Bacon Crumbles Recipe
Make Bacon Crumbles Recipe in just 30m. 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
Prepare the bacon
If slices are very thick or large, stack and cut each slice crosswise into 3–4 strips; this makes more uniformly sized crumbles. Pat bacon dry with paper towels if it's extremely wet from packaging.
Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C) for oven method, or heat a large heavy skillet (cast iron preferred) over medium heat for stovetop method.
Arrange bacon strips in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet lined with foil or parchment (for oven) or place in the preheated skillet in a single layer without crowding. For oven: bake for 12–18 minutes, flipping once halfway, until edges are crisp and centers are cooked but not burnt. Thin bacon may take 12–14 minutes; thick-cut 16–18 minutes. For stovetop: cook 6–10 minutes per side, adjusting heat to maintain a steady sizzle but avoid burning.
When bacon is crisped to your liking, transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain for 2–3 minutes. Sprinkle with 1/4 tsp Kosher salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper while still hot so seasoning adheres.
Once slightly cooled but still pliable, chop the bacon with a chef's knife on a cutting board into small pieces. For finer crumbles, pulse in a food processor in short 1-second bursts — 3–5 pulses — watching carefully so it doesn’t become a paste.
Spread the crumbles on a sheet pan or plate to cool fully and crisp further for 5–10 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Finishing (optional)
If you want sweet-savory glazed crumbles, place the chopped crumbles back in a warm skillet over low heat, add 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or honey) and 1/4 tsp smoked paprika, toss for 30–45 seconds until glazed and sticky. Remove immediately and cool on paper towels to set the glaze.
Allow crumbles to cool completely before storing. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze in portions up to 3 months.