Are you a savory lover who can’t get enough of that smoky, sweet, and salty flavor that only comes from cooking with homemade bacon? Look no further! We’ve got you covered with our list of 20 mouth-watering homemade bacon recipes to take your dishes to the next level. From classic glazed and smoked flavors to spicy and herby twists, we’re sharing our favorite recipes for making bacon at home.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these easy-to-make recipes will have you enjoying delicious homemade bacon in no time. And with so many flavor combinations to choose from, you’ll never get bored with your menu options again. So go ahead and indulge in the savory goodness of homemade bacon – your taste buds (and your friends) will thank you!
Maple Glazed Homemade Bacon
Elevate your breakfast game with this simple recipe for maple glazed homemade bacon. The sweetness of the maple syrup pairs perfectly with the smoky flavor of the bacon, making it a perfect addition to any morning meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound thick-cut bacon
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
3. Lay the bacon slices on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each piece.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Brush the glaze evenly over the bacon slices.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and caramelized.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Brown Sugar and Black Pepper Bacon
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this unique combination of brown sugar and black pepper bacon. The sweetness of the brown sugar pairs surprisingly well with the earthy flavor of black pepper, creating a deliciously complex taste experience.
Ingredients:
– 12 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1 tsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
3. Lay the bacon slices on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and black pepper.
5. Sprinkle the sugar-pepper mixture evenly over the bacon slices.
6. Drizzle the olive oil over the bacon to help the sugar caramelize.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bacon reaches your desired level of crispiness.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Applewood Smoked Homemade Bacon
Transform your breakfast game with this easy recipe for homemade bacon, infused with the rich flavor of applewood smoke. This classic American staple gets a delightful twist with a DIY approach that’s surprisingly simple and rewarding.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly (or 4-6 slices of regular bacon)
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup kosher salt
– 1/4 cup pink curing salt (optional, but recommended for food safety)
– 1 tablespoon applewood chips or chunks
– 1 gallon water
Instructions:
1. Preparing the Cure: In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, kosher salt, and pink curing salt (if using).
2. Curing the Bacon: Rub the cure mixture evenly onto both sides of the pork belly or regular bacon slices.
3. Smoking Time: Place the cured meat in a smoker set to 225°F (110°C) with applewood chips or chunks for 4-6 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 150°F (65°C).
4. Cooling and Slicing: Remove from heat, let cool, and slice into desired thickness.
Cooking Time: 4-6 hours
Get ready to savor the smoky goodness of your homemade bacon on toast, in a BLT, or as a snack on its own!
Garlic and Herb Infused Bacon
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this savory recipe that combines the richness of bacon with the pungency of garlic and herbs. Perfect for adding a flavorful twist to eggs, sandwiches, or salads.
Ingredients:
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme.
3. Lay the bacon slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread half of the garlic-herb mixture evenly over each slice of bacon.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Sriracha Glazed Bacon
Elevate your bacon game with this sweet and spicy glaze, perfect for adding a kick to any dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound thick-cut bacon
– 1/4 cup Sriracha sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together Sriracha sauce, brown sugar, honey, and apple cider vinegar.
4. Lay the bacon slices on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Brush the Sriracha glaze evenly onto each bacon slice, making sure to coat them fully.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jalapeño and Cheddar Stuffed Bacon
Elevate your snack game with this irresistible recipe that combines the smoky richness of bacon with the bold flavors of jalapeño and cheddar. These crispy, cheesy bites are sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 12 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 2 large jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Lay bacon slices flat on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Sprinkle chopped jalapeño and shredded cheddar cheese evenly over each bacon slice.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the bacon and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Honey Mustard Homemade Bacon
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this simple recipe that combines the richness of bacon with the tanginess of honey mustard. This homemade bacon is perfect for topping salads, sandwiches, or eggs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly or thick-cut bacon
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup kosher salt
– 1/4 cup black pepper
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, and brown sugar until well combined.
3. Rub the honey-mustard mixture all over the pork belly or bacon, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Sprinkle kosher salt, black pepper, and granulated sugar over the top.
5. Place the coated bacon on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet.
6. Bake for 2-3 hours or until crispy and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Smoked Paprika and Chili Bacon
Elevate your breakfast game with this flavorful combination of smoked paprika and chili bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound thick-cut bacon, sliced into strips
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, chili powder, and black pepper.
4. Place the bacon strips on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over the bacon, making sure each strip is coated.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy.
7. Remove from oven and sprinkle with brown sugar.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tips:
Use this flavorful bacon as a topping for scrambled eggs, omelets, or breakfast burritos. You can also crumble it into salads or use it as a pizza topping.
Bourbon Barrel-Aged Bacon
Transform your ordinary bacon into a rich, bourbon-infused delicacy with this simple recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb thick-cut bacon (smoked or regular)
– 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey (high-proof recommended)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tsp salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil, leaving some overhang for easy cleanup.
3. Lay the bacon slices on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, making sure not to overlap them.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the bourbon whiskey, brown sugar, and salt until well combined.
5. Brush the bourbon mixture evenly onto both sides of the bacon slices, making sure they’re fully coated.
6. Place the baking sheet in the oven and cook for 2-3 hours or until the bacon reaches your desired level of crispiness.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Coffee Rubbed Homemade Bacon
Create a unique twist on classic bacon by infusing the smoky flavor of coffee into every bite. This recipe yields crispy, savory strips that are perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly or Canadian bacon
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon instant coffee powder
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, coffee powder, smoked paprika, and kosher salt.
3. Place the pork belly or Canadian bacon on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet lined with aluminum foil.
