Table of Contents
ho doesn’t love waking up to the sound and smell of sizzling bacon? But if you’re watching your health or looking for a leaner alternative, Baked Turkey Bacon in Oven is your new best friend. And here’s the real game-changer: cooking turkey bacon in the oven. No greasy stovetop mess, no flipping every few minutes—just easy, hands-off crispiness.
Baked turkey bacon in oven is a healthier, fuss-free way to enjoy a crispy breakfast side without the added fat and cleanup of traditional pork bacon. It’s a fantastic solution for busy mornings, meal prep, or hosting brunch for a crowd. Whether you’re cooking for your family or making a big breakfast spread, baking your turkey bacon ensures even cooking and the perfect balance between crispy and chewy.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from selecting the right brand of turkey bacon, to how long to cook turkey bacon in oven for maximum flavor and texture, to storing leftovers and reheating like a pro. Let’s make Baked Turkey Bacon in Oven your new kitchen staple!
Ingredients
- 1 pack (12 oz) turkey bacon
The star of the show. Choose your favorite brand—look for uncured and nitrate-free versions for a healthier option. - Parchment paper or aluminum foil
Makes cleanup a breeze and prevents sticking. - Baking rack (optional)
Elevates the bacon for even crisping on both sides, though it’s not necessary. - Non-stick cooking spray (if not using parchment)
Helps prevent the bacon from sticking to the foil or pan.
How To Bake Turkey Bacon – Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (204°C). This temperature is ideal for cooking turkey bacon to crispy perfection without burning it. Preheating is important so the bacon starts cooking evenly right away.
2. Line a Baking Sheet
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. If using foil, lightly spray with non-stick spray to avoid sticking.
3. Optional: Use a Baking Rack
If you like your bacon extra crispy, place a wire rack on top of your lined baking sheet. Lay the turkey bacon strips on the rack so air can circulate underneath.
Pro Tip: Using a rack gives you more evenly crisped bacon, but it’s not essential.
4. Arrange Turkey Bacon in a Single Layer
Lay the turkey bacon strips flat on the baking sheet (or rack), making sure they don’t overlap. This ensures even cooking and allows the hot air to circulate.
5. Bake in the Oven
Place the baking sheet in the middle rack of your oven and bake for 10–12 minutes. Flip the bacon halfway through if you’re not using a rack.
- For chewy bacon: Check at 8–9 minutes.
- For crispy bacon: Cook for 12–14 minutes.
How long to cook turkey bacon in oven? Generally, 10–12 minutes is perfect, but every oven varies slightly.
6. Remove and Let Cool
Use tongs to remove the turkey bacon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate. This helps soak up excess grease and keeps the bacon crispy.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Serve your perfectly baked turkey bacon in oven with eggs, pancakes, or crumble it over salads and baked potatoes.
Pro Tips for a Perfect Recipe
- Start with a cold oven rack if using a rack. This prevents the bacon from sticking and promotes even cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Overlapping bacon steams instead of crisps.
- Watch closely toward the end. Turkey bacon can go from golden to too dark quickly.
- For extra crispy bacon, broil for the last 1-2 minutes. Keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn.
- Use thicker cuts for more chew. Thin-sliced turkey bacon will cook faster and crisp more.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic Breakfast Plate: Serve with scrambled or fried eggs and whole grain toast.
- Salad Topper: Crumble and sprinkle on top of a Cobb salad or Caesar.
- Turkey BLT: Replace regular bacon in your BLT for a healthier sandwich.
- Baked Potato Garnish: Add a savory crunch on baked or mashed potatoes.
- Snack Packs: Add cold strips to lunchboxes or bento boxes for a protein-packed snack.
Pair your turkey bacon breakfast with a cold glass of orange juice, a hot cup of coffee, or a refreshing smoothie.
Recipe Variations & Customizations
- Maple-Glazed: Brush the bacon with a bit of maple syrup before baking for a sweet-savory combo.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle with cayenne pepper or chili flakes before placing it in the oven.
- Herbed Turkey Bacon: Add cracked black pepper, thyme, or rosemary for a gourmet twist.
- Air Fryer Option: Cook at 375°F for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Microwave Method: Place between paper towels and cook on high for 1 minute per slice (not as crispy but quick).
FAQs
Can you Baked turkey bacon in oven?
Yes! In fact, baking is one of the best methods for evenly cooked, crispy turkey bacon without the greasy mess.
How long to Baked turkey bacon in oven?
Typically 10–12 minutes at 400°F. For extra crispiness, extend by 1–2 minutes or broil briefly at the end.
Do I need to flip the bacon?
If using a rack, no. If baking directly on the sheet, flipping halfway helps with even cooking.
Can I use frozen turkey bacon?
Yes, but thaw it first for best texture. Baking from frozen can lead to uneven cooking.
Is turkey bacon healthier than pork bacon?
Yes. Turkey bacon typically contains fewer calories, less fat, and less sodium than pork bacon, making it a lighter option.
Can I make it in bulk?
Absolutely. Bake multiple trays at once using convection or rotate trays halfway through cooking.
How to store the best turkey bacon?
Store cooled bacon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven until crisp.
Substitutes & Ingredient Alternatives
- Pork Bacon: If you’re not avoiding pork, this recipe works just as well with regular bacon. Just reduce bake time slightly.
- Beef Bacon: Similar in texture to turkey bacon with a deeper flavor—bake at same temperature.
- Tempeh or Tofu Bacon: Plant-based? Use thin slices of tempeh or tofu with liquid smoke and bake until crisp.
- Non-Stick Mat Instead of Parchment: A silicone baking mat works great for an eco-friendly cleanup option.
- Low-Sodium Turkey Bacon: For those watching salt intake, choose a low-sodium version.
Nutritional Information (Per Slice)
- Calories: ~35
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 2.5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: ~200mg (varies by brand)
Note: Always check your specific brand’s label for precise numbers.
Final Thoughts
Baked turkey bacon in oven is a total game-changer—no splatters, no flipping chaos, just perfectly cooked strips every time. It’s simple, clean, and versatile, making it ideal for both busy mornings and leisurely weekend brunches.
Whether you’re new to turkey bacon or already a fan, baking it is hands-down the best method. Once you try this technique, you may never go back to the skillet!
Have you tried baked turkey bacon in oven before? What’s your favorite way to serve it? Share your tips and favorite pairings in the comments below!
If you love this healthy Baked Turkey Bacon in Oven recipe, don’t miss our guides on:
Don’t forget to rate this recipe and leave a comment if you found it helpful!
