If you're a bacon lover like me, then this is for you. Here are the basics of sheet pan bacon to some twisted variations that will allow you to cook even more bacon, quickly! Whether you're cooking for a large group or just want to indulge in some mess-free bacon goodness, we've got you covered. So, let's dive right in!
Preheat oven to 350° and line a large baking sheet with foil or parchment paper. You can lay a cooling rack on the sheet pan if you'd like.
Twist each piece of bacon in a single layer onto a baking sheet or cooling rack, making sure not to overlap. Twist the bacon tightly. Place them closely on the baking sheet so they don’t unravel.
Bake until your desired crispness, 15 to 25 minutes. (Thin slices will cook more quickly!)
Drain on a paper towel-lined plate and serve.
Notes
For Candied Bacon: Sprinkle the bacon strips with brown sugar and (optionally) add some freshly ground black pepper.How do I get a Tight Twist? My bacon straws uncurled.
Use cold bacon – Straight from the fridge makes it easier to handle and twist tightly.
Hold one end firmly, then twist the other end around like you’re wringing out a towel.
Keep twisting until it coils tightly—it should look like a spiral rope.
Press both ends down onto the sheet pan so it holds the twist.
Optionally, use a toothpick at each end to keep the twist in place (remove before serving).
Bake at 400°F for 30–35 minutes, flipping halfway if needed. Bonus Tip:
Thicker bacon holds the twist better and gets that crispy-on-the-outside, chewy-on-the-inside texture everyone loves.
How to Make Twisted Turkey Bacon?
Time: Turkey bacon cooks faster. It usually takes 10–15 minutes at 400°F, while regular bacon often takes 15–20 minutes.
Texture: Turkey bacon won’t get as crispy or render fat the same way, so keep an eye on it—overcooking makes it dry and leathery.
Grease: You’ll see less grease, so lining your pan with parchment or foil is still helpful, but not as crucial.
✅ Quick Tips:
Preheat oven to 400°F.
Use a wire rack on a sheet pan for even crisping (optional).
Flip halfway if you want both sides evenly crisped.
Start checking at the 10-minute mark.
Want it extra crispy? Broil for the last 1–2 minutes—but watch it closely!