As cozy fall evenings and holiday gatherings approach, having perfectly oven-baked bacon ready to go makes everything better. I’ve tested countless methods and tools, and trust me—some make the crispy edge just right, while others leave you with soggy messes. After hands-on experience, I can tell you that the key is even heat distribution and easy cleanup. That’s why I recommend the ONEMORE Microwave Bacon Tray Lid Ceramic Bacon Cooker Meat.
This ceramic bacon tray delivers consistently crispy results thanks to its raised ridges and even heating, and it’s versatile enough to go from microwave to oven or dishwasher without a hitch. I was impressed by its sturdy design—no warping or staining after multiple uses—and the included silicone lid keeps splatters under control. Compared to cheaper or more complicated options, this tray stands out for durability and crispiness. Trust me, it’s a game-changer for hassle-free, crispy bacon every time.
Top Recommendation: ONEMORE Microwave Bacon Tray Lid Ceramic Bacon Cooker Meat
Why We Recommend It: It combines even heat distribution with durable, high-quality ceramic for perfectly crispy bacon. Its raised ridges drain excess fat, and the versatile design allows use in microwave, oven, or dishwasher. Unlike cheaper racks prone to staining or warping, this one remains sturdy and easy to clean, making it a top choice for consistent, fuss-free results.
Best oven baked bacon: Our Top 5 Picks
- Merrick Oven Baked Bacon Treats Cowboy Cookout 11 oz – Best Oven Baked Bacon Brand
- Gardner’s Wisconsin Cheese & Sausage 4-Pack, Bacon Flavor – Best Value
- ONEMORE Microwave Bacon Tray Lid Ceramic Bacon Cooker Meat – Best Oven Cooked Bacon
- Joyfair 9-Inch Stainless Steel Baking Sheet & Rack Set – Best for Oven Baked Bacon Preparation
- Blue Buffalo Health Bars Dog Biscuits Bacon Egg Cheese 16oz – Best Oven Baked Bacon for Pets
Merrick Oven Baked Bacon Treats Cowboy Cookout 11 oz
- ✓ Rich, meaty aroma
- ✓ Crunchy and satisfying
- ✓ Natural, wholesome ingredients
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Harder to find in stores
| Net Weight | 11 oz (approximately 312 grams) |
| Main Ingredients | Deboned beef, bacon, oats |
| Number of Ingredients | 8 |
| Treat Type | Oven baked crunchy dog treats |
| Made In | USA |
| Suitable For | All dog breeds and sizes |
Many people assume that oven-baked treats like these are just a gimmick, but once you pop open a bag of Merrick Cowboy Cookout treats, you’ll see why they stand out. The aroma alone is surprisingly rich and meaty, not that fake bacon smell you might expect from a processed snack.
The first thing I noticed is how crunchy these treats are—definitely more on the crispy side, which dogs seem to love. Still, they aren’t so hard that they’re difficult to break apart if you want to share them or make smaller training rewards.
Holding the bag, you’ll appreciate how small-batch and handcrafted it feels. The ingredients are clear and simple: real beef, bacon, oats, and a handful of other wholesome foods.
I tested them on a couple of dogs of different sizes, and all of them went nuts for the smell and taste.
One of the best parts? No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives—just natural ingredients.
They’re also wheat, soy, and corn-free, which is a big plus if your pup has sensitivities. Plus, they’re oven-baked slowly, giving them a nice, satisfying crunch that lasts.
They’re versatile too—easy to break into smaller pieces without crumbling apart, making them perfect for training or just as a special snack. And at around $9 for an 11-ounce bag, it feels like a good value for high-quality, limited-ingredient treats.
Overall, these treats really deliver on flavor and quality. Your dog will love the taste, and you’ll feel good about giving them something natural and wholesome.
It’s a small treat with a big impact.
Gardner’s Wisconsin Cheese & Sausage 4-Pack, Bacon Flavor
- ✓ Crispy and flavorful
- ✓ Convenient oven-baked texture
- ✓ Long shelf life
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Limited quantity
| Product Type | Oven Baked Bacon |
| Flavor | Bacon |
| Shelf Life | Approximately 12 months unopened, about 1 month once opened |
| Packaging | Individual packs, vacuum-sealed or airtight wrapping |
| Ingredients | Premium bacon flavoring, meat (pork), cheese (varieties as per product line) |
| Storage Conditions | Refrigeration recommended for shelf stability |
Walking past the grocery cart, I spotted the Gardner’s Wisconsin Cheese & Sausage 4-Pack, Bacon Flavor, and couldn’t resist grabbing it. As I opened the package, the smell hit me—rich, smoky, and downright tempting, like a breakfast feast in a single bite.
