Tag: bacon

Baked Bacon

Baked bacon is one of my favorite things. A little time, a little seasoning and I’ve got a wonderful treat. I like my bacon to not be super-duper crunchy. Just a little bite is perfect. For me, baking is easier than cooking bacon in a skillet. I also get a more-consistently cooked product (with minimal curling!). With less mess, too.

Baked Bacon

Bacon. Glorious Perfectly-Cooked Bacon.

When I worked at the cafeteria at a large army base outside of Washington DC we would bake an unbelievable amount of bacon. And specially for Saturday morning’s buffet. Rack after rack after rack of bacon. I started as a dishwasher. Nothing was harder than scrubbing stack after stack of large sheet pans that had pieces of bacon stuck to them. I avoid that now by lining my pans with foil. A teen making minimum wage was probably cheaper than foil back in the day, so we didn’t line the pans at the cafeteria. We also didn’t season the bacon, something I really love to do.

Save The Drippings

If you’re planning on draining off the bacon drippings to use for other purposes, you might want to skip the seasoning all-together, or strain it first to remove any spice pieces.

Cleanup Is Easy

For cleanup I take the paper towel that I drained the bacon on and toss it onto the baking sheet to absorb any grease. I fold up the sides of the foil and seal it tightly. This creates a packet that can be tossed into the bin without having to worry about it leaking.

Use Up Your Spices

Baked bacon is also a great way to use up those last bits of the spices you have in the pantry. You know the ones, they’ve been in there forever waiting for you to figure out what to do with them. Well, now you know!

AlbuKirky Seasonings Red Chile BBQ Rub - Hatch Red Chile, Gluten Free, No MSG - 6 Ounce
AlbuKirky Seasonings Red Chile BBQ Rub – Hatch Red Chile, Gluten Free, No MSG – 6 Ounce

Crunch some on some bacon and blue cheese French fries and enjoy!

Baked Bacon
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5 from 1 vote

Baked Bacon

Baked bacon is one of my favorite things. A little time, a little seasoning and I’ve got a wonderful treat. I like my bacon to not be super-duper crunchy. Just a little bite is perfect. 
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword bacon
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 315kcal

Equipment

Baking Sheet
Baking Sheet
Aluminum foil
Aluminum foil

Ingredients

  • 16 ounces bacon thin- or thick-sliced
  • seasonings see notes

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350 F. For thick or crisper bacon you can go as high as 400 F.
  • Line a large rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil.
  • Lay the bacon out onto the baking sheet. Do not overlap the pieces or let them touch.
  • Sprinkle the top side of the bacon with the seasoning.
  • Bake for 20 minutes. The bacon will still be mostly uncooked.
  • Flip and season the other side. Return to the oven for 15 minutes or until the desired doneness is achieved. I like my bacon done, but only lightly crispy. Thin bacon usually takes a total of 35 minutes, while thick can take 45 minutes or longer.
  • Remove bacon to paper towel-lined plate to drain then serve.

Notes

Do not use seasonings that contain a lot of sugar. If your seasonings contain a lot of salt I recommend using them sparingly as the bacon is already salty to begin with if it has been salt-cured.
I usually use Grill Mates from McCormick. Todd’s Dirt is also a favorite, along with any of the mixes from AlbuKirky Seasonings.
Sometime bacon, specially thinner slices, can be hard to separate when removing it from the packaging. I freeze my bacon for a few minutes to make the pieces easier to remove. Just don’t put the bacon in the freezer and forget about it!

Nutrition

Calories: 315kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 30g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 50mg | Sodium: 500mg | Potassium: 150mg | Vitamin A: 28IU | Calcium: 4mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)
Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)

Bacon-Wrapped Sweet Potato Bites

One of my favorite Thanksgiving day dishes is my grilled sweet potatoes with pecan butter. Well, my favorite has a new buddy, and it’s these bacon-wrapped sweet potato bites. Packed with fantastic savory flavors, and yes, wrapped in bacon. The bacon not only adds a fantastic smokiness, it keeps the sweet potatoes moist and tender. Sweet potatoes always need a little something and boy, is bacon ever a marriage made in heaven. Bacon makes sweet potatoes amazing, and you want to serve amazing at Thanksgiving.

