There’s nothing quite like the irresistible smell of sizzling bacon!
Whether you love it crispy or a little chewy, cooking bacon the right way makes all the difference. From classic pan-frying to oven-baking and air-frying, here’s how to get it just right every time.
Choosing the right bacon
Before you start cooking, it helps to know the difference between streaky and back bacon. Streaky bacon has more fat, making it ideal for crispy textures, while back bacon is leaner and a little meatier.
Both types can be enjoyed in breakfasts, sandwiches, and even as toppings for salads or soups. Now, let’s get cooking!
Pan-frying for classic crispiness
Pan-frying is one of the quickest and easiest ways to cook bacon:
- Heat a frying pan over medium-high heat. You can add a little oil, but if you’re using streaky bacon, the fat will render on its own.
- Place the bacon in the pan and cook for 2-4 minutes per side, depending on how crispy you like it.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess grease before serving.
Oven-baking
Baking bacon in the oven is perfect when cooking for a crowd or when you want evenly cooked slices with minimal effort.
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan).
- Line a baking tray with foil and lay the bacon in a single layer.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway if needed, until crispy around the edges.
For extra crispiness, place a wire rack on the baking tray and lay the bacon on top. This lets the fat drip away while the bacon cooks evenly.
Dry-frying for a healthier option
If you prefer to skip the extra oil, dry-frying is a great method:
- Place the bacon in a cold non-stick pan over medium heat.
- As it starts to cook, the fat will melt. Increase the heat slightly and cook for 1-3 minutes per side until done to your liking.
Air-frying for quick and crispy bacon
Air-fryers are a great way to cook bacon fast with less grease:
- Preheat the air-fryer to 180°C.
- Arrange the bacon in a single layer in the basket.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway if necessary, until golden and crispy.
Tips
- For extra crispy bacon, press it between two baking sheets and weigh it down with a heavy pan while baking.
- To avoid curling, start with a cold pan when frying.
- Save the bacon fat! Use it for frying eggs or adding flavour to dishes.
Compiled by: Maegan-Leigh Jacobs
First published by Food & Home
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