There’s more than one way to achieve crispy bacon, but microwaving it is quick, easy and can be less messy than frying.
Can you microwave bacon?
Yes, you can microwave bacon – this method is best for those who prefer their bacon to be on the crisper side, though.
When microwaved, bacon cooks evenly and releases its excess fat, which can be easily absorbed by kitchen paper – this means it’s less fatty than when pan-fried.
If you prefer softer, less crisp bacon, you can microwave it for less time, or put a microwave-safe lid on the dish.
How to microwave bacon
To cook bacon in the microwave, you’ll need to use a microwave-safe plate, ideally with ridges (which allows the fat to drain away). Here’s how:
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- Lay the bacon rashers on a ridged microwave-safe plate in a single layer. For best results, try to use rashers that are all a similar thickness.
- Cover with a lid if you prefer softer bacon (this will also prevent fat from spitting on the inside of the microwave).
- Set the microwave to high (this can vary according to your microwave’s wattage).
- Microwave the bacon for about 1 min per rasher. If the bacon is very thin, it may take less time; if it’s thicker, it may take a few seconds more. (See below.) Check the bacon halfway through to ensure it’s cooking evenly, and adjust the position of the rashers, if needed.
How long should you microwave bacon?
This depends on your microwave’s wattage and how crispy you want your bacon to be. As a general rule:
- For soft bacon: cook for 45 seconds per rasher for medium rashers. If it’s not cooked to your liking in this time, continue to cook in 5-second increments.
- For crispy bacon: cook for 1 minute per rasher for medium rashers. Adjust the time accordingly if the rashers are thicker or thinner.
Watch the bacon closely towards the end of the cooking time to ensure it doesn’t burn. It will keep cooking for a couple of seconds after the microwave stops. Once cooked, carefully remove the plate from the microwave (it will be hot) and use tongs to transfer the bacon to your plate. If you like, blot off any excess fat.
Microwave bacon recipes
Try microwaving bacon to use in some of these recipes, rather than frying it:
Crispy bacon & sausage carbonara
You can microwave either bacon or pancetta – the pancetta will take less time.
Buttermilk corn pancakes with bacon & maple syrup
Microwave the bacon while you’re making the pancakes, rather than using the same pan at the end.
Egg-in-the-hole bacon sandwich
Use less oil in this recipe by microwaving the bacon instead of frying it – perfect for a satisfying brunch.
Chicken, spinach & bacon alfredo pasta bake
Using a microwave in this comforting pasta bake creates less mess, and saves you from turning the grill on.
Spinach, bacon & roquefort tart
This puff pastry tart can be served for lunch or a light dinner. Microwave the bacon and serve it on the side so everyone can help themselves.
Discover more foods you can cook in the microwave:
How to cook pasta in the microwave
How to microwave a baked potato
How to make scrambled eggs in the microwave
How to microwave mushrooms
How to melt chocolate in the microwave