Bacon-Wrapped Sweet Potato Bites

Very Different. And Very Good.

There is absolutely nothing I would change about this recipe for bacon-wrapped sweet potato bites. You can assemble the potatoes well ahead of time, refrigerate them, and cook them before enjoying your big Thanksgiving meal. They do reheat well, so you can also cook them ahead of time and just reheat for about 10-15 minutes at 350 F before serving.

You can make this dish on a grill, too. I recommend that you use a grill basket. It makes cooking easier and you don’t have to worry about anything falling through the grates. And cleanup is easier too!

Weber Deluxe Grilling Basket
Weber Deluxe Grilling Basket

Also try my Buffalo potato wedges.

This recipe was inspired by a recipe from Just a Pinch.

Bacon-Wrapped Sweet Potato Bites
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5 from 1 vote

Bacon-Wrapped Sweet Potato Bites

Packed with fantastic savory flavors, and yes, wrapped in bacon. The bacon not only adds a fantastic smokiness, it keeps the sweet potatoes moist and tender.
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword bacon, sweet potatoes
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings 6
Calories 201kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Just a Pinch

Equipment

Mixing Bowl
Mixing Bowl
Baking Sheet
Baking Sheet

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350 F.
  • Peel the potatoes.
  • Cut the potatoes into rounds that are as thick as the bacon is wide.
  • Place potatoes into a large bowl. Sprinkle with a bit of oil and toss to coat.
  • Combine the Mrs. Dash, thyme, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt and pepper.
  • Sprinkle half of the spice mix over the potatoes and toss to coat.
  • Wrap a piece of bacon around each piece of potato.
  • Roll in the remaining spice mixture then secure the bacon with a toothpick.
  • Place potatoes on a baking sheet lined with a silpat or aluminum foil and sprayed with non-stick spray.
  • Bake for 30-45 minutes (depending on how thick the potatoes are) until the potatoes are nice and tender and the bacon is cooked.

Notes

These make for a great Thanksgiving side dish.

Nutrition

Calories: 201kcal | Carbohydrates: 49g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 282mg | Potassium: 539mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 24g | Vitamin A: 21381IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 67mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)
Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)

Bacon-Wrapped Pork Medallions

A bacon-wrapped pork medallion is a beautiful, tasty, juicy, tender joy to eat. The spice mixture adds incredible flavor to perfectly-cooked pork. Up until a few years ago, you had to cook pork to a high temperature for it to be acceptable by the USDA. Now, you can call it done (well, medium rare) at 145° F. The result is not a hockey puck medallion. It’s the pork equivalent of filet mignon.

Bacon-Wrapped Pork Medallions

This is a Favorite in our House

I usually stop cooking my bacon-wrapped pork medallions around 150° F, then let them rest for 4-5 minutes. The result is not pink in the middle, but the juices are clear. Perfect!

NutriChef Food Vacuum Sealer Machine - Automatic Air Sealing System for Dry & Moist Foods, LED Touch Controls, Includes Vacuum Bags, Hose & Wine Stopper, High Suction Power, 14"x6"x3", Black
NutriChef Food Vacuum Sealer Machine – Automatic Air Sealing System for Dry & Moist Foods, LED Touch Controls, Includes Vacuum Bags, Hose & Wine Stopper, High Suction Power, 14″x6″x3″, Black

Also try my crazy good balsamic glazed pork medallions. If you prefer beef but can’t bring yourself to pay big bucks for filets, try my mock bacon filets.gen

Bacon-Wrapped Pork Medallions
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5 from 1 vote

Bacon-Wrapped Pork Medallions

A bacon-wrapped pork medallion is a beautiful, tasty, juicy, tender joy to eat.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword bacon, pork
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 152kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Cast Iron Skillet
Cast Iron Skillet

