Cody Casey
Cooking bacon is a delicate process, and there are many ways to do it. Some people prefer to cook it in the oven, in the microwave, in a skillet, or on a stovetop. When it comes to stovetops, some people use non-stick pans, but is that the best method? While it is possible to cook bacon in a non-stick pan, some sources advise against it. The high fat content of bacon means that it will likely not stick to the pan anyway, so a cast-iron skillet is preferable.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Pros of cooking bacon in a non-stick pan | Easy cleanup, bacon will eventually stop sticking to the pan as it releases its fat |
| Cons of cooking bacon in a non-stick pan | Inconsistent cooking, some fatty-chewy spots, charred spots, and unpleasant burnt taste |
| Best pan to cook bacon in | Well-seasoned cast-iron pan |
| Best way to cook bacon | Cook bacon slowly on low-medium heat in a cold pan, flipping and turning to help it brown evenly |
| Best oven temperature for cooking bacon | Moderately hot oven (around 400˚) |
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What You'll Learn
Cooking bacon in a nonstick pan is possible
Another method for cooking bacon in a nonstick pan is to add a small amount of water to the pan. This technique, suggested by Cook's Illustrated, involves arranging the bacon slices in a cold skillet and adding just enough water to cover the bottom of the pan. This method can help to prevent the bacon from sticking and may improve the overall texture.
It is worth noting that while nonstick pans can be used for cooking bacon, some sources recommend using other types of pans, such as cast iron or aluminum. Cast iron pans are favoured by some due to their even heat distribution and the ability to season the pan with bacon grease for future use. Aluminum pans, on the other hand, can get very hot quickly, leading to burnt bacon.
Ultimately, the choice of pan depends on personal preference and the desired texture of the bacon. Some people prefer crispy bacon, while others may like it chewy or floppy. By experimenting with different cooking methods and pans, you can find the best technique for your taste preferences.
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Cast iron skillets are recommended for cooking bacon
While there are several ways to cook bacon, using a cast iron skillet is highly recommended. This is because cast iron skillets offer superior heat distribution, natural non-stick properties, and durability.
Cast iron skillets are known for their unmatched heat retention and even distribution. They ensure consistent cooking and eliminate hot spots that can burn your bacon. By heating up the skillet slowly, the bacon fat slowly liquefies, creating a natural non-stick layer. This allows the bacon to cook in its own fat without sticking, resulting in crispy and flavorful bacon.
To cook bacon in a cast iron skillet, start with a cold pan and arrange the bacon slices in a single layer. Then, turn the burner to medium heat and let the bacon fry. As the fat renders out, the bacon will cook in its own fat. Use tongs to flip the bacon over once the first side is golden brown. Continue cooking until the desired level of crispness is achieved on the second side. Finally, remove the bacon from the pan and drain it on a paper-towel-lined plate.
Cast iron skillets are also durable and can handle high heat, making them ideal for achieving the coveted crispy bacon texture. With proper care, a cast iron skillet can last a lifetime. Additionally, the bacon grease helps season the pan for future use, enhancing its non-stick properties over time.
In summary, cast iron skillets are recommended for cooking bacon due to their superior heat distribution, natural non-stick properties, and durability. By following the simple steps outlined above, you can easily cook perfect, crispy bacon in your cast iron skillet.
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Bacon can be cooked in the oven
Yes, you can cook bacon in a nonstick pan. However, if you're cooking for a crowd, it's much easier to cook bacon in the oven.
To cook bacon in the oven, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil, making sure there is overhang on all 4 sides for easy cleanup. Arrange a rack in the middle of the oven and place 12 ounces of sliced bacon on the baking sheet in a single layer. The slices can be close together but shouldn't overlap, or they'll stick together.
Cook the bacon for 10 to 20 minutes, depending on how crispy you like it. Regular bacon will take about 14 minutes to cook, while thick-cut bacon will take about 18 minutes. If you're using an oven-safe rack, you won't need to flip the bacon. If you're cooking directly on a sheet pan, flip the bacon strips halfway through cooking.
