Introduction
Let’s be honest, cooking bacon can be a hassle. From grease splatters to difficult cleanup, it’s no wonder that many people try to avoid it altogether. However, if you’re someone who loves the taste of bacon but dreads cooking it, microwaving bacon might be the solution for you. In this article, we’ll explore how long to microwave bacon, as well as share tips and tricks for perfectly cooked bacon every time.
Advantages of Microwaving Bacon
Microwaving bacon can be an attractive option for a variety of reasons. Not only can it be a time-saver, but it can also save energy compared to other cooking methods like using the stove-top or oven. Additionally, microwaving bacon can be a healthier option as it requires less added oil or grease.
Step-by-Step Guide to Microwaving Bacon
Before microwaving your bacon, you will need the right equipment. Grab a microwave-safe plate, paper towels, and of course, your bacon slices.
First, decide how many slices you would like to cook. For 1-2 slices, place them on a paper towel-lined plate. If you are cooking 4-6 slices, place them on the plate without overlapping. It is important to leave space between the slices to ensure even cooking.
Cover the bacon with another sheet of paper towel, and place the plate in the microwave. While all microwaves differ, most people should start with 4-6 minutes for 4-6 slices, or 2 1/2-3 minutes for 1-2 slices. Keep an eye on the bacon as it cooks, and adjust the time as needed.
It’s essential to understand how to properly microwave bacon depending on how much you’re cooking.The timings provided are merely suggestions, and the recipe will require some experimentation and adjustments to reach the optimal timing.
Timing Chart for Different Levels of Doneness
The perfect level of doneness for bacon varies from person to person. Some of us like our bacon crispy, while others prefer a chewier texture. Here is a chart to help guide you on how long to microwave bacon for different levels of doneness.
| Level of Doneness | Microwave Time | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Soft and Chewy | 2-4 minutes | Has a chewy texture with a slight crispiness. |
| Crispy | 4-6 minutes | Has a crunchy texture and dark brown color. |
| Burnt | 6+ minutes | Burnt bacon has black crispy edges. |
It’s worth noting that timing can vary depending on microwave wattage, bacon thickness, and personal preference. If the bacon is nearly burnt, stop the cycle and check the meat after a quick rest because the bacon will continue to cook as it remains stationary. Additionally, if you’re looking for a more even result, consider rotating the plate once halfway through the cook time.
Comparison with Other Cooking Methods
While microwaving bacon has its advantages, it’s essential to understand how it compares to other cooking methods.
Cooking bacon on the stove is a more traditional method. With this method, the bacon typically cooks faster and can be crisper than microwave-cooked bacon. If you are cooking lots of bacon, stove-top will likely be more efficient. However, cleaning grease from pans can be frustrating. Oven bacon can offer similar qualities, though there is a risk of overcooking. Additionally, neither of these methods is as quick or energy-efficient as microwave cooking which is ideal when you want to cook just one or a couple of slices.
Recipe-Focused Section
Now that you know how long to microwave bacon, why not try using it in a recipe? One of our favorites is a bacon and egg breakfast sandwich.
Here’s how to microwave bacon for this recipe:
Cook two slices of bacon on a plate for 2-3 minutes, or until crispy to your preference. Remove from the microwave and set aside. Heat a non-stick pan on high heat, and toast two pieces of bread. Crack an egg into the pan and cook until the white is set, but the yolk is still runny. Place the cooked bacon atop the egg and add the egg-bacon combo to the toasted bread. Top with cheese and avocado, if desired, and serve!
Microwave Bacon Hacks
Here are a few extra tips and tricks for microwaving bacon.
Firstly, it can be easy for bacon to become soggy if it is cooked too long. To avoid this, you can change the paper towel after 2-3 minutes to soak up any excess grease.
Are you someone who needs to cook a lot of bacon? Try stacking the slices atop each other, placing a paper towel between each layer and rotating them halfway through the cook time to ensure they cook evenly.
Finally, microwaving bacon doesn’t only have to be for breakfast. You can also use it to make bacon bits, a useful ingredient to top salads, pizzas, and pastas.
Conclusion
By following these tips and tricks, you can master microwaving bacon and enjoy the perfect slice every time. Whether you prefer it crispy or chewy, microwaving bacon can be a quick and delicious way to enjoy this breakfast favorite.
So let’s summarize: use paper towels and a microwave-safe plate, cook for 2-6 minutes depending on your level of doneness, consider using bacon in recipes, and experiment with different hacks and techniques.