Ree Drummond is a talented cook and blogger known for her delicious and easy-to-make recipes. One of her most popular cooking techniques is baking bacon in the oven, which produces crispy and flavorful slices without the splatter of stovetop frying. Many home cooks are curious about this method and wonder how to replicate it at home.
In this article, we will explore the simple steps Ree Drummond uses to cook bacon in the oven. We’ll dive into the benefits of this technique, including its practicality and convenience. Plus, we’ll share tips for selecting the right bacon, preparing the baking sheet, and achieving the perfect crispiness. If you love bacon and want to learn how to cook it like a pro, keep reading!
The Benefits of Cooking Bacon in the Oven
Cooking bacon in the oven is becoming an increasingly popular technique employed by amateur and professional cooks alike. One of the primary benefits of using this method is that the oven provides a more consistent and even heat distribution as compared to frying bacon in a pan.
Another significant advantage of using the oven to cook bacon is that it is a hands-off process which saves time and minimizes mess. You do not have to turn the bacon halfway through, and the rendered fat drips down onto the pan rather than splattering all over your stovetop. Additionally, cooking bacon in the oven allows you to cook large quantities of bacon all at once, making it the perfect solution for feeding a crowd. With these benefits in mind, it is no wonder that more and more people are turning to cooking bacon in the oven as their preferred cooking method.
Step-by-Step: How to Prepare Bacon for Oven Cooking
Preparing bacon for oven cooking is slightly different from cooking it on a stovetop, but it’s an easy process. First, preheat your oven to 400°F. Then, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Parchment paper is preferred as it absorbs the excess grease.
Next, take your bacon and lay it out flat on the parchment paper, making sure that the slices do not overlap. If you have thicker slices, then you can space them a little further apart. If your bacon is thin, then they can be placed closer together. Once all the bacon slices are in place, slide the baking sheet into the oven and bake for at least 15 minutes. You may need to bake it longer depending on your preferred level of crispiness.
Following these simple steps to prepare bacon for oven cooking will allow you to enjoy perfectly cooked bacon every time. Remember to leave a little space between slices and use parchment paper to absorb excess grease and prevent the bacon from sticking to the baking sheet. Enjoy!
Time and Temperature Guidelines for Perfectly Cooked Bacon
When it comes to cooking bacon in the oven, time and temperature are crucial factors that determine the final outcome. Ree Drummond suggests preheating the oven to 375°F for most bacon slices. However, in case of thicker slices, she recommends setting the oven temperature to 400°F to ensure thorough cooking.
The time required to cook bacon in the oven can range from 12 to 22 minutes depending on its thickness and the desired level of crispiness. For standard slices, 15-18 minutes in the preheated oven usually results in perfectly cooked crisp bacon. For the thicker slice, you may need to set a timer for 20 minutes and check every few minutes to evade burnt bacon. Once done, remove the bacon from the oven and allow it to rest on the kitchen paper for a few seconds. Following this guideline, you will get the perfect crispy bacon slices with no fuss and fewer cleanups.
Troubleshooting Common Issues When Oven Cooking Bacon
Troubleshooting Common Issues When Oven Cooking Bacon
While cooking bacon in the oven is a convenient and hassle-free way to get uniformly crispy bacon, there are a few common issues that you might encounter along the way. One of the most frequent issues is bacon that doesn’t cook evenly in the oven. This can be caused by uneven placement of the bacon on the baking sheet, or hot spots in the oven. To avoid this, you can rearrange the bacon halfway through the cooking process, or rotate the baking sheet if necessary.
Another issue that might arise when oven cooking bacon is that the bacon turns out too crispy. To prevent overcooking, keep an eye on the baking time and temperature. If the bacon is cooking too fast or getting too crispy, try reducing the temperature or cooking time slightly. Additionally, it’s important to remember that oven cooking times will vary depending on the thickness of the bacon, so use your judgment and check on the bacon intermittently to ensure it doesn’t overcook.
Creative Ways to Flavor Bacon in the Oven
Cooking bacon in the oven opens up numerous opportunities to experiment with flavors and create unique bacon combinations to wow your taste buds. One simple and easy way to add flavor is by sprinkling any of your favorite herbs or spices over the bacon slices before placing them in the oven. Some popular options include smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and thyme. You can also try brushing the bacon with maple syrup or honey for a sweet and savory twist.
Another creative way to flavor your bacon in the oven is by wrapping it around other ingredients. For example, you can wrap bacon around asparagus or Brussels sprouts for a delicious side dish or appetizer. You can also wrap bacon around chicken or pork for a flavorful main course. Another unique option is to wrap bacon around a soft-boiled egg for an indulgent breakfast or brunch dish. Experiment with different flavors and ingredients to discover your favorite bacon creations.
How to Store Cooked Bacon for Optimal Freshness
Once you’ve cooked a delicious batch of bacon in the oven, you’ll want to store the leftovers for future use. To keep your cooked bacon fresh, first let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, place the bacon in an airtight container or zip-top bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing to prolong freshness and prevent freezer burn.
If storing in the refrigerator, cooked bacon should last for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the bacon for up to six months. To reheat, simply place the bacon in the microwave or oven until warm and crispy. Properly stored cooked bacon can be a handy ingredient to have on hand for quick snacks or to add to your favorite recipes.
Expert Tips for Cleaning Up After Cooking Bacon in the Oven
Cleaning up after cooking bacon in the oven can be an easy task if you follow some expert tips. The first step is to wait for the oven to cool down before attempting to clean it. Once the oven is cool, remove the baking sheet and let it cool for a few minutes before removing the bacon grease with a paper towel. This will prevent accidental burns and make it easier to clean the grease.
Next, soak the baking sheet in warm, soapy water for around 15-20 minutes. Use a non-abrasive sponge or cloth to gently scrub the baking sheet until it is clean and rinse with warm water. If there are any stubborn stains, you can use baking soda or vinegar to help loosen them. Finally, dry the baking sheet with a clean towel and store it away for future use. By following these expert tips, you can enjoy delicious bacon without worrying about the messy aftermath.
Wrapping Up
Cooking bacon to a crispy perfection can be a tricky task, but Ree Drummond has found a way to make it much easier. With her simple and easy technique, anybody can cook bacon in the oven without any mess and fuss. By laying bacon strips on a baking sheet and baking them for 15 to 20 minutes in a preheated oven, she has found the best way to make crispy, delicious bacon with minimal effort.
Apart from being a quick and easy way to cook bacon, this method also allows you to cook large quantities of bacon at once, perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping. Whether you want crispy bacon for breakfast, brunch, or a snack, Ree Drummond’s oven method is a game-changer. Try it and see for yourself how easy it is to get crispy and flavorful bacon in no time!