Bacon Crumbles Recipe

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.

If using the skillet and your bacon is lean, add 1 tsp neutral oil to the pan and swirl to coat. This helps prevent sticking for very lean bacon; do not add oil if bacon has visible fat.

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.

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.