The sweet, sweet taste of bacon – it’s a staple in many of our diets, and for good reason. Whether you’re a fan of crispy, crunchy bacon or chewy, tender bacon, there’s no denying the allure of this savory meat. And when it comes to cooking bacon, there are many methods to choose from. But if you’re looking for a way to take your bacon game to the next level, consider cooking it on a Traeger grill. In this article, we’ll explore the ins and outs of cooking bacon on a Traeger grill, including the benefits, tips, and tricks you need to know to achieve perfectly cooked bacon every time.
The Benefits of Cooking Bacon on a Traeger Grill
So, why cook bacon on a Traeger grill? For starters, Traeger grills offer a unique combination of smoke and heat that can add a depth of flavor to your bacon that’s hard to achieve with other cooking methods. Here are just a few benefits of cooking bacon on a Traeger grill:
- Rich, smoky flavor: Traeger grills use wood pellets to generate heat, which means your bacon will be infused with a rich, smoky flavor that’s perfect for adding a boost to your favorite dishes.
- Easy to cook in bulk: Traeger grills have a large cooking surface, making it easy to cook multiple strips of bacon at once. This is perfect for meal prep or for feeding a crowd.
- Less mess: Cooking bacon on a Traeger grill is a relatively mess-free process, especially when compared to cooking bacon in a pan on the stovetop. Simply line the grill with foil and cook the bacon – easy peasy!
Choosing the Right Bacon for Your Traeger Grill
Not all bacon is created equal, and when it comes to cooking bacon on a Traeger grill, you’ll want to choose a type of bacon that’s well-suited to the grill’s unique cooking style. Here are a few things to consider when choosing the right bacon for your Traeger grill:
- Thick-cut bacon: Thick-cut bacon is perfect for cooking on a Traeger grill, as it holds up well to the grill’s heat and smoke. Look for bacon that’s at least 1/4 inch thick for the best results.
- Smoked bacon: If you want to add an extra layer of smoky flavor to your bacon, consider using smoked bacon. This type of bacon is already infused with a smoky flavor, which will be enhanced by the Traeger grill’s smoke.
- Brown sugar bacon: Brown sugar bacon is a type of bacon that’s been cured with brown sugar, which adds a sweet and savory flavor to the bacon. This type of bacon is perfect for cooking on a Traeger grill, as the grill’s heat and smoke will caramelize the brown sugar and add a rich, depth of flavor to the bacon.
Preparing Your Traeger Grill for Bacon
Before you start cooking your bacon, you’ll need to prepare your Traeger grill. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Preheat the grill: Preheat your Traeger grill to 300°F (150°C). This is a relatively low heat, which is perfect for cooking bacon.
- Line the grill with foil: Line the grill with foil to make cleanup easier and to prevent the bacon from sticking to the grill.
- Add wood pellets: Add your favorite type of wood pellets to the grill, such as hickory or apple. This will add a smoky flavor to your bacon.
Cooking Bacon on a Traeger Grill: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you’ve prepared your Traeger grill, it’s time to start cooking your bacon. Here’s a step-by-step guide to cooking bacon on a Traeger grill:
- Step 1: Lay out the bacon: Lay the bacon strips out in a single layer on the grill. You can cook as many or as few strips as you like, depending on your needs.
- Step 2: Close the lid: Close the lid of the grill and let the bacon cook for 10-15 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of crispiness.
- Step 3: Flip the bacon: After 10-15 minutes, flip the bacon over and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of crispiness.
- Step 4: Remove the bacon: Remove the bacon from the grill and let it cool on a paper towel-lined plate.
Tips and Tricks for Cooking Bacon on a Traeger Grill
Here are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind when cooking bacon on a Traeger grill:
- Use a bacon press: A bacon press is a tool that’s specifically designed for cooking bacon on a grill. It helps to press the bacon down onto the grill, which ensures that it cooks evenly and prevents it from curling up.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill: Make sure to leave a little space between each strip of bacon, as this will ensure that it cooks evenly and prevents it from steaming instead of browning.
- Keep an eye on the temperature: Keep an eye on the temperature of the grill, as this will ensure that the bacon cooks evenly and prevents it from burning.
Variations on Traeger Grilled Bacon
While traditional Traeger grilled bacon is delicious on its own, there are many variations you can try to mix things up. Here are a few ideas:
- Bourbon-glazed bacon: Brush the bacon with a bourbon glaze during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a sweet and savory flavor.
- Spicy bacon: Sprinkle the bacon with chili powder or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Maple-glazed bacon: Brush the bacon with a maple glaze during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a sweet and sticky flavor.
Using Traeger Grilled Bacon in Recipes
Traeger grilled bacon is delicious on its own, but it’s also a great addition to many recipes. Here are a few ideas:
- BLT salad: Chop the Traeger grilled bacon and add it to a BLT salad, along with lettuce, tomatoes, and mayonnaise.