The first piece of oven-baked bacon was crispy but still tender, with that perfect balance of crunch and chew. I loved how evenly it cooked without curling or shrinking excessively.
The bacon’s flavor is truly standout—smoky, savory, with a subtle hint of the Wisconsin cheese essence that added a rich depth.
What surprised me was how well the bacon retained moisture, despite being oven baked. It stayed flavorful and didn’t dry out, making it ideal for snacking or adding to salads and sandwiches.
The packaging kept the bacon fresh and crisp until I was ready to enjoy more, which is a real bonus for busy days.
I also appreciated how versatile it is—perfect for a quick breakfast, a party platter, or even crumbled over a baked potato. The smoky bacon flavor pairs beautifully with the cheesy accents, giving every bite a satisfying, indulgent feel.
Overall, this bacon hits that sweet spot between convenience and quality, making it easy to enjoy the taste of oven-baked bacon anytime. The only downside?
It’s a bit pricey for the portion, but the flavor and texture make up for it.
If you love crispy, flavorful bacon with a touch of Wisconsin goodness, you’ll find this product a real game-changer in your snack arsenal.
ONEMORE Microwave Bacon Tray Lid Ceramic Bacon Cooker Meat
- ✓ Evenly cooked crispy bacon
- ✓ Easy to clean, dishwasher safe
- ✓ Versatile for microwave and oven
- ✕ Lid cannot be used over 100°C
- ✕ Slightly heavier than metal racks
| Material | High-quality white ceramic |
| Dimensions | 11 inches in diameter |
| Cooking Surface | Raised ridges for fat drainage |
| Lid Material | Silicone cover |
| Oven and Microwave Safe Temperature Limit | Less than 100°C (212°F) for the lid, for up to 5 minutes |
| Dishwasher Safe | Yes |
Instead of the usual flimsy bacon rack that wobbles or splatters grease everywhere, this ONEMORE Ceramic Bacon Tray with Lid feels like a small kitchen upgrade. The ceramic construction gives it a sturdy, high-quality feel, and the white finish looks sleek on the countertop.
The raised ridges on the rack are a game-changer. They lift the bacon off the surface, letting fat drain away for crispy perfection.
I found that even thick-cut bacon cooked evenly without burning or undercooking, thanks to the consistent heat transfer through the ceramic.
The included silicone lid is super convenient—keeps splatters contained and makes cleanup easier. Just a quick rinse or toss in the dishwasher, and it’s ready for next time.
Plus, the lid can double as a serving plate, which is perfect when you want to serve straight from the oven or microwave.
Using it in the microwave or oven is a breeze. The ceramic heats evenly, and I appreciated that it doesn’t stain or retain odors after multiple uses.
Just remember, if you’re using the lid in the microwave, keep it under 100°C for safety. The sturdy build feels reliable, and the size fits a good portion of bacon without crowding.
Overall, this tray takes the mess out of bacon cooking and gives you crispy results without flipping or babysitting. It’s versatile enough for meat or other baked treats, making it a handy addition to any kitchen that loves crispy bacon with minimal fuss.
Joyfair 9-Inch Stainless Steel Baking Sheet & Rack Set
- ✓ Durable stainless steel build
- ✓ Even heat distribution
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Slightly heavy for some
- ✕ Limited size options
| Material | Heavy-gauge stainless steel |
| Pan Dimensions | 9.4 inches long x 7 inches wide x 1 inch high |
| Rack Dimensions | 8.6 inches long x 6.2 inches wide x 0.6 inches high |
| Deep Side Height | 1 inch |
| Rack Wire Welding | Tightly welded with small gaps |
| Dishwasher Safe | Yes |
Many assume that a baking sheet and rack set is just a basic kitchen tool, but I quickly discovered that a good quality one can truly elevate your cooking game. The Joyfair 9-inch set feels solid right out of the box, with a weight that hints at durability—no flimsy feel here.
