How To Make Bacon in the Oven
Make How To Make Bacon in the Oven for perfectly crisp, easy bacon every time.
Ingredients
- 12- ounce package center-cut bacon (or bacon of your choice)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Sheet Pan
Preheat your oven to 400°F. While it warms, line a large rectangular rimmed baking sheet with a single sheet of aluminum foil — wrap the foil up the sides so cleanup is effortless. Lay the bacon slices in a single layer across the foil, making sure none overlap so each strip cooks evenly; give each piece a little breathing room so fat can render and edges can crisp. Keep a pair of clean stainless tongs nearby on the painted white pine surface for the transfer later.
Step 2: Bake to Your Preferred Doneness
Slide the prepared sheet (no oven shown in photos) into the preheated oven and bake according to the texture you want: about 20 minutes for bacon that is fully cooked but still tender with crisp edges; 22–23 minutes for reliably crisp strips that still have a touch of chew; or 25–26 minutes for extra-crispy, deeply caramelized edges. Ovens vary, so begin watching as the time approaches the lower range. When it reaches your target, use oven mitts to remove the pan and let the fat settle for a moment before lifting strips with tongs.
Step 3: Drain and Present on a Rectangular Tray
Transfer the bacon with tongs to a rectangular serving sheet or the same foil-lined baking sheet now lined with paper towels to drain excess grease; arranging strips casually so some overlap and some show the crisp edges offers an inviting texture contrast. Let the bacon rest briefly so the rendered fat firms slightly; serve directly from the rectangular tray for that rustic, honest presentation — crispy edges gleaming, tender centers visible between curls of darker caramelized bits.
Notes
- Use a rimmed sheet and foil for easy cleanup
- Start checking at 20 minutes to avoid overcooking
- Drain on paper towels or a rack to preserve crispness
- Try a rack for drier, crisper bacon
- Add brown sugar or spice in the last minutes for variations