Original Hack
Original Hack is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 174 calories per serving. Recipe by Abby on YouTube.
Prep: 5 min | Cook: 40 min | Total: 55 min
Cost: $5.50 total, $1.38 per serving
Ingredients
- 12 slices Bacon (thick‑cut works best, room temperature)
- 1 tablespoon Everything‑But‑The‑Bagel Seasoning (store‑bought or homemade blend of poppy seeds, sesame seeds, dried onion, dried garlic, and salt)
Instructions
Preheat Oven
Set the oven to 400°F (200°C) and let it fully preheat.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: 400°F
Prepare Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper (or a silicone mat). If using a cooling rack, place it on top of the parchment.
Time: PT2M
Twist the Bacon
Take one slice of bacon, hold one end, and start twisting it tightly or loosely depending on desired texture. Form a loose spiral and gently lay it on the prepared sheet. Repeat with remaining slices, spacing them about ½ inch apart.
Time: PT5M
Season
Sprinkle the Everything‑But‑The‑Bagel seasoning evenly over the twisted bacon.
Time: PT1M
Bake
Place the sheet in the oven and bake for 40 minutes for crispy bacon. For a chewier texture, bake for 30 minutes and check for doneness.
Time: PT40M
Temperature: 400°F
Cool and Serve
Remove the bacon from the oven, transfer to a paper‑towel‑lined plate to absorb excess fat, and let cool 2‑3 minutes. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Time: PT2M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 174
- Protein
- 12 g
- Carbohydrates
- 1 g
- Fat
- 14 g
- Fiber
- 0 g
Dietary info: Non‑vegetarian, Gluten‑containing (if seasoning includes wheat), Keto‑friendly (low carb)
Allergens: Pork, Potential gluten from seasoning
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Bacon: Turkey bacon, Pancetta
- Instead of Everything‑But‑The‑Bagel Seasoning: Garlic salt, Paprika
Equipment Needed
- Oven
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper
- Tongs
- Cooling Rack (optional) (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Twisting the bacon without breaking it.
- Spacing the twists so they don’t stick together.
- Monitoring bake time to achieve desired crispness.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use thick‑cut bacon for a sturdier twist and richer flavor.
- Place a cooling rack on the parchment to allow fat to drip away for extra crispness.
- For a smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the seasoning.
Troubleshooting
Bacon is soggy after baking.
Increase bake time by 5‑10 minutes or finish under the broiler for 1‑2 minutes.
Bacon sticks to the pan.
Always line the sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
Twist unravels during cooking.
Twist the bacon tighter and place the ends under the coil before baking.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to a zip‑top bag for up to 1 month.
Room temperature: Not recommended; bacon can spoil quickly at room temperature.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Bake the twisted bacon a day ahead, store in the fridge, and reheat in a 350°F oven for 5‑7 minutes.
- These twists stay crisp when reheated; avoid microwaving as it makes them soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of twisted bacon in American cuisine?
Twisted bacon is a modern American snack trend that grew on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram. It builds on the long‑standing love for bacon in the U.S., turning a simple breakfast staple into a playful, shareable bite.
How does twisted bacon fit into the broader American breakfast tradition?
Bacon has been a breakfast staple in the United States for decades. Twisted bacon adds a visual twist (literally) and makes the meat more bite‑size, perfect for brunch platters, breakfast sandwiches, or as a garnish for eggs.
What regional variations of bacon twists exist in the United States?
While the basic technique is the same nationwide, some regions add local flavors—like maple glaze in the Northeast, chipotle powder in the Southwest, or bourbon‑infused glaze in the South—to customize the twist.
What occasions or celebrations is twisted bacon traditionally associated with in American culture?
Twisted bacon is popular at casual gatherings, game‑day parties, brunches, and as a fun addition to holiday breakfast spreads. Its Instagram‑ready look makes it a hit at birthday parties and potlucks.
What are the authentic traditional ingredients for twisted bacon versus acceptable substitutes?
Authentic twisted bacon uses plain pork bacon and a seasoning blend like Everything‑But‑The‑Bagel. Acceptable substitutes include turkey bacon, pancetta, or a homemade spice mix that mimics the original flavor profile.
What other American dishes pair well with twisted bacon?
Twisted bacon pairs nicely with scrambled eggs, avocado toast, pancakes, or as a crunchy topping for salads and baked potatoes. It also works as a garnish for mac and cheese or chili.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making twisted bacon?
Common mistakes include overcrowding the pan, which leads to soggy bacon; twisting too loosely, causing the strips to unravel; and under‑baking, which leaves the bacon chewy when crisp is desired.
Why does this twisted bacon recipe use a 400°F oven instead of a lower temperature?
A high temperature of 400°F quickly renders the fat and creates a crisp exterior while keeping the interior tender. Lower temperatures would result in longer cooking times and potentially rubbery bacon.
Can I make twisted bacon ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, bake the twists a day ahead, let them cool, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5‑7 minutes to restore crispness.
What does the YouTube channel Abby specialize in?
The YouTube channel Abby focuses on quick, viral food hacks and easy home‑cooking tutorials, often highlighting creative twists on classic comfort foods.
How does the YouTube channel Abby's approach to American snack recipes differ from other cooking channels?
Abby emphasizes ultra‑simple, minimal‑ingredient techniques that can be done with everyday kitchen tools, and she frequently showcases trending social‑media food ideas, making her content highly shareable and approachable.
Last updated: September 1, 2026
