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How to Cook Turkey Bacon - Stove, Oven, Air Fryer, or Microwave

Author: Melissa Collins

Updated: January 12, 2023

Turkey bacon has become a popular alternative to traditional pork bacon due to its lower fat and calorie content. However, many people are unsure how to cook it properly to achieve that crispy, savory texture that we all crave.

In this article, you will go over the steps to cook turkey bacon to perfection. Whether you want to add some protein to your breakfast sandwich or a tasty snack, we’ve got you covered. So let’s get started!

How to cook turkey bacon in an air fryer?

You can make crispy and delicious turkey bacon in the air fryer! This handy kitchen appliance lets you achieve perfectly cooked turkey bacon in just a few simple steps.

To begin, preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, take out a package of turkey bacon and lay the slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Working in batches may be necessary if you’re cooking a large quantity.

Next, set the timer for 8-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of your bacon and your desired level of crispiness. You’ll want to check on the bacon every few minutes to ensure it’s cooking evenly and flip the slices over halfway through.

Remove the turkey bacon from the air fryer as soon as it is cooked to your satisfaction. Now place it on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess grease. Before you serve or store the bacon, let it cool for a few minutes.

And that’s it!

In just a few minutes, you’ll have crispy turkey bacon that’s juicy on the inside. So whether you’re serving it up for breakfast, lunch, or as a snack, this simple cooking method will satisfy your cravings.

How to microwave turkey bacon?

Microwaving turkey bacon is a quick and easy way to cook up a delicious and healthier version of the classic breakfast meat. Here’s how to do it:

Start by placing a paper towel on a microwave-safe plate. This will help to absorb any excess grease and keep the bacon from getting too soggy.
Lay the turkey bacon slices on the paper towel, making sure not to overlap them.
Cover the plate with another paper towel or a microwave-safe lid. This will help to keep the bacon from splattering and ensure even cooking.

Microwave the plate for 1-2 minutes on high or until the bacon is ready as per your taste.
Make sure to use oven mitts when removing the plate from the microwave, as it will be very hot. Before serving, allow the bacon to cool for a few minutes.

You now have perfectly cooked turkey bacon in just a few minutes.

How to cook turkey bacon on the stove?

First, gather all of the necessary ingredients and materials. You will need a package of turkey bacon, a frying pan, and a stove. You may also want a paper towel or cooking spray on hand.

Preheat your frying pan over medium heat. You want the pan to be hot but not so hot that the turkey bacon burns before it cooks through.
While the pan is heating up, take out as many slices of turkey bacon as you want to cook. Then, if you use a paper towel, pat the slices dry to remove any excess moisture.
This step can be skipped if you are using a non-stick pan. However, if you are using a regular pan, you may want to lightly coat it with cooking spray or a small amount of oil to prevent the turkey bacon from sticking.

Place the turkey bacon slices in the pan, making sure to leave enough space in between each slice so that they have room to cook evenly. Depending on the size of your pan, you might have to cook it in batches. Let the turkey bacon cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the bottom side has turned a golden brown color. Use a pair of tongs to flip the slices over, and continue cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes on the other side.
Once the turkey bacon is cooked to your desired level of crispiness, drain any excess grease. Then, remove the turkey bacon from the pan and place it on a paper towel. Let the turkey bacon cool for a minute or two before serving or using it in your recipe.
Enjoy your perfectly cooked turkey bacon! It can be eaten as a standalone snack, added to a sandwich or salad, or used as a topping for dishes like baked potatoes or casseroles. The possibilities are endless!

How long does turkey bacon take to cook?

The cooking time for turkey bacon will depend on the method you use. Here are some estimates for different cooking methods:

In the oven:

Preheat your oven to 200 degrees Celsius (400 degrees Fahrenheit). Using parchment paper or aluminum foil, arrange the bacon on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the bacon is crispy to your liking.

On the stovetop:

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Make sure the bacon is crispy by cooking it for 2 to 3 minutes on each side.

In the microwave:

Place the bacon on a paper towel-lined microwave-safe plate, cover it with another paper towel or microwave-safe lid, and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes or until crispy.
As you can see, turkey bacon can be cooked in as little as 1-2 minutes in the microwave or up to 12 minutes in the oven. Keep an eye on the bacon while it’s cooking and adjust the cooking time as needed to achieve the desired level of crispiness.

How to make turkey bacon crispy?

