Bacon lovers, rejoice! If you think cooking bacon is only for the stovetop or oven, think again. Grilling bacon adds a smoky flavor and crispy texture that’s hard to beat. Plus, it keeps your kitchen free from greasy splatters and fills your outdoor space with an irresistible aroma. Ready to master the art of cooking bacon on the grill? Let’s dive into the best tips, techniques, and tricks to get that perfect grilled bacon every time.
Why Grill Bacon?
Grilling bacon isn’t just about cooking it outdoors; it’s about enhancing its flavor with a subtle smokiness and achieving a crispy yet tender bite. The open flame or indirect heat caramelizes the bacon’s fat differently than frying, giving it a unique taste and texture. Also, grilling is a great way to avoid the mess and lingering smell inside your kitchen, especially when cooking large batches.
Choosing the Best Bacon for Grilling
Not all bacon is created equal when it comes to grilling. For best results, opt for:
– Thick-cut bacon or bacon steaks: These hold up better on the grill and reduce the risk of falling through the grates.
– Slab bacon: You can grill a whole slab slowly and then slice it for crisping.
– Smoked varieties: Applewood or hickory smoked bacon adds extra flavor that complements the grill’s smokiness.
Preparing Your Grill for Bacon
Before you start grilling, preparation is key:
– Clean the grill grates thoroughly to prevent sticking.
– Oil the grates lightly with canola or grapeseed oil, or use bacon fat from a previous cook to grease the surface.
– Preheat the grill to medium heat (around 325°F to 375°F). If you’re using a gas grill, turn on burners on either side of the cooking area and leave the burner underneath off to avoid flare-ups.
Methods to Cook Bacon on the Grill
1. Grilling Bacon Slices Directly on the Grate
– Lay the bacon strips perpendicular to the grill grates to prevent them from slipping through.
– Cook over indirect medium heat, turning frequently with tongs.
– Expect about 10 to 20 minutes of cooking time, depending on how crispy you like your bacon.
– Watch closely to avoid flare-ups caused by dripping fat, and move bacon around if flames flare up.
2. Using a Cast-Iron Skillet on the Grill
This method is perfect if you want to avoid flare-ups and keep bacon flat:
– Preheat the grill to 400°F.
– Place a cast-iron skillet on the grill to heat.
– Lay bacon strips evenly in the skillet.
– Close the grill lid and cook for 7 to 10 minutes, depending on thickness.
– Flip the bacon with tongs and cook another 3 to 5 minutes until golden and crispy.
– Transfer bacon to paper towels to drain before serving.
3. Grilling Slab Bacon
– Preheat grill to 250-375°F.
– Cook the whole slab indirectly for about an hour.
– Slice the slab into ½ inch thick pieces.
– Finish by crisping the slices quickly over direct heat.
– Be cautious of flare-ups and use tongs to handle bacon safely.
4. Bacon on Skewers
– Thread thick-cut bacon slices onto skewers, piercing through the meaty parts.
– Grill over indirect heat, turning occasionally.
– This method is great for bacon steaks and adds a fun presentation.
Tips for Perfect Grilled Bacon
– Control flare-ups: Bacon fat drips can cause flames. Use indirect heat or a skillet to minimize this.
– Turn often: Frequent flipping helps cook bacon evenly and prevents burning.
– Use tongs: Avoid piercing bacon with forks to keep juices in and bacon tender.
– Glaze for extra flavor: Brush on BBQ sauce or a honey-hot sauce glaze in the last few minutes for a sweet and spicy kick.
– Drain excess fat: Place cooked bacon on paper towels to soak up grease before serving.
Equipment That Makes Grilling Bacon Easier
– Long-handled tongs for safe flipping.
– Cast-iron skillet to avoid flare-ups and keep bacon flat.
– Grill thermometer to maintain steady medium heat.
– Skewers if you want to try the bacon-on-a-stick method.
Serving Suggestions
Grilled bacon is incredibly versatile:
– Serve alongside eggs and toast for a classic breakfast.
– Wrap around grilled veggies or meats for added flavor.
– Chop and sprinkle over salads or baked potatoes.
– Use in sandwiches or burgers for that smoky crunch.
Final Thoughts
Grilling bacon is a game-changer for bacon lovers. Whether you prefer the direct method on the grates, the safety of a cast-iron skillet, or the fun of skewers, the grill brings out bold flavors and crispy textures that will impress your family and friends. So fire up your grill, grab your favorite bacon, and enjoy the smoky, sizzling goodness!
Enjoy your perfectly grilled bacon!