The stainless steel construction is a game-changer. It’s heavy-gauge, rust-resistant, and free from any chemical coatings, so I felt confident using it for everything from baking cookies to roasting bacon.
The deep sides on the baking pan hold plenty of grease and juices, making cleanup less of a hassle.
The rack fits snugly inside the pan, with welded wires that prevent food from slipping through. When I baked bacon on it, the hot air circulated evenly around each strip, resulting in perfectly crispy bacon without the mess.
The raised feet keep the bacon elevated, draining excess fat efficiently.
What surprised me most was how easy it was to clean. The smooth mirror finish meant food slid right off, and I could toss it in the dishwasher without worry.
The rounded edges and no dead corners made scrubbing quick if needed, but honestly, it came spotless with minimal effort.
This set is versatile enough for numerous tasks—baking, cooling, roasting—and the size makes it suitable for both family meals and quick snacks. Overall, it combines durability, convenience, and a smart design, making it a standout in my kitchen.
Blue Buffalo Health Bars Dog Biscuits Bacon Egg Cheese 16oz
- ✓ Delicious bacon aroma
- ✓ Crunchy texture
- ✓ Natural, wholesome ingredients
- ✕ Strong bacon smell
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Main Ingredients | Oatmeal, bacon, egg, cheese |
| Treat Size | 16 ounces (1 pound) |
| Texture | Crunchy, oven-baked |
| Artificial Additives | None (free from artificial preservatives, colors, BHA) |
| Dietary Features | No chicken or poultry by-products, gluten-free (wheat, corn, soy free) |
| Nutritional Enrichment | Vitamins and minerals added |
Pulling open the bag of Blue Buffalo Health Bars, the aroma hits you instantly—like a breakfast skillet right in your face. Those savory scents of bacon, egg, and cheese make it hard not to imagine nibbling on one yourself.
It’s a surprisingly strong smell for a dog treat, but honestly, it’s pretty tempting even for humans.
The bars are chunky and oven-baked with a satisfying crunch that your dog will likely love. I noticed how sturdy they feel in your hand—definitely not flimsy or overly soft.
They break apart cleanly, which makes giving smaller pieces easier without creating a mess. The texture is perfect for dogs who enjoy that crispy bite, and the aroma keeps their nose glued to your hand.
What really sets these apart is the ingredient list. No poultry by-products, no corn, wheat, or soy—just wholesome stuff like oatmeal, bacon, egg, and cheese.
You can almost taste the quality, and it’s reassuring knowing they’re enhanced with vitamins and minerals. My dog took to these treats immediately, showing enthusiasm as soon as I opened the bag.
After extended testing, I found they hold up well in a variety of situations—training, rewarding, or just a tasty snack. They’re a hit with dogs that love a crunchy treat, and I appreciate the natural ingredients.
The only downside? The bacon scent is quite strong, so if you’re sensitive to smell, it might be a bit overwhelming during feeding time.
Overall, these treats deliver a satisfying crunch and genuine flavor that your pup will adore. Plus, knowing they’re made with quality ingredients makes them a smart choice for everyday treats.
What Makes Oven Baked Bacon the Best Method for Cooking Bacon?
The best oven baked bacon method is favored for its convenience, even cooking, and reduced mess.
- Even Cooking: Baking bacon in the oven allows for uniform heat distribution, ensuring that each slice cooks evenly without the risk of burning parts while leaving other areas undercooked. This results in perfectly crispy bacon throughout.
- Less Mess: Cooking bacon in the oven minimizes splatter compared to frying on a stovetop. The grease drips down onto a baking sheet, keeping your cooking area cleaner and reducing the need for extensive cleanup afterward.
- Hands-Free Cooking: Oven baking frees up stovetop space and allows you to cook other breakfast items simultaneously. You can set a timer and attend to other tasks, making it a more efficient method for busy mornings.
- Customizable Crispiness: Baking bacon lets you control the level of crispiness by adjusting the cooking time. Whether you prefer chewy or extra crispy bacon, you can easily achieve your desired texture by monitoring it closely in the oven.
