How to Cook Bacon in Microwave

Why Cook Bacon in the Microwave?

Microwave bacon is faster than stovetop or oven bacon, produces less mess, and — when done right — comes out surprisingly crispy. No splatter on the stovetop, no preheating the oven. Just crispy bacon in 3–6 minutes with minimal cleanup.

Step-by-Step: How to Cook Bacon in the Microwave

Method 1: Paper Towel Method (Easiest)

1. Line a microwave-safe plate with 2–3 layers of paper towels
2. Lay bacon strips flat in a single layer on top — don't overlap
3. Cover with 1–2 more paper towels (absorbs grease and prevents splatter)
4. Microwave on full power for 1 minute per slice
5. Check after the first round — continue in 30-second intervals until desired crispiness
6. Let rest 1 minute — bacon crisps up further as it cools

Method 2: Microwave Bacon Rack (Best Results)

A dedicated microwave bacon rack elevates the strips above the plate, allowing grease to drip away rather than pooling around the bacon. This produces crispier, less greasy bacon than the paper towel method.

1. Lay bacon strips across the rack
2. Cover with a paper towel to catch splatter
3. Microwave on full power for 1 minute per slice
4. Check and continue in 30-second intervals as needed

👉 We recommend: PrepSolutions Microwaveable Bacon Grill — Cooks 7–9 Pieces of Crispy Bacon in Minutes

Cooking Times by Bacon Type

Tips for Crispier Bacon

• Use a bacon rack: Elevating the bacon above the grease makes a big difference in crispiness
• Don't overlap strips: Overlapping causes uneven cooking and steaming instead of crisping
• Let it rest: Bacon continues to crisp for 1–2 minutes after microwaving — don't judge doneness straight out of the microwave
• Pat dry before cooking: Blotting excess moisture from the bacon before microwaving helps it crisp faster

How to Prevent Splatter

Always cover bacon with a paper towel or use a microwave splatter cover. Bacon grease splatters aggressively in the microwave and is difficult to clean once it bakes onto the interior walls.

👉 We recommend: Microwave Splatter Cover with Anti-Scald Base Plate (BPA-Free Silicone, 10.7 inch)

Cleanup Tips

The paper towel method makes cleanup almost effortless — just toss the paper towels. If using a bacon rack, let it cool before washing. Most microwave bacon racks are dishwasher-safe.

What to Avoid

• ❌ Don't cook bacon uncovered — grease will splatter everywhere
• ❌ Don't overlap strips — they'll steam instead of crisp
• ❌ Don't walk away — bacon can overcook quickly; check every 30 seconds after the first minute
• ❌ Don't judge crispiness immediately — let it rest first

Final Thoughts

Microwave bacon is one of the best kitchen shortcuts for a fast breakfast. The paper towel method works great for occasional use, but if you cook bacon regularly, a microwave bacon rack is worth every penny — crispier results, less grease, and easy cleanup.