Bacon lovers rejoice! Get ready to explore a mouthwatering world of 30 delicious bacon recipes.
From classic breakfasts to unique dinner ideas, these dishes will satisfy your crispy, salty cravings.
You’ll find options for every meal and occasion in this tasty collection.
Try bacon-wrapped appetizers for parties, hearty bacon-loaded main courses, and even sweet treats with a savory bacon twist.
With so many creative ways to use this beloved ingredient, you’ll never run out of new bacon recipes to try.
1. Maple Bacon Pancakes
Maple bacon pancakes combine sweet and savory flavors in one delicious breakfast dish.
You’ll love the crispy bacon bits mixed into fluffy pancake batter.
To make these tasty pancakes, cook bacon until crisp and chop it into small pieces.
Add the bacon to your favorite pancake batter along with a splash of maple syrup.
Cook the pancakes on a griddle until golden brown. Top your stack with extra crispy bacon and a generous drizzle of warm maple syrup.
For added flavor, try mixing in some chopped green onions. The combination of bacon, maple, and a hint of onion creates an irresistible breakfast treat.
2. Bacon-Wrapped Dates
Bacon-wrapped dates are a tasty treat that combine sweet and salty flavors. You can make them easily at home with just a few ingredients.
Start by cutting bacon slices in half. Wrap each date with a piece of bacon and secure it with a toothpick.
Place the wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Cook them in a 400°F oven for about 20-25 minutes until the bacon is crispy.
For extra flavor, you can stuff the dates with cheese before wrapping. Blue cheese or cream cheese work well.
You can also add nuts like almonds for crunch.
These make great appetizers for parties or a quick snack. The crispy bacon and soft, sweet dates are a perfect match.
3. Bacon Jam
Bacon jam is a sweet and savory spread that combines crispy bacon with caramelized onions. To make it, cook bacon until crispy, then set it aside.
Sauté onions in some of the bacon fat until soft and golden. Add brown sugar, coffee, and balsamic vinegar to the pan.
Cook the mixture until it thickens and becomes jam-like, about 30 minutes. Stir in the reserved bacon pieces.
Let the jam cool before serving.
It’s great on burgers, sandwiches, or as a dip for crackers. You can store bacon jam in the fridge for up to a week.
4. Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus
Bacon-wrapped asparagus is a tasty side dish that’s easy to make. You can bake it in the oven or cook it in an air fryer.
To prepare, wrap each asparagus spear with a half strip of bacon. Place them on a baking sheet lined with foil and a wire rack.
Brush the bundles with olive oil or maple syrup for extra flavor. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
Bake at 400-425°F for about 15-20 minutes. The bacon should be crispy and the asparagus tender when done.
For a crispier result, try cooking in an air fryer at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
5. Candied Bacon
Candied bacon is a sweet and savory treat that’s easy to make at home. You’ll need bacon, brown sugar, and black pepper.
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with foil. Place a wire rack on top and arrange the bacon strips in a single layer.
Sprinkle brown sugar and black pepper over the bacon. Press the sugar mixture gently into the meat.
Bake for about 20-25 minutes, until the bacon is crispy and the sugar has caramelized. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
Let the candied bacon cool slightly before serving. It makes a great snack or addition to various dishes.
6. Bacon and Egg Breakfast Cups
Bacon and egg breakfast cups are a tasty way to start your day. They’re easy to make and perfect for busy mornings.
To create these cups, you’ll need bacon, eggs, and a muffin tin.
First, wrap bacon slices around the inside of each muffin cup. Bake the bacon for about 10 minutes at 400°F.
Next, crack an egg into each bacon-lined cup. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and cheese if you like.
Bake for another 10 minutes or until the eggs are cooked to your liking.
These cups are great for meal prep.
You can make a batch ahead of time and reheat them throughout the week. They’re also customizable – try adding veggies or different cheeses for variety.
7. Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
Bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers are a tasty appetizer that combines spicy peppers with creamy cheese and crispy bacon. To make them, cut jalapeños in half and remove the seeds.
