How to Make Crispy Bacon in a Microwave: Exploring Efficiency and Safety Tips

ByMelissa Smith Updated

How to Make Crispy Bacon in a Microwave?

To make crispy bacon in a microwave, start by placing the bacon on a microwave-safe plate lined with paper towels.

Cook the bacon for 4 minutes and then check for desired crispiness.

If needed, continue cooking in 1-minute increments until it reaches the desired level of crispiness.

Keep in mind that microwave wattage affects cook time, with higher wattage microwaves cooking faster and more evenly.

While microwaving bacon has its pros such as no oil splatter, easy clean-up, and quick cooking, there are also cons like varying cook time, using more paper towels, and no bacon fat saved.

Adjust the cooking time for different thicknesses of bacon, and use paper towels to soak up fat and prevent splatters.

Leftover bacon can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheated in the microwave.

Key Points:

  • Place bacon on a microwave-safe plate lined with paper towels.
  • Cook bacon for 4 minutes and check crispiness.
  • Continue cooking in 1-minute increments if needed.
  • Microwave wattage affects cook time, higher wattage microwaves cook faster.
  • Pros of microwaving bacon include no oil splatter, easy clean-up, and quick cooking.
  • Adjust cooking time for different bacon thicknesses and use paper towels to soak up fat and prevent splatters.

Did You Know?

1. Contrary to popular belief, microwaving bacon doesn’t make it crispy. In fact, using a microwave tends to make it chewy rather than crunchy.

2. Before microwaving, placing a microwave-safe plate upside down on top of the bacon can help reduce splattering and mess.

3. Adding a small amount of water to the microwave-safe dish along with the bacon can prevent it from drying out during the cooking process.

4. For perfectly crispy bacon in the microwave, using a microwave bacon tray or placing a microwave-safe cooling rack over a dish can allow the grease to drip away, resulting in a more crunchy texture.

5. To infuse your bacon with extra flavor, try brushing it with maple syrup or honey before microwaving. This adds a delightful sweetness that pairs beautifully with the salty bacon.

1. Cooking Time And Desired Crispiness

Microwaving bacon is a popular method for its convenience and quick cooking time. To achieve crispy bacon in the microwave, start by placing the bacon strips on a microwave-safe plate lined with paper towels.

  • Leave space between the bacon strips to ensure even cooking.

For most microwaves, cooking bacon for about 4 minutes on high power will result in crispy bacon. However, depending on your microwave’s wattage and personal preference, you might need to adjust the cooking time.

  • As a general rule, add an additional minute at a time until you achieve the desired level of crispiness.
  • Thicker bacon may require more time, while thinner slices may require less.
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If you prefer chewy bacon, reduce the cooking time. Experimentation is key to finding your ideal level of crispiness, so don’t be afraid to make adjustments until you find the perfect texture.

2. Wattage Impact On Microwave Bacon

Microwave wattage has a significant impact on the cooking time of bacon. Higher wattage microwaves cook bacon faster and more evenly, while lower wattage microwaves may need longer cooking times. It’s crucial to know your microwave’s wattage when determining the cooking time for crispy bacon.

To find your microwave’s wattage, refer to the user manual. Most microwaves have a label on the inside door panel that displays the wattage. Once you know the wattage, you can adjust the cooking time accordingly. If you have a higher wattage microwave, you may need to decrease the cooking time slightly. On the other hand, lower wattage microwaves might require additional time.

3. Pros And Cons Of Microwaving Bacon

Microwaving Bacon: Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • No oil splatter: Microwaving bacon drastically reduces the risk of oil splatters, making cleaning up easier and eliminating grease stains.
  • Easy clean-up: Using paper towels to line the plate absorbs most of the bacon grease, simplifying clean-up. Simply discard the paper towels and wipe the plate clean.
  • Healthier option: Microwaving bacon allows excess fat to drain away, resulting in bacon with less fat and fewer calories compared to pan-frying.
  • Quick cooking: Microwaving bacon is the fastest way to cook it, providing crispy, delicious bacon in just a few minutes.
  • No lingering smell: Unlike pan-frying, microwaving bacon does not leave a lingering smell in your kitchen, making it suitable for those with sensitive noses or those who want to avoid odor.
  • Frees up stovetop space: Using the microwave to cook bacon frees up valuable stovetop space, especially when burners are limited.
  • Can be done with turkey bacon: The microwave can also be used to cook turkey bacon, allowing you to enjoy crispy and healthier turkey bacon in minutes.

