How to Cook Bacon in a Cast Iron Skillet

With several methods and tips available, figuring out the best way to cook perfect slices of bacon in your cast-iron skillet can feel overwhelming. This guide will equip you with everything you need to know to cook bacon in your cast-iron pan.

Cast Iron Skillet Bacon

While there are different ways to cook bacon, the cast iron skillet reigns supreme. Here’s why:

• Superior Heat Distribution: Cast iron boasts unmatched heat retention and even distribution. This ensures consistent cooking, eliminating hot spots that can burn your bacon.
• Natural Nonstick: Over time, a well-seasoned cast iron skillet develops a natural nonstick layer, allowing the bacon to cook in its own delicious fat without sticking.
• Durability: Cast iron is built to last a lifetime with proper care. It can handle high heat, making it perfect for achieving that coveted crispy texture.

Ingredients

This stove top method is a simple and effective way to cook bacon in your cast iron skillet. Here’s what you’ll need:

• HIGH QUALITY BACON: choose natural, uncured bacon. This type of bacon typically has minimal ingredients, avoiding added sugar that can burn and leave a sticky residue on your skillet.

Kitchen essentials you will need: cast iron skillet, tongs, splatter guard, and paper towels.

How to Cook Crispy Bacon in a Cast Iron Skillet

Get ready for delicious, crispy bacon cooked to perfection in your cast iron skillet! Here’s a simple guide to walk you through the process:

1. PREP YOUR PAN AND BACON: Arrange the bacon in a single layer in a cold cast iron skillet.
2. TURN ON THE HEAT: Turn your burner to medium heat. Let the pan and bacon heat up together, allowing the fat to render out as the bacon cooks slowly.
3. COOK: Cook the bacon until the desired amount of crispness is achieved on the first side. Thin bacon cooks faster than thick-cut, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
4. FLIP: Once the first side is golden brown, use tongs to flip each piece of bacon gently. Cook for a few more minutes on the second side to achieve your desired level of crispiness.
5. REMOVE FROM SKILLET: Transfer the strips of bacon to a paper towel-lined plate. This absorbs any excess grease, leaving you with a perfectly crisp bite.

After enjoying your perfectly crisped bacon, don’t discard the leftover bacon grease! It can be saved and used for delicious recipes that use this often-overlooked ingredient. Get recipe ideas, HERE!

Recipe Tips for Cooking Bacon in a Skillet

• Cold Pan is Key: Start with a cold, well-seasoned pan. You can read about how I season my cast iron pan HERE. 
• Skip the Draining: The bacon cooks in its own fat, so don’t drain the bacon between cooking batches! This keeps it crispy and flavorful.
• Avoid Splatters: Use a splatter screen and long tongs to avoid hot grease splatters.

How to Store Cooked Bacon

• Fridge: Wrap cooled bacon tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil or store it in an airtight container. Pop it in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freeze: Bacon can be frozen for longer storage! Just ensure it’s fully cooled before placing it in an airtight container or freezer bag.

FAQs

How To Keep Bacon From Sticking to the Pan? The key to non-stick bacon is starting with a cold cast iron skillet. This allows the bacon fat to render out slowly, creating a natural non-stick layer as the bacon cooks.

How To Clean Cast Iron After Cooking Bacon? For easier cleanup, use a spatula to remove any stuck bits while the pan is warm. Wipe out the remaining grease with a paper towel. Then, do a quick hot water rinse before drying and storing.

What to Serve with Crispy Bacon

For a delightful and satisfying morning meal, pair your bacon with:

• Scrambled Eggs
• Fluffy Pancakes
• Crispy Hash Browns

Printable Recipe Cooking Bacon in a Cast Iron Skillet