To make turkey bacon crispy, you can try the following tips:

Cook the bacon using a dry cooking method, such as baking in the oven or cooking on the stovetop. Avoid using the microwave, as this can cause the bacon to become soggy.

Preheat the oven or stovetop before cooking the bacon. Bacon will cook evenly and get crispy if you do this.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the bacon is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Overcooking the bacon can cause it to become tough and chewy.
After the bacon is cooked, place it on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb the grease so it stays crispy.

Serve the bacon immediately after cooking. If the bacon sits for too long, it may become soggy.

Following these tips, you will cook perfectly crispy turkey bacon every time.

How to store raw turkey bacon?

To store raw turkey bacon, follow these steps:

Start by placing the bacon in its original packaging in the refrigerator.

If the bacon is not in its original packaging or if the packaging is damaged, place the bacon in a resealable plastic bag or wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
Label the bag or foil with the date and contents.
Ensure the bag or foil-wrapped bacon is placed in the coolest part of the refrigerator, like at the back.

Raw turkey bacon will typically keep for about 1 week in the refrigerator. However, it is important to keep raw turkey bacon separate from other foods to prevent the risk of cross-contamination. If you are not planning to use the bacon within a week, it is best to freeze it to extend its shelf life.

How to store cooked turkey bacon?

To store cooked turkey bacon, follow these steps:

Allow the cooked bacon to cool completely.
Place the bacon in a single layer on a parchment or wax paper sheet.
Cover the bacon with another sheet of parchment or wax paper, and smooth out any air bubbles.

Place the parchment paper-wrapped bacon in aluminum foil or a resealable container.
Label the container or foil with the date and contents.
Store the container or foil-wrapped bacon in the refrigerator.

Cooked turkey bacon will keep in the refrigerator for 3-5 days. To extend its shelf life, you can freeze the cooked bacon. It is important to note that while freezing cooked turkey bacon will extend its shelf life, it may affect the texture and flavor of the bacon.

Can you freeze turkey bacon?

Yes, you can freeze turkey bacon. Here’s how to do it:

Start by placing the turkey bacon in a single layer on a parchment or wax paper sheet.
Cover the bacon with another sheet of parchment or wax paper, and smooth out any air bubbles.

Place the parchment paper-wrapped bacon in an aluminum foil or resealable freezer bag.
Label the bag or foil with the date and contents.
Place the bag or foil-wrapped bacon in the freezer.

If you need to thaw frozen turkey bacon, take it out of the freezer and place it in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight to allow it to defrost. But, if you want to thaw it more quickly, you can microwave it on the defrost setting for 1-2 minutes, or until it becomes pliable. Once thawed, cook the bacon according to your preferred method. While freezing turkey bacon will extend its shelf life, it may affect the bacon’s texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Cooking turkey bacon is a simple and quick process that can add a delicious and healthier twist to your meals. Whether you prefer to bake it in the oven, fry it on the stovetop, or microwave it, the steps are easy to follow, and the results are always satisfying.

So next time you’re looking for a tasty protein boost, cook turkey bacon and discover a whole new world of flavor. Give it a try – your taste buds will thank you!

FAQs

Can I cook turkey bacon in the same way as regular bacon?

Yes, turkey bacon can be cooked using the same methods as regular bacon, such as baking in the oven, frying on the stovetop, or microwaving. However, turkey bacon tends to cook more quickly than regular bacon, so keep an eye on it and adjust the cooking time as needed.

How do I know when turkey bacon is cooked?

Turkey bacon is cooked when it reaches your desired level of crispiness. You can check for doneness by gently pressing on the bacon with a fork or tongs. It is ready if it feels crispy and has reached your desired level of browning.

Can I cook turkey bacon from frozen?

Yes, you can cook turkey bacon from frozen. However, it will take longer to cook than thawed bacon and may not cook evenly. Therefore, it is best to soften the bacon before cooking it in the refrigerator or using the defrost setting on your microwave.

How long does it take to cook turkey bacon in an air fryer?

Prepare the air fryer by preheating it to 200°C (400°F). Cook the bacon for 6-8 minutes in a single layer in the air fryer basket.

How long does it take to microwave turkey bacon?

Microwaving turkey bacon takes only 1-2 minutes. Simply place the bacon on a paper towel-lined microwave-safe plate, cover it with another paper towel or microwave-safe lid, and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes or until crispy.

Can I cook turkey bacon in a panini press?

Yes, you can cook turkey bacon in a panini press. Preheat the press to medium heat and place the bacon in the press. Close the press and cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bacon is ready as per your taste.