Are you a self-proclaimed bacon lover? Do you find yourself reaching for that crispy, smoky goodness whenever it’s available? You’re not alone! Bacon has become a staple in many cuisines around the world, and its versatility knows no bounds. From sweet to savory, classic to innovative, there’s a bacon recipe out there for everyone.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the best of what bacon has to offer. Whether you’re looking for a decadent breakfast dish or a show-stopping dinner party centerpiece, these crispy creations are sure to satisfy your cravings and inspire your next meal.
Stay tuned for some of our favorite recipes featuring everyone’s favorite ingredient: bacon!
Maple Glazed Bacon Strips
Transform ordinary bacon into a sweet and savory masterpiece with this simple recipe. Perfect as an appetizer or added to salads, sandwiches, or breakfast dishes, these maple glazed bacon strips are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 12 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1/4 cup pure Canadian maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and black pepper.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Lay the bacon slices on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Brush the maple glaze evenly over both sides of the bacon strips.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and caramelized.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
Elevate your snack game with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the heat of jalapeños with the smokiness of bacon. Perfect for parties or a quick indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 12 large jalapeños
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the stems of the jalapeños and carefully scoop out the insides.
3. In a bowl, mix together cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and cilantro until smooth.
4. Stuff each jalapeño with the cheese mixture, filling to the top.
5. Wrap each stuffed jalapeño with a slice of bacon, securing with toothpicks if needed.
6. Place poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Classic BLT Sandwich
The quintessential sandwich that never goes out of style – a Classic BLT is a simple yet satisfying combination of crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, juicy tomato, and creamy mayonnaise on toasted bread.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 6 slices of cooked bacon
– 2 large tomatoes, sliced
– 1 head of lettuce, leaves separated
– 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a pan or grill over medium heat. Cook the bacon until crispy, flipping halfway through.
2. Meanwhile, toast the bread until lightly browned.
3. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading mayonnaise on each slice of toasted bread, followed by a few slices of bacon, some lettuce leaves, and a tomato slice.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon and Cheddar Stuffed Mushrooms
A savory and indulgent treat that combines the earthy flavor of mushrooms with the richness of bacon and cheddar cheese. Perfect for a snack or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together crumbled bacon, grated cheddar cheese, and minced garlic.
3. Wipe mushroom caps clean with a paper towel and remove stems.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the bacon-cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed mushrooms and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and mushrooms are tender.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon Mac and Cheese
This recipe combines the classic comfort food of macaroni and cheese with the added smokiness and crunch of crispy bacon. It’s a perfect dish for a cozy night in or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add flour and whisk together with milk to make a roux. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes or until thickened.
5. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked macaroni, bacon, and cheese sauce in a large mixing bowl. Mix well to combine.
7. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Scallops
Elevate your dinner game with this indulgent yet effortless recipe that combines the sweetness of scallops with the smoky richness of bacon. This crowd-pleaser is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse scallops under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. Cut the bacon into thirds, wrapping each scallop with a piece of bacon, securing with toothpick if needed.
4. Place the wrapped scallops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each one.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the scallops and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the scallops are cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Bacon and Egg Breakfast Tacos
Start your day with a flavorful twist on traditional breakfast tacos by combining crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, and tangy salsa in a warm tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 6 slices of bacon
– 1/2 cup salsa
– 6 corn tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels.
2. In the same skillet, scramble the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble the tacos by placing scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and salsa onto each tortilla.
5. Add optional toppings as desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Candied Bacon with Brown Sugar
Sweet and savory, candied bacon with brown sugar is a game-changing addition to any dish. This simple recipe yields a crispy, caramelized strip of bacon that’s perfect for topping salads, sandwiches, or even using as a garnish.
Ingredients:
- 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons water
- Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar and water over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes or until it reaches a syrupy consistency.
5. Arrange the bacon slices on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Brush the candied sugar mixture evenly onto each slice of bacon, leaving a small border around the edges.
7. Sprinkle salt to taste.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Note: Keep an eye on the bacon during the last 5 minutes of cooking, as it can quickly go from perfectly candied to burnt.
Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus Bundles
Elevate your vegetable game with this easy and impressive recipe that combines the natural sweetness of asparagus with the savory, smoky flavor of bacon.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 fresh asparagus spears
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Cut the asparagus into bundles of 3-4 spears each.
4. Wrap each bundle with a slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
5. Place the bundles on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Drizzle with garlic (if using) and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the asparagus is tender and the bacon is crispy.
8. Garnish with fresh herbs (if desired).
9. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon and Brussels Sprouts Skillet
This hearty skillet recipe combines the smoky goodness of bacon with the earthy sweetness of Brussels sprouts, creating a deliciously savory and satisfying dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium-high heat until crispy. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add the olive oil to the same skillet and sauté the Brussels sprouts for 5 minutes, or until they start to brown.
4. Add the garlic and continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sprouts are tender.
5. Return the cooked bacon to the skillet and stir to combine with the Brussels sprouts and garlic.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Loaded Bacon Potato Soup
This comforting soup is packed with tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and creamy goodness. Perfect for a chilly day or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of chicken broth
– 1 cup of milk
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, diced scallions
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
2. Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, milk, and cooked bacon. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender (or transfer soup to a blender in batches) to puree the soup until smooth.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
5. Serve hot and customize with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Tenders
Elevate your chicken tenders game with this indulgent twist: crispy bacon wrapping tender and juicy chicken. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken strip into the oil mixture, then wrap with a slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed.
4. Place the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through and crispy.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon and Avocado Grilled Cheese
Elevate your grilled cheese game with the creamy richness of avocado and the smoky flavor of bacon. This decadent sandwich is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of artisanal bread
– 4 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, divided
– 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, divided
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with a slice of cheddar cheese, some crumbled bacon, and a spoonful of mashed avocado.
5. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf
Elevate your meatloaf game with this mouthwatering recipe that combines the savory flavors of ground beef and crispy bacon. This classic comfort food is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 6 slices of bacon
– Chopped onion and bell pepper (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Wrap 6 slices of bacon around the meat mixture, securing with toothpicks if needed.
4. Place meatloaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If desired, top with chopped onion and bell pepper.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Bacon and Spinach Quiche
A savory quiche that combines the smoky flavor of bacon with the earthy taste of spinach, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan.
3. Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy, then chop into small pieces.
4. Add the fresh spinach leaves to the skillet with the bacon and cook until wilted.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
6. Arrange the cooked spinach and bacon mixture in the pie crust.
7. Pour the egg mixture over the filling.
8. Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese on top (if using).
9. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp with Garlic Butter
This recipe combines the sweetness of shrimp with the savory flavors of crispy bacon and rich garlic butter, making it a perfect dish for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wrap each shrimp with a slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
3. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each piece.
5. Drizzle the garlic butter mixture evenly over the shrimp.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the shrimp are cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Bacon and Onion Jam Crostini
Bacon and Onion Jam Crostini: A Sweet and Savory Treat
Elevate your party appetizers with this easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing recipe that combines the richness of bacon, caramelized onions, and crispy bread.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup caramelized onions (see note)
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until crispy.
4. Meanwhile, mix caramelized onions and crumbled bacon in a bowl.
5. Assemble crostini by spooning the onion-bacon mixture onto toasted baguette slices.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped BBQ Pork Bites
Succulent pork bites wrapped in crispy bacon and slathered with sweet and tangy BBQ sauce – a perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground pork
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into thirds
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine ground pork, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Divide the mixture into small balls, about 1-inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
4. Wrap each ball with a piece of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
5. Place the bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
7. Brush with BBQ sauce during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a delicious journey with these 18 savory bacon recipes! From classic BLT sandwiches to creative twists like candied bacon and bacon-wrapped scallops, there’s something for every crispy lover. Enjoy sweet and smoky combinations like maple glazed bacon strips or try your hand at more substantial dishes like bacon mac and cheese. Whether you’re in the mood for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a snack, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. So go ahead, get cooking, and make it a crispy day!
