Thick Cut Smoked Bacon Recipe

Inspired by The Modern

Time35m

Serves4

Make Thick Cut Smoked Bacon Recipe in just 35m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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1
Bring bacon to temperature
Remove bacon from refrigerator and let sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes. This helps it cook more evenly.
2
Preheat oven (recommended method)
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup and place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet. The rack lifts the bacon so air circulates and the fat renders away from the strips.
3
Arrange bacon
Lay the thick-cut bacon strips in a single layer on the wire rack. Do not overlap. If your bacon is very long, you can cut strips in half to fit.
4
Bake until crisped to preference
Place the sheet on the middle rack and bake for 18–28 minutes depending on thickness and desired crispness: start checking at 15–18 minutes. For chewy but rendered bacon, aim for 18–22 minutes; for crisp edges and a firm bite, allow 24–28 minutes. Rotate the pan once halfway through for even browning.
5
Optional stovetop method
If you prefer stovetop, use a large cast-iron or heavy skillet over medium-low heat. Arrange strips without overlapping. Cook slowly 6–10 minutes per side, adjusting heat so fat renders without burning. Turn occasionally and transfer cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
6
Drain
When bacon reaches desired doneness, use tongs to transfer strips to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess fat. Let rest 1–2 minutes; bacon will crisp slightly as it cools.

7
Maple-brown sugar glaze (optional)
If glazing, place 2 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey) and 1 tablespoon brown sugar in a small saucepan over low heat until sugar dissolves and mixture is syrupy (about 1–2 minutes). Brush glaze over bacon in the last 2–3 minutes of baking or toss briefly in a bowl with the glaze after cooking so it caramelizes but does not burn. Return to oven for 1–2 minutes if you want a stickier finish.
8
Season
Lightly sprinkle freshly ground black pepper to taste over the hot bacon if desired.
9
Serve
Serve bacon hot as a side, in sandwiches, salads, or crumbled over dishes. If making bacon bites, fold strips and secure with toothpicks for easy serving.