Cooking bacon can be an art form, especially when you want it crispy, flavorful, and easy to prepare. Martha Stewart, the queen of home cooking, has shared her beloved technique for cooking bacon in the oven. This favored method not only simplifies the cooking process but also delivers perfectly cooked bacon every single time. In this article, we will dive into the secrets of Martha Stewart’s oven-baked bacon, explore the advantages of this method, and discuss various tips to elevate your bacon experience.
Why Cook Bacon in the Oven?
Before we delve into the specifics of Martha Stewart’s method, let’s explore why cooking bacon in the oven is often preferred over traditional frying.
1. Consistent Results
One of the biggest advantages of oven-cooked bacon is the consistency. When baked in the oven, each slice cooks evenly, avoiding the uneven texture sometimes found in pan-fried bacon.
2. Easily Manageable
Cooking bacon in the oven is remarkably easy. You can set it and forget it while it cooks, allowing you to focus on preparing other components of your meal. There’s no need to hover over a skillet, and you won’t have to deal with grease splatters on your stove.
3. Large Batches
Oven cooking is ideal for preparing large quantities of bacon. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or want to meal-prep for the week, baking bacon allows you to cook multiple strips at once without sacrificing quality.
4. Healthier Option
When bacon cooks in the oven, excess grease drips off and collects in the pan below, resulting in a slightly lower fat content. This provides a healthier bacon option without sacrificing flavor.
The Martha Stewart Method: Step-by-Step Guide
Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of how Martha Stewart cooks bacon in the oven, step by step. This method is straightforward and requires minimal equipment.
Ingredients Needed
To get started with Martha Stewart’s oven-cooked bacon, you will need:
- Bacon (thick or thin cut, based on your preference)
- Parchment paper (optional but recommended for easier cleanup)
- Baking sheet
Equipment Required
Gather the following equipment to prepare your bacon the Martha Stewart way:
- Large baking sheet
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Oven mitts
- Cooling rack (optional)
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to cook bacon in the oven like Martha Stewart:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
– Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is the ideal temperature for achieving crispy yet tender bacon.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet
– Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup much easier. If you don’t have parchment paper, you can cook directly on the baking sheet, but be prepared for a tougher clean-up.
Step 3: Arrange the Bacon Slices
– Lay the bacon strips on the baking sheet in a single layer. Ensure that the slices are close but not overlapping, as this will ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Bake the Bacon
– Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 to 20 minutes. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the bacon and how crispy you like it. For thinner bacon, start checking around the 10-minute mark.
Step 5: Monitor Cooking and Flip (Optional)
– While it’s not necessary to flip the bacon midway through cooking, doing so can ensure even crispness. If you choose to flip, do so carefully using tongs around the halfway mark.
Step 6: Drain and Cool
– Once the bacon reaches your desired level of crispiness, remove it from the oven. Using tongs, transfer the cooked bacon to paper towels or a cooling rack to drain excess grease. Allow it to cool slightly before serving.
Tips for the Perfect Oven-Baked Bacon
To further enhance your bacon experience, consider these handy tips:
1. Choosing the Right Bacon
- Bacon comes in a variety of styles—thick-cut, standard, and even flavored options. For that perfect crunch, thick-cut bacon is often recommended, as it retains more moisture.
2. Experimenting with Flavor
- While classic bacon is delicious on its own, consider adding flavor to the bacon before baking. Try sprinkling some brown sugar for a sweet touch or black pepper and cayenne for a spicy kick. A light brush of maple syrup can also enhance the flavor profile deliciously.
3. Consider the Cooling Rack
- If you’re looking for a healthier option, place a cooling rack on top of your baking sheet before adding the bacon. This elevates the bacon, allowing fat to drip away from the strips, resulting in a crisper texture.
4. Saving the Grease
- Don’t toss the bacon grease! Allow it to cool and store it in a jar for future cooking; it can add incredible flavor to sautés, roasted vegetables, and even cornbread.
Fun Facts About Bacon
Now that you’ve mastered Martha Stewart’s technique, it’s intriguing to know more about this beloved food:
A. The History of Bacon
- Bacon has been enjoyed for thousands of years, dating back to ancient cultures. The Chinese were among the first to cure pork belly, creating a version of bacon as we know it today.
B. Bacon as a Culinary Icon
- Bacon holds a revered place in many cuisines worldwide and has evolved into a culinary icon. It can be found in everything from breakfast dishes to gourmet desserts.
C. Bacon and Sustainability
- Due to increasing awareness of sustainable farming practices, many consumers are opting for high-quality bacon, sourced from farms that prioritize animal welfare.
