10 Best Recipes with Bacon: Delicious Dishes to Satisfy Your Cravings

Bacon is a favorite ingredient for many people, adding flavor and richness to a variety of dishes. Its versatility makes it a popular choice for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. In this article, I will share the 10 best recipes that showcase bacon in delicious and creative ways.

From classic breakfast meals to unique appetizers, there are countless ways to enjoy bacon. Each recipe not only highlights the savory taste of bacon but also offers a chance to elevate everyday dishes. Whether you’re a bacon lover or simply looking for new ideas, these recipes will inspire you to get cooking.

1. Maple-Glazed Bacon Donuts

Maple-glazed bacon donuts are a delicious treat that blend sweet and savory flavors. They feature a soft donut base topped with a rich maple glaze and crispy bacon bits.

I find these donuts easy to make, perfect for any skill level in the kitchen. Here’s how I prepare them:

1. Gather Ingredients: I need flour, sugar, baking powder, milk, eggs, maple syrup, and bacon.
2. Cook Bacon: I fry 4 strips of bacon until crispy, then chop them into small pieces.
3. Make Donut Batter: In a bowl, I mix 2 cups of flour, 1 cup of sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Then, I add 1 cup of milk, 2 eggs, and 1/4 cup of melted butter.
4. Bake Donuts: I pour the batter into a greased donut pan. I bake them at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes.
5. Prepare the Glaze: While they bake, I mix 1 cup of powdered sugar with 1/4 cup of maple syrup.
6. Assemble: Once the donuts cool, I dip them in the glaze and sprinkle the bacon on top.

These donuts are perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack. Enjoy!

2. Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers

Bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers are a delicious appetizer that combines the spicy kick of jalapeños with the savory flavor of bacon. These poppers are easy to make and perfect for gatherings.

To prepare, I start by gathering the ingredients: jalapeño peppers, cream cheese, and bacon.

Here are the steps to make them:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise and remove the seeds for less heat.
3. Fill each half with cream cheese, spreading it evenly.
4. Wrap each popper tightly with a slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
5. Place the wrapped poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for about 25 minutes or until the bacon is crispy.

These bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven for the best flavor!

3. Candied Bacon Bourbon Brownies

Candied Bacon Bourbon Brownies are a delicious twist on traditional brownies. They combine sweet and savory flavors for a unique dessert experience. The bacon adds a crunchy element and a hint of smokiness.

Making these brownies is relatively easy. I enjoy preparing this treat for special occasions or just for fun. Here’s how I do it:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a baking dish with parchment paper.
3. Cook 4 strips of bacon until crispy, then let them cool and chop them into pieces.
4. In a bowl, mix 1 cup of melted butter, 1 cup of sugar, and 2 eggs.
5. Add 1 cup of all-purpose flour and 1/2 cup of cocoa powder to the mixture.
6. Stir in 1/4 cup of bourbon and the chopped bacon.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes.

After baking, let the brownies cool before cutting them into squares. The combination of bourbon, bacon, and chocolate creates a rich flavor that I love to share.

4. Bacon and Cheddar Stuffed Mushrooms

Bacon and Cheddar Stuffed Mushrooms are a delicious and savory appetizer. They combine the earthy flavor of mushrooms with the richness of bacon and cheese. These bites are easy to make and perfect for gatherings.

To prepare this dish, I follow a few simple steps. First, I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Next, I gather my ingredients: large mushrooms, cooked bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, garlic, and breadcrumbs.

1. I remove the stems from the mushrooms and chop them finely.
2. In a skillet, I sauté the chopped stems and garlic until soft.
3. Then, I mix the sautéed mixture with cooked bacon, cream cheese, and cheddar.
4. I fill each mushroom cap with the mixture and sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.
5. Finally, I bake them for about 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.

These stuffed mushrooms are flavorful and sure to impress. They’re a great way to use bacon and cheese together in a fun and easy way.

5. Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus

Bacon-wrapped asparagus is a delicious snack or side dish. It combines the crispness of asparagus with the savory taste of bacon. This dish is easy to make and requires only a few simple ingredients.

To prepare, I start with fresh asparagus spears. I also need bacon, preferably thin-sliced for even cooking.

Here are the steps I follow:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash and trim the asparagus, removing the tough ends.
3. Take a slice of bacon and wrap it around each asparagus spear. I make sure the bacon overlaps slightly.
4. Place the wrapped asparagus on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender.

This dish is perfect for parties or as a tasty addition to dinner. I enjoy serving it with dipping sauces like ranch or aioli for added flavor.

6. Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Breakfast Sliders

Bacon, egg, and cheese breakfast sliders are a tasty and satisfying way to start the day. These small sandwiches pack a lot of flavor and are easy to make.

To prepare these sliders, I start with slider buns, bacon, eggs, and cheese. These ingredients come together quickly, making them perfect for a breakfast or brunch treat.

Here’s how I make them:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook about 6 strips of bacon in a skillet until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
3. In the same skillet, scramble 6 eggs. Cook until just set.
4. Slice the slider buns in half and layer cheese, bacon, and scrambled eggs on the bottom half.
5. Top with the other half of the buns and place in the oven for about 10 minutes until the cheese melts.

These sliders are simple yet delicious. They are great for feeding a crowd or as a grab-and-go option. I enjoy them fresh out of the oven or even reheated for a quick breakfast later.

7. Classic BLT Sandwich

The Classic BLT Sandwich combines bacon, lettuce, and tomato. It is a beloved choice for many due to its simple yet delicious flavor profile.

