Cooking bacon on a Traeger is a game-changer for anyone who loves the sweet, smoky flavor of perfectly cooked bacon. Whether you’re a breakfast enthusiast, a BLT aficionado, or just a bacon lover in general, cooking bacon on a Traeger is a simple and delicious way to elevate your favorite dishes. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the world of Traeger-cooked bacon, covering the basics, tips, and tricks for achieving perfectly cooked, mouth-watering bacon every time.
Why Cook Bacon on a Traeger?
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of cooking bacon on a Traeger, let’s talk about why this method is superior to traditional pan-frying or oven-cooking. Here are just a few reasons why cooking bacon on a Traeger is the way to go:
- Even Cooking: Traegers are designed to distribute heat evenly, ensuring that your bacon is cooked consistently throughout. No more burnt edges or undercooked centers!
- Smoky Flavor: Traegers are pellet grills, which means they use wood pellets to generate heat and smoke. This infuses your bacon with a rich, smoky flavor that’s impossible to replicate with traditional cooking methods.
- Easy Cleanup: Cooking bacon on a Traeger is a breeze, and cleanup is a snap. Simply line the grill with foil, cook your bacon, and toss the foil when you’re done. No more greasy pans or messy countertops!
Basic Traeger Bacon Cooking Techniques
Now that we’ve covered the benefits of cooking bacon on a Traeger, let’s talk about the basics. Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting started:
Preheating Your Traeger
Before you start cooking, make sure your Traeger is preheated to the right temperature. For bacon, you’ll want to aim for a temperature of 300-350°F (150-175°C). This will ensure that your bacon cooks slowly and evenly, resulting in a crispy exterior and a chewy interior.
Preparing Your Bacon
While you can cook any type of bacon on a Traeger, thicker cuts tend to work best. Look for bacon that’s at least 1/4 inch (6 mm) thick, and preferably 1/2 inch (1 cm) or more. You can also use different types of bacon, such as applewood-smoked or peppered bacon, to add extra flavor to your dishes.
Cooking Your Bacon
Once your Traeger is preheated and your bacon is prepared, it’s time to start cooking. Here’s a basic outline for cooking bacon on a Traeger:
- Line the grill with foil to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Lay the bacon slices out in a single layer, leaving a little space between each slice to allow for even cooking.
- Close the lid and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the bacon reaches your desired level of crispiness.
- Remove the bacon from the grill and let it cool on a paper towel-lined plate.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Traeger Bacon
While the basic technique outlined above will give you delicious results, there are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind to take your Traeger bacon to the next level:
Temperature Control
Temperature control is key when cooking bacon on a Traeger. If the temperature is too high, the bacon will cook too quickly and may become burnt or overcooked. If the temperature is too low, the bacon may not crisp up properly. Experiment with different temperatures to find the sweet spot for your Traeger.
Bacon Thickness
As mentioned earlier, thicker cuts of bacon tend to work best on a Traeger. However, if you’re using a thinner cut of bacon, you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Keep an eye on the bacon and remove it from the grill when it reaches your desired level of crispiness.
Wood Pellet Selection
The type of wood pellets you use can greatly impact the flavor of your Traeger bacon. Here are a few popular options:
- Hickory: Hickory pellets add a strong, smoky flavor to bacon that’s perfect for traditional BLTs or breakfast dishes.
- Applewood: Applewood pellets add a sweet, fruity flavor to bacon that’s perfect for more adventurous dishes, such as bacon-wrapped scallops or bacon-topped salads.
- Cherry: Cherry pellets add a mild, slightly sweet flavor to bacon that’s perfect for dishes where you want a subtle smokiness.
Experimenting with Different Cooking Times
One of the best things about cooking bacon on a Traeger is the ability to experiment with different cooking times to achieve unique textures and flavors. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Crispy Bacon: Cook the bacon for 15-20 minutes, or until it reaches a crispy, golden brown.
- Chewy Bacon: Cook the bacon for 10-12 minutes, or until it reaches a chewy, slightly soft texture.
- Smoked Bacon: Cook the bacon for 30-40 minutes, or until it reaches a deep, smoky flavor.
Delicious Traeger Bacon Recipes
Now that you’ve mastered the basics of cooking bacon on a Traeger, it’s time to get creative with some delicious recipes. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Carbonara with Traeger Bacon
- 6 slices of Traeger bacon, diced
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup of cooked spaghetti
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Combine the diced bacon, eggs, Parmesan cheese, and cooked spaghetti in a large bowl. Toss to combine and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Traeger Bacon-Wrapped Scallops
- 12 large scallops
- 6 slices of Traeger bacon, cut in half
- 1/4 cup of brown sugar
- 1/4 cup of soy sauce
- 1/4 cup of olive oil
Wrap each scallop with a piece of Traeger bacon and secure with a toothpick. In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, soy sauce, and olive oil. Brush the mixture over the bacon-wrapped scallops and cook on the Traeger for 10-12 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the scallops are cooked through.
