Some would say that bacon is one of the most popular breakfasts around the world, and I would definitely agree. I mean, just thinking about those crispy, crunchy, and delicious stripes of meat on the side with two fried eggs? I am already hungry, and I just had breakfast!
Point is, bacon is an indispensable food that’s for sure. And I got the answer to the frequently asked question “how to reheat bacon” so that you will enjoy your leftover ones as if they are freshly cooked!
But first:
What Is Bacon, Really?
Before we go into it. For all the people that never really heard of or tried cooked bacon before, this will help you better understand where the whole hype lies. Bacon is basically long slices of different parts of the pig with different thicknesses that are salt-cured. Now, the secret of the bacon lies in the fat content of each slice. Fat makes all the difference, as once it hits the hot pan, it starts to melt and coat the whole bacon, basically frying it. This creates a crispy, salty mouth-watering delight.
What are the types of bacon?
The different types of bacon come from the fact that the bacon slices are cut from different parts of the animal. They differ in the fat content and the tenderness of the meat. There are four common types of bacon: streaky bacon, back bacon, cottage bacon, and jowl bacon. We are going to discuss the difference between them.
Streaky bacon is arguably the best type of bacon, as it’s formed of almost equal percentage of fat to meat alternating with each other. Which is a perfect guarantee of equal crispiness to each bacon slice.
Back bacon is the opposite of Streaky one. It’s a cut from the muscly back of the pig that’s why it has significantly less fat which means you will have to add some extra fat for it to reach your desired crispiness.
Cottage bacon resembles back bacon although it’s a different cut from the back bacon. However, it doesn’t have enough percentage of fat for it to crisp well.
Jowl bacon is cut from the pig’s cheeks. They are usually smoked after curing, giving them an especially delicious taste.
Now for the most important question:
Can we reheat bacon?
Of course, we can. In fact, there are many different ways of doing so. However, you will have to follow the steps carefully to guarantee perfectly crispy bacon strips.
How To Reheat Bacon In The Oven?
- On a baking sheet, line each bacon strip separately in one layer.
- Transfer the baking sheet to a preheated oven at 350°F after covering your tray with aluminum foil.
- Leave the tray in the oven for 8-10 minutes. Take it out and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Serve and enjoy.
The good thing about reheating your bacon in the oven is that you can reheat a large number in one go. Unfortunately, though, it takes a long time to do so. But rest assured, I am going to show how you can use other methods like the microwave or over a skillet that takes a much shorter time than the oven.
How To Reheat Bacon In The Microwave?
It’s almost the same idea as the oven but in a much faster way.
- You will basically align your bacon stripes on a plate.
- Transfer the plate to the microwave, but not before covering it with a paper towel.
- Leave it in the microwave for 20-60 seconds. Check the plate after the first round. If it’s not done yet, leave it for an extra 20 seconds.
- Let it cool for a few minutes. Enjoy.
How To Reheat Bacon In An Air Fryer?
Another fast way to reheat your bacon, and it’s a personal favorite, is the Air fryer.
All you need to do is:
- Set the air fryer at 360°F.
- Place your bacon stripes in the air fryer tray.
- Leave it for 4-5 minutes. That’s it!
How to Reheat Bacon Using a Skillet?
Reheating your bacon in a skillet is one of the best ways and most preferred when it comes to refreshing your leftover bacon strips. Fast, easy, and make some delicious and crispy strips.
Related questions:
Can we reheat bacon on a waffle iron?
Although it’s a bit controversial, you can in fact use a waffle iron to reheat your bacon. It’s not practical as it doesn’t really cook the bacon evenly or in large batches. However, it is still a quick and easy way. All you need to do is to preheat your waffle iron, then place the bacon to cook for 8 minutes.
Is crispy bacon considered healthier than a not-so crispy one?
Theoretically speaking, it should be, because most of its fat already dried out from the bacon strip. However, it’s not that significant, as the fat is still coating each slice.
Why Bacon Does Not Stay Crispy?
Well, it’s a simple equation. No moisture = Crispiness. That’s why our main goal when reheating our bacon strips is to remove as much moisture as we can. This is the key to one crispy, delicious bacon strip. That’s why the right method of heating your bacon makes all the difference.
Also, the method of storing the bacon contributes to its crispiness.
Now for our recipe:
How to Reheat Bacon (Keep it Crispy)
Ingredients
- Bacon
- Skillet
- Stovetop
- Plate
- Paper towels
- Tongs
Instructions
- Heat your pan on a medium-high heat flame.
- When it’s hot enough, align your bacon strips on the skillet.
- Leave the strips to crisp up for 1-2 minutes, then flip them on the other side for an extra minute.
- Serve it on a plate covered with paper towels and enjoy.
Hi, I’m Julie, the passionate foodie and founder of Juliesfamilykitchen.com. I created this blog out of a drive to prove someone wrong, and then I realized how much I truly enjoy cooking and trying new recipes. In my free time, when I’m not running around after my kids or spending quality time with my partner, you can usually find me in the kitchen experimenting with new dishes.