Grilled Bacon Recipe: How To Cook The Perfect Batch
What To Know
- Whether you’re a seasoned griller or a novice cook, this comprehensive guide will provide you with the knowledge and techniques you need to grill bacon to perfection.
- Once the bacon is cooked, remove it from the grill and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain the grease.
- To reheat the bacon, place it in a toaster oven or on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through.
Grilling bacon is an art form that elevates the humble breakfast staple to new heights. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or a novice cook, this comprehensive guide will provide you with the knowledge and techniques you need to grill bacon to perfection.
Choosing the Right Bacon
The key to grilling great bacon lies in selecting the right cut. Look for thick-cut bacon (at least 1/4 inch thick) with a good balance of meat and fat. Applewood-smoked or hickory-smoked bacon adds extra flavor and aroma.
Preparing the Grill
Prepare your grill for medium-high heat (350-400°F). If you’re using a gas grill, preheat the grill for 10-15 minutes with the lid closed. For a charcoal grill, light the coals and let them burn until they’re covered in white ash.
Grilling the Bacon
1. Lay out the bacon: Place the bacon strips in a single layer on the grill grate. Avoid overcrowding the grill.
2. Flip regularly: Cook the bacon for 5-7 minutes per side, flipping it halfway through. The bacon should be crispy but not burnt.
3. Drain the grease: As the bacon cooks, it will release grease. Use a paper towel or a grilling tool to drain the excess grease.
4. Check for doneness: The bacon is done when it’s crispy and has reached your desired level of doneness (soft, chewy, or crispy).
Seasoning the Bacon
While bacon is delicious on its own, you can enhance its flavor with a variety of seasonings. Here are a few ideas:
- Black pepper: Sprinkle freshly ground black pepper over the bacon before grilling.
- Garlic powder: Add a savory touch with a sprinkle of garlic powder.
- Brown sugar: For a sweet and salty combination, sprinkle brown sugar over the bacon before grilling.
- Maple syrup: Brush the bacon with maple syrup for a sweet and sticky glaze.
Serving the Bacon
Once the bacon is cooked, remove it from the grill and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain the grease. Serve the bacon hot with your favorite breakfast dishes, such as eggs, pancakes, or waffles.
Storing the Bacon
Grilled bacon can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat the bacon, place it in a toaster oven or on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through.
Tips for Perfect Grilled Bacon
- Use a grill pan: If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan on your stovetop.
- Cook in batches: If you’re grilling a large amount of bacon, cook it in batches to avoid overcrowding the grill.
- Don’t overcook: Overcooked bacon is tough and chewy. Keep an eye on the bacon and remove it from the grill as soon as it reaches your desired level of doneness.
- Experiment with flavors: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and glazes to create your own unique grilled bacon recipes.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the best way to cook bacon on a grill?
Follow the steps outlined in this guide: choose the right bacon, prepare the grill, grill the bacon, and season and serve as desired.
2. Can I grill bacon without a grill?
Yes, you can use a grill pan on your stovetop to grill bacon.
3. How do I store grilled bacon?
Grilled bacon can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
4. Can I freeze grilled bacon?
Yes, grilled bacon can be frozen for up to 2 months.
5. What are some creative ways to use grilled bacon?
Grilled bacon can be used in a variety of dishes, including salads, sandwiches, wraps, and pizzas.