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 400 F.
  • Cut the tenderloin into medallions about 2″ thick.
  • Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add as many pieces of bacon as you have pork medallions and cook for a few minutes. You do not want them to get crispy, just cook them slightly, about 4-5 minutes. Remove to a paper towel-lined plate.
  • Remove all but 1 tablespoon of the bacon drippings.
  • Combine the garlic powder, seasoned salt, basil and oregano in a small bowl.
  • Roll medallions in the spice mixture, coating each side.
  • Wrap a single piece of bacon around each medallion and secure with a toothpick.
  • Add butter to the skillet. Melt. Let the butter get hot enough that it almost starts smoking.
  • Add the medallions to the skillet and sear over high heat on both sides, 2-3 minutes. You do not want to cook the meat completely, just get a nice sear.
  • Transfer skillet to the oven and cook until the medallions measure 145 F (or so, but don’t go over 155 F) with an instant-read thermometer.
  • Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Add a pinch of chipotle powder to the seasoning for a slightly smoky, spicy twist.

Nutrition

Calories: 152kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 24g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 75mg | Sodium: 356mg | Potassium: 469mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 14IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 19mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)
Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)

Bacon-Wrapped Hot Dogs with Fire-Eater Dog Sauce

How do you make a great hot dog better? Yes, you wrap it in bacon. Crispy, yummy bacon. But you’re not done yet. Then you add a good helping of a thick, sweet-heat sauce that makes mustard and ketchup boring. These bacon-wrapped hot dogs with Fire-Eater dog sauce are a great way to change up your everyday dogs. You can add more of your favorite toppings if you like, but don’t bury that great bacon flavor.

Bacon-Wrapped Hot Dogs with Fire-Eater Dog Sauce

Make Extra Sauce. You’ll Need It.

The Fire-Eater dog sauce is also perfect on hamburgers and fries, so make an extra big batch and keep it on hand in the fridge. To make a great smoky version use a hickory BBQ sauce. For an even spicier version use a hot BBQ sauce and add a few splashes of your favorite hot sauce. Bacon-wrapped hot dogs with Fire-Eater dog sauce are good no matter what.

Remember that if you have to refrigerate any leftover sauce, let it sit out on the counter for at least 30 minutes before using. Or warm it up a bit on the stovetop. You don’t want to ‘shock’ hot, just-cooked wings with a cold sauce.

SLOTDOG - Hot Dog Slicing Tool - Stainless Steel Cutter Blades for Kitchen, Grilling, Tailgating, Camping and Backyard Outdoor BBQ - 10 inch - Red
SLOTDOG – Hot Dog Slicing Tool – Stainless Steel Cutter Blades for Kitchen, Grilling, Tailgating, Camping and Backyard Outdoor BBQ – 10 inch – Red

Also try my Banh Mi hot dogs.

Bacon-Wrapped Hot Dogs with Fire-Eater Dog Sauce
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4 from 1 vote

Bacon-Wrapped Hot Dogs with Fire-Eater Dog Sauce

How do you make a great hot dog better? Yes, you wrap it in bacon. Crispy, yummy bacon. 
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword hot dogs
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Calories 508kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Charcoal Grill
Charcoal Grill
sauce pan
sauce pan
Whisk
Whisk

Ingredients

For the hot dogs

  • 6 hot dogs
  • 6 slices bacon
  • 6 hot dog buns

For the Fire-Eater dog sauce

Instructions

For the hot dogs

  • Wrap the hot dogs in the bacon.
  • Fire up your grill for indirect cooking.
  • Place bacon-wrapped dogs on the grill over indirect heat.
  • Cook for 20 minutes, rotating often, until the bacon is cooked and starting to crisp.
  • Remove and let cool slightly to let the bacon finish crisping.
  • Serve on buns and drizzle with Fire-Eater dog sauce.

For the Fire-Eater dog sauce

  • Combine all ingredients in a medium sauce pan.
  • Bring to a simmer.
  • Remove from heat and let cool until thickened.

