Cooking crispy bacon doesn’t need to be messy or time-consuming. Two easy, grease-free methods—the oven and microwave—deliver perfect, crunchy strips every time.

The oven method ensures even cooking and simple cleanup. “Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), line a baking sheet with foil, and place a wire rack on top.” Arrange bacon slices on the rack, leaving space between them. Bake for 15–20 minutes, depending on thickness and preferred crispiness. When done, “transfer the bacon to paper towels to absorb extra fat,” resulting in golden, restaurant-quality pieces.

For quick meals, the microwave works great. Layer paper towels on a microwave-safe plate, add the bacon, and cover with another paper towel. “Microwave in one-minute intervals” until the bacon is as crispy as you like.

Both techniques cook bacon evenly because “the fat renders slowly and consistently,” avoiding burnt edges or soggy centers.

Whether you’re serving breakfast or adding crunch to salads and sandwiches, skipping the skillet means less splatter and more flavor. “By trading the skillet for the oven or microwave, you’ll save time, reduce mess, and still enjoy delicious, crispy bacon every single time.”