Crispy Homemade Bacon Pieces
Say goodbye to bland pre-packaged bacon bits and hello to these crispy, flavorful homemade bacon pieces! With just one pound of fresh bacon, enjoy the satisfaction of creating your own savory topping that enhances everything from salads to baked potatoes. These delightful morsels fry up quickly, separating naturally during cooking, and you won't even need to crumble them afterward! Their rich, smoky flavor and satisfying crunch will elevate any dish they grace. Perfect for those who crave quality, homemade ingredients, these bacon pieces are a must-have in your culinary arsenal. Ideal for garnishing soups, salads, or simply snacking on in front of the TV! Prepare a batch, and if you have any leftovers, freeze them for future enjoyment without the fuss of thawing an entire bag.
8
Servings
210
Calories
2
Ingredients
Ingredients
Bacon
1 lb (Partially frozen, cut into 1/4 inch strips and then diced.)
Black Pepper
1/8 teaspoon (Optional, for seasoning.)
Instructions
1
Begin by partially freezing the package of bacon. This helps it hold together more easily while slicing.
2
Once slightly frozen, remove the bacon from the package and use a sharp knife to slice it into long strips, approximately 1/4 inch wide.
3
Turn the strips and cut them into smaller pieces, also about 1/4 inch wide, ensuring uniformity for even cooking.
4
If desired, sprinkle the pieces with 1/8 teaspoon of black pepper for added flavor.
5
In a large skillet, heat over medium-high heat. Add the diced bacon pieces in a single layer, allowing them enough space to fry properly.
6
Cook the bacon pieces, stirring occasionally, until they reach a crisp, golden brown—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
7
Using a slotted spoon, carefully remove the bacon bits from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease.
8
To store, place the bacon pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer them to a zip-lock bag, ensuring you can easily take out just what you need without defrosting the entire bag.
Nutrition Information
19g
Fat
0g
Carbs
14g
Protein
120mg
Sodium
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Crispy Homemade Bacon Pieces?
They are fresh, flavorful, and crunchy homemade bacon bits made from real bacon, perfect for topping salads and potatoes.
How many ingredients do I need for this recipe?
You only need two ingredients: one pound of bacon and optional black pepper.
What is the best way to prep the bacon for slicing?
Partially freezing the bacon package helps it hold together, making it much easier to slice into uniform pieces.
How wide should I slice the bacon strips?
The bacon should be sliced into long strips approximately 1/4 inch wide.
What size should the diced bacon pieces be?
After slicing into strips, cut them into small pieces about 1/4 inch wide for even cooking.
Can I add seasoning to the bacon bits?
Yes, you can sprinkle the pieces with 1/8 teaspoon of black pepper for extra flavor before cooking.
What heat setting should I use to fry the bacon?
Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
How long does it take to cook the bacon pieces?
It typically takes about 5 to 7 minutes for the bacon to become crisp and golden brown.
Do I need to add oil to the pan?
No, the bacon will release its own fat as it cooks, so no extra oil is necessary.
How do I remove the bacon from the skillet?
Use a slotted spoon to lift the bacon bits out while leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
How should I drain the cooked bacon?
Place the cooked pieces on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess grease.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes approximately 8 servings.
What are the calories per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 210 calories.
How much protein is in each serving of bacon bits?
There are 14 grams of protein per serving.
Are there any carbohydrates in this recipe?
No, these bacon pieces contain 0g of carbohydrates.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains about 19 grams of fat.
How much sodium is in these homemade bacon pieces?
There is approximately 120mg of sodium per serving.
Can these bacon pieces be frozen?
Yes, they are highly freezable and can be stored for future use.
How do I prevent the frozen bacon bits from sticking together?
Freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid before transferring them to a zip-lock bag.
Do I need to crumble the bacon after cooking?
No, because they are diced before cooking, they separate naturally and do not require crumbling.
What dishes are best for these bacon toppings?
They are excellent for salads, baked potatoes, soups, and even as a snack.
Is there any sugar in this recipe?
The recipe does not contain any added sugar.
Why should I make these instead of buying pre-packaged bits?
Homemade pieces offer superior flavor, better texture, and are free from the preservatives often found in store-bought versions.
Can I eat these bacon pieces as a snack?
Yes, their smoky flavor and crunch make them a satisfying savory snack.
How should I store the cooked bits in the freezer?
Store them in a zip-lock bag so you can easily remove only the amount you need.
Do I need to thaw the frozen bacon pieces before using them?
No, you can usually use them straight from the freezer for hot dishes or let them sit for a few minutes for cold dishes.
What is the total ingredient count?
The recipe uses only 2 ingredients.
Does this recipe contain fiber?
No, these bacon pieces do not contain any fiber.
What equipment is needed?
You will need a sharp knife, a large skillet, a slotted spoon, a plate with paper towels, and a baking sheet for freezing.
How do I ensure the bacon cooks evenly?
Stir the pieces occasionally while frying and ensure they are cut into uniform sizes.