The Ultimate Bacon Hack

Great for savory pies, Mac and cheese casseroles. Pretty easy to make and super impressive when served to guests. 

• 12 strips regular cut bacon 

Equipment:

• Half sheet pan or rimmed baking sheet (It’s important to use a rimmed pan for this technique.)

• Parchment or silicon baking mat (I prefer either of these to foil. It ensure the bacon won’t stick. The downside is that it requires a bit more cleanup.)

• Plate 

• 2 spatulas 

Preheat oven to 400º Line half sheet pan with silicon May or parchment. Horizontally arrange 6 strips regular cut bacon so they are just barely touching. Lay 6 strip on top of vertically. Then working from one side to the other, weave bacon into lattice pattern. Cool for 15-20 minutes until bacon looks just barely crisped. Let rest in pan for a few minutes to cool. Using 2 spatulas, transfer to plate lined with paper towels to drain. The bacon will crisp up more as it cools. 

Tips:

• You can trim it as needed with a sharp knife or kitchen shears. 

• In the instance that I made it, I used it for a savory beef and bacon pie. So good! 

• Don’t dump that bacon grease. Save it in a heatproof container in the fridge. Use it in place of butter in scrambled eggs, sautéing onions, etc...