Grilling Bacon on the Grill: The Ultimate Guide

Grilling bacon on your BBQ can elevate your cooking game, providing a delicious, crispy treat that's perfect as an appetizer or part of a main dish. Whether you're using a charcoal or gas grill, there are some key techniques to follow to ensure your bacon turns out perfectly every time.

How to Grill Bacon on Charcoal or Gas Grill

First, you need to preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the bacon strips directly on the grill, making sure they do not overlap. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, flipping once to ensure even cooking. In order to avoid flare-ups and charring, it's best to grill the bacon on a rack placed over a shallow pan that is not directly over the grill's heat source. This setup allows the bacon to cook evenly as the grease drips away, leaving behind crispy slices.

For a more consistent and even cooking, consider using a 300°F convection oven with a rack over a shallow pan. This method is particularly useful if you're cooking in a 300°F convection oven. The bacon will cook more evenly, and you won't have to worry about managing flare-ups as much. Additionally, keep in mind the smoke point of bacon grease, which is lower than that of rendered lard due to the presence of proteins, sugars, and seasonings. This means that it's best to cook your bacon at a lower temperature to avoid smoke and maintain a clean cooking space.

What About Smoking Bacon?

Bacon is already smoked, so you don't need to smoke it again. Using a cast iron skillet on a grill can be a better option for cooking your bacon, especially if you want to avoid direct heat. However, if you're compelled to use your barbecue for cooking bacon, place the skillet on top of the firebox. Many grills have a flat surface on the top where you can use the heat from the firebox to cook your bacon or other items that require direct heat.

Alternative Cooking Methods

If you're looking to get creative, you can use a perforated grill rack to cook bacon. This rack can be used to grill vegetables as well, making it a versatile tool for your BBQ. Another option is to wrap the bacon around shrimp or chicken, or to create a bacon weave. Take one pound of bacon, wrap it around 1.5 pounds of ground beef, and add cheddar cheese inside. Form a log and grill it for a unique twist on traditional bacon.

Conclusion

Grilling bacon on your grill doesn't have to be complicated. By following these simple steps, you can achieve perfectly cooked, crispy bacon that will impress your guests. Whether you're using a charcoal or gas grill, a 300°F convection oven, or a creative method like a bacon weave, you're sure to get great results. Remember to keep the smoke point of bacon grease in mind and avoid flare-ups for the best cooking experience.