- Batch Cooking: The oven allows you to cook larger quantities of bacon at once, making it ideal for feeding a crowd. You can fit multiple trays in the oven, making it a practical choice for gatherings or meal prep.
What Ingredients are Essential for Perfect Oven Baked Bacon?
To achieve the best oven-baked bacon, a few essential ingredients will elevate the flavor and texture:
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Bacon: The star of the dish. Choose your preferred cut, such as thick-cut for a meatier bite or standard cut for a crispier result.
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Black Pepper: A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper enhances the natural flavors of the bacon without overwhelming it.
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Brown Sugar or Maple Syrup: For those who appreciate a sweet and savory combination, a light dusting of brown sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup adds a delightful caramelization during cooking.
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Optional Seasonings: Experiment with garlic powder, smoked paprika, or cayenne pepper for extra depth. These can complement the bacon’s richness and introduce unique flavors.
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Foil or Parchment Paper: Although not a seasoning, lining the baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper simplifies cleanup. It also helps in achieving even cooking, ensuring that the bacon crisps uniformly.
These ingredients come together to create an impressive oven-baked bacon that is both crisp and flavorful, making it perfect for breakfast or as a savory addition to salads, sandwiches, and more.
How Can You Achieve the Perfectly Crispy Texture for Oven Baked Bacon?
Achieving the perfectly crispy texture for oven baked bacon involves several key techniques and considerations:
- Use a Wire Rack: Placing bacon on a wire rack allows hot air to circulate evenly around the strips.
- Preheat the Oven: Ensuring your oven is preheated to the right temperature is essential for consistent cooking.
- Cook at the Right Temperature: Baking bacon at a moderate temperature, typically around 400°F, promotes even cooking and crispiness without burning.
- Flip Halfway Through: Turning the bacon strips halfway through the cooking process helps achieve uniform crispiness on both sides.
- Drain Excess Fat: Allowing the bacon to drain on paper towels after baking will help remove extra grease, enhancing the crisp texture.
- Use Thick-Cut Bacon: Thick-cut bacon tends to retain more moisture, so it’s important to adjust cooking time to ensure it gets crispy without becoming chewy.
- Season Sparingly: If adding seasonings, do so lightly to avoid moisture that can prevent crispiness.
The wire rack elevates the bacon, allowing fat to drip away and ensuring that all sides cook uniformly, resulting in a perfect crisp. This method prevents the bacon from sitting in its own grease, which can lead to sogginess.
Preheating the oven is crucial because it helps the bacon start cooking immediately and evenly, which is vital for achieving that sought-after crisp texture. An oven that isn’t properly preheated can lead to uneven cooking and undesired results.
Cooking at the right temperature is a balancing act; too high and the bacon can burn, too low and it can become chewy. A temperature of around 400°F allows the fat to render out slowly, crisping the bacon without drying it out.
Flipping the bacon strips halfway through the baking time ensures that both sides get exposure to the heat, contributing to an evenly crispy texture. This is particularly important if the bacon is crowded together.
After baking, letting the bacon rest on paper towels absorbs excess fat, which is essential for achieving that satisfying crunch. This step is often overlooked but can make a significant difference in the final texture.
When choosing bacon, thick-cut options can provide a richer flavor and a more satisfying bite, but they require careful monitoring to prevent overcooking. Adjustments to cooking time may be necessary to ensure crispness without sacrificing tenderness.
Lastly, seasoning should be done with caution. Adding too much can introduce moisture, which counteracts the crisping effect. A light dusting of black pepper or other spices can enhance flavor without compromising texture.
What Temperature Should You Use for Baking Bacon in the Oven?
The optimal temperature for baking bacon in the oven typically ranges between 375°F to 400°F.
- 375°F: This temperature allows for a balanced cooking process that renders fat slowly while achieving a crispy texture. Baking at 375°F can result in evenly cooked bacon without excessive splattering, making it a favorite for those seeking a less messy experience.
- 400°F: Baking bacon at 400°F yields a quicker cooking time, allowing the bacon to become crispy in a shorter period. However, this method requires careful monitoring to prevent burning, as the higher heat can cook the bacon more aggressively.
- Low and Slow (325°F): Cooking bacon at a lower temperature like 325°F takes longer but can enhance the flavor and texture by allowing the fat to render out gradually. This method is ideal for thicker slices of bacon, as it ensures thorough cooking without the risk of becoming overly crunchy.
