How Do You Microwave Bacon Without Making a Mess?

ByMelissa Smith Updated

How Do You Microwave Bacon?

To microwave bacon, start by placing it on a microwave-safe plate lined with paper towels.

Cook the bacon on 50% power for 3 minutes.

Then, continue cooking in increments of 90 seconds or 60 seconds until it is browned and crispy.

It is recommended to drain the bacon from the fat and save the grease for cooking.

Let the bacon cool for at least 5 minutes before eating or using in recipes.

You can season the bacon with black pepper, spicy low-sodium seasoning, or dark brown sugar.

To store cooked bacon, refrigerate it and reheat limp bacon in the microwave at 50% power until it sizzles.

Use a paper towel-lined plate to safely remove the plate from the microwave.

Key Points:

  • Place bacon on a microwave-safe plate lined with paper towels.
  • Cook bacon on 50% power for 3 minutes.
  • Continue cooking in 90 or 60-second increments until browned and crispy.
  • Drain bacon from fat and save grease for cooking.
  • Let bacon cool for at least 5 minutes before eating or using in recipes.
  • Season bacon with black pepper, low-sodium seasoning, or dark brown sugar.
  • Store cooked bacon in the refrigerator and reheat limp bacon in the microwave at 50% power until sizzling.
  • Safely remove plate from microwave using a paper towel-lined plate.

Did You Know?

1. Bacon was first cooked by the ancient Romans, who used to dry and salt the pork, a method very similar to our modern bacon curing process.

2. In order to make microwave-safe bacon, manufacturers treat it with preservatives and chemicals to prevent splattering and maintain its texture during cooking.

3. Microwaving bacon results in less fat compared to pan-frying. This is because some of the fat is released and absorbed by the paper towels used to line the microwave-safe dish.

4. To achieve a crispy texture when microwaving bacon, place a microwave-safe bowl upside down on a plate, drape the bacon over the bowl, and cook it on high power. The bowl acts as an elevation, allowing the bacon to stay crispy as it cooks.

5. Bacon produces high levels of nitrosamines, which are potentially carcinogenic compounds. However, microwaving bacon is considered a safer method of cooking compared to frying, as it produces fewer nitrosamines due to the shorter cooking time and lower temperatures involved.

Crispy And Golden Brown Bacon: Microwave Cooking Method

Microwaving bacon may not be the first method that comes to mind when cooking this crispy treat, but it can actually yield deliciously golden and crispy results. By following a few simple steps, you can achieve perfectly cooked bacon without the need for paper towels or special cooking equipment.

The secret to achieving crispy and golden brown bacon lies in the cooking method. Instead of cooking the bacon at full power, it is recommended to cook it at half power. This slower cooking process allows the bacon to bubble in its own fat, preventing it from becoming tough or overcooked.

  • Cook bacon at half power in the microwave
  • Let the bacon bubble in its own fat for crispy results
  • Avoid using paper towels or special cooking equipment

“Microwaving bacon at half power helps it cook evenly and keeps it from becoming too crispy.“

No Stove Needed: Easy Microwave Bacon Recipe

One of the biggest advantages of microwaving bacon is that you don’t need a stove. This makes it a convenient option for those who may not have access to a stovetop or prefer to avoid the mess associated with frying bacon on the stove.

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To begin, you’ll need a glass baking dish. This is the best cookware for microwaving bacon as it allows for even heating and provides enough space for the bacon to cook without overcrowding. The glass dish also makes it easier to see the progress of the bacon as it cooks.

Best Cookware For Microwaving Bacon: Glass Baking Dish

Using a glass baking dish is highly recommended when microwaving bacon. Not only does it provide even heating, but it also allows for better visibility of the cooking process. This means you can easily monitor the bacon to achieve your desired level of crispiness.

Rather than using paper towels or a special microwave bacon cooker, the glass baking dish serves as the perfect tool for cooking bacon in the microwave. Its flat surface and high sides help contain any splattering grease, reducing the mess and keeping your microwave clean.

  • Glass baking dish provides even heating and better visibility.
  • Monitor bacon easily for desired crispiness.
  • Flat surface and high sides of the dish reduce mess and keep the microwave clean.

Step-By-Step Microwave Bacon Cooking Instructions

Now that you have your glass baking dish ready, it’s time to get cooking. Here’s a step-by-step guide to microwave bacon to achieve that crispy and golden brown perfection.

  1. Start by arranging the bacon strips side by side in the glass baking dish. Make sure not to overlap them, as this will prevent them from cooking evenly.

  2. Place the glass baking dish containing the bacon in the microwave. Cook the bacon at 50% power for 3 minutes.

  3. After the initial 3 minutes, carefully remove the dish from the microwave and check the progress of the bacon. It should be starting to brown, but not yet crispy.

  4. Return the dish to the microwave and continue cooking in 90-second or 60-second increments at 50% power. Check the bacon periodically to ensure it is browning evenly without becoming overcooked.

  5. Once the bacon is browned and crispy to your liking, remove it from the microwave. Before serving or using it in recipes, it is important to drain the bacon from the fat.

  6. Arrange bacon strips side by side in the glass baking dish

  7. Cook at 50% power for 3 minutes initially
  8. Check progress and return to microwave for additional cooking in 90-second or 60-second increments
  9. Remove when bacon is browned and crispy
  10. Drain bacon from fat before serving or using in recipes.

