Bacon. The crispy, salty, savory breakfast staple that makes everything better. But who has time for standing over a stovetop, waiting for those strips to reach perfection? If you're short on time but craving that bacon fix, fear not! This guide will walk you through how to cook bacon in the microwave – quickly, easily, and with surprisingly delicious results.
Why Microwave Bacon?
Let's be honest, sometimes the quickest way is the best way. Microwaving bacon offers several advantages:
- Speed: Forget waiting for the stovetop. Microwave cooking is significantly faster.
- Convenience: Minimal cleanup – no greasy pans to scrub!
- Even Cooking (with the right technique): Following these steps will help ensure your bacon cooks evenly and avoids burning.
The Best Way to Cook Bacon in the Microwave
Several methods exist, but this technique delivers consistently crispy bacon:
What You'll Need:
- Microwave-safe plate: Choose a plate large enough to hold your bacon in a single layer, without overcrowding.
- Paper towels: Crucial for absorbing grease and promoting even cooking.
- Bacon: Your favorite cut and quantity!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare Your Bacon: Lay your bacon strips on a microwave-safe plate in a single layer. Avoid overlapping. The more space between strips, the crispier they will become.
- Line with Paper Towels: Cover the bacon with a layer of paper towels. This will absorb excess grease and help prevent splattering.
- Microwave in Short Bursts: This is key! Start by microwaving on high for 1-2 minutes. Then, carefully check the bacon. It should be starting to cook, but not yet fully done.
- Flip and Continue: Flip the bacon strips and cover again with a fresh paper towel. Microwave in 30-second to 1-minute intervals, checking frequently.
- Achieve Desired Crispiness: Continue microwaving and flipping until your bacon reaches your desired level of crispiness. Cooking times vary depending on your microwave's power and the thickness of your bacon.
- Drain Excess Grease: Once cooked, carefully remove the bacon from the microwave. Let it sit for a few moments to cool slightly and allow the excess grease to drain.
Tips for Perfectly Cooked Microwave Bacon
- Don't Overcrowd the Plate: Overcrowding leads to uneven cooking and soggy bacon.
- Use Fresh Paper Towels: Replace paper towels as needed to maintain absorbency.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Every microwave is different. You may need to adjust the cooking time based on your microwave's power.
- Experiment: Don't be afraid to experiment with different cooking times and techniques to find what works best for you and your microwave.
Beyond the Plate: Microwave Bacon Alternatives
While the plate method is simple and effective, consider these alternatives for even crispier results:
- Bacon Cooking Rack: A microwave-safe bacon rack elevates the bacon above the grease, promoting even cooking and crispier results.
- Bacon Press: A bacon press helps to ensure even cooking and crispier bacon by pressing down on the strips while they cook.
Conclusion: Enjoy Your Microwave Bacon!
Microwaving bacon is a quick, convenient, and surprisingly effective way to enjoy this breakfast favorite. With a little practice, you'll be able to perfectly cook crispy bacon in minutes – without the hassle of stovetop cooking. Now go forth and enjoy your perfectly crispy microwave bacon!
