Let’s be honest, who doesn’t love bacon? That savory, sizzling sound and irresistible aroma can make any morning better. But the stovetop mess? Not so much. The grease splatters, the lingering smell, the careful flipping… it can be a real hassle. What if I told you there’s a better, faster, and cleaner way? Learning How To Cook Bacon In The Microwave is a game-changer, and as your go-to microwave expert, I’m here to show you exactly how to achieve perfectly crispy results every single time. Forget what you think you know; this method is foolproof.
Why Use a Microwave for Bacon? The Surprising Benefits
Skeptical? I get it. The microwave is often pigeonholed as a device for just reheating food. But when it comes to bacon, this kitchen appliance shines. Microwaves cook by exciting water molecules, and since bacon has a high-fat content (which also contains water), the energy is absorbed quickly and evenly, rendering the fat and crisping the meat from the inside out.
The main advantages are undeniable:
- Speed: A few slices can be ready in under five minutes. No preheating a pan or oven.
- Less Mess: Say goodbye to a stovetop coated in grease. The entire process is contained, making cleanup incredibly simple.
- Consistency: By controlling the time, you get predictable results every time, without the risk of burnt ends and undercooked centers.
- Healthier (Slightly): The bacon isn’t sitting and cooking in its own rendered fat. Much of the grease is absorbed by the paper towels, which can marginally reduce the fat content.
What You’ll Need: The Essential Toolkit
You don’t need any fancy gadgets. The beauty of this method lies in its simplicity. Here’s your short and sweet checklist:
- Bacon: Any standard-cut bacon will work perfectly.
- A Large, Microwave-Safe Plate: A ceramic or glass dinner plate is ideal. Never use plastic that isn’t explicitly marked as microwave-safe.
- Paper Towels: Don’t skimp here. You’ll need at least 4-5 sheets. They are the secret weapon for absorbing grease and preventing splatters.
- An Optional Microwave Bacon Tray: These are specially designed racks that elevate the bacon, allowing grease to drip away. They’re nice to have but not essential.
The Step-by-Step Guide: How to Cook Bacon in the Microwave
Ready for breakfast magic? Follow these simple steps. I remember the first time I tried this, I couldn’t believe how well it worked.
- Prep Your Plate: Lay two sheets of paper towel flat on your microwave-safe plate. This will be the base layer that catches the initial grease.
- Arrange the Bacon: Place the bacon strips in a single layer on top of the paper towels. Make sure they are not overlapping. If you try to crowd the plate, the bacon will steam instead of crisp. It’s better to cook in batches if you have a lot.
- Cover It Up: Place another two sheets of paper towel on top of the bacon. This is crucial for preventing a messy splatter-fest inside your microwave oven. It also helps trap just enough steam to cook the bacon through before it crisps.
- Microwave on High: This is where the timing comes in. A good rule of thumb is to cook the bacon for approximately one minute per slice. So, for four slices, start with four minutes.
- Check and Adjust: After the initial cooking time, carefully remove the plate (it will be hot!). Check the bacon’s crispiness. If it’s not quite done, put it back in for 30-second intervals until it reaches your desired level of perfection.
- Rest and Crisp: Carefully transfer the cooked bacon to a clean plate lined with a fresh paper towel. As it cools for a minute or two, it will become even crispier.
That’s it! You’ve successfully learned how to cook bacon in the microwave. The greasy paper towels can be tossed right in the trash for the easiest cleanup ever.
Mastering the Art: Pro Tips from The Microwave King
Once you’ve got the basic technique down, you can fine-tune it for bacon nirvana.
Adjusting for Wattage: Not All Microwaves are Created Equal
Microwave power, measured in wattage, directly impacts cooking time. The “one minute per slice” rule is based on a standard 1000-1200 watt microwave.
- Low-Wattage Microwaves (700-900W): You may need to add an extra 30-60 seconds to the total cooking time.
- High-Wattage Microwaves (1200W+): Your bacon might cook faster, so start checking it a minute earlier to prevent it from burning.
Understanding your appliance’s wattage is key to mastering it, whether you’re making bacon or just reheating leftovers. Modern units featuring inverter technology can also be beneficial, as they deliver power more consistently, preventing the hot and cold spots that older models sometimes created.
The Paper Towel Debate: How Many is Too Many?
The paper towels serve two functions: absorbing grease and containing splatters. Using at least two on the bottom and two on top is non-negotiable. For particularly fatty bacon, you might even consider three on the bottom. The goal is to wick away as much rendered fat as possible to promote crisping.
To Flip or Not to Flip?
