Bacon lovers, get ready to indulge! This collection of 31+ bacon recipes will satisfy your cravings in new and exciting ways.

From breakfast classics to surprising desserts, these dishes showcase bacon’s versatility beyond the breakfast plate.

You’ll discover creative uses for bacon in appetizers, main courses, and even sweets.

Whether you’re planning a special meal or just want to add some bacon goodness to your everyday cooking, these recipes offer something for everyone.

Get ready to explore the endless possibilities of this beloved ingredient.

1. Maple Bacon Pancakes

Maple bacon pancakes combine sweet and savory flavors in one delicious breakfast dish. You can make these tasty treats by adding crispy bacon pieces directly into the pancake batter.

Pour the batter onto a hot griddle, then sprinkle extra bacon on top before flipping.

Cook until golden brown on both sides.

For an extra maple boost, mix some pure maple syrup into your pancake batter.

Top the finished pancakes with more crispy bacon and a drizzle of warm maple syrup.

You can also try baking a large maple bacon pancake in the oven. This method saves time and effort compared to flipping individual pancakes on the stovetop.

2. Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers

Bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers are a tasty appetizer that’s easy to make. You’ll need fresh jalapeños, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and bacon.

Cut the jalapeños in half and remove the seeds. Mix cream cheese and cheddar, then stuff the peppers. Wrap each stuffed pepper with a piece of bacon.

Bake the poppers until the bacon is crispy. They’re great for parties or game day snacks.

You can make them ahead of time and cook them when you’re ready.

Serve with ranch dip or sour cream to cool the heat. These poppers are spicy, creamy, and packed with flavor.

3. Maple-Glazed Bacon

Maple-glazed bacon is a tasty twist on regular bacon. You can make it easily at home.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lay out bacon slices in a single layer. Bake for about 15 minutes until the fat starts to render.

Take the bacon out and brush it with pure maple syrup.

Put it back in the oven for 3-5 minutes. The bacon will turn brown and sticky.

Let the bacon cool on a wire rack. It will become crispy as it cools.

Enjoy your sweet and savory maple-glazed bacon for breakfast or in recipes.

4. Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus

Bacon-wrapped asparagus is a tasty side dish that’s easy to make. You’ll need fresh asparagus spears and thin bacon slices.

Wrap each asparagus spear with a strip of bacon. Place the wrapped spears on a baking sheet lined with foil.

Bake at 400°F for about 20 minutes. Flip them halfway through cooking.

For crispier bacon, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.

This dish combines the crunch of asparagus with the savory flavor of bacon. It’s perfect for dinner parties or family meals.

5. Bacon and Tomato Soup

Bacon and tomato soup is a cozy, flavorful dish perfect for chilly days. You can make it in about 30 minutes with simple ingredients.

Start by cooking chopped bacon in a pot until crispy. Set the bacon aside but keep some of the fat in the pot.

Add butter and sauté onions and carrots until soft. Stir in tomato paste, flour, and garlic for extra flavor and thickness.

Pour in chicken or vegetable stock and canned tomatoes. Simmer the soup until the flavors combine. Blend it smooth if you prefer.

Top your soup with the crispy bacon bits before serving.

This hearty meal pairs well with grilled cheese sandwiches for a satisfying lunch or dinner.

6. Bacon Macaroni and Cheese

Bacon macaroni and cheese is a comforting dish that combines two beloved ingredients. To make it, cook pasta until al dente and set aside.

Fry bacon until crispy, then crumble it.

Make a cheese sauce by melting butter, adding flour, and whisking in milk. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until smooth.

Mix the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce and crumbled bacon.

Pour into a baking dish and top with more cheese. Bake until golden and bubbly.

For extra crunch, sprinkle crushed crackers or breadcrumbs on top before baking.

You can also add different cheeses or herbs to customize the flavor.

7. Bacon and Egg Breakfast Pizza

Bacon and egg breakfast pizza is a tasty twist on morning favorites. You can make it easily at home with simple ingredients.

Start by preheating your oven to 450°F. Use prepared pizza dough as the base. Spread a thin layer of sauce, then add cheese.

Cook bacon pieces and scrambled eggs separately. Sprinkle them over the cheese.

You can add other toppings like peppers or mushrooms if you like.

Bake the pizza for about 10-15 minutes until the crust is golden.

Let it cool slightly before slicing. This fun breakfast combines pizza and classic morning foods in one delicious dish.

8. Candied Bacon

Candied bacon is a sweet and savory treat you can easily make at home. To prepare it, coat thick-cut bacon slices in a mixture of brown sugar and black pepper.

