Layering paper towels between the strips on a microwave-safe plate absorbs excess grease for a crispy, not soggy, result. If you have ever wondered how to cook microwave bacon without making a mess or ending up with chewy strips, this guide is for you. Microwave bacon is fast, easy, and requires almost no cleanup when done right.
You don’t need a skillet or an oven. Just a microwave, a plate, and some paper towels. In under five minutes, you can have perfectly cooked bacon that is crispy and delicious.
Many people think microwave bacon turns out rubbery or uneven. That happens when you skip the right layering technique. With the method below, you get consistent results every time.
Let’s get started with everything you need to know.
Why Cook Bacon In The Microwave?
Microwave cooking is fast. Bacon cooks in 3 to 5 minutes depending on your microwave wattage and how crispy you like it.
There is less mess. No grease splatters on your stovetop or counter. The paper towels catch most of the fat.
Cleanup is simple. You throw away the paper towels and wash one plate. No scrubbing pans.
It is also safer. You don’t stand over a hot skillet with popping grease. The microwave contains everything.
How To Cook Microwave Bacon
This method works for regular cut bacon, thick cut, and even turkey bacon. Follow these steps exactly for best results.
What You Need
- Microwave-safe plate (flat, not a bowl)
- Paper towels (strong, not the thin cheap kind)
- Bacon strips (any type you prefer)
- A microwave
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Line your microwave-safe plate with 3 layers of paper towels. This absorbs the grease as it renders.
- Place bacon strips on the paper towels. Do not overlap them. Leave a little space between each strip so they cook evenly.
- Cover the bacon with 2 more layers of paper towels. This prevents grease from splattering inside your microwave.
- Microwave on high. Start with 4 minutes for regular cut bacon. For thick cut, try 5 minutes. For thin cut, 3 minutes may be enough.
- Check the bacon after the time is up. If it is not crispy enough, add 30-second increments until it reaches your desired doneness.
- Carefully remove the plate. It will be hot. Use oven mitts if needed.
- Let the bacon rest for 30 seconds. It will continue to crisp as it cools.
- Transfer to a clean plate or paper towel to drain any remaining grease.
That is all there is to it. You now know exactly how to cook microwave bacon the right way.
Tips For Perfect Microwave Bacon
- Use a microwave-safe plate that is flat. A rimmed plate can trap grease and make the bacon soggy.
- Do not use wax paper or aluminum foil. Only paper towels work for absorbing grease.
- If you want extra crispy bacon, add 15 to 30 seconds at a time. Do not overcook all at once.
- For less grease, press the top paper towels gently after cooking. This soaks up more fat.
- Let the bacon sit for a minute before eating. It firms up nicely.
Common Mistakes And How To Avoid Them
Even with simple instructions, people make errors. Here are the most common problems and fixes.
Bacon Is Chewy Or Rubbery
This happens when you undercook it or use too few paper towels. The grease pools around the strips and steams them instead of frying. Always use at least 3 layers under and 2 layers on top.
Bacon Burns In Spots
Uneven cooking occurs when strips overlap or touch. Space them out. Also, microwave wattage varies. A 1200-watt microwave cooks faster than a 700-watt one. Adjust time accordingly.
Grease Splatters Inside Microwave
You forgot the top paper towels. Always cover the bacon. The top layer catches splatters and keeps your microwave clean.
Paper Towels Stick To Bacon
This happens if the bacon is very fatty and the paper towels are thin. Use stronger, thicker paper towels. You can also lightly spray the top paper towel with cooking spray before covering the bacon.
How Long To Cook Microwave Bacon
Timing depends on your microwave power and bacon thickness. Use this as a general guide.
| Bacon Type | Approximate Time (High Power) |
|---|---|
| Regular cut | 4 to 5 minutes |
| Thick cut | 5 to 6 minutes |
| Thin cut | 3 to 4 minutes |
| Turkey bacon | 3 to 4 minutes |
Always check at the lower end of the range. You can add more time if needed. Bacon continues to cook slightly after you remove it from the microwave.
Can You Cook Bacon In The Microwave Without Paper Towels?
Yes, but it is not recommended. Without paper towels, the grease splatters everywhere. The bacon also sits in its own fat, which makes it greasy and less crispy.