Notes

Add your favorite toppings, like relish or onions or even kraut!

Nutrition

Calories: 508kcal | Carbohydrates: 78g | Protein: 12g | Fat: 17g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 35mg | Sodium: 991mg | Potassium: 321mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 49g | Vitamin A: 170IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 117mg | Iron: 3mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

TableCraft 3-Piece Nostalgia Squeeze Bottle Set, 12-Ounce
TableCraft 3-Piece Nostalgia Squeeze Bottle Set, 12-Ounce

Bacon-Glazed Spiral Ham

What’s better than spiral ham? Bacon-glazed spiral ham, of course. It’s spiral-ham-sale-time here, so I backed up the truck and grabbed a nice big smoked ham. Of course, they’re easy to reheat. And just as easy to glaze during the last 30 minutes. The bacon glaze adds a bit more smokiness, but also some sweetness, a little tartness and a little tang thanks to two different kinds of mustard. I don’t usually use the bag of glaze that comes with many hams. It kinda scares me, to tell the truth. I’d rather use something that I made at home so I know what’s in it!

Bacon-Glazed Spiral Ham

A Great Tasting Glaze

You can substitute pretty much any jelly you want in place of the Creole mustard, but I’d stay away from ‘darker’ ones, such as blueberry or the like. Go for lighter colors. And don’t be afraid to use a spicy jelly such as jalapeno pepper jelly. You may also want to double the amount of bacon-glaze, serving any leftover glaze as a drizzle over the sliced ham when you serve it. Bacon-glazed spiral ham is a wonderful thing and more glaze is… more wonderful!

Zatarain's Creole Mustard, 12 oz
Zatarain’s Creole Mustard, 12 oz

Also try my cherry-glazed spiral ham. My pepper onion beer sauce makes for a great topping for ham!

Bacon-Glazed Spiral Ham
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Bacon-Glazed Spiral Ham

What’s better than spiral ham? Bacon-glazed spiral ham, of course. 
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword ham
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Servings 1 ham
Calories 6761kcal
Author Based on a recipe from the Cracker Barrel Old Country Store

Equipment

Baking Sheet
Baking Sheet
skillet
skillet

Ingredients

  • 1 7-8 pound smoked spiral ham

For the glaze

Instructions

  • Warm ham in oven per package instructions.
  • During the last 30 minutes of cooking, apply glaze liberally every 10 minutes.
  • Let rest 10 minutes before serving.

For the glaze

  • Cook the bacon until crispy in a large skillet.
  • Remove the bacon and all of the grease but keep the yum-yum bacon bits that remain in the pan.
  • Return pan to the stove over low heat.
  • Add the jelly and allow it to melt.
  • Whisk in the honey and the mustards. Remove from heat until ready to glaze the ham.

Notes

You can substitute other flavors of jelly too!

Nutrition

Calories: 6761kcal | Carbohydrates: 156g | Protein: 708g | Fat: 348g | Saturated Fat: 85g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 2765mg | Sodium: 43474mg | Potassium: 10739mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 117g | Vitamin A: 86IU | Vitamin C: 861mg | Calcium: 280mg | Iron: 33mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)
Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)

Bacon Weave BLTs

It was a beautiful spring day here. That had me wishing it was summer and fresh tomatoes were available. I couldn’t wait any longer. I had to make a few BLTs, even if the tomatoes weren’t perfect. Sometimes, you have to do what you have to do. But to make up for the tomatoes I decided to make a simple bacon weave. Bacon Weave BLTs are elevated BLTs. Other BLTs are jealous of them.

Bacon Weave BLTs

The Bacon Bite Guarantee

I made these bacon weave BLTs two days in a row. I will never make them any other way again at least as far as the bacon goes. Making a weave out of the bacon is not only easy, the bacon stays together better. No chunks flying off when you take a bite. And the best part? You’re guaranteed bacon in every single bite. You can’t beat that.

I almost always use Blue Plate mayonnaise in the dishes I make. I think it is the best around. If you can’t find it locally you can pick it up online for a fair price.

