Cooking bacon doesn’t always have to mean splattering grease on the stovetop or waiting for the oven to heat up. If you’re short on time or want a quick, low-mess option, the microwave can be surprisingly effective. When done correctly, microwave bacon turns out crispy, evenly cooked, and flavorful—perfect for busy mornings, quick sandwiches, or meal prep.
1. How to Cook Bacon in the Microwave ( Yield: 2–4 Servings )
Ingredients
- 8–12 slices bacon (regular-cut or thick-cut)
- Paper towels (microwave-safe)
- Microwave-safe plate
Optional ingredients for flavor variations:
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Brown sugar or maple sugar (a light sprinkle)
- Cracked chili flakes
Instructions
Prepare the plate
Choose a large microwave-safe plate that can hold several strips of bacon without overlapping too much. Line the plate with 2–3 layers of paper towels. These towels absorb excess grease, which is essential for achieving crispy bacon rather than soggy strips.
Arrange the bacon
Lay the bacon strips flat on top of the paper towels in a single layer. Try not to overlap the slices, as overlapping can lead to uneven cooking. If needed, cook the bacon in batches.
Cover the bacon
Place another 1–2 layers of paper towels over the bacon. This step prevents grease splatter inside the microwave and helps wick away additional fat as the bacon cooks.
Microwave on high
Cook the bacon on high power for 4 minutes to start. Microwave wattages vary, so this initial time is a guideline rather than a rule.
Check and rotate
Carefully remove the plate (it will be hot) and check the bacon’s doneness. If your microwave does not have a rotating turntable, rotate the plate halfway through cooking to ensure even results.
Continue cooking in intervals
Return the bacon to the microwave and cook in 30–60 second intervals until it reaches your desired crispiness. Regular-cut bacon typically takes 5–6 minutes total, while thick-cut bacon may take 7–9 minutes.
Rest the bacon
Let the bacon rest on the paper towels for about 1 minute after cooking. As it cools slightly, it will continue to crisp up.
Serve or store
Transfer the bacon to a clean plate and serve immediately, or allow it to cool completely before storing for later use.
2. Tips for Perfect Crispy Microwave Bacon
Use enough paper towels
Skimping on paper towels can leave bacon greasy and limp. Multiple layers are key to crisp results.
Choose the right bacon cut
Regular-cut bacon crisps faster and more evenly in the microwave. Thick-cut bacon works too, but requires extra time and attention.
Avoid overcrowding
Cooking too many strips at once leads to uneven cooking. If you’re making a large batch, cook in multiple rounds.
Adjust for microwave power
High-powered microwaves cook faster. Start with less time and increase gradually to avoid burning.
Season after cooking
If you like flavored bacon, add pepper or sweet toppings after cooking rather than before, which helps prevent burning.
3. Frequently Asked Questions
Is microwave bacon as crispy as pan-fried bacon?
Yes, when cooked properly with enough paper towels and the right timing, microwave bacon can be just as crispy as pan-fried bacon, with less grease and cleanup.
Does microwave bacon taste different?
The flavor is very similar. Because the bacon cooks in its own fat without browning from a pan, the taste is clean and pure, highlighting the bacon’s natural smokiness.
Can I cook turkey bacon in the microwave using this method?
Yes, but turkey bacon cooks faster and can dry out easily. Reduce cooking time and check frequently.
Is microwave bacon healthier?
Microwaving allows excess fat to drip away into the paper towels, which can slightly reduce overall fat content compared to pan-frying.
Can I reuse the paper towels?
No. Grease-soaked paper towels should be discarded after each use for safety and hygiene.
Why does my bacon curl in the microwave?
Curling happens when bacon cooks unevenly. Pressing it flat between paper towels and rotating the plate can help minimize curling.
4. Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per 2 slices |
|---|---|
| Calories | 90 |
| Total Fat | 7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2.5 g |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Cholesterol | 15 mg |
| Sodium | 360 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 0 g |
| Sugars | 0 g |
Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on bacon brand and thickness.
Cooking bacon in the microwave is one of the easiest and fastest ways to enjoy crispy bacon without the mess of traditional methods. With just a plate, paper towels, and a few minutes, you can achieve perfectly cooked bacon that’s great for breakfast, salads, sandwiches, or meal prep.
