How To Cook Bacon in the Toaster Oven

Jan 16, 2024 / MIN READ

Have you been looking for a quick way to prepare deliciously crisp bacon with minimal effort? A toaster oven's got you covered! Whether you're craving a quick and easy snack or you want to enhance the flavors of your favorite dishes, toaster oven bacon is the versatile solution you've been searching for.

Read on as we explore why opting for the toaster oven is a game-changer, step-by-step instructions on how to cook perfect bacon and key tips and tricks to ensure a delicious and hassle-free experience.

Bacon 101: Ingredients, equipment and steps to toaster oven success

Serves: 6
Prep Time: 4 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

Equipment

  • Toaster oven or countertop oven.
  • Aluminum foil or parchment paper (optional).

Directions to prepare perfectly cooked bacon

  • Step 1: Turn on your countertop oven and adjust the temperature to 400°F. Keep in mind that some toaster ovens may need preheating.
  • Step 2: Cover the toaster oven pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper, if preferred. When using a cooking rack, make sure you have a pan beneath to catch any drippings.
  • Step 3: Arrange your Hatfield® bacon strips in a single layer on the sheet pan or wire rack, leaving some space between each slice to prevent overlap.
  • Step 4: Bake the bacon slices for about eight to 15 minutes, adjusting the cooking time based on the thickness of the bacon strips and your desired level of crispiness.
  • Step 5: Once fully cooked, you can transfer the bacon strips to a paper towel to allow excess bacon grease to drain.
  • Step 6: Serve as a tasty snack or incorporate it seamlessly into your favorite recipes. Perfectly crisp bacon is always a winning choice!
Strips of bacon lay on a wire rackArrange your Hatfield® bacon strips in a single layer on the sheet pan or wire rack, leaving some space between each slice to prevent overlap

Ready to get started? Head to your local grocery store to pick up your favorite Hatfield® pork products today!

Master toaster oven bacon: Answering FAQs

Explore some of the most frequently asked questions you might run into along the way:

What temperature should you bake bacon in the toaster oven?

When cooking bacon in a countertop oven, make sure you're setting the temperature to 400°F. This temperature ensures even cooking, achieving a perfect balance of crispiness without overcooking or undercooking the bacon strips. Keep in mind that your total cooking time may change depending on the type and thickness of your bacon slices.

When is it better to use a regular oven or air fryer to cook bacon?

If you don't have access to a toaster oven and you're not sure what cooking method is best, remember that you'll want to opt for a regular oven when preparing larger batches of bacon to ensure even cooking. On the other hand, the air fryer is ideal for smaller quantities and efficiency.

Why should I opt for pre-marinated bacon?

Starting with a pre-marinated product is the easiest way to add flavor and convenience to your cooking process. From Hatfield® Applewood Smoked Bacon to Hatfield® Cherrywood Smoked Extra Thick Cut Bacon, pre-seasoned goodness is a time-saving and delicious option for any bacon lover.

Can I use different cuts of bacon?

While regular bacon is a classic choice, the possibilities are endless for equally tasty results. Try maple or thick-cut bacon for unique flavors, or opt for healthier options like turkey bacon or an uncured selection, such as Hatfield® No Antibiotics Ever Uncured Hardwood Smoked Bacon. Simply adapt based on your family's preferences and the recipe at hand.

How do I store leftover bacon correctly?

To properly store any leftover bacon, wrap excess slices in a paper towel and place it in an airtight container or sealed in a plastic bag. Now, move this to the refrigerator and keep it for up to a week. If you're planning to store your cooked bacon even longer, you can freeze it for up to two to three months.

Elevating toaster oven bacon with unmatched quality and trust

When preparing bacon for your loved ones, the quality of your ingredients matters — and Hatfield® stands as a trusted ally in offering high-quality and flavorful pork products. Pre-seasoned, high-grade pork makes it simple to enhance your toaster oven bacon. Plus, our commitment to excellence promotes safe and consistently delicious results that give you confidence in the kitchen.

If you're ready for unmatched quality and trust in your bacon-cooking endeavors, head to your local grocery store to pick up your favorite Hatfield® pork products today!