Place the coated bacon on a wire rack over a foil-lined baking sheet. Bake in a preheated 375°F oven for about 20-25 minutes.

Keep an eye on the bacon as it cooks. You want it crispy and caramelized, but not burnt.

The sugar will melt and create a delicious glaze on the bacon.

Let the candied bacon cool slightly before serving.

It makes a great appetizer or addition to other dishes. You can also crumble it over salads or desserts for extra flavor and crunch.

9. Bacon-Bourbon Cheeseburger

Bacon-bourbon cheeseburgers take your backyard barbecue to the next level. To make these mouthwatering burgers, start with high-quality ground beef mixed with bacon bits, steak seasoning, and a splash of bourbon.

Form the meat into patties and grill to your desired doneness.

Top each burger with crispy bacon slices and melted cheddar cheese.

For extra flavor, try making a bourbon bacon jam to spread on the buns.

Serve your bacon-bourbon cheeseburgers on toasted buns with lettuce, tomato, and any other toppings you enjoy.

These burgers pair well with crispy fries or onion rings for a satisfying meal.

10. Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp

Bacon-wrapped shrimp is a tasty appetizer that’s sure to impress your guests. You’ll need large shrimp and standard-thickness bacon for the best results.

To make this dish, wrap each shrimp with a strip of bacon. Place them on a baking sheet.

Mix melted butter with maple syrup and chili powder for a sweet and spicy glaze.

Brush half the glaze on the shrimp before cooking.

Broil them for a few minutes until the bacon is crisp and the shrimp are pink.

Brush on the remaining glaze for extra flavor.

These bites are perfect for parties. The shrimp stay tender while the bacon gets crispy. The glaze adds a nice shine and caramelized taste.

11. Bacon Avocado Toast

Bacon avocado toast is a tasty breakfast or snack. You start with toasted bread, usually sourdough or a crusty Italian loaf.

Mash ripe avocados and spread them on the toast. Add crispy bacon pieces on top for a salty crunch.

You can customize your toast with extra toppings. Try cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, or sliced green onions.

A squeeze of lime juice helps keep the avocado fresh.

For added flavor, rub a garlic clove on the toast before adding avocado. A drizzle of spicy honey brings a sweet kick. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

12. Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Thighs

Bacon-wrapped chicken thighs are a tasty and easy dish to make. You’ll need chicken thighs, bacon strips, and seasonings like garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Pat the chicken thighs dry and season them all over.

Wrap each thigh with a strip of bacon, starting from the bottom and working your way up.

Place the wrapped thighs in a cast iron skillet or oven-safe dish.

Bake for about 30 minutes, turning them a few times during cooking. The bacon should be crispy and the chicken cooked through.

This dish pairs well with rice and vegetables for a complete meal.

You can also try adding different seasonings like smoked paprika or brown sugar for extra flavor.

13. Bacon-Stuffed Mushrooms

Bacon-stuffed mushrooms are a tasty appetizer that’s easy to make. You’ll need mushrooms, cream cheese, bacon, and a few other ingredients.

Start by cooking and crumbling the bacon. Mix it with softened cream cheese, garlic powder, and chopped green onions.

Clean the mushrooms and remove the stems. Fill each mushroom cap with the bacon mixture.

Bake the stuffed mushrooms until they’re hot and the tops are golden brown.

You can make extra and freeze them for later. Just reheat in the oven when you’re ready to serve.

Bacon-stuffed mushrooms are sure to be a hit with your guests.

14. Bacon Carbonara

Bacon carbonara is a tasty twist on the classic Italian pasta dish. You’ll love this creamy, savory meal that comes together quickly.

To make it, cook pasta until al dente. While it boils, fry bacon until crispy. Save some of the bacon fat for extra flavor.

Whisk eggs, cheese, and black pepper in a bowl.

Toss the hot pasta with the egg mixture and bacon. The heat cooks the eggs, creating a silky sauce.

Add a splash of pasta water if needed to reach your desired consistency.

Top with extra cheese and enjoy this comforting bacon-packed pasta.

15. Spinach and Bacon Salad

Spinach and bacon salad is a tasty mix of fresh greens and crispy bacon. You can make it quickly for a light meal or side dish.

Start by cooking bacon until crisp. While it cools, wash and dry spinach leaves. Put them in a large bowl.

For the dressing, save some bacon fat. Mix it with vinegar, mustard, and a touch of sugar. Whisk in oil to combine.

