Side Bacon Recipe
Make Side Bacon Recipe in just 25m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Bacon
Finishing (optional)
Method
Bacon
- 1
Preheat and prepare
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Place a wire rack on top of the sheet if you want crispier bacon and easier draining; if you don't have a rack, lay the bacon directly on the foil (it will be slightly greasier).
- 2
Season and arrange
Lay the bacon slices in a single layer on the wire rack or foil, without overlapping. If using black pepper, lightly sprinkle the pepper evenly over the slices. If making candied bacon, lightly sprinkle the brown sugar across each slice so it adheres.
- 3
Bake the bacon
Place the baking sheet on the middle oven rack. Bake for 12–18 minutes, depending on thickness and preferred crispness: start checking at 10–12 minutes for thin bacon and at 14–18 minutes for thicker slices. Rotate the pan once halfway through for even cooking. Bacon is done when edges are browned and fat is rendered but not burnt.
- 4
Drain and rest
Using tongs, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess fat and to crisp further for 1–2 minutes.
Finishing (optional)
- 5
Glaze (optional)
If you want a maple glaze, brush or drizzle the maple syrup over the hot bacon slices right after they come off the oven. For candied bacon made with brown sugar you may skip additional syrup; the sugar will have caramelized slightly in the oven.
- 6
Garnish
Sprinkle chopped chives over the glazed or plain bacon for a fresh finish. Serve immediately as a side.
