Cooking bacon in the oven is a game-changer for anyone who loves the sweet, smoky flavor of crispy bacon. It’s a method that’s been popularized by none other than Martha Stewart, the queen of home cooking. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of oven-cooked bacon, provide a step-by-step guide on how to cook it to perfection, and share some expert tips from Martha Stewart herself.
The Benefits of Oven-Cooked Bacon
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of cooking bacon in the oven, let’s talk about why this method is superior to traditional pan-frying. Here are just a few benefits of oven-cooked bacon:
- Less mess: Cooking bacon in the oven eliminates the need for a greasy skillet and the mess that comes with it.
- Easier to cook in bulk: The oven allows you to cook multiple strips of bacon at once, making it perfect for large families or gatherings.
- Crisper bacon: The dry heat of the oven helps to crisp up the bacon, resulting in a crunchier texture that’s hard to achieve with pan-frying.
- Less hands-on time: Simply line a baking sheet with bacon and let the oven do the work for you.
Martha Stewart’s Method for Cooking Bacon in the Oven
So, how does Martha Stewart cook her bacon in the oven? It’s surprisingly simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Yes, you read that right – 400°F. This high heat will help to crisp up the bacon quickly.
Step 2: Line a Baking Sheet with Bacon
Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper. This will make cleanup a breeze. Lay the bacon strips on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, making sure not to overlap them.
Step 3: Bake the Bacon
Bake the bacon for 15-20 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of crispiness. Martha Stewart recommends baking the bacon for 15 minutes for a chewier texture or 20 minutes for a crisper texture.
Step 4: Remove and Drain
Remove the bacon from the oven and let it cool on a paper towel-lined plate. This will help to drain any excess grease.
Tips and Variations from Martha Stewart
Martha Stewart has a few tricks up her sleeve when it comes to cooking bacon in the oven. Here are some expert tips and variations to try:
- Use thick-cut bacon: Thick-cut bacon is perfect for oven-cooking, as it holds its shape and crisps up nicely.
- Add flavor with brown sugar: Sprinkle a pinch of brown sugar over the bacon before baking for a sweet and savory flavor combination.
- Try different seasonings: Experiment with different seasonings, such as smoked paprika or garlic powder, to add depth to your bacon.
- Use the oven to cook other breakfast meats: The oven isn’t just for bacon – try cooking sausage or ham in the oven for a delicious breakfast spread.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Bacon in the Oven
While cooking bacon in the oven is relatively straightforward, there are a few common mistakes to avoid:
- Overcrowding the baking sheet: Make sure to leave enough space between each strip of bacon to allow for even cooking.
- Not lining the baking sheet: Don’t skip this step – lining the baking sheet with foil or parchment paper makes cleanup a breeze.
- Not checking the bacon frequently: Keep an eye on the bacon during the last few minutes of cooking, as it can go from perfectly cooked to burnt quickly.
Conclusion
Cooking bacon in the oven is a simple and delicious way to achieve crispy, golden bacon without the mess of pan-frying. By following Martha Stewart’s method and tips, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a bacon-cooking pro. So next time you’re in the mood for a BLT or a hearty breakfast, give oven-cooked bacon a try. Your taste buds will thank you.
| Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Pan-frying | Quick cooking time, easy to achieve crispy texture | Messy, difficult to cook in bulk |
| Oven-cooking | Less mess, easier to cook in bulk, crisper texture | Longer cooking time, requires more planning |
In conclusion, cooking bacon in the oven is a great way to achieve delicious, crispy bacon with minimal mess and effort. By following Martha Stewart’s method and tips, you can take your bacon game to the next level and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills.
What are the benefits of cooking bacon in the oven?
Cooking bacon in the oven offers several benefits, including reduced mess and cleanup. Unlike pan-frying, oven-cooked bacon doesn’t splatter grease everywhere, making it a neater and more convenient option. Additionally, oven-cooking allows for even cooking, ensuring that each piece of bacon is crispy and golden.
Oven-cooking also enables you to cook large quantities of bacon at once, making it ideal for big families or events. You can simply line multiple baking sheets with bacon and cook them simultaneously, saving time and effort. This method also allows for easy monitoring of the bacon’s progress, ensuring that it reaches your desired level of crispiness.
What type of bacon is best suited for oven-cooking?
Thicker-cut bacon is generally better suited for oven-cooking, as it holds its shape and becomes crispy more easily. Look for bacon labeled as “thick-cut” or “applewood-smoked” for the best results. You can also use regular-cut bacon, but it may not become as crispy as thicker cuts.
It’s also worth noting that different types of bacon, such as peppered or brown sugar-cured, can add unique flavors to your oven-cooked bacon. Feel free to experiment with different types to find your favorite. Regardless of the type, make sure to choose high-quality bacon for the best flavor and texture.
What temperature should I use to cook bacon in the oven?
The ideal temperature for cooking bacon in the oven is between 400°F (200°C) and 425°F (220°C). This temperature range allows for even cooking and helps to achieve a crispy texture. If you prefer a chewier texture, you can reduce the temperature to 375°F (190°C).
It’s essential to preheat your oven to the desired temperature before cooking the bacon. This ensures that the bacon cooks evenly and at the right temperature. You can also use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the bacon, which should reach 150°F (65°C) for food safety.
How long does it take to cook bacon in the oven?
The cooking time for oven-cooked bacon depends on the thickness of the bacon and your desired level of crispiness. Generally, it takes around 15-20 minutes to cook thick-cut bacon to a crispy texture. For regular-cut bacon, cooking time can range from 10-15 minutes.
Keep an eye on the bacon after 10 minutes and check on it every 2-3 minutes thereafter. You can also use a timer to ensure that the bacon doesn’t overcook. If you prefer a chewier texture, you can remove the bacon from the oven after 8-10 minutes.
Can I cook bacon in the oven with other ingredients?
Yes, you can cook bacon in the oven with other ingredients, such as vegetables, potatoes, or even eggs. This is a great way to create a hearty breakfast or brunch dish. Simply line the baking sheet with the bacon and add your desired ingredients around it.
When cooking bacon with other ingredients, make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. For example, if you’re cooking bacon with vegetables, you may need to add them to the baking sheet halfway through the cooking time to prevent overcooking. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite.
How do I prevent the bacon from sticking to the baking sheet?
To prevent the bacon from sticking to the baking sheet, line it with aluminum foil or parchment paper. This creates a non-stick surface that allows the bacon to cook evenly and makes cleanup easier. You can also use a silicone baking mat for added non-stick protection.
Another tip is to pat the bacon dry with paper towels before cooking. This removes excess moisture, which can cause the bacon to stick to the baking sheet. By taking these precautions, you can ensure that your oven-cooked bacon turns out crispy and golden.
Can I store leftover oven-cooked bacon?
Yes, you can store leftover oven-cooked bacon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to cool the bacon completely before storing it to prevent moisture buildup. You can also freeze the bacon for up to 2 months and reheat it in the oven or microwave when needed.
When reheating leftover bacon, make sure to crisp it up in the oven or pan to restore its texture. You can also use leftover bacon in various recipes, such as salads, sandwiches, or pasta dishes. Simply chop the bacon into bits and add it to your desired recipe.