Blue Plate Real Mayonnaise, Homestyle Mayo For Chicken Salad to Deviled Eggs, 30 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Blue Plate Real Mayonnaise, Homestyle Mayo For Chicken Salad to Deviled Eggs, 30 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

Want all the flavor of a BLT in an appetizer? Try my chipotle BLT bites. Or go for the gusto and make a pretzel bacon cheese sandwich!

Bacon Weave BLTs
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5 from 1 vote

Bacon Weave BLTs

I will never make BLTs any other way again at least as far as the bacon goes. Making a weave out of the bacon is not only easy, the bacon stays together better. 
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword bacon, sandwich, tomato
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 1 sandwich
Calories 534kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Chin Deep

Equipment

Baking Sheet
Baking Sheet
Parchment Paper
Parchment Paper

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 385 F.
  • Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
  • Cut the bacon in half.
  • Make a bacon weave. If you’re unsure exactly how to do this, click this link to see the original post (with great step-by-step pictures) on Chin Deep.
  • Lay out 3 halves of the bacon in a square. Make sure the pieces are together tightly.
  • Lift up and fold back the ends of every other one on one side of the baking sheet. Place a bacon slice perpendicular (vertically) to the horizontal rows of bacon, directly on top of the bacon strips that you did not fold back. Unfold the folded bacon to cover the strip that you just placed on the baking sheet.
  • Lift up and fold back the ends of the horizontal bacon strips that are now under the vertical bacon strip to the side of the baking sheet. Place a bacon slice right next to the first vertical bacon strip, directly on top of the bacon strips that you did not fold back. Unfold the folded bacon to cover the strip that you just placed on the baking sheet. Repeat the process of alternating the vertical and horizontal bacon strips till you reach the other end of the horizontal bacon strips.
  • Bake in the oven for 30-40 minutes until crispy. Carefully remove to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
  • Slather bread with mayonnaise.
  • Add bacon weave, lettuce, and tomato and salt and pepper to taste and serve.

Notes

You have to make these at least once for the  ‘wow’ factor.

Nutrition

Calories: 534kcal | Carbohydrates: 31g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 39g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 49mg | Sodium: 821mg | Potassium: 386mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 565IU | Vitamin C: 8mg | Calcium: 90mg | Iron: 2mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)
Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)

Bacon Potato Salad

Bacon goes with just about anything. And it definitely makes this bacon potato salad pop even more. Eating this potato salad is almost like eating a baked potato. In fact, I think the next time I make it I’ll add some cubed sharp cheddar cheese.

Bacon Potato Salad

Skin On. Skin Off.

I kept the skins on the potatoes for this bacon potato salad. I think it adds to the flavor (and makes it even more like a baked potato!). You do have to be careful (gentle) folding the ingredients together or you’ll lose most of the skins off of the potatoes.

I almost always use Blue Plate mayonnaise in the dishes I make. I think it is the best around. If you can’t find it locally you can pick it up online for a fair price.

Blue Plate Real Mayonnaise, Homestyle Mayo For Chicken Salad to Deviled Eggs, 30 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Blue Plate Real Mayonnaise, Homestyle Mayo For Chicken Salad to Deviled Eggs, 30 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

I found the original recipe here. Also try my baked potato salad.

Bacon Potato Salad
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4 from 1 vote

Bacon Potato Salad

This is almost like eating a baked potato. In fact, I think the next time I make it I’ll add some cubed sharp cheddar cheese.
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Keyword bacon, potato salad
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 10 -12
Calories 408kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

sauce pan
sauce pan
Whisk
Whisk

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ pounds red potatoes cut into bite-sized chunks
  • 1 ½ pounds yellow potatoes cut into bite-sized chunks
  • ½ pound bacon thick-cut
  • 6 green onions sliced
  • 2 ribs celery diced
  • 4 ounces pimentos jarred, drained
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • kosher salt
  • ground black pepper

Instructions

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add potatoes and boil until tender, 15-20 minutes. Drain well and let cool. Place into a large bowl.
  • Cook the bacon until crispy. Drain and chop.
  • Add the bacon, green onions, celery, and pimentos to the potatoes. Gently fold to combine.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the mayo and sour cream. Fold into the potato mixture. Season with salt and pepper.

