Say goodbye to greasy stovetops and messy cleanup! This Instant Pot bacon recipe is a game-changer, delivering perfectly crispy, flavorful bacon with minimal effort and no splattering. Whether you’re craving a classic breakfast side, a savory addition to your favorite dishes, or a quick snack, this method consistently yields delicious results in just minutes. Plus, the Instant Pot makes collecting that valuable leftover bacon grease incredibly simple, ready to infuse instant flavor into your next culinary creation.
Why Instant Pot Bacon Will Become Your New Favorite
Discover the unparalleled convenience and superior results of cooking bacon in your Instant Pot. This method isn’t just a kitchen hack; it’s a revelation for bacon lovers everywhere. Here’s why this Instant Pot bacon recipe is an absolute must-try:
- Effortlessly Quick & Easy: Forget standing over a hot stove flipping individual strips. The Instant Pot streamlines the cooking process, making crispy bacon incredibly fast and almost hands-free, perfect for busy mornings or whenever a bacon craving strikes.
- Mess-Free Cooking: One of the biggest advantages of using an Instant Pot for bacon is the complete elimination of stovetop splattering. The high sides of the pot contain all the grease, keeping your kitchen clean and reducing cleanup time significantly. No more scrubbing greasy countertops!
- Convenient Bacon Grease Collection: The Instant Pot design naturally collects all the rendered bacon grease at the bottom. This golden liquid gold is a flavor powerhouse! Easily pour it off and save it to add incredible depth and richness to eggs, vegetables, roasted potatoes, gravies, or even other Instant Pot recipes. It’s a delicious and sustainable way to maximize flavor.
- Versatile for All Bacon Types: This method works beautifully with nearly any type of bacon you prefer. Whether you’re a fan of classic pork bacon, a health-conscious turkey bacon enthusiast, or exploring various cuts like thick-cut or regular, the Instant Pot handles it all with ease.
- Diet-Friendly Indulgence: Bacon is a beloved component of many dietary lifestyles, and this Instant Pot preparation makes it even more accessible. This recipe is naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, Paleo, Keto, Whole30 compliant, low sugar, low carb, egg-free, and nut-free, making it a fantastic option for a wide array of dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
- Perfect Pairing for Any Meal: While bacon is a breakfast staple, it’s also incredibly versatile. Enjoy it alongside these delicious Keto Waffles for a low-carb morning treat, or elevate your brunch with these hearty Healthy Breakfast Burritos.
- Explore More Bacon Delights: Love bacon as much as we do? Don’t miss out on another fantastic bacon creation: this irresistible Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Asparagus, perfect as an appetizer or a flavorful side dish.
Ingredients & Substitutions: The Star of the Show
Preparing Instant Pot bacon is wonderfully straightforward, requiring minimal ingredients. For a complete list of ingredients and detailed instructions, simply scroll down to the full recipe card.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity: **the only ingredient you need is bacon!** This makes preparation incredibly easy and focuses on letting the natural, savory flavor of the bacon shine.
When selecting your bacon, feel free to choose your absolute favorite brand and cut. The Instant Pot is incredibly adaptable. Here are some considerations:
- Regular Pork Bacon: Any standard-cut or thick-cut pork bacon will work wonderfully. Thicker slices might require a minute or two extra of sautéing to reach your desired crispiness, while thinner slices will cook faster.
- Turkey Bacon: For a leaner alternative, turkey bacon performs excellently in the Instant Pot. It achieves a satisfying crispiness, though its texture will naturally be different from pork bacon. Be mindful that turkey bacon can sometimes cook quicker, so keep a close eye on it.
- No Sugar Added Bacon: If you’re following a Keto, Paleo, or Whole30 diet, or simply prefer to avoid added sugars, look for brands that offer sugar-free bacon. Many popular brands now provide excellent “no sugar added” options. Some of my personal favorites include selections from Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, and Applegate, which offer great quality and flavor profiles that align with these dietary preferences.
No need for oils or fats; the bacon will render its own delicious grease, which is part of the magic of this cooking method!
Taste & Texture: Crispy Perfection Every Time
Prepare for the comforting, irresistible taste of classic bacon, perfectly cooked to your liking! This Instant Pot method ensures that your bacon emerges with that beloved savory, slightly salty, and utterly delicious flavor profile you crave. It’s ideal for enhancing a multitude of dishes, from the heartiness of breakfast burritos and the crunch of salads to the rich depth of sandwiches, soups, and stews.
When it comes to texture, this recipe is designed to deliver beautifully crispy bacon. Imagine that satisfying crunch with every bite! The true advantage of the Instant Pot’s Sauté function is the precise control it offers. You have the flexibility to customize the crispiness to your exact preference. Do you like your bacon just barely crisp with a bit of chew, or do you prefer it shatteringly crunchy? Simply adjust the sauté time. A minute or two less will yield a chewier texture, while an extra minute or two can take it to the next level of golden-brown crispness. Always keep a watchful eye, as bacon can go from perfectly done to overcooked quite quickly!
How to Make Perfect Instant Pot Bacon: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide
Achieving restaurant-quality crispy bacon in your Instant Pot is incredibly easy. Follow these simple steps for a no-fuss, no-mess cooking experience.
