Cooking bacon in the microwave is one of the easiest and fastest ways to enjoy crispy, delicious bacon without the mess of a stovetop or oven. In just a few minutes, you can have perfectly cooked bacon ready to eat. This method works great for small batches and is ideal for busy mornings.
1. How to Cook Bacon in the Microwave
Ingredients
- 4–6 slices of bacon
- Paper towels
- A microwave-safe plate
Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Plate
Choose a large, microwave-safe plate. Line it with two to three layers of paper towels. These will absorb the excess grease as the bacon cooks.
Step 2. Arrange the Bacon
Lay the bacon strips on the paper towels in a single layer. Avoid overlapping them to ensure even cooking. If you need to cook more bacon, do it in batches.
Step 3. Cover with Paper Towels
Place another layer of paper towels on top of the bacon. This prevents grease from splattering inside the microwave, making cleanup easier.
Step 4. Microwave the Bacon
Set your microwave to high power. Cook the bacon for 3–4 minutes if you prefer softer bacon, or 5–6 minutes for crispy bacon. Cooking times may vary based on the microwave’s wattage and the thickness of the bacon.
Step 5. Check for Doneness
Carefully remove the plate from the microwave (it will be hot). Check the bacon’s crispiness. If it needs more time, microwave in 15–30 second intervals until it reaches your desired texture.
Step 6. Let It Rest
Allow the bacon to sit for about 30 seconds. The residual heat will continue to crisp it up slightly.
2. Tips for Cooking Bacon in the Microwave Perfectly
Use high-quality bacon: Thicker slices may need extra time, while thinner ones cook faster.
Adjust cooking time: Microwaves vary in power, so keep an eye on the bacon to avoid burning.
Layer properly: Overlapping bacon can result in uneven cooking. Cook in batches if making a large amount.
Use fresh paper towels each time: This prevents excess grease from soaking into the bacon.
Flip for even cooking: If you want extra crispy bacon, flip it halfway through the cooking time.
3. Serving Suggestions
Microwave-cooked bacon tastes great on its own, but it can also complement many dishes:
Classic Breakfast: Pair it with eggs, toast, and fruit for a balanced meal.
BLT Sandwich: Layer crispy bacon with lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise on toasted bread.
Salads: Crumble bacon over a Caesar or Cobb salad for extra flavor.
Burgers & Wraps: Add a crunchy touch to homemade burgers or wraps.
Pasta & Soups: Sprinkle chopped bacon over creamy pasta or baked potatoes.
4. Pros & Cons of Cooking Bacon in the Microwave
- Pros
✅ Fast & Convenient: It takes less than 6 minutes, making it ideal for busy mornings.
✅ Less Mess: Paper towels absorb the grease, reducing cleanup time.
✅ Healthier Option: Some grease gets absorbed, making it slightly less oily than pan-fried bacon.
✅ Great for Small Batches: If you only need a few slices, this method is perfect.
- Cons
❌ Limited Capacity: Cooking a large amount of bacon requires multiple batches.
❌ Not as Smoky: The bacon lacks the deep, smoky flavor that comes from pan-frying or baking.
❌ Texture Differences: While crispy, microwave bacon can sometimes be a bit chewier in certain spots.
I love using the microwave for bacon when I’m in a hurry. It’s incredibly convenient, and I appreciate how easy cleanup is. However, if I have more time, I prefer pan-frying because it gives the bacon a richer flavor and a slightly better texture.
Would I recommend it? Absolutely! If you’re looking for a fast, mess-free way to enjoy crispy bacon, the microwave is a fantastic option.
