Step 1: Heat Things Up
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature lets the fat render slowly while the bacon crisps evenly.
Step 2: Prep the Pan
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. For extra crunch and less grease, place a wire rack on top so the bacon cooks from all sides.
Step 3: Lay It Out
Arrange the bacon strips in a single layer. No overlapping—each slice needs room to do its thing.
Step 4: Bake
Slide the tray onto the middle rack.
Regular-cut bacon: 15–18 minutes
Thick-cut bacon: 20–24 minutes
Check near the end—perfect bacon can turn dark fast.
Step 5: Rest and Crisp
Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate. Let it sit for a couple of minutes to finish crisping as it cools.
Pro Tips That Make a Difference
Cold-oven method: Starting bacon in a cold oven and letting it heat up gradually can render more fat for extra crunch.
Spacing matters: Crowding leads to chewy spots.
Flavor upgrades:
Brown sugar for a sweet crunch
Maple syrup for a smoky glaze
Black pepper or chili flakes for heat
Save the grease: Bacon fat adds incredible flavor to eggs, potatoes, and veggies.
How to Serve It
Breakfast classic: Eggs, toast, and coffee
Sandwich hero: BLTs and burgers
Crunch booster: Crumbled over salads, mac and cheese, or baked potatoes
Sweet surprise: Chocolate-dipped bacon for a bold treat
The Takeaway
Perfect bacon doesn’t require constant flipping or a messy stovetop. With the oven method, you get consistent, restaurant-level crispiness every time—no stress, no splatter.
Try it once, and it’ll be your new go-to.
If this helped level up your bacon game, share it with a fellow bacon lover and let us know your favorite way to enjoy that perfect crunch