7 Easy and Delicious Ways To Cook Bacon

Bacon has a way of transforming any meal, adding crisp, savory flavor that’s hard to resist. It’s perfect for breakfast, sandwiches, salads, or even desserts, but cooking it just right can be tricky. Some like it chewy, others prefer it crispy, and the difference often comes down to technique. The good news is there’s a method for every preference, from stovetop to oven to air fryer. Here are seven easy, delicious ways to cook bacon that deliver consistently perfect results.

1. Classic Skillet Bacon

Cooking bacon in a skillet is the method most people know and love, and for good reason. You get a hands-on approach that lets you control the heat and crispiness. Start with a cold pan, lay the strips flat without overlapping, and cook over medium heat. Turn occasionally to ensure even browning. It may take 8 to 12 minutes, depending on thickness and desired crispness. As the bacon cooks, it releases fat, which can be used later for frying eggs or vegetables. Skillet bacon lets you adjust every slice, so chewy or crispy is entirely up to you.

2. Oven-Baked Bacon

Oven baking is the ultimate hands-off approach and produces evenly cooked strips every time. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment. Lay bacon strips side by side, then bake for 15 to 20 minutes, depending on thickness. You can even add a cooling rack on the tray to let the fat drip away for extra crispiness. The result is consistent, perfect bacon without splattering grease all over your stovetop. Oven-baked bacon is ideal when cooking for a crowd or prepping breakfast sandwiches.

3. Microwave Bacon

Microwave bacon is quick, convenient, and surprisingly effective. Use a microwave-safe plate lined with paper towels and layer bacon strips without overlapping. Cover with an additional paper towel to reduce splatter. Microwave on high for 3 to 6 minutes, checking for desired crispness. The timing varies depending on your microwave and the bacon’s thickness. This method is perfect for single servings or when you’re short on time. While it may lack the depth of flavor from pan-frying or baking, it delivers fast, crisp bacon with minimal cleanup.

4. Air Fryer Bacon

Using an air fryer for bacon has become increasingly popular because it produces evenly crisp strips without much grease. Place bacon in a single layer inside the basket and set the temperature to 350°F. Cook for 8 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway for uniform browning. Air fryers circulate hot air, so the bacon comes out crunchy while retaining its smoky flavor. Cleanup is easier too, since most of the fat drips into the tray below. Air fryer bacon is perfect if you want quick results without sacrificing taste or texture.

5. Grilled Bacon

Grilling bacon adds a smoky flavor that’s hard to beat. Preheat your grill to medium heat and use a grill pan or foil to prevent flare-ups. Lay the strips flat and cook for 3 to 5 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Grilled bacon is slightly different than pan-fried bacon; it’s thinner, chewier in the center, and infused with subtle smokiness. This method is perfect for summer breakfasts or adding flair to a brunch spread. Plus, it’s a great way to avoid greasy stovetop splatter while still achieving crispy results.

6. Sous Vide Bacon

Sous vide is ideal if you want precise control over texture. Seal bacon in a vacuum bag and cook at 145°F for 8 to 12 hours. The result is tender, juicy bacon with consistent doneness throughout. After cooking sous vide, sear the slices in a hot skillet or under the broiler for a few minutes to achieve a crispy finish. This method is excellent for meal prep, since you can cook large batches ahead of time. Sous vide bacon may take longer than other methods, but the payoff is perfectly cooked strips every time.

7. Bacon-Wrapped Delights

Sometimes bacon isn’t just a side-it’s a flavor booster for other foods. Wrapping vegetables, chicken, or even dates in bacon before cooking creates rich, savory bites that combine smoky flavor and crispiness. You can bake, grill, or pan-fry these bacon-wrapped treats depending on the recipe. The key is to monitor cooking times so the bacon crisps without overcooking the filling. Bacon-wrapped dishes elevate your meals, whether you’re entertaining guests or simply treating yourself. The versatility here shows just how many ways bacon can shine beyond breakfast.