For those who love the taste of bacon but want a healthier alternative, learning how to cook turkey bacon is a game-changer. Turkey bacon is a great alternative to regular bacon as it has fewer calories and a lower fat content. Plus, it’s just as tasty and versatile as traditional bacon – making it perfect for any meal of the day, from breakfast sandwiches to turkey burgers. So, join us as we explore the best ways to cook turkey bacon in the oven and fryer for that perfect crispy, flavorful bacon every single time.
Why Choose Turkey Bacon?
Turkey bacon is made from turkey thighs and is a healthier option compared to traditional pork bacon. It’s lower in fat and calories, making it a great choice for those watching their diet. Plus, there are different brands of turkey bacon available in the market today, like Applegate turkey bacon, Oscar Meyer turkey bacon, and Butterball turkey bacon, so you can choose the one that suits your taste buds best.
How to Cook Turkey Bacon in the Oven
Oven-baked turkey bacon is a fantastic way to cook a lot of bacon at once, and it requires very little attention. The key to perfect oven-baked turkey bacon is to lay the bacon strips in a single layer on a sheet pan lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper. This method allows the bacon to cook evenly, resulting in crispy bacon every time.
The Best Temperature for Cooking Turkey Bacon in the Oven
The best temperature for cooking turkey bacon in the oven is around 400 degrees F. At this temperature, the turkey bacon slices become crispy and browned without getting burnt. The cooking time can vary depending on your oven and the level of crispness you prefer, but it generally takes about 15-20 minutes.
How to Cook Turkey Bacon in a Fryer
Cooking turkey bacon in a fryer, specifically an air fryer, is another delicious way to prepare this healthier bacon. To air fry turkey bacon, simply place the bacon strips in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook at 375 degrees F for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through. The result is crispy, air-fried turkey bacon that’s a perfect accompaniment to any meal.
Tips for the Perfect Turkey Bacon
Regardless of the method you choose, there are a few tips that can help ensure perfect bacon every time. First, make sure your bacon is at room temperature before cooking. This helps it cook more evenly. Second, don’t overcrowd the pan or fryer basket. Bacon needs space to crisp up properly. Lastly, if you like extra flavor, try sprinkling your bacon with a little black pepper or other seasonings before cooking.
Storing and Reheating Leftover Turkey Bacon
If you’ve cooked more bacon than you can eat, don’t worry! Leftover bacon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, simply microwave turkey bacon for a few seconds until warmed through, or toss it in a hot pan for a minute or two to get it nice and crispy again.
Enjoy Your Turkey Bacon!
Whether you choose to oven bake turkey bacon or air fry turkey bacon, you’re in for a treat. Turkey bacon is a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional bacon that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. So, next time you’re in the mood for some crispy, flavorful bacon, give turkey bacon a try. You might just find it’s your new favorite way to enjoy bacon!
Crispy and Delectable Turkey Bacon Recipe
This recipe details how to prepare crispy and delectable turkey bacon. With a total preparation and cooking time of about 12 minutes, this healthy alternative to traditional bacon does not compromise on flavor, and can be used in a variety of dishes.
Ingredients
- 6 slices turkey bacon
- Non-stick cooking spray or 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Gather all of your ingredients. Ensure the turkey bacon is thawed if it was previously frozen.
- Place a large non-stick skillet on the stove over medium heat. If you’re worried about potential sticking, you can lightly spray the pan with a non-stick cooking spray or add a tablespoon of olive oil.
- Once the skillet is hot, add the turkey bacon slices to the pan. Make sure they’re spaced out enough that they don’t overlap.
- Cook the bacon for about 4-5 minutes on the first side, until it starts to curl up around the edges and takes on a golden-brown hue.
- Use a spatula or tongs to flip the bacon over. Cook it on the other side for another 4-5 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of crispness.
- Use tongs to remove the bacon from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels.
- Allow the bacon to cool for a minute before serving.
Notes
Keep a close eye on your bacon while it’s cooking - because of its low fat content, turkey bacon can go from perfectly crispy to burnt in a short amount of time. If you prefer your bacon on the chewier side, simply reduce the cooking time by a minute or two.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 6 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 35Total Fat: 3gSaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 180mgCarbohydrates: 0gNet Carbohydrates: 0gFiber: 0gSugar: 0gSugar Alcohols: 0gProtein: 3g