Conclusion
Cooking bacon on a Traeger is a simple and delicious way to elevate your favorite dishes. With its even cooking, smoky flavor, and easy cleanup, it’s no wonder that Traeger bacon has become a staple in many households. Whether you’re a breakfast enthusiast, a BLT aficionado, or just a bacon lover in general, we hope this comprehensive guide has inspired you to get creative with your Traeger and start cooking up some mouth-watering bacon today!
What is the ideal temperature for cooking bacon on a Traeger?
The ideal temperature for cooking bacon on a Traeger depends on the level of crispiness you prefer. If you like your bacon chewy, you can cook it at 225-250°F (110-120°C). However, if you prefer crispy bacon, you should cook it at 300-350°F (150-175°C). It’s essential to note that the temperature may vary depending on the thickness of the bacon slices.
Regardless of the temperature you choose, it’s crucial to preheat your Traeger before cooking the bacon. This ensures that the grill is at a consistent temperature, which helps to cook the bacon evenly. You can preheat your Traeger for at least 15 minutes before cooking the bacon. This allows the grill to reach the desired temperature and ensures that your bacon is cooked perfectly.
How long does it take to cook bacon on a Traeger?
The cooking time for bacon on a Traeger depends on the temperature and the thickness of the bacon slices. If you’re cooking at 225-250°F (110-120°C), it may take around 30-40 minutes to cook the bacon. However, if you’re cooking at 300-350°F (150-175°C), it may take around 20-30 minutes. It’s essential to monitor the bacon’s progress to avoid overcooking.
You can check the bacon’s progress by looking for the desired level of crispiness. If you prefer chewy bacon, you can remove it from the grill when it’s lightly browned. However, if you prefer crispy bacon, you should cook it until it’s golden brown and crispy. It’s also essential to flip the bacon halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking.
Can I cook bacon directly on the Traeger grates?
Yes, you can cook bacon directly on the Traeger grates. However, it’s essential to line the grates with aluminum foil to prevent the bacon from sticking. You can also use a bacon mat or a piece of parchment paper to prevent sticking. Cooking bacon directly on the grates allows for even cooking and helps to create a crispy texture.
However, cooking bacon directly on the grates can be messy, as the grease can drip onto the grill. To avoid this, you can cook the bacon on a baking sheet or a broiler pan lined with aluminum foil. This helps to contain the grease and makes cleanup easier.
How do I prevent the bacon from sticking to the Traeger grates?
To prevent the bacon from sticking to the Traeger grates, you can line the grates with aluminum foil or use a bacon mat. You can also use a piece of parchment paper to prevent sticking. Additionally, you can brush the grates with oil before cooking the bacon. This helps to prevent the bacon from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Another way to prevent the bacon from sticking is to cook it on a baking sheet or a broiler pan lined with aluminum foil. This helps to contain the grease and makes cleanup easier. You can also use a silicone mat or a grill mat to prevent sticking.
Can I cook bacon on a Traeger in the rain?
Yes, you can cook bacon on a Traeger in the rain. Traegers are designed to be used in various weather conditions, including rain. However, it’s essential to ensure that the grill is covered to prevent water from entering the grill. You can use a grill cover or a rain jacket to protect the grill from the rain.
Cooking bacon on a Traeger in the rain can be a bit challenging, as the rain can affect the temperature and the cooking time. However, with a little patience and monitoring, you can still achieve perfectly cooked bacon. It’s essential to monitor the temperature and the cooking time to ensure that the bacon is cooked perfectly.
How do I store leftover bacon cooked on a Traeger?
To store leftover bacon cooked on a Traeger, you can place it in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the bacon for up to 2 months. It’s essential to cool the bacon completely before storing it to prevent moisture from accumulating.
When storing leftover bacon, it’s essential to keep it away from strong-smelling foods, as the bacon can absorb odors easily. You can also wrap the bacon in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent moisture from accumulating. When reheating the bacon, you can cook it in the microwave or on the Traeger until crispy.
Can I cook other foods with bacon on a Traeger?
Yes, you can cook other foods with bacon on a Traeger. In fact, bacon pairs well with many foods, including vegetables, meats, and seafood. You can cook bacon-wrapped scallops, bacon-wrapped chicken, or even bacon-topped burgers on a Traeger. The key is to ensure that the bacon is cooked perfectly before adding other foods to the grill.
When cooking other foods with bacon on a Traeger, it’s essential to monitor the temperature and the cooking time to ensure that the foods are cooked perfectly. You can also use a meat thermometer to ensure that the foods are cooked to a safe internal temperature. With a little creativity, you can create delicious meals by cooking bacon with other foods on a Traeger.