- Convection Setting (if available): Utilizing a convection setting at any of the recommended temperatures can promote even cooking by circulating hot air around the bacon. This can result in crispier bacon due to the enhanced airflow, making it a great option if your oven is equipped with this feature.
How Long Should You Bake Bacon to Achieve Optimal Crispiness?
The optimal baking time for bacon varies depending on thickness and desired crispiness.
- Regular Cut Bacon: Bake for 15-20 minutes at 400°F.
- Thick Cut Bacon: Bake for 20-25 minutes at 400°F.
- Extra Crispy Bacon: Bake for 25-30 minutes at 400°F.
- Bacon with a Glaze: Bake for 20-25 minutes at 400°F, adding the glaze in the last 5 minutes.
Regular Cut Bacon: Regular cut bacon typically reaches optimal crispiness in about 15-20 minutes. It’s essential to check it around the 15-minute mark to prevent overcooking, as stovetop cooking can produce uneven results.
Thick Cut Bacon: For thick cut bacon, increasing the baking time to 20-25 minutes at 400°F helps render the fat properly and ensures a crispy texture. This type of bacon takes longer to cook through due to its size, so patience is key to achieving the best results.
Extra Crispy Bacon: If you prefer your bacon extra crispy, extending the baking time to 25-30 minutes will achieve that texture. Just be cautious, as the bacon can quickly transition from perfectly crispy to burnt if left unattended.
Bacon with a Glaze: When glazing bacon, bake it for 20-25 minutes at 400°F, applying the glaze during the last 5 minutes of cooking. This method adds a sweet and savory flavor while still achieving that coveted crispiness without burning the glaze itself.
What Tips Can Help Simplify Cleanup After Cooking Bacon in the Oven?
To simplify cleanup after cooking bacon in the oven, consider the following tips:
- Use Aluminum Foil: Lining the baking sheet with aluminum foil creates a non-stick surface that can be easily removed and disposed of after cooking, significantly reducing the need for scrubbing.
- Baking Rack: Placing a baking rack on the sheet allows the bacon to cook evenly while letting the grease drip below, minimizing the mess on the foil and simplifying the cleanup.
- Soak the Baking Sheet: If grease does accumulate, soaking the baking sheet in hot soapy water after cooking can help loosen the residue, making it easier to wash later.
- Cook at a Lower Temperature: Cooking bacon at a lower temperature can help reduce splatter, which not only keeps the oven cleaner but also makes the bacon crispier.
- Use Parchment Paper: Similar to aluminum foil, parchment paper can be used to line the baking sheet, providing a non-stick surface that can be thrown away after use, which reduces cleanup time.
- Clean Immediately: Cleaning up spills or grease as soon as the bacon is done can prevent hardening, making it easier to wipe down surfaces and keeping your kitchen tidy.
What Flavor Variations Can Enhance Your Oven Baked Bacon?
Flavor variations can significantly enhance your oven baked bacon, making it even more delicious and unique.
- Maple Syrup: Drizzling maple syrup over bacon before baking adds a sweet and sticky glaze that caramelizes in the oven, creating a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors.
- Spicy Chili Powder: Sprinkling chili powder or cayenne pepper on your bacon gives it a spicy kick, which pairs well with the natural saltiness of the meat, offering a bold and exciting flavor profile.
- Brown Sugar: Coating the bacon in brown sugar before baking helps create a sweet crust as it melts and caramelizes, balancing the saltiness of the bacon while adding a rich depth of flavor.
- Black Pepper and Garlic: A blend of freshly cracked black pepper and garlic powder can elevate the taste by adding a savory element that complements the bacon’s richness, enhancing its overall flavor without overpowering it.
- Herbs and Spices: Incorporating fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or even smoked paprika can introduce an aromatic quality to your bacon, providing a gourmet touch that is both fragrant and flavorful.
- Honey Mustard Glaze: Mixing honey with Dijon mustard and brushing it onto the bacon offers a tangy and sweet glaze that adds complexity, making each bite a delightful experience.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: A light drizzle of apple cider vinegar can brighten the flavors of the bacon; the acidity cuts through the fat, balancing the richness and adding a subtle tanginess.