What To Know
- Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes on the other side, or until the bacon is fully cooked to your liking.
- Cook the bacon on medium heat and cook for a longer period of time.
- Enjoy your stovetop bacon as part of a hearty breakfast, on a BLT sandwich, or crumbled over a salad.
Crispy, savory, and bursting with flavor, stovetop bacon is a breakfast staple that transforms any meal into a culinary masterpiece. Follow this step-by-step guide to elevate your bacon-making skills and enjoy the perfect slice every time.
Choosing the Right Bacon
The foundation of great stovetop bacon lies in selecting high-quality bacon. Look for thick-cut, uncured bacon with minimal water content. Applewood-smoked or hickory-smoked varieties offer distinct flavor profiles to enhance your dish.
Preparing the Pan
Choose a heavy-bottomed skillet with a lid. The weight of the pan will prevent the bacon from curling and help it cook evenly. Preheat the pan over medium heat before adding the bacon.
Laying the Bacon
Place the bacon strips in the pan in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will hinder the bacon from crisping properly. Cook the bacon on one side for 5-7 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of crispiness.
Flipping the Bacon
Once the bacon has cooked on one side, use tongs to carefully flip the strips. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes on the other side, or until the bacon is fully cooked to your liking.
Draining the Bacon
Transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease. This step is crucial for preventing the bacon from becoming soggy.
Seasoning the Bacon
Season the bacon with salt and pepper to taste. For a touch of sweetness, sprinkle with brown sugar before cooking. Other seasoning options include garlic powder, paprika, or cayenne pepper.
Tips for Perfect Stovetop Bacon
- Use a splatter screen: Protect your stove and kitchen from grease splatters.
- Cook in batches: If you’re cooking a large amount of bacon, cook it in batches to prevent overcrowding.
- Adjust the heat: Monitor the heat and adjust it as needed to prevent burning.
- Don’t overcook: Bacon can quickly go from crispy to burnt, so keep an eye on it during cooking.
- Try different flavors: Experiment with different types of bacon and seasonings to create unique flavor combinations.
Troubleshooting Common Bacon Issues
- Bacon is curling: Preheat the pan thoroughly and use heavy-bottomed cookware to prevent curling.
- Bacon is sticking: Ensure the pan is well-seasoned or use a non-stick skillet.
- Bacon is not crispy: Cook the bacon on medium heat and cook for a longer period of time.
- Bacon is burning: Reduce the heat or remove the bacon from the pan if it starts to burn.
- Bacon is greasy: Drain the bacon on paper towels to remove excess grease.
Savor the Perfect Slice
Enjoy your stovetop bacon as part of a hearty breakfast, on a BLT sandwich, or crumbled over a salad. The crispy, flavorful bacon will elevate any dish and leave you craving more.
Questions You May Have
Q: What is the best way to store cooked bacon?
A: Store cooked bacon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Q: Can I reheat cooked bacon?
A: Yes, you can reheat cooked bacon in the microwave or oven.
Q: How do I know when the bacon is fully cooked?
A: Bacon is fully cooked when it is crispy and has no pink or red streaks remaining.
