Bacon: Noun / bākən / Delicious strips of juicy, pork heaven. Served often at breakfast with eggs, but perfectly good served alone and at any time of day.
Fine. That’s the urban dictionary definition. But Merriam-Webster needs to adopt it because “a side of a pig, cured and smoked” just doesn’t give me the same warm and fuzzy feeling, ya know?
What can I say about bacon? Actually, I can say a whole lot. I can utter words about bacon that you would shun me for. Such as “it’s too fatty”, or “it’s too greasy”. Bearded men and frat boys would unite against me. It’s fine. I’ve solved my problem, and I bet I can sidetrack the offended men with my solution.
BAKED BACON.
MIND BLOWN.
Someone told me I’m late to the game on this one and I don’t even care. Even if the world already knows about it, I will shout it from the rooftops. This, my dearest friends and fellow foodies, is a game changer – nay, a life changer. For me at least.
The most important part about baking bacon is making sure to elevate it on a baking rack – our end game is letting the fat drip OFF of the bacon. This results in not only a nice and crispy piece, but also completely flat (not all bunched up like it gets in a frying pan).
I usually bake it at 400 F for 20 minutes. You can literally change anything to fit the outcome you want. I’ve read recipes that say to put the bacon in while the oven is cold and let it preheat to really get that slow cooked result, and I’ve also baked it at 425 F for only about 10-15 minutes. Just keep an eye on it and take it out whenever your little heart desires.
This is right about the time my little heart desired. And my large stomach. That thing desires a lot, it’s a chore to keep it happy really.
Urban Dictionary told me that I could eat bacon at any time of the day. So when I made these after dinner, I ate them all at about 8 p.m. Then I remembered that I made them to take pictures of (this happens more than you’d care to know), so I made more for breakfast the next morning.
Omelet, home fries, BACON. Add a little (Vermont) Maple Syrup and your day has peaked at breakfast. Just kidding I’m sure the rest of it will be fine. Maybe. Or just stay home today and eat bacon.
Prep time:
Cook time:
Total time:
- 6 slices Pork Bacon (THAT'S IT!)
- Lay each strip of bacon on a rack that site above a baking sheet (lined with foil for easy cleanup)
- Bake in a 400 F preheated oven for approximately 20 minutes
- Blot grease with a paper towel after removing from the oven
- Serve immediately, or let cool for 5 minutes and break up to create bacon bits