10 Secrets To Cooking The Perfect Bacon On The Grill – Get The Best Crispy Goodness Every Time!

Grilling bacon on the grill is an art form that, when mastered, elevates your breakfast, lunch, or dinner to culinary heights. Whether you prefer thick-cut or thin-sliced bacon, crispy or chewy, this comprehensive guide will teach you everything you need to know about how to cook bacon on the grill like a pro.

Choosing the Right Bacon

The quality of your bacon will greatly impact the final result. Opt for thick-cut bacon with a good amount of marbling for maximum flavor and juiciness. Avoid bacon that is too lean or has been pre-cooked.

Preparing the Grill

Prepare your grill for direct heat cooking. Heat the grill to medium-high heat, around 350-400°F (175-200°C). If using a gas grill, turn on one or two burners and adjust the heat to medium-high. For charcoal grills, light a chimney starter filled with charcoal briquettes. Once the coals are glowing red, spread them evenly across the bottom of the grill.

Laying Out the Bacon

Place the bacon strips on the grill grates in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the grill, as this will prevent the bacon from getting crispy. Use tongs to gently space the bacon strips evenly apart.

Cooking the Bacon

Once the bacon is on the grill, resist the urge to touch it too much. Let it cook undisturbed for 5-7 minutes, or until the underside is golden brown and crispy. Flip the bacon and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the other side is also golden brown and crispy.

Determining Doneness

The doneness of bacon is a matter of personal preference. For crispy bacon, cook until both sides are golden brown and slightly charred. For chewier bacon, cook for a shorter amount of time, until the bacon is still slightly pliable.

Removing the Bacon

Once the bacon is cooked to your desired doneness, remove it from the grill using tongs. Place the bacon on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess grease.

Tips for Perfect Grilled Bacon

• Use thick-cut bacon: Thicker bacon strips will hold up better on the grill and provide more flavor.
• Cook over medium-high heat: This will help the bacon to crisp up quickly and evenly.
• Don’t overcrowd the grill: Overcrowding will prevent the bacon from cooking evenly.
• Flip the bacon only once: Flipping the bacon too often will make it tough.
• Let the bacon rest: After cooking, let the bacon rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and juicy bacon.

Variations

• Honey glazed bacon: Brush the bacon with honey before grilling for a sweet and sticky twist.
• Maple bacon: Sprinkle the bacon with maple sugar before grilling for a smoky and sweet flavor.
• Barbecue bacon: Marinade the bacon in barbecue sauce before grilling for a tangy and savory treat.

In a nutshell: Savor the Sizzle

Grilling bacon on the grill is an easy and delicious way to elevate your meals. With the right technique and a little practice, you can master the art of grilling perfect bacon every time. So fire up your grill and get ready to enjoy the sizzle, crisp, and perfection of grilled bacon.

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q: Can I grill bacon without a grill?
A: Yes, you can grill bacon in a cast-iron skillet or on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil.

Q: How long does it take to grill bacon?
A: It takes about 10-14 minutes to grill bacon, depending on the thickness and desired doneness.

Q: What is the best way to store grilled bacon?
A: Grilled bacon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.