Healthy Ways To Cook with Bacon (No, Really)

bacon

162959244

Fried bacon strips

Photo by: vikif

vikif

I admit it: I'm a dietitian who loves bacon. But instead of gorging on greasy slabs, I've found ways to add the delightfully salty and smoky flavor to my favorite dishes a little at a time.

A slice of thick-cut bacon contains approximately 45 calories, 3 grams of fat, and 3 grams of protein. A slice or two in a recipe that serves 4 to 6 people is plenty to add flavor and texture without sacrificing heart health. Choosing the right preparation will help ensure that a sensible amount of bacon sizzles up any recipe.

Roast

Place strips of bacon on a baking rack and roast at 400-degrees for 15 to 20 minutes until cooked through. It will be the perfect combination of crispy, tender and chewy. Serve with eggs, pancakes or French toast.

Fry

Fry chopped pieces of bacon until the little morsels are crisp and caramelized. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside. Use the renderings to sauté onions, kale or shredded Brussels sprouts; add cooked bacon back to the dish at the very end. This method is perfect for vegetable side dishes, egg dishes and risotto.

Microwave

There's a right and wrong way to cook bacon in the microwave. To do it correctly, place 3 to 4 slices on a microwave-safe plate lined with a paper towel (be careful not to crowd the plate). Cook for 2 to 4 minutes, depending on your microwave, until just cooked through; allow to rest for 1 minute. Use these strips for sandwiches and wraps, or crumble them and sprinkle over a salad.

Broil

Bacon can also make a tasty coating (of sorts). Wrap shrimp, dates or pineapple chunks with appropriately sized pieces of bacon, and then broil for a few minutes per side until crisp.

Recipes to Try:

Dana Angelo White, MS, RD, ATC, is a registered dietitian, certified athletic trainer and owner of Dana White Nutrition, Inc., which specializes in culinary and sports nutrition. See Dana's full bio »

Next Up

Sitting Down to Eat with Your Family Is Good for You – No, Really

Studies show people are gathering to eat with friends and family more often ⁠— and the ritual has been linked to a whole host of emotional, social and physical benefits.

The Instant Pot Blender Really Does Cook — We Tried It!

We have to say, this appliance seriously surprised us.

How to Cook Butternut Squash: 3 Ways

Learn how to bake, roast and microwave butternut squash.

How to Cook Acorn Squash: 3 Easy Ways

Get step-by-step guides plus our favorite acorn squash recipes.

How to Cook Bacon in the Oven

Everything to know about baking bacon that comes out perfectly crispy, every time.

The Easiest Ways to Cook Ham on Easter

No, you definitely don’t need to bake a whole one.

What’s the Best Way to Cook Corned Beef?

Everything you need to know about how to cook corned beef and cabbage on the stovetop, in the Instant Pot and more.

“Veggie Fests” Are My Favorite Way to Eat Healthy

This spread is surprisingly fun to make — and eat! Here's how my family does it.