Final Thoughts: Bacon Done Right
Cooking bacon in the oven, as demonstrated by Martha Stewart, is not only a time-saver but also a way to enjoy crunchy, flavorful bacon without the hassle of pan frying. With its consistent results and ease of preparation, it’s a method that every bacon lover should have in their culinary repertoire. By following these steps and tips, you will be well on your way to mastering oven-baked bacon that can take your breakfasts, brunches, or any recipe that calls for bacon to the next level.
Whether you’re enjoying this crispy delight as part of a traditional breakfast or incorporating it into a more elaborate dish, oven-baked bacon is sure to impress your family and friends. Now, get ready to savor every delicious bite!
What is Martha Stewart’s method for cooking bacon in the oven?
The method involves preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet and lay the bacon strips out in a single layer on the rack, ensuring they don’t overlap. This technique allows the heat to circulate around the bacon, resulting in even cooking and crispiness.
Once you have arranged the bacon, simply place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, depending on your preferred level of crispiness. Keep an eye on the bacon as it cooks to prevent burning, and remove it when it reaches your desired doneness. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease before serving.
Why should I cook bacon in the oven instead of on the stove?
Cooking bacon in the oven is a great alternative to stovetop cooking as it reduces the mess and splatter typically associated with frying. With the bacon on a wire rack, the grease drains away, resulting in a less greasy final product. Additionally, using the oven allows you to cook larger batches of bacon at once, making it ideal for brunches or large family meals.
Moreover, this method frees up your stovetop for preparing other dishes. You can set the timer and focus on other tasks while the bacon cooks without the need for constant attention, as it often requires when frying on the stove. This hands-off approach makes it easier to enjoy your cooking experience.
How can I ensure my bacon cooks evenly in the oven?
To ensure even cooking, it’s important to lay the bacon strips out in a single layer without overlapping. This allows the hot air to circulate around each slice, leading to uniform crispiness. If the bacon strips are touching or overlapping, they may not cook evenly, resulting in some pieces being overcooked while others are undercooked.
Using a wire rack on top of the baking sheet is also crucial for even cooking. The rack elevates the bacon, allowing the grease to drip down into the baking sheet rather than pooling around the strips. This method helps achieve a crispy texture all around and avoids steaming the bacon.
Can I cook turkey bacon using Martha Stewart’s method?
Absolutely! You can use the same oven method to cook turkey bacon. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), line a baking sheet with aluminum foil, and place a wire rack on top. Lay the turkey bacon strips out in a single layer, just as you would with regular bacon, ensuring they are not overlapping.
Turkey bacon typically cooks faster than traditional pork bacon, so keep an eye on it as it approaches the 10-15 minute mark. Cooking time may vary based on your oven and the thickness of the turkey bacon, so checking for your preferred level of crispiness is key.
What should I do with the bacon grease after cooking?
After cooking bacon in the oven, the grease that collects in the baking sheet can be both a blessing and a nuisance. You can let it cool slightly and then carefully pour it into a heatproof container to save for future cooking. Bacon grease can be used for sautéing vegetables or adding flavor to dishes like beans or cornbread.
If you prefer not to save the grease, it’s wise to allow it to cool completely before disposing of it. Pouring hot grease down the sink can cause plumbing issues, so it’s best to use a container or jar to let it solidify temporarily before discarding it in the trash.
How do I clean up after cooking bacon in the oven?
Cleaning up after cooking bacon in the oven is quite straightforward, especially if you used aluminum foil to line your baking sheet. Once the baking sheet has cooled, you can simply crumple the foil and dispose of it, reducing the amount of scrubbing required. This makes for an easy and mess-free clean-up process.
If you notice any grease residue on the baking sheet or the wire rack, a soak in warm soapy water typically does the trick. For tough spots, a bit of baking soda can be used as a gentle scrubber. Always remember to handle hot utensils and allow them to cool before cleaning.
How long does it take to cook bacon in the oven?
Cooking bacon in the oven typically takes about 15-20 minutes at 400°F (200°C), but the exact time may vary based on the thickness of the bacon and personal preference for crispiness. Thin-cut bacon will cook more quickly, while thicker-cut bacon may take a few extra minutes.
It’s important to keep an eye on the bacon as it cooks and check for your desired level of doneness. Every oven can have slight variations in temperature, so if it’s your first time using this method, it’s beneficial to start checking around the 12-minute mark to avoid overcooking.
Can I flavor my bacon while cooking in the oven?
Yes, you can absolutely infuse additional flavors into your bacon while cooking it in the oven. Before placing the bacon on the rack, you can brush it lightly with maple syrup, honey, or a spicy glaze for an added touch. Just be cautious with sugary toppings as they can caramelize and burn if left for too long.
Another option is to sprinkle your bacon with spices such as black pepper, garlic powder, or smoked paprika before baking. This will give the bacon an extra kick without compromising the cooking method. Be sure to keep an eye on the bacon as it cooks, especially if you’ve added extra ingredients, to prevent burning.