4. Rub the coffee mixture evenly onto both sides of the meat, making sure to coat it completely.
5. Let the bacon sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to allow the seasonings to penetrate the meat.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Rosemary and Thyme Infused Bacon
Rosemary and Thyme Infused Bacon Recipe
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this aromatic and flavorful recipe that combines the savory goodness of bacon with the herbal notes of rosemary and thyme.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound thick-cut bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 sprig fresh thyme, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, chopped rosemary, and chopped thyme.
4. Place the bacon pieces on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Brush the rosemary-thyme mixture evenly over the bacon pieces.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Teriyaki Glazed Homemade Bacon
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with this sweet and savory teriyaki glazed homemade bacon recipe. The combination of caramelized sugar, soy sauce, and spices creates a rich and addictive flavor profile that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound thick-cut bacon
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, water, honey, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
4. Lay the bacon slices on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Brush the teriyaki glaze evenly over the bacon, making sure to coat all surfaces.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Candied Pecan Crusted Bacon
Candied Pecan Crusted Bacon: Sweet and Savory Perfection
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this unique and delicious recipe that combines the smoky flavor of bacon with the crunch and sweetness of candied pecans.
Ingredients:
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1/4 cup candied pecans, finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together chopped candied pecans, brown sugar, maple syrup, and smoked paprika.
4. Coat each bacon slice evenly with the pecan mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated bacon slices on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Enjoy your sweet and savory Candied Pecan Crusted Bacon!
Cherrywood Smoked Bacon
Transform your morning meals and snacks with the rich, smoky flavor of Cherrywood Smoked Bacon. This recipe yields tender, savory strips that’ll elevate any dish.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb (450g) pork belly bacon
• 1 cup (250ml) Cherrywood chips or chunks
• 1/4 cup (60ml) brown sugar
• 2 tbsp (30ml) kosher salt
• 1 tsp (5ml) black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, kosher salt, and black pepper.
3. Remove the bacon from its packaging and pat dry with paper towels.
4. Apply the sugar mixture evenly across the bacon surface.
5. Place the bacon in the smoker, close the lid, and smoke for 4 hours.
6. After 4 hours, add the Cherrywood chips or chunks to the smoker.
7. Continue smoking for an additional 2 hours, or until the bacon reaches your desired level of smokiness.
Cooking Time: 6 hours
Lemon Pepper Homemade Bacon
Elevate your breakfast game with this easy-to-make homemade bacon recipe infused with the brightness of lemon and the warmth of pepper. Perfect for topping eggs, salads, or using as a garnish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly or bacon
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork belly or bacon.
4. Place the coated bacon on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until crispy, flipping halfway through.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle lemon zest evenly across the bacon.
7. Drizzle with lemon juice and let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Bacon
Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Bacon Recipe
This recipe combines the sweetness of pineapple with the spiciness of chili flakes, creating a unique and delicious flavor profile that’s perfect for adding to burgers, salads, or using as a topping.
Ingredients:
• 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
• 1 cup of pineapple chunks
• 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon of honey
• 1/4 teaspoon of ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon of smoked paprika
• 1/8 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, honey, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
4. Place the pineapple chunks on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Drizzle the pineapple with the sugar mixture, tossing to coat evenly.
6. Lay the bacon slices on top of the pineapple, leaving a small gap between each slice.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Bacon
Add a tangy twist to your morning or elevate your next dinner party with this sweet and savory balsamic glazed bacon. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to add a new dimension of flavor to their favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (or 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar + 1 tablespoon honey)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Lay the bacon slices on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each slice.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic glaze and brown sugar until well combined.
5. Brush the glaze mixture evenly over the bacon slices.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crispy and caramelized.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pancetta-Style Homemade Bacon
Create your own delicious pancetta-style bacon at home with this easy recipe. This Italian-inspired cured meat is perfect for adding a rich, smoky flavor to dishes like pasta, salads, and sandwiches.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly or shoulder, skin removed
– 1/4 cup kosher salt
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon pink curing salt (optional)
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together kosher salt, brown sugar, and pink curing salt (if using).
2. Rub the mixture all over the pork belly or shoulder.
3. Place the meat on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet or tray.
4. Let it cure in the refrigerator for 7-10 days, turning the meat every day or two to ensure even curing.
5. After curing, rinse the meat under cold running water to remove excess salt.
6. Pat dry with paper towels and let air-dry at room temperature for 2-3 hours before slicing.
Cooking Time:
– Curing time: 7-10 days
– Cooking time (optional): 5-7 minutes per side over medium heat or until crispy
Blue Cheese and Walnut Bacon
Elevate your bacon game with this rich and savory combination of blue cheese and crunchy walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon (applewood-smoked or regular)
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (Gorgonzola or Roquefort work well)
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the bacon slices on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each slice.
4. Sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese evenly over the bacon.
5. Top the blue cheese with chopped walnuts.
6. Drizzle the olive oil over the walnuts and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cajun Spiced Homemade Bacon
Transform your breakfast game with this flavorful homemade bacon recipe infused with the bold spices of Cajun cuisine! This sweet and savory blend will elevate your morning routine and add a kick to any dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon ground cayenne pepper
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Arrange the bacon strips in a single layer.
4. Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over the bacon, making sure each piece is coated.
5. Bake for 2-1/2 hours, flipping the bacon halfway through. Let cool completely before storing.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Summary
Get ready to elevate your breakfast, lunch, or dinner game with these 20 mouth-watering homemade bacon recipes! From sweet and savory to spicy and smoky, this collection has something for every taste bud. Try maple-glazed bacon, brown sugar-crusted bacon, or sriracha-spiced bacon for a flavor boost. Or go all out with stuffed bacon, smoked paprika bacon, or bourbon barrel-aged bacon for the ultimate indulgence. Whether you’re a savory lover or a sweet tooth, there’s something here to satisfy your cravings and take your cooking to the next level.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
