Bacon makes everything better. Whether it’s with pancakes or waffles, baking bacon in the oven is my preferred method because it avoids greasy splatters and keeps the stovetop clean. Oven-baked bacon is simple, consistent, and less messy than frying. This guide explains the easy steps, best tools, and answers common questions so you can reliably cook bacon in the oven every time.
Some cooks use a rack over a rimmed sheet to drain fat, but that adds another item to clean. Lining a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil makes cleanup easiest: once the grease cools, crumple the foil and discard it. If you prefer to save the grease for other recipes or frying eggs, skip the foil and pour the cooled grease into a container. Always use a rimmed cookie sheet or a 9×13 pan for smaller batches so grease doesn’t spill and create a mess or a fire hazard in the oven.
Favorite recipes that use bacon
- Loaded Pepper Jack Mac and Cheese
- Slow Cooker Corn Chowder
- Classic Broccoli Salad
- Sarah’s Salad
- Easy Clam Chowder
- Layered Salad
Step-by-step pictures for how to cook bacon in the oven
Frequently Asked Questions for How to Cook Bacon in the Oven
Frequently Asked Questions for How to Cook Bacon in the OvenWhat is the best type of pan to use?
Use a rimmed baking sheet or a 9×13 pan. The rim keeps grease contained so it doesn’t drip onto the oven floor while cooking.
How should I arrange the bacon on the pan?
Lay the bacon slices side by side with minimal overlapping. You can place them close together to fit more slices, but avoid stacking or large overlaps so they cook evenly.
How do I know when the bacon is done cooking?
Bacon is done when it reaches a golden-brown color. Cook longer for a crispier result. Thicker-cut bacon requires more time than standard sliced bacon.
Do I need to turn the bacon over halfway through baking it?
No. Bacon cooks evenly on both sides in the oven, so flipping isn’t necessary.
Should I line the baking sheet with foil or parchment paper?
Should I line the baking sheet with foil or parchment paper?Either aluminum foil or parchment paper works well for easier cleanup. If you use foil, let the grease cool before wrapping it up. If you use parchment, pour the grease off immediately after cooking to prevent it from soaking through the paper and onto the pan.
How long does cooked bacon last in the fridge?
Store cooked bacon in an airtight container or bag in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze cooked bacon for up to three months—place slices in a zip-top freezer bag and consider wrapping in foil to reduce freezer burn.
How should I store bacon grease?
To save bacon grease, let it cool slightly but not fully solidify. Strain it through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a heatproof container, such as a Mason jar. Seal and refrigerate or freeze for longer storage. If you frequently save grease, a dedicated grease container with a built-in strainer makes the process tidier.
Chef’s tools
Chef’s tools- Rimmed baking sheet
- Aluminum foil
- Parchment paper
- Bacon grease container with strainer
- Ziploc bags
More “How to” Recipes
- 12–16 ounces sliced bacon
- 1 rimmed baking sheet (or 9×13 pan for small batches)
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange bacon slices on the rimmed baking sheet without overlapping when possible.
- Bake for 14–20 minutes, depending on desired crispness and thickness of the bacon.
- Remove from the oven and let the bacon drain and cool on paper towels or a rack.
- Store cooked bacon in an airtight container in the fridge up to one week or freeze up to three months. For freezing, use a zip-top bag and consider wrapping in foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Enjoy.
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