Step 1: Prepare Your Bacon
First, take your bacon slices and carefully cut them in half. This crucial step ensures that the bacon strips fit perfectly within the circumference of your Instant Pot’s inner pot, allowing them to lay flat in a single layer. A single layer is essential for even cooking and maximum crispiness. If pieces are too long, they will overlap, leading to unevenly cooked or chewy spots.
Step 2: Activate the Sauté Function
With your bacon ready, place the inner pot into your Instant Pot base and secure it. Then, press the “Sauté” button on your Instant Pot. Most models default to a “Normal” or “Medium” sauté setting, which is ideal for cooking bacon. Avoid using the “High” setting, as it can cause the bacon to burn quickly and cook unevenly.
Step 3: Cook the Bacon to Golden Perfection
Once the Instant Pot indicates it’s hot (usually after a few minutes, when “Hot” appears on the display), carefully place the sliced bacon pieces into the hot pot. Arrange them in a single layer without overcrowding. Sauté the bacon for approximately 5 to 7 minutes. During this time, it’s crucial to flip the bacon every 2 minutes or so. This ensures even cooking and helps all sides of the bacon achieve that desirable crisp texture. You’ll notice the bacon starting to brown and render its fat.
Step 4: Achieve Your Desired Crispiness
Continue cooking the bacon, flipping as needed, until it reaches your preferred level of crispiness. Some prefer a slightly chewy bite, while others love their bacon extra crunchy. Keep watching closely, as the bacon can quickly go from perfect to overcooked. Once done, use tongs to transfer the crispy bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess grease. This will help maintain its crispiness.
Expert Tips & Tricks for Perfect Instant Pot Bacon
To ensure your Instant Pot bacon is nothing short of perfect every time, keep these invaluable tips in mind:
- Monitor Crispiness Closely: The key to perfect bacon lies in vigilance. The longer the bacon sautés, the crispier it will become. However, the transition from perfectly crispy to burnt can happen in a flash. For best results, watch the bacon closely, especially in the last couple of minutes of cooking.
- Frequent Flipping is Key: To promote even cooking and develop that uniform crispiness, make sure to flip your bacon every 2 minutes or so. This prevents one side from becoming too dark while the other remains undercooked.
- Mind the Heat Setting: Always use the “Normal” or “Medium” sauté setting on your Instant Pot. Do not sauté on “High” heat. This setting is far too intense for bacon and will likely lead to burning on the outside before it’s cooked through to your desired texture.
- Do Not Overcrowd the Pot: For optimal crispiness, bacon needs space. Cook the bacon in a single layer, in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the Instant Pot will steam the bacon rather than fry it, resulting in limp and chewy strips instead of crispy ones.
- Don’t Waste the Bacon Grease: This is arguably one of the best perks of cooking bacon in the Instant Pot! The grease collects neatly at the bottom. Once the bacon is removed, carefully pour the liquid grease into a heat-proof jar or container. It’s a fantastic starter for another recipe right in your Instant Pot, or save it for future use. Bacon grease adds incredible depth of flavor to scrambled eggs, roasted vegetables, fried potatoes, or even cornbread. Store it in the fridge for future culinary adventures.
- No Lid Required: Remember, you are sautéing, not pressure cooking. Keep the lid off the Instant Pot during the entire bacon cooking process.
Flavor Variations: Elevate Your Bacon Experience
While classic Instant Pot bacon is incredibly delicious on its own, don’t hesitate to experiment with flavor variations to suit your taste or enhance a specific dish. These additions can transform your bacon into something truly special:
Before cooking, try rubbing your bacon with a light sprinkle of any of these seasonings:
- Garlic Powder: Adds a subtle, aromatic depth that pairs wonderfully with savory dishes.
- Ground Pepper: A classic seasoning that provides a gentle kick and enhances bacon’s natural saltiness.
- Cayenne Powder: For those who love a bit of heat, cayenne pepper introduces a delightful spicy warmth.
- Chili Powder: Offers a smoky, earthy spice that can make your bacon irresistible in a breakfast taco or a chili recipe.
- Brown Sugar: A touch of sweetness creates a caramelized, candied bacon that is utterly addictive. Perfect for a brunch showstopper.
- Coconut Sugar: A natural, unrefined alternative to brown sugar, providing a similar sweet and caramelized effect for a healthier twist.
- Maple Sugar: Infuses your bacon with the distinct, rich flavor of maple, ideal for a sweet and savory breakfast.
For an extra special treat, consider drizzling these on top of your cooked, crispy bacon:
- Maple Syrup: A timeless combination that delivers a perfect balance of sweet and savory.
- Honey: Offers a slightly different floral sweetness, great for a sticky, shiny glaze.
- Melted Chocolate (yes!): For the adventurous palate, a drizzle of melted dark chocolate creates a surprisingly sophisticated and decadent sweet-and-savory dessert or snack.
How to Serve & Store Your Instant Pot Bacon
Instant Pot bacon is truly at its best when served hot and fresh right from the pot. Its irresistible crispiness and rich flavor are most pronounced when enjoyed immediately. However, its versatility means it can enhance countless dishes!