Notes

Leftover potato salad should be brought to room temperature (or near it) before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 408kcal | Carbohydrates: 24g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 33g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 32mg | Sodium: 140mg | Potassium: 673mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 494IU | Vitamin C: 31mg | Calcium: 38mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)
Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)

Bacon Jam

I can’t believe that it has taken me this long to make bacon jam. This stuff is truly magical. Although I used it mostly on my bread machine southern biscuits, you can put it on anything you would put jam. Or bacon. Even pizza. No really, bacon jam on pizza is delicious. Ditto for pancakes and waffles.

Bacon Jam

Good Things Take Time. Lots of Time

You can’t rush making this jam, so if you don’t have an hour and a half to commit to it, you shouldn’t even try. Just relax and hang out while it comes together. But if you do, you’ll be very happy with the results.

Bragg Organic Apple Cider Vinegar With the Mother– USDA Certified Organic – Raw, Unfiltered All Natural Ingredients, 16 ounce, 2 Pack
Bragg Organic Apple Cider Vinegar With the Mother– USDA Certified Organic – Raw, Unfiltered All Natural Ingredients, 16 ounce, 2 Pack
Bacon Jam
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Bacon Jam

Best "jam" ever.
Course Sauce
Cuisine American
Keyword bacon
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 50 minutes
Servings 2 cups
Calories 4698kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

skillet
skillet

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Fry the bacon in a large skillet until lightly browned, but not crispy. Remove to a paper towel-lined plate. Remove all but about 1 1/2 tablespoons of the bacon drippings.
  • Add the onion to the skillet and sauté for about 4 minutes or until soft.
  • Add the garlic and cook, stirring, for another minute.
  • Add the bacon back in and stir in the remaining ingredients. Bring to a boil then reduce to a simmer.
  • Cook, stirring almost constantly, for about 1 1/2 hours or until most of the liquid has evaporated and you have a big, gooey, sticky, bacony mess.
  • Serve slightly warm. Keep in the fridge. I microwaved the jam just slightly when I used it the next day to soften it up a bit.

Notes

It’s impossible to improve on this recipe. I’ve tried.

Nutrition

Calories: 4698kcal | Carbohydrates: 124g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 451g | Saturated Fat: 177g | Cholesterol: 431mg | Sodium: 718mg | Potassium: 596mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 112g | Vitamin A: 2IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 175mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)
Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)

Bacon Chicken and Rice

This recipe for bacon chicken rice came from the The Sweet Potato Queens’ Big-Ass Cookbook (and Financial Planner), with modifications. We listened to the first SPQ audiobook a few years ago on a road trip. They are a riot. I’m not sure which is better, though. The podcast or this dish. This is comfort food defined. Nothing fancy. But plenty of great flavor.

Bacon Chicken and Rice

Great For A Crowd

The chicken comes out really tender, and the sauce over rice is great! Bacon chicken and rice is perfect for a crowd. Or keep it all to yourself. It’s almost a meal-in-a-dish recipe. A good green vegetable on the side and you’ve got a great dinner. Perfect for a cold winter’s night, that’s for sure!

Slap Ya Mama Cajun Seasoning from Louisiana, Original Blend, No MSG and Kosher, 8 Ounce Can, Pack of 3
Slap Ya Mama Cajun Seasoning from Louisiana, Original Blend, No MSG and Kosher, 8 Ounce Can, Pack of 3

You can leave out the rice and make my delicious copycat Rice-A-Roni instead.

