Yes, it is absolutely possible to bake bacon in an oven instead of frying it. In fact, baking bacon in the oven is a popular and convenient method that many people prefer for a few reasons:
Less mess: Baking bacon produces less splatter and mess compared to frying it in a skillet.
Consistency: Oven baking allows for more even cooking, resulting in consistently crispy bacon without the risk of burning it.
Hands-free cooking: Once the bacon is in the oven, you can set a timer and focus on other tasks without having to constantly tend to it.
Here's a simple guide on how to bake bacon in the oven:
Preheat your oven: Set it to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare a baking sheet: Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. This makes cleanup easier.
Arrange the bacon: Lay the bacon strips on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they don't overlap. You can place a wire rack on the baking sheet and put the bacon on top if you want to elevate it and let the grease drain away.
Bake the bacon: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon reaches your desired level of crispiness. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the bacon and your oven, so keep an eye on it.
Drain the bacon: Once the bacon is done, remove it from the oven and transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess grease.
Remember that the cooking time can be adjusted based on your preferences. If you like it more crispy, you can leave it in the oven for a bit longer, but be careful not to overcook it.
Baking bacon in the oven is a convenient and hassle-free way to prepare this delicious treat, and it's a popular alternative to frying.