- Carbonara pasta: Toss cooked spaghetti with Traeger grilled bacon, eggs, and parmesan cheese for a creamy and delicious pasta dish.
- Bacon-wrapped scallops: Wrap Traeger grilled bacon around scallops and bake until crispy for a delicious and elegant appetizer.
Conclusion
Cooking bacon on a Traeger grill is a game-changer for anyone who loves the sweet, sweet taste of bacon. With its rich, smoky flavor and easy cleanup, Traeger grilled bacon is perfect for adding a boost to your favorite dishes. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Traeger grilled bacon or want to try one of the many variations, this article has provided you with the tips and tricks you need to achieve perfectly cooked bacon every time. So go ahead, fire up your Traeger grill, and get ready to take your bacon game to the next level!
What is the ideal temperature for cooking bacon on a Traeger grill?
The ideal temperature for cooking bacon on a Traeger grill is between 225°F and 250°F. This temperature range allows for a slow and even cooking process that helps to render the fat and crisp the bacon. Cooking at a lower temperature also helps to prevent the bacon from burning or becoming too crispy.
It’s also important to note that the temperature may vary depending on the type of bacon you are using and your personal preference for crispiness. If you prefer a crisper bacon, you can increase the temperature to 275°F or 300°F for the last 10-15 minutes of cooking. However, be careful not to overcook the bacon, as it can quickly become too crispy.
How long does it take to cook bacon on a Traeger grill?
The cooking time for bacon on a Traeger grill will depend on the thickness of the bacon and the temperature you are using. Generally, it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours to cook bacon on a Traeger grill. If you are using a lower temperature, such as 225°F, it may take longer to cook the bacon, while a higher temperature, such as 250°F, will cook the bacon faster.
It’s also important to note that you should cook the bacon until it reaches an internal temperature of 150°F to ensure food safety. You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the bacon. Once the bacon is cooked, you can remove it from the grill and let it cool before serving.
Can I cook bacon directly on the Traeger grill grates?
Yes, you can cook bacon directly on the Traeger grill grates, but it’s not recommended. Cooking bacon directly on the grates can cause the bacon to stick to the grates and make a mess. Additionally, the bacon may not cook evenly, as the grates can create hot spots that can burn the bacon.
To avoid these issues, it’s recommended to cook the bacon on a piece of aluminum foil or a bacon mat. This will help to prevent the bacon from sticking to the grates and make cleanup easier. You can also use a wire rack or a grill mat to cook the bacon, which will allow for air to circulate under the bacon and promote even cooking.
How do I prevent the bacon from sticking to the Traeger grill grates?
To prevent the bacon from sticking to the Traeger grill grates, you can use a few different methods. One method is to cook the bacon on a piece of aluminum foil or a bacon mat, as mentioned earlier. You can also use a wire rack or a grill mat to cook the bacon, which will allow for air to circulate under the bacon and promote even cooking.
Another method is to brush the grates with oil before cooking the bacon. This will help to prevent the bacon from sticking to the grates and make cleanup easier. You can also use a non-stick cooking spray to prevent the bacon from sticking to the grates.
Can I cook multiple strips of bacon at once on a Traeger grill?
Yes, you can cook multiple strips of bacon at once on a Traeger grill. In fact, cooking multiple strips of bacon at once can be more efficient and convenient than cooking individual strips. To cook multiple strips of bacon, simply lay the strips out in a single layer on a piece of aluminum foil or a bacon mat.
Make sure to leave some space between each strip of bacon to allow for even cooking. You can also use a wire rack or a grill mat to cook multiple strips of bacon at once. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as cooking multiple strips of bacon may take longer than cooking individual strips.
How do I store leftover bacon cooked on a Traeger grill?
To store leftover bacon cooked on a Traeger grill, you can follow a few simple steps. First, let the bacon cool completely to room temperature. This will help to prevent the growth of bacteria and keep the bacon fresh.
Once the bacon has cooled, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the bacon for up to 2 months. To freeze the bacon, simply place the cooled bacon in a freezer-safe bag or container and store it in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat the bacon, simply thaw it in the refrigerator or reheat it in the microwave or oven.
Can I reuse the bacon drippings from cooking bacon on a Traeger grill?
Yes, you can reuse the bacon drippings from cooking bacon on a Traeger grill. In fact, bacon drippings can be a delicious and flavorful addition to many dishes. To reuse the bacon drippings, simply pour the drippings into a heat-proof container and let them cool to room temperature.
Once the drippings have cooled, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. You can use the bacon drippings to make vinaigrettes, sauces, and marinades, or as a flavor enhancer for soups, stews, and roasted vegetables. Just be sure to strain the drippings before using them to remove any excess fat or debris.