Do you have leftover bacon chilling in your freezer? In just a few steps you can revive cooked bacon from the freezer to eat as a delectable snack or use in your next recipe for the whole family. Read on as we look at different methods for thawing and cooking frozen bacon while answering the most frequently asked questions for the simplest and most successful process.
Methods for thawing and preparing frozen bacon to be cooked
Whether as an instant snack or a recipe booster, frozen cooked bacon might be the key ingredient you're missing to elevate a range of dishes — from salads and pasta to savory soups and breakfast scrambles. But, before we dive into cooking methods for frozen bacon, it's essential to let it thaw first.
Thaw bacon from frozen with ease using the following approaches:
- Defrosting from the fridge: If you've got ample time before reviving frozen leftover bacon, transfer it from the freezer to the fridge. Allow it to thaw overnight for maintained quality.
- Submerging in cold water: Immerse your sealed bacon in cold tap water, changing it every 30 minutes for faster thawing (i.e., about an hour).
- Using the microwave: Place bacon strips on a paper towel, use the defrost setting on low power and turn bacon regularly for immediate thawing in minutes.
While each option ensures safe thawing, they vary in speed. Choose the approach that's ideal for your schedule and desired convenience.
4 ways to cook frozen bacon: step-by-step instructions to follow
With your thawed bacon ready to go, there are four main ways you can cook these leftovers to ensure they're as delicious as the first time:
Using a cast iron skillet
- Start by heating a cast iron skillet over medium-low heat.
- Then, take each bacon strip and place them in the pan — allowing them to cook slowly.
- Flip occasionally until both sides are golden and crispy.
Why use a cast iron skillet when preparing bacon from frozen? This method offers a lot of control over the final texture and also lets you adjust your cook time based on personal preferences.
Taking the air fryer approach
- First, preheat your air fryer to 375°F.
- Arrange frozen bacon in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Finally, cook for eight to 10 minutes, or until you've achieved your desired crispness.
With air fryers, it's easy to yield a crispy texture while requiring less oil than other cooking methods.
Making oven baked bacon
- After defrosting bacon from the freezer, lay the slices on a baking sheet lined with wax paper or aluminum foil.
- Next, bake for 15 to 20 minutes, turning the bacon strips halfway through for even cooking.
This is an ideal option if you want to ensure even cooking or are preparing a larger batch of frozen bacon.
The microwave quick fix
- Place your bacon between paper towels on a microwave-safe plate.
- Then, simply microwave on high for one to two minutes per bacon slice, adjusting as needed.
You might cook bacon in the microwave if you're in a pinch for time or preparing smaller quantities.
If you don't have frozen cooked bacon on hand, you can head to your local grocery store to pick up your favorite Hatfield® pork products today!
Answering FAQs when cooking bacon from frozen
How long is frozen bacon good for?
Frozen bacon stays good for about six months when stored properly. However, before you start thawing and cooking, check for any off odors or signs of freezer burn to ensure the frozen bacon is safe to eat.
Are there different cooking recommendations for thin versus thick bacon?
Whether you have thick or thin bacon waiting to be used in the freezer, all the cooking methods above can be used. But, thick bacon will ultimately require more time for thawing and cooking to make sure it's fully cooked.
What is the healthiest way to cook frozen bacon?
Baking and air frying are often deemed the healthiest ways to cook frozen bacon as they aid in reducing excess fat as it drips off during cooking.
The foundation of flavor with high-quality bacon
Ensure a safe and flavorful journey for your family with high-quality bacon from Hatfield®. Explore Hatfield's range of premium, pre-seasoned bacon offerings that set the stage for exceptional results every time — from Hatfield® Applewood Smoked Bacon to Hatfield® Cherrywood Smoked Extra Thick Cut Bacon.
Ready to get started? Use our store locator to find your Hatfield® flavor at a supermarket or grocery store near you!