Mix cream cheese with shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese. Add some spices like garlic powder for extra flavor. Fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture.
Wrap a slice of bacon around each stuffed pepper. Place them on a baking sheet and cook in a 375°F oven for about 20-25 minutes. The bacon should be crispy and the peppers slightly soft.
You can prepare these poppers ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer. Just remember to let them warm up before cooking if refrigerated.
8. Bacon-Cheddar Scones
These savory scones are a tasty twist on the classic breakfast treat. You’ll love the mix of crispy bacon and sharp cheddar cheese in every bite.
To make them, start by mixing flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar in a bowl. Cut in cold butter until the mixture is crumbly.
Add cooked, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped chives. Stir in buttermilk to form a dough.
Shape the dough into a circle and cut it into wedges. Brush the tops with extra buttermilk for a golden crust.
Bake the scones at 400°F for about 20 minutes until they’re lightly browned. Serve them warm for the best flavor.
9. Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Skewers
Bacon-wrapped chicken skewers are a tasty dish you can make for dinner or as an appetizer. They’re easy to prepare and cook in about 30 minutes.
To make them, cut chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Wrap each piece with a strip of bacon. Thread the wrapped chicken onto skewers.
You can grill these skewers or bake them in the oven.
On the grill, cook for about 3 minutes per side until the bacon crisps up. In the oven, bake at a high temperature for 25-30 minutes.
For extra flavor, brush the skewers with a mix of ketchup, maple syrup, and mustard before cooking. This adds a sweet and tangy taste to complement the salty bacon.
10. Bacon Mac and Cheese
Bacon mac and cheese is a tasty twist on a classic comfort food. You can make it at home with just a few ingredients.
Start by cooking your pasta until it’s al dente. While that’s boiling, fry up some bacon until crispy.
For the cheese sauce, melt butter in a pan and add flour to make a roux. Slowly mix in milk and shredded cheese until smooth.
Combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce. Mix in most of the bacon pieces, saving some for topping.
Pour the mixture into a baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining bacon on top. Bake until golden and bubbly.
11. Bacon Avocado Toast
Bacon avocado toast is a tasty breakfast or snack option. To make it, start by toasting your bread until golden brown.
While the bread toasts, mash ripe avocados in a bowl. Add a squeeze of lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cook bacon until crispy, then chop or crumble it. Spread the mashed avocado on your toast and top with the bacon pieces.
For extra flavor, you can add sliced scallions or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. Some people like to finish with a fried egg on top.
This simple yet satisfying dish combines creamy avocado, crunchy toast, and salty bacon for a perfect blend of textures and flavors.
12. Bacon-Wrapped Scallops
Bacon-wrapped scallops are a tasty appetizer that’s easy to make. You’ll need scallops, bacon slices cut in half, and some basic seasonings.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap each scallop with a half slice of bacon and secure it with a toothpick.
Place the wrapped scallops on a baking sheet. Drizzle them with lemon juice and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Bake for 15-20 minutes until the bacon is cooked. For a crispier result, you can broil them for a few minutes at the end.
Serve these savory bites warm as an appetizer or party snack. They’re sure to be a hit with seafood and bacon lovers alike.
13. Bacon Bourbon Brownies
Bacon bourbon brownies are a decadent treat that combines savory and sweet flavors. You’ll love the rich chocolate base infused with smoky bacon and smooth bourbon.
To make these, start by cooking crispy bacon and reserving some of the fat. Mix your brownie batter, then fold in crumbled bacon pieces and a splash of bourbon.
Pour the batter into a lined pan and bake until just set. For extra boozy flavor, you can pour more bourbon over the hot brownies right out of the oven.
Let the brownies cool completely before cutting. The result is a fudgy, indulgent dessert with complex flavors that will impress your guests.
14. Bacon Fat Popcorn
Bacon fat popcorn is a tasty twist on a classic snack. You can make it using leftover bacon grease from cooking bacon.
