Bacon is a staple food in many households – it’s versatile and delicious. However, cooking bacon can be messy, time-consuming, and even dangerous if not handled properly. Fortunately, there’s an easy way to cook bacon to perfection without all the hassle: in the microwave.
Yes, you read that right – you can cook bacon in the microwave. It may not sound like the most appetizing way to cook bacon, but trust us, it works. Not only is it faster than cooking bacon on the stove or in the oven, but it also leaves your kitchen relatively mess-free.
Here’s everything you need to know about cooking bacon in the microwave.
What You’ll Need:
– Bacon
– Microwave-safe dish
– Paper towels
Instructions:
1. Choose the Right Bacon
When making bacon in the microwave, it’s important to choose the right type of bacon. You want to select bacon that is thin cut and has a low amount of sodium. This makes the bacon cook evenly and avoids it from getting too crispy.
2. Line the Dish with Paper Towels
Take two sheets of paper towel and place them on the bottom of a microwave-safe dish. This will help absorb any excess oil and prevent the bacon from sticking to the dish.
3. Lay Out the Bacon
Lay the bacon out flat on the paper towels, making sure not to overlap any of the strips. Depending on the size of your dish, you may need to cook the bacon in batches.
4. Cover with Paper Towels
Take two more sheets of paper towel and place them on top of the bacon. This will prevent the bacon from splattering in the microwave and will help it cook evenly.
5. Microwave the Bacon
Microwave the bacon on high for anywhere from 2-5 minutes, depending on the wattage of your microwave. For a microwave with 800 watts of power, we recommend microwaving for about 4 minutes. If your bacon isn’t fully cooked after the initial time, you can continue microwaving in 30-second increments until it’s cooked to your desired crispiness.
6. Remove from Microwave and Serve
Once the bacon is cooked, remove it from the microwave and let it cool for a minute or two before serving. Using tongs or a fork, carefully remove the bacon from the dish and place it on a plate lined with fresh paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
FAQs
Q: Can You Cook Thick Cut Bacon in the Microwave?
A: You can, but it may not turn out as well as thin-cut bacon. Thick-cut bacon will take longer to cook, and it may not cook evenly.
Q: Is Cooking Bacon in the Microwave Healthier Than on the Stove or in the Oven?
A: Cooking bacon in the microwave can be healthier than cooking on the stove or in the oven because it reduces the amount of grease. However, you should still be mindful of the sodium content in your bacon.
Q: Can You Cook Bacon in the Microwave Without Paper Towels?
A: Technically, you can cook bacon in the microwave without paper towels, but it’s not recommended. The paper towels help absorb any excess grease and prevent the bacon from sticking to the dish.
Q: What Should You Do if Your Bacon Starts to Burn in the Microwave?
A: If your bacon starts to burn in the microwave, turn off the microwave immediately and remove the dish. Check to see if any of the bacon is salvageable – in some cases, you might be able to save some of the strips that weren’t burned. Dispose of the burned bacon and try again with a shorter cooking time.
Conclusion
Cooking bacon in the microwave is fast, easy, and results in delicious bacon every time. By taking the time to choose the right bacon, lining your dish with paper towels, and cooking for the appropriate amount of time, you can enjoy crispy bacon without all the fuss. Plus, with minimal clean-up required, you’ll have more time to enjoy your breakfast and start your day off on the right foot!
