If you love bacon but dread the mess and time it takes to cook it on the stove or in the oven, you’re in luck! Cooking bacon in the microwave oven is a game-changer – it’s fast, easy, and yields crispy, delicious results with minimal cleanup. Whether you want a quick breakfast fix or a simple way to add bacon to your sandwich or salad, microwaving bacon is the perfect kitchen hack. Let me walk you through everything you need to know to make perfect microwave bacon every time.
Why Cook Bacon in the Microwave?
– Speed: You can have crispy bacon ready in just 4 to 6 minutes, much faster than oven baking or stovetop frying.
– Less Mess: No grease splatters all over your stove or kitchen counters.
– Easy Cleanup: Paper towels absorb most of the grease, and you just wash a single plate.
– Perfect for Small Batches: Ideal when you only want a few slices without heating up the whole kitchen.
What You’ll Need
– Your favorite sliced bacon (thick or thin works)
– A large microwave-safe plate
– Several layers of paper towels (about 3-5)
– Optional: Tongs for handling hot bacon
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Bacon in the Microwave
1. Prepare Your Plate
Start by lining your microwave-safe plate with 2 to 3 layers of paper towels. These will soak up the grease and keep your plate clean.
2. Arrange the Bacon
Lay the bacon strips in a single layer on the paper towels. Make sure the slices do not overlap, so they cook evenly. You can usually fit 4 to 6 slices depending on your plate size.
3. Cover the Bacon
Place 2 to 3 more layers of paper towels on top of the bacon. This prevents grease from splattering inside your microwave and helps the bacon cook evenly.
4. Microwave the Bacon
– Microwave on high for about 4 minutes for 4 slices of medium-thick bacon.
– If you have fewer slices, a good rule of thumb is about 1 minute per slice.
– For thicker bacon, start with 5 to 6 minutes.
– Check halfway through cooking to see how it’s progressing. Every microwave is different, so adjust time as needed.
– If the bacon isn’t crispy enough after the initial cooking, continue microwaving in 30-second increments until it reaches your desired crispness.
5. Let It Rest
Once done, carefully remove the plate (it will be hot!) and transfer the bacon to a fresh paper towel to drain any excess grease.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Your bacon is ready to enjoy! Use it for breakfast, sandwiches, salads, or just eat it straight up.
Tips for Perfect Microwave Bacon
– Don’t overlap the slices – overlapping causes uneven cooking.
– Use enough paper towels – they absorb grease and prevent splattering.
– Adjust cooking time based on bacon thickness – thinner bacon cooks faster.
– Check frequently – bacon can go from perfect to burnt in seconds.
– Let bacon cool slightly – it crisps up more as it rests.
– Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave covered with a paper towel.
Why You’ll Love This Method
Microwaving bacon is a no-fuss, no-mess, and quick way to enjoy your favorite crispy treat. It’s especially handy when you’re cooking for one or two people or when you want to whip up bacon in a hurry without firing up the stove or oven. Plus, cleanup is a breeze – just toss the greasy paper towels and wash one plate.
Common Questions About Microwave Bacon
Can I cook a lot of bacon at once?
It’s best to cook bacon in a single layer, so if you have a lot, cook it in batches for the best results.
Will microwave bacon be as crispy as stove-cooked?
Yes! Microwave bacon can be just as crispy, though it may be a bit flatter. Using the right timing and paper towel layers helps achieve great texture.
Is microwave bacon safe?
Absolutely. Just be sure to use microwave-safe plates and paper towels designed for cooking.
Can I use a microwave bacon tray?
You don’t need one. A simple plate and paper towels work perfectly.
Microwaving bacon is your shortcut to crispy, mess-free bacon in minutes. Give it a try next time you want bacon fast and fuss-free – you’ll wonder why you didn’t start sooner!