Making a BLT is easy and quick. I can prepare it in about 10 minutes. First, I cook the bacon until it’s crispy. Then, I gather fresh lettuce and ripe tomatoes.

Here are the steps to make a Classic BLT:

1. Cook 4-6 slices of bacon over medium heat until crisp. Drain on paper towels.
2. Toast 2 slices of bread, preferably white or wheat.
3. On one slice of toast, layer a handful of lettuce.
4. Add several slices of tomato on top of the lettuce.
5. Place the cooked bacon on the tomatoes.
6. Top with the second slice of toast.

I enjoy adding a bit of mayonnaise for extra flavor. This sandwich is perfect for lunch or as a quick snack. The combination of textures and flavors always satisfies my craving.

8. Bacon Carbonara Pasta

Bacon carbonara pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish that combines pasta with crispy bacon and a rich sauce made from eggs and cheese. It is a classic Italian recipe that many enjoy for its comforting taste.

I find this dish easy to make, and it typically takes about 20 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Here are the simple steps I follow to prepare bacon carbonara:

1. Cook 8 ounces of spaghetti according to the package instructions. Reserve some pasta water before draining.
2. In a pan, cook 4 slices of chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside.
3. In a bowl, whisk together 2 eggs, 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and black pepper.
4. Add the hot pasta to the pan, letting it combine with the bacon drippings.
5. Quickly mix in the egg and cheese mixture, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a creamy sauce.
6. Stir in the crispy bacon. Serve hot, topped with more cheese if desired.

This dish is sure to please anyone who loves bacon and pasta.

9. Bacon and Spinach Quiche

Bacon and Spinach Quiche is a savory dish made with eggs, cream, cheese, spinach, and, of course, bacon. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner.

I find this recipe easy to make, and it only takes about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll need a pre-made pie crust, which saves time.

Here are the simple steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook 6 strips of bacon until crispy, then chop them.
3. In a bowl, whisk together 4 eggs and 1 cup of cream.
4. Stir in 2 cups of fresh spinach, the chopped bacon, and 1 cup of shredded cheese.
5. Pour the mixture into the pie crust.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the quiche is set and golden on top.

Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. This quiche is delicious served warm or at room temperature. Enjoy!

10. Grilled Bacon-Wrapped Scallops

Grilled bacon-wrapped scallops are a delicious seafood dish. The bacon adds a savory flavor that complements the sweet, tender scallops. This recipe is quite simple and can be made in about 20 minutes.

To make them, I prepare the scallops by cleaning and drying them. I then take strips of bacon and wrap them around each scallop. I secure the bacon with toothpicks to keep them from unraveling during cooking.

For cooking, I follow these steps:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Place the bacon-wrapped scallops on the grill.
3. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until the bacon is crispy and the scallops are opaque and firm.

I enjoy serving these scallops with a squeeze of lemon. They are perfect for a starter or a light main dish. Grilled bacon-wrapped scallops are a crowd-pleaser.

What Are the Health Benefits of Bacon?

Bacon has several health benefits when enjoyed in moderation. It is packed with nutrients that contribute to a balanced diet, making it more than just a tasty treat. I will explore its nutritional value and its role as a protein source.

What Is the Nutritional Value of Bacon?

Bacon contains important nutrients that can support a healthy diet. One slice of cooked bacon has about 42 calories, with approximately 3 grams of protein and 3 grams of fat.

Key Nutrients in Bacon:

• Selenium: Supports metabolism and thyroid function.
• B Vitamins: Essential for energy production, including B1 (thiamine), B3 (niacin), and B12 (cobalamin).

While bacon does have higher sodium levels, choosing varieties that are lower in salt can help mitigate this concern. When balanced with other nutrient-rich foods, bacon can fit into a healthy eating plan.

How Is Bacon a Good Source of Protein?

Bacon is a good source of protein, an essential macronutrient needed for muscle repair and growth. Each slice provides about 3 grams of protein.

Including protein in my meals helps me feel fuller for longer. It also plays an important role in maintaining energy levels throughout the day.

Adding bacon to salads, sandwiches, or breakfast dishes can enhance their protein content easily. Just remember to practice portion control to enjoy the benefits without overdoing it.

How Can You Cook with Bacon?

When cooking with bacon, there are a few important factors to consider. Choosing the right cut of bacon can enhance your dish, while the cooking technique will affect the final texture and flavor. Here’s what I focus on.

What Is the Best Cut of Bacon to Choose?

Not all bacon is the same. Different cuts offer unique flavors and textures. The most common types are:

• Streaky Bacon: This is the most popular cut, known for its rich flavor and crispy texture. It’s perfect for breakfast or in sandwiches.
• Back Bacon: This is leaner and meatier than streaky bacon. It’s great for frying or grilling and works well in salads.
• Pancetta: An Italian-style bacon that adds a savory depth to pasta dishes.

I prefer to use thicker cuts when making dishes that need long cooking times, like soups or casseroles. Thinner cuts are best for quick meals, allowing for easy crisping.

What Are the Best Cooking Techniques for Bacon?

The cooking method I choose can greatly impact the final dish. Here are some effective techniques:

• Pan-Frying: This is the easiest method. I place bacon in a cold skillet and cook over medium heat, allowing the fat to render slowly. This results in great crispiness.
• Oven Baking: I often bake bacon on a sheet pan at 400°F for 15-20 minutes. This method ensures even cooking and reduces mess.
• Microwaving: For a quick option, I cover bacon between paper towels and microwave in short bursts. This is convenient, especially when I’m short on time.

Understanding these tips helps me create the perfect bacon dish every time.