Recipe Variations: Pepper, Spice, And Brown Sugar Bacon

If you’re looking to add some extra flavor to your microwaved bacon, there are a few recipe variations you can try. These simple additions can elevate the taste of your bacon and make it even more enjoyable.

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For a spicy twist, sprinkle black pepper or a low-sodium spicy seasoning blend onto the bacon before microwaving. The heat from the pepper or spices will infuse the bacon as it cooks, giving it a delicious kick.

If you have a sweet tooth, try adding a sprinkle of dark brown sugar to the bacon before microwaving. The sugar will caramelize as the bacon cooks, adding a touch of sweetness and creating a delightful balance of flavors.

Tips For Storing, Reheating, And Seasoning Microwaved Bacon

After you’ve enjoyed your microwaved bacon, you may wonder how best to store any leftovers or how to season it for future meals. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your microwaved bacon.

  • To store cooked bacon, allow it to cool for at least 5 minutes before transferring it to an airtight container. By letting it cool, you prevent excess moisture from building up, which could lead to sogginess. Cooked bacon can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

  • If you have leftover microwaved bacon that has gone limp, you can easily revive it by reheating it in the microwave. Set the microwave to 50% power and microwave the bacon until it sizzles. Start with 15 seconds per strip, adding additional cooking time as needed until it reaches your desired crispiness.

  • Finally, if you’re planning to season your microwaved bacon, the same variations mentioned earlier can be applied after the bacon is cooked. Simply sprinkle black pepper, low-sodium spice mixture, or dark brown sugar onto the cooked bacon for an extra burst of flavor.

Microwaving bacon is not only the fastest way to cook it, but it also leaves less grease to clean up compared to stovetop methods. While microwaved bacon may have a slightly different texture than traditionally cooked bacon, it can still be crispy and delicious. Remember that bacon will continue to crisp up as it cools, so it’s important not to overcook it in the microwave.

  • For those who wish to cook multiple layers of bacon in the microwave, it is recommended to use a layer of paper towels between each layer. This helps absorb excess grease and prevent the strips from sticking together.

In conclusion, microwaving bacon can be a convenient and delicious way to enjoy this beloved breakfast staple. With the right cooking method, cookware, and optional seasonings, you can achieve crispy and golden brown bacon without the need for paper towels or specialized equipment. Happy microwaving!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are some tips and tricks for microwaving bacon to ensure it cooks evenly and crisps up nicely?

When microwaving bacon, it’s important to use a microwave-safe plate lined with a few layers of paper towels. This helps absorb any excess grease and prevents the bacon from becoming soggy. For even cooking, lay out the bacon strips in a single layer and make sure they do not overlap. It is also helpful to rotate the plate halfway through cooking to ensure all the bacon cooks evenly. Cooking times may vary depending on the wattage of your microwave, so start with shorter cooking intervals and adjust as needed to achieve the desired crispiness.

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Another tip is to cover the bacon with a microwave-safe splatter guard or another microwave-safe plate. This helps contain the splattering grease and reduces the mess in your microwave. Lastly, allow the bacon to rest for a minute or two after microwaving. This allows the bacon to continue crisping up as it cools and helps to drain any remaining grease. With these tips, you can achieve perfectly cooked and crispy bacon in no time using your microwave.

2. Can you use any type of bacon for microwaving, or are some varieties better suited for this cooking method?

When it comes to microwaving bacon, it is advisable to use regular bacon rather than thicker-cut varieties or specialty types. The reason behind this is that regular bacon is thinner, which allows it to cook more evenly and become crispy in the microwave. Thicker-cut bacon may not cook through thoroughly or could end up being too chewy. Additionally, specialty bacons such as maple or peppered bacon may not yield the desired results in terms of texture and flavor when microwaved.

Overall, while you can technically use any type of bacon for microwaving, regular bacon tends to be the better option due to its thinner cut and ability to cook evenly in the microwave, resulting in crispier and more satisfying slices.

3. Are there any health concerns or considerations when microwaving bacon, such as the potential release of harmful compounds?

When microwaving bacon, there are a few health concerns and considerations to keep in mind. One concern is the potential release of harmful compounds known as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). PAHs can form when fat and juices from the bacon interact with the intense heat of the microwave.

To minimize the release of PAHs, it is essential to use microwave-safe containers or microwave-safe paper towels to absorb the excess grease. Additionally, it is recommended to use lower power settings or shorter cooking times to reduce the overall exposure to high temperatures. While microwaving bacon may be a convenient cooking method, it is crucial to practice moderation and consider other healthier alternatives, like baking bacon in the oven or using a stovetop skillet with minimal oil.

4. Aside from cooking bacon, are there any other uses for a microwave when it comes to this popular breakfast meat?

Yes, besides cooking bacon, the microwave can be used for several other purposes when it comes to this popular breakfast meat. One alternative use is reheating bacon. If you have leftover bacon that has been cooked, placing it on a microwave-safe plate and covering it with a paper towel can help to prevent splattering. Microwave it on high for a few seconds until it reaches your desired temperature. Another use is making bacon bits. Simply place strips of bacon on a microwave-safe plate lined with paper towels. Microwave them on high for a few minutes until they become crispy. Then, crumble them into small pieces to use as bacon bits for salads or other dishes.