How to Cook Bacon in the Microwave?
Cooking bacon in the microwave is surprisingly easy, offering a quick and convenient alternative to traditional methods. In essence, you’ll need a microwave-safe plate, paper towels, and bacon; arrange the bacon strips on the plate, cover them with paper towels, and microwave until crisp and cooked through.
The Allure of Microwaved Bacon: Beyond Speed
For many, the sizzling sound and savory aroma of bacon conjures images of a weekend breakfast ritual. However, the traditional frying pan method can be messy, time-consuming, and leave you with splatters of grease coating your stovetop. That’s where the microwave offers a compelling alternative. It’s not just about speed; it’s about convenience, cleanliness, and, surprisingly, a healthier way to enjoy this beloved breakfast staple.
The Undeniable Benefits
Microwaving bacon presents a compelling array of advantages over traditional cooking methods.
- Speed and Convenience: This is the most obvious benefit. Microwaving bacon is significantly faster than pan-frying or baking, especially when cooking just a few slices.
- Reduced Mess: Paper towels absorb most of the grease, minimizing splatter and cleanup. Say goodbye to scrubbing your stovetop!
- Healthier Option: The paper towels absorb a significant amount of rendered fat, resulting in bacon with fewer calories and less grease.
- Consistent Results: With a little practice, you can achieve consistently crispy bacon every time.
- Portion Control: Microwaving is ideal for cooking smaller quantities, making it perfect for single servings or adding bacon to a sandwich.
Step-by-Step Guide to Microwave Bacon Perfection
Achieving perfectly cooked bacon in the microwave is a simple process that anyone can master. Follow these steps:
- Gather Your Supplies: You will need:
- A microwave-safe plate
- Paper towels
- Bacon (any cut will work, but thicker cuts may require longer cooking times)
- Prepare the Plate: Line the microwave-safe plate with 2-3 layers of paper towels. This will absorb the rendered fat as the bacon cooks.
- Arrange the Bacon: Lay the bacon strips on the prepared plate in a single layer. Ensure the strips do not overlap, as this can lead to uneven cooking.
- Cover with More Paper Towels: Cover the bacon strips with another 2-3 layers of paper towels. This helps to prevent splattering and further absorbs grease.
- Microwave: Microwave on high for 1 minute per slice, but start with a shorter time and check to prevent burning. You may need to adjust the cooking time depending on your microwave’s power and the thickness of the bacon. Begin by microwaving one or two slices at 45 seconds each to determine the sweet spot for your microwave.
- Check for Doneness: Carefully remove the plate from the microwave (it will be hot!). Check the bacon for desired crispness. If needed, microwave for an additional 15-30 seconds at a time until it reaches your preferred level of doneness.
- Drain and Serve: Transfer the cooked bacon to a fresh plate lined with a clean paper towel to further drain any remaining grease. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While microwaving bacon is generally foolproof, some common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results.
- Overcrowding the Plate: Overlapping bacon strips will result in unevenly cooked bacon. Always arrange the strips in a single layer.
- Insufficient Paper Towels: Skimping on paper towels will lead to excessive splatter and a greasier final product.
- Overcooking: Overcooked bacon becomes brittle and burnt. Start with shorter cooking times and check frequently.
- Using the Wrong Plate: Always use a microwave-safe plate. Avoid using plates with metallic trim, as they can cause arcing.
- Ignoring Microwave Wattage: Cooking times will vary depending on your microwave’s wattage. Adjust accordingly.
Bacon Types and Microwave Adjustments
Different types of bacon require slight adjustments to cooking times in the microwave. Consider the following:
| Bacon Type | Typical Microwave Time (per slice) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Regular Cut | 1 minute | Adjust based on desired crispness. |
| Thick Cut | 1 minute 15 seconds – 1 minute 30 seconds | May require more frequent checks to prevent burning. |
| Turkey Bacon | 45 seconds – 1 minute | Tends to cook faster than pork bacon; watch closely. |
| Maple Flavored | 1 minute | Watch for caramelization and potential burning due to sugar content. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is microwaved bacon safe to eat?
Yes, microwaved bacon is perfectly safe to eat, as long as it is cooked to an internal temperature that kills any harmful bacteria. The microwave effectively cooks the bacon through, making it a safe and convenient option. Ensure the bacon is cooked until it reaches your desired crispness and no longer appears raw.
Can I use any type of bacon in the microwave?
Absolutely! You can microwave any type of bacon, including regular, thick-cut, turkey bacon, and even flavored bacon. However, cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness and fat content of the bacon. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, and keep a close eye on it to prevent burning, especially with flavored bacon that may caramelize.
How many slices of bacon can I cook at once in the microwave?
You can cook as many slices as will fit comfortably in a single layer on your microwave-safe plate without overlapping. Overlapping will lead to uneven cooking. A standard dinner plate can usually accommodate 4-6 slices. If you need to cook more, do it in batches.
Do I need to flip the bacon while it’s cooking in the microwave?
No, you do not need to flip the bacon while it’s cooking in the microwave. The microwave’s radiation cooks the bacon evenly from all sides, eliminating the need for flipping. Just ensure the bacon is arranged in a single layer for optimal results.
How can I tell when the bacon is done?
The bacon is done when it reaches your desired level of crispness. Start checking the bacon after the initial cooking time (e.g., 1 minute per slice), and continue microwaving in 15-30 second intervals until it’s cooked to your liking. It should look crisp and slightly translucent.
What if my bacon is still chewy after microwaving?
If your bacon is still chewy, it simply needs more cooking time. Microwave it for an additional 15-30 seconds at a time, checking after each interval, until it reaches your desired level of crispness. Remember that microwaves vary in power, so you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I reuse the paper towels after microwaving bacon?
No, it is not recommended to reuse the paper towels after microwaving bacon. They will be saturated with grease and may harbor bacteria. It’s best to discard them immediately and use fresh paper towels for any subsequent batches.
What can I do with the leftover bacon grease?
Leftover bacon grease is a valuable ingredient! You can strain it and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for later use. It adds a delicious smoky flavor to vegetables, eggs, and other dishes. Remember to use it sparingly, as it’s high in fat.
Will microwaving bacon make my kitchen smell less than frying it?
Yes, microwaving bacon generally produces less odor than frying it in a pan. The paper towels help to contain some of the aroma. However, there will still be a slight bacon smell in your kitchen. If you’re particularly sensitive to odors, you can microwave the bacon near an open window or turn on your range hood.
Can I microwave bacon in a plastic container?
It is not recommended to microwave bacon in a plastic container unless it is specifically labeled as microwave-safe. Some plastics can melt or leach chemicals into your food when heated. Always use a microwave-safe plate or dish made of glass or ceramic.
Does microwaving bacon remove more fat than frying it?
Yes, microwaving bacon can remove more fat than frying it. The paper towels absorb a significant amount of rendered fat as the bacon cooks. This results in bacon that is lower in calories and fat compared to pan-fried bacon.
Can I precook bacon in the microwave and finish it in a skillet or oven?
Yes, you can partially cook the bacon in the microwave to save time and reduce mess, then finish it in a skillet or oven for added crispness. Microwaving it first renders some of the fat, making it quicker and less messy to crisp up in the skillet or oven.