how long to bake bacon
The time it takes to bake bacon depends on several factors, including the thickness of the bacon, the temperature of the oven, and the desired level of crispiness. Here are some general guidelines for baking bacon:
Thin-cut bacon:
- 400°F (200°C): 12-15 minutes
- 375°F (190°C): 15-20 minutes
- 350°F (175°C): 20-25 minutes
Thick-cut bacon:
- 400°F (200°C): 20-25 minutes
- 375°F (190°C): 25-30 minutes
- 350°F (175°C): 30-35 minutes
Extra-thick bacon:
- 400°F (200°C): 25-30 minutes
- 375°F (190°C): 30-35 minutes
- 350°F (175°C): 35-40 minutes
It’s also important to note that you should flip the bacon halfway through the baking time to ensure even cooking.
Here’s a more detailed guide:
- Preheat your oven to the desired temperature.
- Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper to make cleanup easier.
- Lay the bacon slices on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, making sure not to overlap them.
- Bake for the recommended time, flipping the bacon halfway through.
- Check the bacon for crispiness and cook for an additional 2-5 minutes if needed.
- Remove the bacon from the oven and let it cool on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
Remember, the key to perfect baked bacon is to cook it until it reaches your desired level of crispiness. Keep an eye on it, and adjust the cooking time as needed.
