The Best Way To Cook Bacon: Stovetop, Oven, Grill, And Sous Vide

The Ultimate Guide to Cooking Bacon in Various Ways

When it comes to cooking bacon, everyone has their own preferred method. Some swear by the sizzling stovetop, while others are fans of the crispy oven-baked bacon. And then there are those who prefer to add a smoky flavor by grilling their bacon. But have you ever considered using sous vide to cook this tasty treat? In this guide, we will explore the best methods for cooking bacon, including stovetop, oven, grill, and sous vide. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into the world of bacon-cooking perfection!

Stovetop: Classic and Quick

When you think of cooking bacon, the stovetop method probably comes to mind. It’s a classic technique that offers speed and convenience. To cook bacon on the stovetop, follow these simple steps:

1. Place the bacon in a cold skillet and heat it over medium heat.
2. Flip the bacon slices occasionally to ensure even cooking.
3. Remove the bacon from the skillet and drain it on a paper towel to remove excess grease.
4. Enjoy your crispy, flavorful stovetop-cooked bacon!

Stovetop cooking is perfect when you need bacon in a hurry or want that traditional crispy texture.

Oven: Crispy and Hands-Free

If you’re cooking bacon for a crowd or simply prefer a hands-off approach, then oven-baked bacon is the way to go. It allows for even cooking and yields a crispy texture. Follow these steps to oven-bake your bacon:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and arrange the bacon slices on it.
3. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon reaches your desired level of crispiness.
4. Remove the bacon from the oven and transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess grease.
5. Now you have perfectly cooked oven-baked bacon ready to be devoured!

Oven baking allows for a hands-free cooking experience, making it great for busy mornings or when you want to cook a large batch of bacon.

Grill: Smoky and Flavorful

If you want to take your bacon to the next level by infusing it with a smoky flavor, grilling is the way to go. Follow these steps to grill your bacon:

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350°F or 175°C).
2. Place the bacon directly on the grill grates.
3. Grill for 4-6 minutes per side, or until the bacon is cooked to your preferred crispness.
4. Using tongs, remove the bacon from the grill and transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess grease.
5. Indulge in the smoky flavor and deliciousness of your grilled bacon!

Grilling bacon adds a unique flavor profile and gives it a slightly charred texture. It’s perfect for outdoor cooking or when you want to impress your guests with a tasty twist on this classic treat.

Sous Vide: Tender and Flavorful

Now, let’s dive into the world of sous vide and discover how it can transform your bacon-cooking experience. Sous vide involves vacuum-sealing the bacon and cooking it in a temperature-controlled water bath. Here’s how to sous vide your bacon:

1. Preheat your sous vide water bath to 147°F (64°C).
2. Place the bacon slices in a vacuum-sealed bag and seal it using a vacuum sealer or a ziplock bag and the water displacement method.
3. Submerge the bag in the preheated water bath and cook for 1-2 hours.
4. Remove the bag from the water bath and carefully open it.
5. Pat the bacon dry with a paper towel and sear it in a hot skillet for a few seconds per side to achieve a crispy exterior.
6. Experience the incredibly tender and flavorful bacon that sous vide cooking offers!

Sous vide cooking produces bacon that is perfectly cooked from edge to edge, tender, and packed with flavor. It’s the ideal method if you’re looking for a unique twist on your bacon-cooking adventures.

Whether you prefer the classic stovetop method, the hands-off approach of oven baking, the smoky flavors of grilling, or the tenderness of sous vide, there’s a bacon-cooking method for everyone. Experiment with these techniques to find your favorite and create bacon perfection every time. Happy cooking!