To start, heat bacon fat in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add a few test kernels and wait for them to pop.
Once the test kernels pop, add the rest of the popcorn kernels. Cover the pot and shake it gently to prevent burning.
Keep shaking until the popping slows down. Remove from heat when there are 3-4 seconds between pops.
Pour the popcorn into a bowl and enjoy your bacon-flavored treat. The bacon fat gives the popcorn a rich, savory taste.
15. Bacon and Blue Cheese Dip
This creamy dip combines crispy bacon with tangy blue cheese for a delicious appetizer. You’ll need cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise as the base.
Mix in crumbled bacon, blue cheese, and chopped chives or green onions for flavor and texture. Add a touch of garlic powder to enhance the savory notes.
Blend the ingredients until smooth, then transfer to a baking dish. Bake at 350°F for about 25 minutes until golden brown on top.
Serve your warm bacon and blue cheese dip with crackers, bread slices, or fresh vegetables for dipping. It’s perfect for parties or game day snacking.
16. Bacon Caesar Salad
Bacon Caesar salad adds a smoky twist to the classic dish. You’ll love the crispy bacon bits mixed with crunchy romaine lettuce.
To make the dressing, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and anchovy paste. Add some Dijon mustard for extra tang.
Toss the dressing with chopped romaine, crispy bacon pieces, and grated Parmesan cheese. Top with crunchy croutons for added texture.
For a heartier meal, try adding grilled chicken or hard-boiled eggs. Some recipes even include sliced avocado for creaminess.
This salad works great as a main dish or a side. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner any day of the week.
17. Bacon and Leek Quiche
Bacon and leek quiche is a tasty dish that combines savory bacon with mild, oniony leeks. You’ll start by cooking bacon until crispy, then sautéing leeks in the leftover fat for extra flavor.
Mix eggs, cream, and seasonings to create a smooth custard. Pour this mixture over the bacon and leeks in a pre-baked crust.
Bake your quiche for about 30 minutes at 350°F (175°C). You’ll know it’s done when it puffs up and turns golden brown.
For added richness, try sprinkling some Gruyère cheese on top before baking. This quiche works well for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
18. Bacon Carbonara Pasta
Bacon Carbonara Pasta is a tasty Italian dish you can make in about 30 minutes. It combines crispy bacon, eggs, and cheese for a creamy sauce that coats the pasta.
To make it, you’ll cook bacon until it’s crispy. While that’s happening, boil your pasta. In a bowl, mix eggs, grated cheese, and black pepper.
When the pasta is done, save some of the cooking water. Drain the pasta and put it back in the pot. Add the bacon and egg mixture, stirring quickly.
The heat from the pasta cooks the eggs, making a smooth sauce. If needed, add some pasta water to thin it out. Top with extra cheese and enjoy your fast, yummy meal.
19. Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf
Bacon-wrapped meatloaf is a tasty twist on a classic dish. You’ll love how the bacon adds extra flavor and keeps the meat moist.
To make it, mix ground beef with bread soaked in milk, eggs, and seasonings. Form the mixture into a loaf shape.
Wrap the meatloaf with strips of bacon, making sure to cover it completely. This step gives the dish its signature look and taste.
Bake the meatloaf in a 350°F oven for about 1 hour. For extra flavor, brush it with a glaze made from ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard.
Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it with your favorite sides for a filling meal.
20. Bacon-Stuffed Burgers
Bacon-stuffed burgers are a tasty twist on the classic cheeseburger. To make them, mix ground beef with chopped cooked bacon and shredded cheddar cheese.
Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce and seasonings to boost flavor.
Form the mixture into patties. Make a thumb indent in the center to prevent shrinking.
Grill the burgers over medium heat for about 10 minutes, flipping once.
For extra bacon goodness, top your burger with more crispy bacon strips. Add your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomato, and onion.
Serve on a toasted bun with condiments of your choice.
These burgers are perfect for backyard barbecues or game day gatherings. Your guests will love the surprise of gooey cheese and savory bacon inside each bite.
21. Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon
Bacon wrapped filet mignon is a delicious and elegant dish you can make at home. Start by wrapping bacon around each filet and securing it with toothpicks.
Season the steaks with salt and pepper. Let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking.
Preheat your oven to 450°F. Sear the filets in a hot skillet with butter for about 90 seconds per side. This creates a nice crust.
Transfer the skillet to the oven and cook for 4-8 minutes per side, depending on your desired doneness. Let the steaks rest for 6 minutes before serving.
22. BLT Salad
BLT salad brings the classic sandwich flavors to a fresh, crisp dish. You’ll love this twist on the beloved bacon, lettuce, and tomato combo.
Start by cooking bacon until crispy. While it cools, chop lettuce and slice juicy tomatoes. Crumble the bacon into bite-sized pieces.
Mix mayo, sour cream, and seasonings for a creamy dressing. Add a splash of milk to thin it out if needed.
Toss the lettuce, tomatoes, and bacon in a large bowl. Drizzle the dressing over top and gently mix.
For extra crunch, add homemade croutons made from toasted bread cubes.
Serve your BLT salad immediately to enjoy the perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s a great option for a light lunch or side dish.
23. Bacon and Mushroom Risotto
Bacon and mushroom risotto is a tasty dish that combines smoky bacon with earthy mushrooms. You start by cooking bacon until crispy, then set it aside.
Next, you sauté onions and mushrooms in the bacon fat. Add Arborio rice and cook it briefly to coat the grains.
Slowly add warm broth, stirring often.
As the rice absorbs the liquid, it becomes creamy. Keep adding broth and stirring until the rice is tender. Mix in the crispy bacon at the end.
This dish is rich and satisfying. The bacon adds a salty crunch, while the mushrooms provide a meaty texture. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home.
24. Bacon Gruyere Biscuits
Bacon Gruyere biscuits are a mouthwatering twist on classic drop biscuits. These savory treats combine crispy bacon, nutty Gruyere cheese, and fresh herbs for a flavor-packed experience.
You can make these biscuits in less than 30 minutes. They’re perfect as a side dish or breakfast item.
The bacon adds a smoky taste, while the Gruyere provides a rich, tangy flavor.
To make them, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Add cold butter, then stir in crumbled bacon, shredded Gruyere, and chopped herbs like chives or rosemary.
Pour in buttermilk and mix until just combined.
Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet and bake until golden brown. Serve warm for the best taste and texture.
25. Bacon Chocolate Chip Cookies
Bacon chocolate chip cookies mix sweet and salty flavors in a tasty treat. To make them, cook bacon until crispy and chop it into small pieces.
Mix flour, baking soda, and salt in a bowl. In another bowl, cream butter and sugars.
Add eggs and vanilla. Combine the wet and dry ingredients.
Fold in chocolate chips and bacon bits. Scoop the dough onto lined baking sheets.
Bake at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes until golden brown.
Let the cookies cool before eating. The crispy bacon adds a smoky flavor that goes well with the sweet chocolate chips. These cookies are perfect for people who like unique flavor combinations.
26. Bacon and Potato Soup
Bacon and potato soup is a hearty meal perfect for cold days. You can make it easily in one pot. Start by cooking bacon until crisp, then set it aside.
Use the bacon fat to cook onions until soft. Add diced potatoes, water, and seasonings like dill, salt, and pepper.
Bring the mixture to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender.
For extra creaminess, add milk or cream near the end. Crumble the bacon and sprinkle it on top before serving.
You can also add cheese for more flavor.
This soup keeps well in the fridge and reheats nicely. If it thickens too much, just add a bit of water when reheating.
27. Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp
Bacon-wrapped shrimp is a tasty appetizer that’s easy to make. You’ll need large shrimp, bacon, and toothpicks.
Cut bacon strips in half and wrap each piece around a shrimp. Secure with a toothpick. Place the wrapped shrimp on a baking sheet.
Cook in the oven at 400°F for about 10-15 minutes. Turn them halfway through cooking. The shrimp should be pink and the bacon crispy.