For standard-cut bacon, flipping is generally unnecessary. The microwave energy penetrates the food from all sides. However, if you’re attempting to cook a thicker cut of bacon, you might benefit from flipping the strips halfway through the cooking process to ensure even rendering of the fat.
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Our Picks for the Best Microwave Oven in 2026
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| Num | Product | Action |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Breville BOV450XL Mini Smart Countertop Oven and Toaster Oven, Small, Brushed Stainless Steel |
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| 2 | Cooks Innovations Non-Stick Oven Protector Mat - Heavy Duty Nonstick Oven Rack Liners to Protect Convection, Electric, Gas, & Microwave Ovens - BPA & PFOA Free Heat Resistant Baking Mat |
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| 3 | TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft, 12.4\" Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor 12 Auto Menus Mute Function ECO Mode Easy Clean Interior Black Color 1000W |
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| 4 | Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock - Stainless |
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| 5 | Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700 Watts with 10 Power Levels, 6 Cooking Presets with One-Touch Express Cook, Eco Mode, Child Safety Lock, & Mute Button - Black |
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| 6 | COMFEE\' EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode and Easy One-Touch Buttons, 0.7cu.ft, 700W, Black |
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| 7 | Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu. Ft. Digital Stainless Steel Microwave 1000 Watts with 6 Auto Menus, 10 Power Levels, Eco Mode, Memory, Mute Function, Child Safety Lock, Easy Clean |
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| 8 | BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety Lock, 700W, Stainless Steel, 0.7 Cu.ft |
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| 9 | BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety Lock, Stainless Steel, 0.9 Cu Ft |
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| 10 | TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus, Mute Function & Child Lock, LED Lighting, Perfect for Apartment, 0.9 Cu Ft, 10.6 Inch Removable Turntable, 900W, Black Stainless Steel |
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Microwave Safety: More Than Just Pressing ‘Start’
While convenient, microwaves are powerful devices. Safety should always be your top priority when cooking anything, especially high-fat foods like bacon.
Safety Warning: Always use oven mitts when removing the plate from the microwave. The rendered bacon grease will be extremely hot and can cause severe burns. Allow it to cool slightly before handling the bacon.
John Miller, an appliance technician with 15 years in the field, always advises his clients, “The most common microwave mishaps come from using the wrong materials. Never put metal, foil, or non-microwave-safe plastics inside. When in doubt, check the bottom of the dish for the microwave-safe symbol.”
Beyond Bacon: Understanding Your Kitchen’s MVP
Mastering how to cook bacon in the microwave is just the beginning. This versatile kitchen appliance can do so much more. From countertop models that are perfect for dorm rooms to powerful over-the-range units that save space, there’s a microwave for every home. When you understand its core technology, you unlock a world of culinary shortcuts. Thinking about upgrading? Consider features like sensor cooking, which automatically adjusts time and power, or a convection function that lets your microwave double as a small oven.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How long does it take to cook bacon in the microwave?
A: A general rule of thumb is about one minute per slice of standard-cut bacon. For four slices, start with four minutes on high power and add 30-second increments if needed until it reaches your desired crispiness.
Q2: Can you cook thick-cut bacon in the microwave?
A: Yes, you can, but it will require more time. Start with about 1.5 minutes per slice and consider flipping it halfway through cooking. Be aware that it may not get as uniformly crispy as standard-cut bacon.
Q3: How do I prevent bacon from splattering in the microwave?
A: The key is to cover the bacon completely with at least two layers of paper towels. This will absorb the grease and trap any splatters, keeping the inside of your microwave perfectly clean.
Q4: Is microwaved bacon actually crispy?
A: Absolutely! The secret is to let it rest for a minute or two after cooking. It will continue to crisp up as it cools. By wicking away the grease with paper towels, you prevent it from becoming soggy and allow it to get wonderfully crunchy.
Q5: What’s the best way to clean up bacon grease from a microwave?
A: If a stray splatter does occur, the easiest way to clean it is to place a bowl of water with a few lemon slices inside and microwave for 3-4 minutes. The steam will loosen any grime, allowing you to wipe it away effortlessly with a cloth.
Conclusion
The microwave is far more than a simple reheating box; it’s a sophisticated piece of technology capable of delivering quick, delicious, and convenient meals. Learning how to cook bacon in the microwave not only saves you time and effort but also opens the door to exploring the full potential of your appliance. By following these simple steps and understanding the basics of how your machine works, you can enjoy perfectly crispy bacon any day of the week, with virtually no cleanup.
So go ahead, give it a try! I’d love to hear about your experience in the comments below.