Once the bacon is done, transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain and finish crisping. Serve immediately, or let it cool and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. You can also freeze cooked bacon, but be sure to freeze the strips individually or between pieces of parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
Cooking bacon in the oven is easy, creates less mess, and allows you to multitask in the kitchen. It's also a great way to cook a large batch of bacon evenly all at once.
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Microwaving bacon is an option
While some people are purists and believe that bacon belongs in a skillet or in the oven, microwaving bacon is an option. If you're short on stovetop space, or just want to save time and effort, the microwave is a viable alternative.
Microwaving bacon is quick, easy, and mess-free. It can be cooked in a matter of minutes, and the paper towels absorb the fat, so there's minimal cleanup required. The cooking time will depend on your microwave's wattage, the thickness and type of bacon, and how crispy you like it. It typically takes between 3 and 6 minutes, or around 1 minute per slice, but it's important to keep an eye on it as it cooks very quickly and can easily burn.
To cook bacon in the microwave, line a microwave-safe plate or dish with two paper towels. Arrange the bacon slices in a single layer, ensuring none overlap, and top with two more layers of paper towels. Microwave on high for 3 to 4 minutes, checking after a few minutes to see how it's doing. If it still looks undercooked, continue cooking in 30-second bursts until it's as crispy as you like it. Remove the plate from the microwave using oven mitts or a towel, transfer the cooked bacon to a fresh paper towel, and drain for about 2 minutes. You can pat it with an additional towel to absorb any excess grease.
While the microwave is a convenient option, it's worth noting that it may not give you the same texture and taste as cooking bacon in a skillet or in the oven. Some people prefer the crispiness that the microwave produces, while others find that it imparts a weird, rubbery texture. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what works best for your needs and preferences.
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Cooking bacon on the stovetop
Firstly, you will need a sturdy pan. Bacon is a fatty cut of meat, so it will likely stick to the pan initially, but there is no need to worry. As the bacon cooks, the fat will render, and the bacon will naturally release from the pan. Well-seasoned cast iron is recommended for cooking bacon as it conducts heat evenly and the bacon grease helps season the pan for future use. If you do not have cast iron, a non-stick pan can be used, but be sure to set the flame to low-medium heat. You can also use a wide, flat-bottomed 12" frying pan. Avoid using aluminium pans as they get ripping hot very quickly, leading to burnt bacon.
Arrange the bacon strips in a single layer in a cold pan. Place the pan over a burner set to medium or medium-low heat. Do not add the bacon to a hot pan, as it will immediately seize up, sealing in all of the unrendered fat.
Cook the bacon slowly, flipping and turning the strips to help them brown evenly. If you like your bacon loose, pull it off the heat sooner; if you like it super crisp, cook it a little longer.
When the bacon is crisped to your liking, transfer the bacon to paper towels to drain. The paper towels will absorb the grease, and you can also use a cut-up brown paper bag or newspaper.
Finally, you will likely have some leftover fat in your pan (also known as drippings) when you are done cooking the bacon. This can be saved and used for future kitchen projects. Let it cool slightly, then pour it into a glass jar or metal can.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can. However, some sources advise against it, as the high fat quantity of bacon makes whatever pan you use essentially non-stick.
Arrange the bacon slices in a cold non-stick pan and cook on medium heat. Flip the slices occasionally until they are cooked to your desired level of crispiness.
You can cook bacon in the oven, in the microwave, in an air fryer, or in a sous vide machine. You can also cook it in a cast-iron skillet or a cast-iron pan.
There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on personal preference. Some people prefer their bacon crispy, while others like it chewy or floppy.
Bacon is a fatty cut of meat, so it might stick to the pan initially. However, as it cooks, the fat will render and the bacon will naturally release from the pan. To prevent sticking, you can also arrange the bacon in a single layer on a cold pan and cook it over medium heat.