For extra flavor, try marinating the shrimp first. A mix of olive oil, garlic, and herbs works well.
You can also brush them with barbecue sauce before cooking.
28. Honey Mustard Glazed Bacon
Honey mustard glazed bacon is a tasty twist on regular bacon. You can make it easily at home.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
Brush both sides of bacon slices with honey mustard. Arrange them in a single layer on the rack.
Bake for 20 minutes, then flip the bacon. Cook for another 10-15 minutes until golden brown.
Let the bacon cool slightly before serving. It will be sweet, tangy, and crispy. This bacon works great as a side dish or in sandwiches.
29. Bacon and Cabbage Stir-fry
Bacon and cabbage stir-fry is a quick and tasty dish you can whip up in no time. Start by cooking bacon slices until crispy in a hot wok or skillet. Set the bacon aside and drain most of the fat.
Add sliced cabbage to the pan with a bit of the bacon drippings. Cook until the cabbage softens.
You can also toss in some onions and carrots for extra flavor and crunch.
Season your stir-fry with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Add the crispy bacon back to the pan and mix everything together.
Cook for a few more minutes until all ingredients are heated through.
This simple stir-fry combines the smoky flavor of bacon with the mild sweetness of cabbage. It’s a great side dish or light meal on its own.
30. Bacon and Apple Grilled Cheese
This tasty sandwich combines crispy bacon, sweet apples, and melty cheese. Start by cooking bacon until crisp.
Butter two slices of bread and place them butter-side down in a hot skillet. Add cheese, apple slices, and bacon to one slice.
Top with the second slice of bread, butter-side up. Cook until golden brown, then flip and cook the other side.
The cheese should be fully melted and the apples warm. Slice diagonally and enjoy your savory-sweet grilled cheese right away.
Health Benefits of Bacon
Bacon offers some nutritional benefits when eaten in moderation. It provides protein, vitamins, and minerals that can be part of a balanced diet.
Nutritional Content of Bacon
Bacon contains several important nutrients. It’s a good source of protein, with about 3 grams per slice.
Bacon also provides B vitamins, including B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, and B12. These help your body convert food into energy.
Bacon contains minerals like phosphorus, zinc, and selenium. Phosphorus supports bone health. Zinc aids immune function. Selenium acts as an antioxidant.
One key nutrient in bacon is choline. This supports brain health and function. A 3-ounce serving of bacon provides about 125 mg of choline.
Bacon in a Balanced Diet
You can include bacon as part of a healthy eating plan. The key is moderation. Limit bacon to 1-2 servings per week.
Pair bacon with nutrient-dense foods. Add it to vegetable dishes or salads. This boosts flavor while keeping portions small.
Choose lower-sodium bacon when possible. Look for uncured varieties without added nitrates.
Cook bacon methods like baking or microwaving to reduce fat.
Balance bacon with leaner proteins most days. Good choices include chicken, fish, eggs, and plant-based options. This helps you get protein without too much saturated fat.
Cooking Techniques for Bacon
Bacon can be cooked using different methods. Each technique offers unique results in terms of taste and texture. Let’s explore two popular ways to prepare bacon.
Oven-Baked Bacon
Oven-baking is a hands-off method that produces evenly cooked bacon. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C).
- Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup.
- Place a wire rack on the sheet to allow air circulation.
- Arrange bacon slices on the rack, not touching.
- Cook for 15-20 minutes, depending on thickness.
- Check often to avoid burning.
This method gives you crispy bacon with less mess. It’s great for cooking large batches.
Pan-Fried Bacon
Pan-frying is a quick and traditional way to cook bacon. Follow these steps:
- Place bacon in a cold skillet.
- Turn heat to medium-low.
- Cook for 8-12 minutes, flipping often.
- Remove when it reaches your preferred crispiness.
- Drain on paper towels.
Pan-frying lets you control the cooking process closely. You can adjust the heat and flip the bacon as needed. This method works well for small batches and gives you a classic bacon texture.