For the ultimate breakfast or brunch spread, serve your savory Instant Pot bacon alongside these delightful Bananas Foster Pancakes – the sweet and savory combination is simply divine.
Beyond the breakfast plate, bacon crumbles are a fantastic way to add texture and flavor to a variety of meals. Consider crumbling this perfectly cooked bacon on top of:
- Creamy Keto Deviled Eggs for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
- Hearty Chicken Bacon Ranch Spaghetti Squash for a healthier, flavorful dinner.
- Classic Bacon Ranch Potato Salad to elevate your barbecue or picnic side dish.
- Robust Bacon Chili for an extra layer of smoky, savory goodness.
You simply cannot go wrong with these additions! For a homemade breakfast sandwich that outshines any diner, pair your crispy bacon with perfectly cooked Over Hard Eggs and your favorite toast or bun.
Storing Leftovers: Any leftover Instant Pot bacon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. While it’s best fresh, it can be easily reheated in a microwave, air fryer (for extra crispiness), or a skillet until warmed through.
Looking for a fun baking recipe to try in your Instant Pot next? Don’t miss this delightful Instant Pot Cake!
Frequently Asked Questions About Instant Pot Bacon
Absolutely! Not only can you cook bacon in the Instant Pot, but it’s an incredibly efficient and mess-free method. The bacon cooks up deliciously crispy, making it a fantastic alternative to traditional stovetop or oven methods.
Frying bacon in the Instant Pot typically takes about 5 to 7 minutes using the Sauté function. This timing can vary slightly based on the thickness of your bacon and your desired level of crispiness. Thicker cuts might need an extra minute or two, while thinner bacon might be done faster.
While the short answer is no, it is highly recommended. Cutting the bacon in half ensures that the strips fit perfectly in a single layer at the bottom of the Instant Pot. This allows for more even cooking and helps achieve that extra crispy texture that everyone loves. Full-sized pieces tend to overlap, which can lead to unevenly cooked or chewy spots.
No, you should not use the lid when cooking bacon in the Instant Pot. The Sauté function is similar to frying in an open skillet. Using the lid would create steam, which would prevent the bacon from getting crispy. Keep the lid off to allow moisture to evaporate and the bacon to crisp up nicely.
Absolutely! Instant Pot bacon is a fantastic addition to any brunch spread. Its quick and easy preparation means you can have perfectly crispy bacon ready without much fuss. Pair it with this savory Quiche Florentine or these light and fluffy Gluten Free Waffles for an unforgettable brunch experience.
Any model of Instant Pot that includes a “Sauté” function will work perfectly for cooking bacon. The size of your Instant Pot (e.g., 6-quart or 8-quart) will primarily affect how many batches of bacon you can cook at once. Generally, a 6-quart Instant Pot is sufficient for most family needs.
Yes, you can certainly cook a larger quantity of bacon for meal prep. Just remember to cook it in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot. Cooking in smaller, single-layer batches ensures that each piece gets uniformly crispy. Once cooked, store cooled bacon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for longer storage.
You May Also Love These Recipes
If you enjoyed the ease and deliciousness of this Instant Pot bacon, you’re sure to find these other recipes equally delightful and convenient:
- Fluffy and wholesome Oat Flour Pancakes for a nutritious breakfast.
- Quick and easy Pancake Mix Muffins, perfect for grab-and-go mornings.
- A complete meal in one pot: Instant Pot Whole Chicken for tender, flavorful results.
- Fast and savory Air Fryer Sausage Links, another great breakfast protein option.
- Hearty and satisfying Instant Pot Chicken Thighs and Potatoes for a simple weeknight dinner.
We hope this Instant Pot bacon recipe brings joy and simplicity to your kitchen! If you make this delicious dish, we would truly appreciate it if you could leave a review and share your experience. You can also connect with us on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. We love seeing your culinary creations and welcome you to follow along for more inspiration! For even more morning meal ideas, explore our collection of Breakfast Recipes.
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Instant Pot Bacon
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Ingredients
- 2 slices bacon, cut in half
Instructions
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First, slice your bacon strips in half. This ensures they fit neatly into the Instant Pot and cook evenly.
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Press the “Sauté” button on your Instant Pot. Use the “Normal” or “Medium” setting for best results.
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Once the Instant Pot indicates it’s hot, place the sliced bacon into the pot in a single layer. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes, flipping the bacon every 2 minutes to ensure even cooking and crisping.
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Continue cooking and flipping until the bacon has reached your desired level of crispiness. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
Notes
- To ensure optimal crispiness, do not overcrowd the Instant Pot. The bacon must be in a single layer to cook properly. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Slicing the bacon in half is highly recommended as full-sized pieces will likely not fit well and won’t crisp evenly.
- Always use the medium level sauté mode for cooking bacon to prevent burning and ensure even crisping.
- Don’t discard the leftover bacon grease! It’s a fantastic flavor enhancer for your next Instant Pot recipe, eggs, or roasted vegetables.
- Store any leftover cooked bacon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
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