Bacon, Sausage, Or Ham Recipe
Make Bacon, Sausage, Or Ham Recipe in just 20m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Protein Options
Finishing & Serving
Method
For Bacon
Pan-fry method
Place a large cold skillet (cast-iron or heavy nonstick) on the stove. Lay 6 bacon slices in a single layer without overlapping. Turn heat to medium. As the pan warms, the bacon will render fat; after 3–4 minutes, flip slices using tongs. Continue cooking 3–6 more minutes, flipping occasionally, until bacon reaches desired crispness (about 6–10 minutes total depending on thickness). Transfer cooked bacon to a paper-towel-lined plate to drain. Reserve 1 teaspoon of the bacon fat in the pan if you plan to lightly brown the ham or sausage in the same skillet; discard excess or save for another use.
Oven-baked alternative (optional)
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. Arrange bacon in a single layer on the rack. Bake 12–18 minutes depending on thickness and crispness preference. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Season bacon lightly with black pepper if desired, and serve immediately or keep warm on a low oven (200°F / 95°C) until plating.
For Sausage
Pan-cook links
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add 1 teaspoon vegetable oil to prevent sticking if using lean sausage. Add 3 sausage links in a single layer. Cook undisturbed for 2–3 minutes to brown the first side. Turn links frequently thereafter and reduce heat slightly if they begin to char. Total cooking time should be 10–12 minutes, turning often so they brown evenly and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Finish and rest
If links brown too quickly, lower heat and cover loosely for 2–3 minutes to allow center to finish cooking. Transfer to a plate and let rest 2–3 minutes before serving to redistribute juices.
For Ham
Pan-sear ham steak
If you reserved about 1 teaspoon bacon fat from cooking bacon, heat it in the skillet over medium. If not, add 1 teaspoon vegetable oil. Pat 1 ham steak dry with a paper towel. Place ham in the hot skillet and cook 2–3 minutes until the bottom is browned. Flip and cook another 2 minutes until warmed through and nicely caramelized on both sides. Total time about 4–6 minutes depending on thickness.
Plating & Serving
Arrange the chosen protein (bacon, sausage links, or ham steak) on a warm plate. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired and serve condiments (ketchup or mustard) on the side. Serve immediately while hot.