The Easiest and Cleanest Way to Cook Bacon
The Easiest and Cleanest Way to Cook Bacon is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 126 calories per serving. Recipe by America's Test Kitchen on YouTube.
Prep: 7 min | Cook: 14 min | Total: 27 min
Cost: $5.40 total, $1.35 per serving
Ingredients
- 12 slices Bacon (choose thin‑cut or thick‑cut based on preference; do not overlap slices)
- 1 sheet Aluminum Foil (large enough to line the baking sheet)
- 4 sheets Paper Towels (for draining cooked bacon)
Instructions
Preheat Oven
Adjust an oven rack to the middle position and preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C).
Time: PT5M
Temperature: 400°F
Prepare Baking Sheet
Line a rimmed baking sheet with a sheet of aluminum foil, making sure the foil extends up the sides to catch rendered fat.
Time: PT2M
Arrange Bacon
Lay the 12 bacon slices in a single layer on the foil, ensuring they do not overlap.
Time: PT2M
Initial Roast
Place the sheet in the oven and roast until the fat begins to render, about 5–6 minutes.
Time: PT6M
Temperature: 400°F
Rotate and Continue Roasting
Using tongs, rotate the baking sheet for even browning, then continue roasting until the bacon is crisp and brown—5–6 minutes more for thin‑cut or 8–10 minutes for thick‑cut.
Time: PT8M
Temperature: 400°F
Drain and Rest
Using tongs, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels. Let it sit for a couple of minutes to crisp further.
Time: PT2M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 126
- Protein
- 3 g
- Carbohydrates
- 0 g
- Fat
- 10 g
- Fiber
- 0 g
Dietary info: Contains pork, Gluten‑free, Not vegetarian, Low‑carb
Allergens: None
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Bacon: Turkey bacon, Pork belly strips
- Instead of Aluminum Foil: Parchment paper (will not catch fat as well)
- Instead of Paper Towels: Clean kitchen towel
Equipment Needed
- Rimmed Baking Sheet
- Oven
- Tongs
- Oven Mitts
- Plate
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Do not overlap bacon slices on the sheet.
- Rotate the sheet halfway through cooking for even browning.
- Watch the bacon closely after the initial 5‑6 minutes to prevent burning.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Reserve the rendered bacon fat for future cooking; strain and store in a sealed jar in the fridge.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle a pinch of black pepper or brown sugar on the bacon before roasting.
Troubleshooting
Bacon is not crisp after the stated cooking time.
Extend cooking by 2‑3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning. You can also finish under the broiler for 1‑2 minutes.
Bacon burns on the edges.
Reduce the final roasting time by a minute or lower the oven temperature to 375°F for the last stage.
Bacon sticks to the foil.
Make sure the foil is smooth and not torn; a light spray of non‑stick cooking spray can help.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store cooked bacon in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip‑top bag for up to 2 months.
Room temperature: Do not store at room temperature; risk of bacterial growth.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Cook the bacon a day ahead, store in the fridge, and reheat in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes.
- Use the saved bacon fat for sautéing vegetables or frying eggs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance of bacon in American cuisine?
Bacon is an iconic breakfast staple in the United States, symbolizing hearty, comfort food and often featured in diners, brunch menus, and holiday spreads.
How is bacon traditionally served in American breakfast culture?
Traditionally, bacon is served hot and crisp alongside eggs, pancakes, toast, or as a topping for biscuits and salads, providing a salty, smoky contrast.
What regional variations of bacon exist within the United States?
In the South, thick‑cut, heavily smoked bacon is common, while New England favors thinner, crispier slices. Some regions also use maple‑glazed bacon for a sweet twist.
During which American celebrations is bacon especially popular?
Bacon appears on many holiday tables, especially Thanksgiving brunches, Fourth of July picnics, and New Year's Eve parties where it’s used in appetizers and cocktail dishes.
How does bacon fit into the broader American breakfast tradition?
Bacon complements the classic American breakfast trio of eggs, toast, and potatoes, adding protein and a satisfying crunch that balances sweet and savory items.
What are authentic traditional ingredients for crispy oven‑baked bacon versus acceptable substitutes?
Authentic bacon is cured pork belly with a natural pork rind; substitutes include turkey bacon or pork belly strips, though they change flavor and texture.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making crispy oven‑baked bacon?
Common errors include overlapping slices, not rotating the pan, and cooking at too high a temperature, which can cause uneven crispness or burnt edges.
Why does this recipe use the oven instead of stovetop frying for bacon?
The oven provides even, hands‑off heat, eliminates stovetop splatter, and allows you to cook a large batch uniformly without the need to flip each slice.
Can I make crispy oven‑baked bacon ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, cook the bacon ahead, let it cool, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes or quickly in a microwave.
What does the YouTube channel America's Test Kitchen specialize in?
America's Test Kitchen focuses on rigorously tested, science‑based recipes and cooking techniques, delivering reliable results for home cooks through detailed video tutorials and written guides.
How does the YouTube channel America's Test Kitchen's approach to American breakfast recipes differ from other cooking channels?
America's Test Kitchen emphasizes systematic testing, precise measurements, and troubleshooting tips, whereas many channels rely on intuition or shortcuts; this ensures consistent, repeatable outcomes for dishes like oven‑baked bacon.
Last updated: August 30, 2026
