how long do you bake bacon in the oven
Baking bacon in the oven is a great way to cook it evenly and with minimal mess. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the bacon and your desired level of crispiness. Here are some general guidelines:
Thin-cut bacon:
- 12-15 minutes at 400°F (200°C) for a chewy texture
- 15-18 minutes at 400°F (200°C) for a crispy texture
Thick-cut bacon:
- 18-20 minutes at 400°F (200°C) for a chewy texture
- 20-22 minutes at 400°F (200°C) for a crispy texture
Extra-thick bacon:
- 22-25 minutes at 400°F (200°C) for a chewy texture
- 25-28 minutes at 400°F (200°C) for a crispy texture
Tips:
- Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper to make cleanup easier.
- Lay the bacon slices in a single layer, making sure not to overlap them.
- You can also use a wire rack on the baking sheet to allow air to circulate under the bacon.
- Keep an eye on the bacon during the last few minutes of cooking, as it can quickly go from perfectly cooked to burnt.
- If you prefer a crisper texture, you can broil the bacon for an additional 1-2 minutes after baking. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
Remember, the key to perfect oven-baked bacon is to cook it low and slow. This will help render out the fat and result in a crispy, delicious texture.
