How to Cook Bacon in the Oven
Your Ultimate Guide With All the Tricks for Perfectly Crispy Bacon
📝 What You’ll Need
- 1 package sliced bacon (regular or thick-cut)
- Large rimmed baking sheet
- Parchment paper or aluminum foil
- Wire rack (optional, but recommended)
- Paper towels
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat the Oven
Preheat to 400°F (200°C).
For extra-thick bacon, you can reduce slightly to 375°F for slower, even cooking.
2️⃣ Line the Pan
Line a rimmed baking sheet with:
- Parchment paper (easier cleanup)
or - Aluminum foil (catches grease)
If using a wire rack, place it on top of the lined sheet. This allows air to circulate and helps bacon crisp evenly.
3️⃣ Arrange the Bacon
- Lay strips in a single layer.
- Do not overlap.
- It’s okay if edges slightly touch — they’ll shrink as they cook.
4️⃣ Bake
Place the tray in the center rack of the oven.
Cooking Times:
- Regular-cut bacon: 15–20 minutes
- Thick-cut bacon: 20–25 minutes
Start checking around the 12–15 minute mark, as ovens vary.
5️⃣ Remove & Drain
- Once golden and crispy, remove from oven.
- Transfer bacon to a plate lined with paper towels.
- Let cool slightly — it crisps more as it cools.
🔥 How to Get It EXTRA Crispy
✔️ Use a wire rack for better airflow
✔️ Bake a few minutes longer at the end
✔️ Turn on broil for 1–2 minutes (watch closely!)
✔️ Don’t overcrowd the pan
🧂 Flavor Variations
Sweet & Savory
Sprinkle with brown sugar and cracked pepper before baking.
Spicy
Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes.
Maple Glazed
Brush lightly with maple syrup during the last 5 minutes.
🧊 Storage Tips
- Refrigerate cooked bacon up to 4–5 days.
- Freeze for up to 1 month.
- Reheat in oven at 350°F for 5 minutes or microwave briefly.
💡 Bonus Trick: Save the Bacon Grease
Carefully pour cooled bacon fat into a heat-safe jar.
Store in the refrigerator and use for:
- Roasting vegetables
- Frying eggs
- Flavoring potatoes
🏁 Final Thoughts
Oven-baked bacon is hands-off, less messy, and perfectly consistent. Once you try it, you may never go back to pan-frying again.
Crispy, golden, and evenly cooked — every single strip 🥓✨
