Alton Brown Bacon Recipe is made with just sliced bacon and a smart oven method. This recipe creates evenly cooked, crisp bacon without splatter. It takes about 35 minutes to prepare and yields approximately 8 servings.
Alton Brown Bacon Recipe Ingredients
- 8 ounces sliced bacon (see note)
How To Make Alton Brown Bacon Recipe
- Prep the Pan: Line a half sheet pan with heavy-duty aluminum foil, shiny side up, and place a wire rack on top.
- Arrange Bacon: Lay bacon slices on the rack without overlapping. Optionally, grind black pepper over the slices.
- Start Cold: Place the pan on the middle rack of a cold oven and close the door.
- Cook the Bacon: Set oven temperature to 400°F and roast for 30 minutes or until bacon reaches desired doneness.
- Adjust as Needed: Depending on bacon thickness, you may need slightly more or less time.

Recipe Tips
- Start in a Cold Oven: Ensures even cooking and prevents burning.
- Use a Rack: Allows fat to drip away for crispier bacon.
- Adjust for Thickness: Thicker slices need more time; watch closely near the end.
- Try Black Pepper: Adds a subtle spicy kick to the bacon.
- Minimize Smoke: Line pan with wet paper towels instead of foil if smoke is a concern, but note you’ll lose the rendered fat.
What To Serve With Bacon
This bacon is perfect for breakfast with eggs and toast, added to sandwiches like BLTs, crumbled over salads, or served alongside pancakes or waffles. It’s also great in burgers or wrapped around dates or asparagus for appetizers.
How To Store Bacon
Refrigerate: Store cooked bacon in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freeze: Freeze between parchment layers in a sealed bag for up to 1 month. Reheat in a skillet or oven.
Bacon Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 90 (per 2 slices)
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 5g
- Sodium: 360mg
FAQs
Do I need to preheat the oven?
No, starting in a cold oven helps the bacon cook evenly.
Can I use thick-cut bacon?
Yes, but expect to increase the cooking time slightly.
What if I don’t have a wire rack?
You can lay bacon directly on the foil, but it may not crisp as evenly.
Is there a way to reduce smoke?
Yes, use damp paper towels in place of foil to absorb grease, though you won’t have drippings.
Can I save the bacon fat?
Absolutely—pour into a container for later use in cooking or seasoning.
Try More Recipes:
- Alton Brown Baba Ganoush Recipe
- Alton Brown Avocado Sardine Toast Recipe
- Alton Brown Avocado Ice Cream Recipe
Alton Brown Bacon Recipe
Description
A no-fuss oven method for crisp, evenly cooked bacon with minimal mess.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Line a half sheet pan with heavy-duty aluminum foil, shiny side up, and place a wire rack on top.
- Lay bacon slices on the rack without overlapping. Optionally, grind on black pepper.
- Place pan on the middle rack of a cold oven and close the door.
- Set oven to 400°F and roast for 30 minutes or until bacon is as crisp as you like.
- Adjust time based on the thickness of your bacon. Remove and serve.
