Learn the Easiest and Hassle-Free Way to Cook Bacon

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat & Prep:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for effortless cleanup.
Arrange the Bacon:
Lay the bacon strips in a single layer on the prepared sheet. Ensure they are not overlapping so they cook evenly.
- Pro-Tip: For bacon that’s crispy all over and not greasy, place a wire rack on the baking sheet and arrange the bacon on top.
Bake to Perfection:
Bake for 15-20 minutes. The exact time will depend on the thickness of your bacon and how crispy you like it.
- Start checking at 12 minutes for thin-cut bacon.
- Thick-cut bacon may need 18-22 minutes.
Drain and Serve:
Use tongs to transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels. Let it drain for a minute before serving.

Don’t Crowd the Pan: If the slices are touching, they’ll steam instead of crisp up. Use two sheet pans if needed.
Customize Your Crisp: Bake for less time (12-15 mins) for chewy bacon, and longer (18-22 mins) for extra-crispy.
Save That Grease! Once cooled, pour the leftover bacon fat from the pan through a fine-mesh sieve into a jar. Use it to fry eggs, sauté potatoes, or make roasted vegetables for incredible flavor.
Make-Ahead: Cooked bacon can be refrigerated for up to 5 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes or in a skillet for a quick crisp-up.