Ah, bacon! The sizzle, the aroma, the crispy perfection. Is there a downside? Yep. A greasy frying pan, flying fat and way too much mess. That’s where handy appliances like air fryers and grilling machines come to the rescue - but did you know you can get amazing bacon in microwaves too?
You read that right. Quick, crispy and consistent every time - but you have to know the secrets. So, let's dive into the art of microwaving bacon so you can nail it every time.
Can you microwave bacon?
The question on everyone's lips: can you cook bacon in the microwave without it ending up a soggy mess? It's a common misonception about microwave cookery, but fear not, breakfast adventurer. Microwaving bacon can actually result in crispy, evenly cooked strips if done correctly. Gone are the days of unevenly cooked bacon or greasy stovetops. The trick lies in understanding the process and mastering the technique.
Here’s how…
Step-by-step guide to microwaving bacon
Ready to become a microwaving bacon maestro? Follow these steps:
Preparation: Lay a microwave-safe plate with a couple of sheets of kitchen roll.
Layering: Place bacon slices in a single layer on top of the kitchen roll. Cover with another sheet.
Cooking Time: Microwave on high for 1 minute. If you’re doing a bunch of bacon, you might need to add another minute. Check for desired crispiness and adjust as needed.
Cooling: Let the bacon sit for a minute to crisp up further. Food doesn’t stop cooking just because it’s removed from heat.
Adjusting cooking time for different thicknesses
Bacon comes in all shapes and sizes. For thicker cuts, increase the time slightly – think 1.5 minutes per slice. You can actually use a microwave for any cut of bacon - but thin and streaky works best.
Got a powerful microwave? Reduce the time a smidge to avoid overcooking. It's all about finding that sweet spot. The great thing about the microwave is that you can give it a quick check and then keep cooking in increments until you hit bacon perfection.
Pros and cons of microwaving bacon
Pros: Speedy, less mess and oh-so-easy cleanup. It’s an ideal method for crispy bacon fans, so use streaky for best results.
Cons: You’ll need kitchen roll on hand. Microwaving melts savoury rendered fat - which is why you need the kitchen towel to absorb it. Therefore this method isn’t so good for either leaner or meatier bacon. If you try to microwave gammon (for example) the result may not be fantastic. Air fryer gammon (on the other hand) is something else entirely!
Best microwave bacon recipe ideas
Unlock a world of flavour with these bacon-infused recipes:
Carbonara: Crisp bacon adds a punch to this classic pasta. (By the way, you can also cook pasta in the microwave.)
BLT Sandwiches: Perfect for a quick lunch.
Salads: A sprinkle of bacon elevates any leafy mix.
Soups: A crispy, salty bacon topping works wonders in a dull lunchtime soup.
Easy breakfast ideas using microwaved bacon
Start your day right with these breakfast treats:
Bacon breakfast sandwiches: Pile on eggs and cheese for a hearty start.
Avocado toast with Bacon: A trendy, tasty option. Spoon on some chilli jam and thank us later.
Bacon-stuffed pancakes: Because everything's better with bacon.
Quick dinner recipes featuring microwaved bacon
Round out your day with these dinner delights:
Pasta bakes: Bacon adds depth to creamy sauces.
Tarts: Combine with cheese and veggies for a savoury treat.
So, next time you're pondering how to cook bacon in the microwave, remember: it's not just possible—it's delicious!
More power to the microwave!
They may not be as cool as air fryers, but the best microwaves can do some pretty amazing things too. Did you know that microwaves can help you steam, poach, grill and bake? You mic be surprised. Check out our Microwave buying guide for more tips and features.