Cons:

  • Cook time variation: Microwaving bacon may have varying cook times depending on your microwave’s wattage, requiring some trial and error to determine the perfect cooking time.
  • Uses more paper towels: Microwaving bacon requires the use of paper towels to absorb excess fat, potentially requiring more paper towels compared to other methods.
  • Occasional sticking with cheap paper towels: Cheaper paper towels may not have strong absorbency, causing the bacon to stick to the plate. Opting for higher-quality paper towels can minimize this issue.
  • No bacon fat saved: Unlike pan-frying, microwaving bacon does not allow you to collect bacon fat for other uses, such as cooking or flavoring. If you enjoy using bacon fat in your recipes, this method may not be your best option.
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4. Cooking Multiple Layers In The Microwave

One of the advantages of microwaving bacon is the ability to cook multiple layers at once. This can be a time-saving method when cooking for a larger group or if you prefer having extra bacon for later.

To cook multiple layers of bacon in the microwave, simply stack the bacon strips on a microwave-safe plate lined with paper towels. Ensure there is still enough space between the layers for heat to circulate and cook the bacon evenly. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to account for the additional bacon layers.

Keep in mind that thicker layers of bacon may require extra cooking time to achieve the desired crispiness. It’s always a good idea to check the bacon occasionally during the cooking process to prevent overcooking.

5. No Special Equipment Needed

Microwaving bacon has several great aspects. One of them is that it does not require any special equipment. All you need is a microwave-safe plate and paper towels.

To microwave bacon:

  • Place the bacon on the plate, making sure not to overcrowd it.
  • Cover the bacon with a layer of paper towels to absorb excess grease.
  • Microwave the bacon following the recommended cooking time based on your microwave’s wattage and desired level of crispiness.

Using common household items makes microwaving bacon a convenient and accessible method for everyone.

6. Tips For Adjusting Cooking Time And Storing Leftover Bacon

To adjust the cooking time for different thicknesses of bacon, monitor the cooking process closely. Thicker bacon may require additional time, while thinner slices may cook faster. Remember, it’s always better to start with a shorter cooking time and add more time as needed to prevent overcooking.

Storing leftover bacon is simple. After cooking, allow the bacon to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, place the leftover bacon strips in an airtight container or resealable bag and refrigerate. Properly stored bacon can last in the fridge for up to four days.

When reheating leftover bacon, place it on a microwave-safe plate or dish. Microwave for a short burst of time, checking frequently, until the desired serving temperature is reached.

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For more delicious microwave bacon recipes and cooking tips, be sure to visit our website. Explore the versatility and efficiency of cooking bacon in the microwave and discover new ways to enjoy this beloved breakfast staple.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you crisp bacon in the microwave?

Yes, it is possible to achieve crispy bacon in the microwave. While microwave-cooked bacon may be slightly chewier, it can still attain a delightful crispness. Begin by microwaving the bacon for 4 minutes, adding an extra minute at a time until the desired level of crispiness is reached. Keep in mind that the bacon will become even crispier as it cools down.

What is the best way to cook bacon in the microwave?

A convenient and efficient way to cook bacon in the microwave is by using the following method. Begin by placing two layers of paper towel on a microwave-safe plate or platter. Next, lay the bacon strips in a single layer on the plate and cover them with an additional two layers of paper towel. Finally, microwaving the bacon for approximately 3 minutes at full power (recommended for a 1200 watt microwave) will result in crispy and delicious bacon ready to enjoy. This method offers a quick cooking time and the paper towels help absorb excess grease, resulting in a tasty and healthier option for cooked bacon.

Is microwaving bacon better than frying?

Microwaving bacon offers a potential advantage over frying in terms of calorie and fat content. Research conducted by nutritionists and experts suggests that this cooking method tends to yield bacon with reduced calories and fat compared to traditional frying. The microwave’s ability to drain the excess grease from the bacon during cooking contributes to this healthier outcome. However, it is important to consider personal preferences as well; while microwaving may be a healthier option, some individuals may prefer the texture and taste of traditionally fried bacon. Ultimately, the choice between microwaving and frying bacon should be based on individual priorities for health and enjoyment.

Can you cook bacon in the microwave UK?

Yes, bacon can be cooked in the microwave in the UK. However, it is important to note that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the bacon. Thinner bacon slices will crisp up more quickly, so it is recommended to periodically check the bacon while cooking to achieve the desired level of crispness and avoid burning or undercooking.