skillet, oven, or air fryer and place strips on a paper towel-lined plate. Pat dry with additional paper towels to remove excess grease.

Notes

Meal Prep and Storage

  • To Store: Keep leftover bacon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days.
  • To Freeze: You can freeze cooked bacon in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 to 4 months.
  • To Reheat: You can warm up cooked bacon strips in the oven or air fryer. It only takes a few minutes. Avoid the microwave or you'll end up with soggy bacon.

Nutrition

Calories: 59kcal | Carbohydrates: 0.2g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 0.02g | Cholesterol: 9mg | Sodium: 94mg | Potassium: 28mg | Vitamin A: 5IU | Calcium: 1mg | Iron: 0.1mg