How to Cook Perfect Bacon in the Oven: A Simple 20-Minute Method

Joseph’s Best Easy Bacon Recipe

Bacon lovers rejoice! This effortless oven method transforms a simple pound of thick-cut pork into perfectly crisp, savory strips—ideal for breakfast, brunch, or any time you crave bacon.

Why This Oven-Baked Bacon Stands Out

• Hands-off baking: Consistently crisp without constant flipping.
• Easy cleanup: Just peel away the foil and toss.
• Batch-friendly: Cook up to a pound at once—perfect for feeding a crowd.
• Flavor-packed: High heat delivers a deep, roasted smoky taste.

Ingredients for Oven-Baked Bacon

• 1 (16 ounce) package thick-cut bacon

How to Cook Perfect Bacon in the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) with a rack in the center position.
2. Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with two overlapping sheets of aluminum foil, folding up the edges to catch drips.
3. Arrange bacon strips in a single layer on the prepared sheet, leaving small gaps for even air circulation.
4. Slide the pan onto the middle rack. Bake for 15–20 minutes or until the bacon is golden-brown and edges are crisp.
5. Carefully remove the sheet. Use tongs to transfer bacon to a paper towel–lined plate to drain excess fat before serving.

Chef’s Tips for Ultra-Crispy Bacon

• Cold start: Placing bacon in a cold oven helps the fat render slowly, giving an even cook.
• Foil hack: Crumple foil before flattening—it lifts the strips for extra airflow.
• Timing tweak: For thicker cuts, add 2–3 minutes; keep an eye to prevent burning.
• Flavor boost: Sprinkle brown sugar or cracked black pepper on top before baking for a sweet or spicy twist.

Nutrition Information

Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 22 g) — Calories: 134 kcal | Fat: 10 g (Saturated: 3 g) | Protein: 9 g | Sodium: 574 mg | Carbs: 0 g

Frequently Asked Questions About Bacon

Can I reuse the bacon grease?

Absolutely! Strain the cooled fat through a fine mesh and store in a sealed jar. It’s liquid gold for frying eggs, sautéing veggies, or adding depth to soups.

What if I like my bacon extra crispy?

For ultra-crisp texture, increase the oven to 450°F for the final 2–3 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning.

Now you have an effortless, foolproof method to cook bacon in batches—no skillet splatters and no fuss, just amazing-tasting bacon.