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Oven Bacon (in a cast iron skillet!) 🥓

Cast Iron Keto
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Updated:
9 Comments
5 from 5 votes

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Discover the unbeatable flavor and convenience of cooking bacon in a cast iron skillet, especially in the oven. Whether you're a keto enthusiast or just a bacon lover, this method delivers crispy perfection with minimal hassle. Ready to elevate your breakfast game? Let’s dive in!

crispy bacon in a cast iron skillet
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List of reasons to bake bacon in a cast-iron skillet

  1. It’s oh-so tasty!
  2. No splattering and burning yourself!
  3. Bacon is very fatty, and your cast iron skillet loves fat (the polymerization of bacon fat with the iron surface makes a well-seasoned skillet so slick).
  4. It saves time. Pop the bacon in the oven and prep the rest of the meal; when the bacon reaches the perfect level of crispiness, take it out and toss the rest of your meal in the skillet and cook it in the bacon grease.
  5. You can never have enough bacon!

Here's how you can find the Best Bacon for Keto Diet!

Preparation and cooking overview

This Bacon In The Oven is incredibly easy! Simply put it in a single layer in a cast iron skillet, pop it in the preheated oven at 400°F (200°C), and let it bake to your desired crispiness! You'll be amazed at how quickly you can prepare this keto appetizer without any hassle.

Chef's note

Want to get creative with this recipe? Let's play with the flavors by sprinkling your favorite herbs and spices before baking. Think of aromatic rosemary, smoky paprika, or a dash of cayenne for a kick! You can also elevate the presentation by serving the strips of bacon on a rustic wooden platter with creamy avocado dip or tangy mustard sauce for dipping.

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 Minutes
  • Difficulty Level: Easy
  • Recipe Makes 6 Servings

For more inspiration check out our Breakfast recipe.

🥓 Ingredients for oven bacon recipe

How many ingredients do you need to make this recipe? Just ONE!!! Super simple and convenient!

  • 6 slices bacon 

Ingredient substitutions

  • Bacon: Swap traditional bacon with turkey bacon for a leaner option that's just as flavorful and keto-friendly. If you're looking for a plant-based alternative, try tempeh bacon.

Additional ingredients

Let's take this recipe to the next level with some keto-friendly ingredients that complement the main flavors perfectly:

  • Garlic powder: Add a sprinkle of garlic powder over the bacon slices for a savory twist.
  • Black pepper: A dash of freshly ground black pepper will give the bacon a hint of spiciness, balancing out the richness.
  • Chopped chives: Garnish the bacon with finely chopped chives for a pop of green color.
  • Lemon zest: Grate some lemon zest over the bacon for a citrusy zing.
  • Maple syrup: Bacon with maple syrup provides a sweet and savory flavor combination, so drizzle it before serving.

Note: Take care of your macros while playing with additional ingredients since they are optional.

Cooking tools required

To make Bacon In Oven, you will need the following kitchen tools:

Tool substitutes list

  • Cast-iron skillet: If you don't have a cast iron skillet, use a regular baking tray or foil-lined baking sheets.
  • Tongs: If you don't have tongs, use a slotted spoon to remove bacon from the skillet.

How to Cook Bacon in Cast Iron Skillet in the Oven: Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking methods

  • Baking

Preparation steps

  1. Set up the cooking area
  2. Slice the bacon.

Cooking steps

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and layer your bacon into the skillet in a single layer.
  2. Transfer to oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until you reach your desired level of crispiness.
  3. Remove the crisp bacon slices to a paper towel-lined plate to drain off the excess oil. Reserve the leftover bacon grease for another use.
crispy oven cooked bacon on a paper towel lined plate

Chef's pro tip

To prevent the bacon from burning, set a timer and regularly check its progress, especially toward the end of the baking time. Adjust the cooking time as needed so you get that perfect balance of crunchiness without any burnt edges.

What to serve with oven bacon?

Oven bacon is a versatile keto appetizer with a wide array of keto-friendly dishes. Let's explore some perfect matches to elevate your bacon experience to the next level:

  • Deviled eggs: The protein-packed Keto Deviled Eggs make a delightful keto appetizer with crispy bacon.
  • Cornbread: Pairing Keto Cornbread with baked bacon will make your breakfast wholesome.
  • Cheese waffles: Top your Keto Chaffles with loads of oven-baked bacon and enjoy a delicious meal!
  • Keto frittata: A slice of Keto Zucchini Frittata with bacon slices makes your ketogenic diet on point!
  • Bagel sandwich: Make a bagel sandwich with our Homemade Mayo, baked bacon slices, and Keto Bagel for a perfect breakfast or snack!
  • Breakfast casserole: Want to add extra flavor to your breakfast? Pair Keto Breakfast Casserole with oven-baked bacon.

Why Cast Iron Skillets are Perfect for Bacon

The polymerization of bacon fat on a cast iron skillet’s surface creates a natural, non-stick coating. This not only enhances the skillet but also makes it a valuable tool for keto cooking. The skillet’s even heat distribution ensures perfectly cooked bacon every time.