If you have no paper towels, use a microwave bacon tray. These special plates have ridges that let grease drip down. They work well but require washing afterward.
Another option is a microwave-safe rack placed over a plate. The rack lifts the bacon above the grease. This method produces crispy bacon but cleanup takes longer.
How To Reheat Bacon In The Microwave
Leftover bacon can be reheated quickly. Place strips on a paper towel-lined plate. Cover with another paper towel. Microwave for 15 to 30 seconds. Check and add 10 seconds if needed.
Do not overheat. Bacon burns fast in the microwave. Reheat only what you plan to eat.
How To Store Cooked Bacon
Let the bacon cool completely. Place it in an airtight container or zip-top bag. Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
You can also freeze cooked bacon. Lay strips on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag. It keeps for up to 3 months.
To reheat frozen bacon, microwave for 20 to 30 seconds. It will taste almost as good as fresh.
Microwave Bacon Vs Pan-Fried Bacon
Both methods have pros and cons. Microwave bacon is faster and cleaner. Pan-fried bacon has a different texture and flavor because of the direct heat.
Microwave bacon is less greasy because the paper towels absorb fat. Pan-fried bacon stays in its own grease, which some people prefer for flavor.
If you want bacon for a sandwich or salad, microwave works great. If you want bacon bits for topping, pan-frying gives more control over crispness.
Try both and see which you like better. Many people use the microwave for everyday cooking and the pan for special occasions.
Can You Cook Turkey Bacon In The Microwave?
Yes. Turkey bacon cooks faster than pork bacon. Follow the same method but reduce time by about 1 minute. Check at 3 minutes and add 15-second increments.
Turkey bacon is leaner, so it may not get as crispy. Do not overcook it or it will become hard and brittle.
How To Make Microwave Bacon Extra Crispy
If you love crunchy bacon, try these tips.
- Use fewer paper towels on top. One layer instead of two allows more moisture to escape.
- Cook for a slightly longer time. Add 30 seconds at a time until it reaches your desired crispness.
- Let the bacon rest on a paper towel after cooking. The residual heat continues to crisp it.
- For very crispy bacon, microwave on a microwave bacon tray instead of paper towels. The tray allows air to circulate.
Is Microwave Bacon Healthy?
Bacon is high in fat and sodium regardless of cooking method. However, microwave cooking reduces the fat content because the paper towels absorb rendered grease.
One study found that microwave bacon has about 25% less fat than pan-fried bacon. The difference comes from the fat that drains away instead of being reabsorbed.
If you are watching your diet, microwave bacon is a better choice. You still get the flavor with less grease.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Cook Bacon In The Microwave Without Paper Towels?
Yes, but it will be greasier and messier. Use a microwave bacon tray or a rack over a plate for better results.
How Do I Keep Bacon From Curling In The Microwave?
Bacon curls because the fat renders unevenly. Press the strips flat with the top paper towels. You can also cut small slits in the fat edge to prevent curling.
Can I Cook Frozen Bacon In The Microwave?
Yes. Place frozen strips on paper towels and microwave for 5 to 6 minutes. Check and add time as needed. Frozen bacon may cook unevenly, so separate strips after 3 minutes if possible.
Why Is My Microwave Bacon Chewy?
You likely undercooked it or used too few paper towels. The grease steamed the bacon instead of allowing it to crisp. Add more time and use proper layering.
Can I Microwave Bacon On A Paper Plate?
Yes, but only if the plate is microwave-safe. Some paper plates have a thin coating that can melt. Check the label. For safety, use a ceramic or glass plate.
Final Thoughts On How To Cook Microwave Bacon
Learning how to cook microwave bacon saves you time and cleanup. The key is layering paper towels properly and adjusting time based on your microwave.
Once you master this method, you will never dread making bacon again. It is fast, easy, and gives you consistent results every time.
Try it for your next breakfast, BLT, or bacon topping. You might never go back to the skillet.
Remember to always use a microwave-safe plate and plenty of paper towels. Adjust timing for your specific microwave wattage. And let the bacon rest for a minute before eating for the best texture.
Now you know exactly how to get crispy, delicious bacon from your microwave with minimal effort.