Microwave Bacon

By Genevieve Ko

Updated Dec. 31, 2024

Microwave Bacon
Christopher Testani for The New York Times. Food Stylist: Simon Andrews.
Total Time
5 minutes
Prep Time
0 minutes
Cook Time
5 minutes
Rating
4(223)
Comments
Read comments

Sometimes, you just want a slice of bacon (or two) for yourself. Maybe for someone you love, too. And if you want — need? — that bacon now, there’s no faster way to cook it than in the microwave. The strips brown on a plate while a paper towel laid over them soaks up grease and prevents splatters inside your machine. Once you try this technique, you’ll have a better sense of how long your microwave takes to cook a strip or two.

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Ingredients

Yield:1 to 2 servings
  • 1to 5 bacon strips (not turkey)
Ingredient Substitution Guide
Nutritional analysis per serving (2 servings)

171 calories; 16 grams fat; 5 grams saturated fat; 0 grams trans fat; 7 grams monounsaturated fat; 3 grams polyunsaturated fat; 0 grams carbohydrates; 0 grams dietary fiber; 0 grams sugars; 6 grams protein; 327 milligrams sodium

Note: The information shown is Edamam’s estimate based on available ingredients and preparation. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.

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Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Put the bacon on a microwave-safe plate in a single layer and cover with a paper towel. Microwave on high (regular) power for 45 seconds per slice. Check to see if it’s done to your liking. If you have thick bacon, or you want your bacon dark and crisp, microwave in 30-second bursts until desired doneness.

  2. Step 2

    Set the bacon on top of the paper towel to drain and serve.

Ratings

4 out of 5
223 user ratings
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Comments

Dee

If you zap them too long and they become tough, just eat those as quickly as possible while no one is looking and start over.

Robert

The comments I've seen have largely been positive about not having to deal with bacon grease and all I can think is, "why are people not saving their bacon grease"? Save your bacon fat, people.

JayArr

Thin bacon for 45 seconds; thick bacon for 1 minute per slice. For less cleanup, place it on top of paper towels, with one paper towel on top to catch splatters.

Little Bird

This is the only way I cook bacon. I've done it this way for years and years. No clean up!

Justin C

Looks delicious. I’ll probably try it some day. Was looking for a less complicated recipe at the moment though

D

Must have to say that streaky bacon needs to be used and not back bacon as found on UK supermarket shelves

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Credits

By Genevieve Ko

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