How to make it healthier?

  • Select high-quality bacon for a better nutritional profile.

Time-saving tips

  • Use a bacon slicer: Save time by using a bacon slicer for quick and uniform bacon slicing, perfect for larger batches.

Storage and reheating instructions

Storage tips

  • Refrigerator: To store leftover bacon, let it cool completely and place it in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Refrigerate the cooked bacon for 4-5 days to maintain its freshness and flavor.
  • Freezer: If freezing, separate the bacon slices with parchment paper or plastic wrap before placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. It prevents them from sticking together.

Reheating best practices

  • Microwave: Lay the leftover slices on a microwave-safe plate, cover them with a microwave-safe cover or paper towel, and reheat on high for 15-20 seconds.
  • Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the bacon slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Reheat for 5-7 minutes or until warmed through.
  • Stove: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon slices and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until heated thoroughly.

Recipe wrap-up and conclusion

You can make this Oven Bacon recipe with just a cast iron skillet, some bacon, and a little love. It's the perfect keto companion for any occasion, whether hosting a brunch with friends or simply treating yourself to a delightful snack.

Don't forget to share your flavorful creations with your loved ones and spread the joy of healthy and delicious keto cooking. 

Want to know how you can use oven-baked bacon in keto recipes? Check out the following dishes:

Frequently asked questions

Letting the bacon cook uncovered ensures it becomes beautifully crispy. Covering it will lead to steam, and you won't get a crisp texture.

It takes approximately 15-20 minutes to cook bacon in the oven. Adjust the time based on personal preference.

To cook bacon in a skillet, heat a non-stick or cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon slices and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until they are crispy and cooked.

The best way to cook bacon is in the oven. Baking allows for even cooking and crispy results without the need for constant flipping or splattering.

For the best results in the oven bacon recipe, it's recommended to use regular bacon. Regular-cut bacon is a better choice than thick-cut bacon. It cooks evenly and crisps up beautifully in the oven.

📖 Recipe

a slice of bacon being held above a skillet of more bacon

Oven Bacon

Cooking your bacon in your cast iron skillet in the oven will not only save your stovetop from being splattered in grease but it will also cook the bacon more evenly and season your skillet at the same time.
5 from 5 votes
Print Rate Pin Recipe
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Keyword: bacon in oven, baked bacon, basics, oven baked bacon
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 92kcal

Ingredients

  • 6 slices bacon this is how much will fit in a 10.5″ cast iron skillet

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and layer your bacon into the skillet in a single layer.
  • Transfer to oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until you reach your desired level of crispiness.
  • Remove the crisp bacon slices to a paper towel-lined plate to drain off the excess oil. Reserve the leftover bacon grease for another use.

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts
Oven Bacon
Amount Per Serving
Calories 92 Calories from Fat 81
% Daily Value*
Fat 9g14%
Saturated Fat 3g19%
Cholesterol 15mg5%
Sodium 146mg6%
Potassium 44mg1%
Carbohydrates 1g0%
Protein 3g6%
Iron 1mg6%
*

Nutritional values are estimates only and do not include carbs from sugar alcohols.

# Hashtag with us!Don't forget to mention @castiron_keto or tag #castironketo on Instagram with your creations! We love seeing what you're making.
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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Cheryl says

    5 stars
    This is a great way to cook bacon, I put bacon on my cast iron grill and follow instructions. Perfect👍

    Reply

  2. Kate says

    5 stars
    Worked great!

    Reply

  3. David says

    5 stars
    Love it! However, I tend to flip in half way. Are you saying that you find good results without flipping the bacon?
    Thanks!

    Reply

  4. Cindy says

    Can the bacon be cooked with the lid on the skillet? I would like to prevent splatter in the oven (less cleaning necessary).

    Reply

    • Cast Iron Keto says

      Hi Cindy, the bacon doesn't splatter as much in the oven as it does cooking on the stovetop. Covering it with a lid would prevent the bacon from becoming crispy as it would essentially steam.

      Reply

  5. Janiver Couture says

    The photo shot of bacon in the two handled cast iron skillet makes it appear it is a cast iron Dutch oven. Is that what you use or a regular sized skillet that just happens to have two handles? Just wondering if using the deeper pot would make a difference or even help with splatters in the oven.

    Reply

    • Alex Lester says

      Nope, this is a skillet. Our Stargazer skillet has a small handle on the front for easy handling.

      Reply

  6. Kristen says

    I know bacon is allowed on the keto diet, but I have yet to see anyone specify if ANY bacon is okay. Most of the bacon I find has sugar in the ingredients. Do those need to be avoided or is that okay?

    Reply

    • Alex Lester says

      The amount of sugar in bacon is negligible most of the time, just be sure to account for it in your daily macros.

      Reply
5 from 5 votes (2 ratings without comment)

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