Three Slices Bacon Recipe

Preheat and prep

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking. Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil for easier cleanup and place a wire rack on top of the sheet (optional: the rack keeps bacon crisp on both sides). If you prefer stovetop cooking, have a large skillet ready over medium heat.

Pat the three bacon slices dry with a paper towel if they are damp from packaging. Lightly sprinkle both sides with the 1/4 tsp black pepper. If making candied bacon, evenly coat one side of each slice with about 1 tablespoon brown sugar total (divide across slices).

Arrange bacon

Lay the three slices in a single layer on the wire rack (or directly on the foil-lined sheet if not using a rack), leaving a little space between slices so hot air circulates.

Bake

Place the baking sheet on the center rack and bake for 12–18 minutes, depending on thickness and desired crispness: about 12–14 minutes for medium, 15–18 for very crisp. If you used brown sugar, check at 10 minutes to ensure sugar isn't burning; rotate sheet if necessary.

Finish

When bacon reaches desired color and crispness, remove the sheet from the oven. Use tongs to transfer slices to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess fat. Let rest 1–2 minutes; the bacon will crisp slightly more as it cools.

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the three bacon slices in a single layer (they can touch but shouldn't be stacked). Cook 3–5 minutes per side, adjusting heat as needed to avoid burning; lower heat slightly if bacon is browning too fast. Flip with tongs occasionally so fat renders evenly and slices crisp.

When done to your liking, transfer bacon to paper towels to drain and rest 1–2 minutes.

Serve the three slices hot. Optionally drizzle with 1 tablespoon maple syrup or serve with 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce on the side. Use paper towels to blot any remaining excess grease before plating.