Bacony Chicken and Rice
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Bacon Chicken and Rice

The chicken comes out really tender, and the sauce over rice is great! You can leave out the rice and make my delicious copycat Rice-A-Roni instead.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword bacon, chicken, rice
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 10 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 818kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Baking Dish
Baking Dish
Aluminum foil
Aluminum foil

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 300 F.
  • Spray a 9″ x 11″ baking dish with non-stick spray.
  • Cover bottom of the baking dish with the bacon.
  • Spread rice over bacon.
  • Place chicken over rice and season with salt, pepper, paprika and Cajun seasoning.
  • In a bowl, combine the soup, water, garlic salt, nutmeg, parsley and oregano. Pour over chicken and spread out evenly.
  • Cover pan with foil and bake for 2 hours. Check that the rice is done and serve.

Notes

You can use chicken breasts instead of the thighs.

Nutrition

Calories: 818kcal | Carbohydrates: 49g | Protein: 39g | Fat: 50g | Saturated Fat: 15g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 200mg | Sodium: 1571mg | Potassium: 555mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 504IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 61mg | Iron: 4mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)
Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)

Bacon Cheese-Stuffed Peppers

I absolutely loved these bacon cheese-stuffed peppers. Every bite was full of my favorite things, like cheese and bacon. And a bit of sharp onion and sweet roasted bell pepper. I left the onions fairly crunchy because I was looking for a great crunch (along with the crunch of the bacon) to contrast the soft pepper and gooey cheese. You can cook yours further if you want but don’t go overboard. Crunch here is a good thing.

Bacon Cheese-Stuffed Peppers

Add A Bit Of Heat, If You Want

For a spicier version, substitute habanero jack cheese for the cheeses, and use poblano peppers instead of red bell peppers. A sprinkle or two of red pepper flake on top isn’t going to hurt anything either. You can’t go wrong with bacon cheese-stuffed peppers no matter how you change them up (if you do). And for me, spicier is better!

I highly recommend that you shred or grate your own cheese at home. Don’t buy the pre-shredded or pre-grated stuff. It has stuff added to it to keep it from sticking together. That ‘stuff’ affects how the cheese melts. Shred it yourself and use the good stuff.

Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater, Kitchen Mandoline Vegetable Slicer with 3 Interchangeable Blades, Easy to Clean Rotary Grater Slicer for Fruit, Vegetables, Nuts
Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater, Kitchen Mandoline Vegetable Slicer with 3 Interchangeable Blades, Easy to Clean Rotary Grater Slicer for Fruit, Vegetables, Nuts

This recipe was inspired by a recipe from the BBQ Pit Boys.

Also try my sausage-stuffed Hatch chiles.

Bacon Cheese-Stuffed Peppers
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4 from 1 vote

Bacon Cheese-Stuffed Peppers

I absolutely loved these bacon cheese-stuffed peppers. Every bite was full of my favorite things, like cheese and bacon. And a bit of sharp onion and sweet roasted bell pepper. 
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword peppers, stuffed
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 336kcal
Author Based on a recipe from the BBQ Pit Boys

Equipment

Baking Sheet
Baking Sheet
Aluminum foil
Aluminum foil

Ingredients

  • ½ pound bacon
  • 2 red bell peppers
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • beer
  • ¼ cup white onion chopped
  • ¼ cup Monterey jack cheese more or less, shredded
  • ¼ cup Mozzarella cheese more or less, shredded

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 375 F.
  • Line a baking sheet with foil and add the bacon.
  • Bake for 30-40 minutes until crisp, turning once. Remove to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
  • Cut peppers in half vertically. Remove any seeds.
  • Place peppers on a baking dish and fill the halves with the beer. Cover with foil and place in the oven for 20-30 minutes or until tender.
  • Meanwhile, crumble the bacon into a bowl and add the onion and cheeses.
  • Uncover the peppers and pour off any remaining beer. Fill cavities with the bacon mixture and return to the oven, uncovered, until the cheese is melted.

Notes

User pepper jack cheese instead for a little kick!

Nutrition

Calories: 336kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 30g | Saturated Fat: 13g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 49mg | Sodium: 460mg | Potassium: 263mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 1986IU | Vitamin C: 77mg | Calcium: 97mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)
Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)