Crumble the bacon over the spinach. Add sliced red onion if you like.

Pour the warm dressing over top just before serving.

This salad is best eaten right away while the dressing is still warm and the bacon is crisp.

16. Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin

Bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin is a tasty dish that combines two delicious meats. You start by seasoning the pork with spices like garlic, pepper, and salt.

Next, wrap the tenderloin in bacon slices. Make sure the bacon seam is on the bottom.

Brown the wrapped pork in a hot skillet with oil on both sides.

Then bake the pork in the oven until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

This usually takes 35-45 minutes, depending on the size of your tenderloin.

The result is a juicy pork tenderloin with crispy bacon on the outside.

It’s an easy yet impressive meal for any occasion.

17. Brown Sugar Bacon Wings

Brown sugar bacon wings are a tasty twist on classic chicken wings. You start by wrapping raw chicken wings in bacon. This adds a smoky flavor and crispy texture.

Next, you coat the bacon-wrapped wings in brown sugar. The sugar caramelizes as the wings cook, creating a sweet and sticky glaze.

You can grill or bake these wings.

Grill them over medium heat for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally. Or bake them in the oven at 400°F for 30-35 minutes.

For extra flavor, brush the wings with BBQ sauce in the last 10 minutes of cooking.

The result is a perfect mix of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors.

18. Bacon Potato Salad

Bacon potato salad is a tasty twist on the classic side dish. You’ll love the crispy bacon bits mixed with creamy potatoes.

To make it, boil small red potatoes until tender.

While they cook, fry bacon until crisp.

Mix mayonnaise, sour cream, and a splash of vinegar for the dressing. Add chopped celery and green onions for crunch.

Combine the cooled potatoes, bacon, and dressing. Sprinkle with paprika for color and flavor.

This salad is perfect for cookouts and potlucks. You can make it ahead of time and chill until serving.

19. Bacon and Blue Cheese Stuffed Burgers

Bacon and blue cheese stuffed burgers are a tasty upgrade to your typical grilled patty. You mix crumbled bacon and blue cheese into the center of the burger before cooking.

To make these, form your ground beef into thin patties. Place blue cheese and bacon bits in the middle of one patty.

Top with another patty and seal the edges.

Grill the stuffed burgers over medium heat for 5-7 minutes per side. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 160°F and juices run clear.

For extra flavor, melt some colby cheese on top during the last few minutes of cooking. Serve on toasted buns with your favorite toppings.

20. Bacon-Wrapped Beef Tenderloin

This fancy dish combines two favorites: juicy beef tenderloin and crispy bacon. It’s perfect for special dinners or holidays.

To make it, wrap bacon slices around a beef tenderloin. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs like rosemary or garlic powder.

Put the wrapped tenderloin in the fridge for an hour. This helps the bacon stick to the beef and keeps its shape.

Cook the tenderloin in a 375°F oven until it reaches your desired doneness. Let it rest before slicing.

You can also cut the tenderloin into medallions before wrapping each piece in bacon. This makes smaller, individual servings.

21. Classic BLT Sandwich

The BLT sandwich is a timeless favorite. To make one, start with crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomato slices.

Choose thick-cut bread like sourdough or whole grain. Toast it lightly for extra crunch. Spread mayonnaise on both sides of the bread.

Layer crisp bacon, lettuce leaves, and tomato slices. Add salt and pepper to taste. Some people like to add a bit of ranch dressing for extra flavor.

Press the sandwich gently and cut it diagonally. Enjoy your perfect BLT right away while the bacon is still warm and crispy.

22. Bacon Cheese Fries

Bacon cheese fries are a tasty treat you can make at home. Start by baking frozen fries according to the package directions.

While the fries cook, fry some bacon until crispy. Crumble it into small pieces.

When the fries are done, sprinkle shredded cheese and crumbled bacon on top. Put them under the broiler for 1-2 minutes to melt the cheese.

You can add other toppings like green onions or sour cream if you want. Serve your bacon cheese fries right away while they’re hot and crispy.

This easy snack is perfect for watching games or as a side dish. The combination of crispy fries, melty cheese, and crunchy bacon is hard to resist.

23. Bacon-Wrapped Scallops

Bacon-wrapped scallops are a tasty appetizer that’s easy to make. You’ll need sea scallops, bacon, and a few simple ingredients.

Start by cutting bacon strips in half lengthwise. Wrap each scallop with a piece of bacon and secure it with a toothpick.

Season the wrapped scallops with salt and pepper.

You can also brush them with a mixture of melted butter, olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice for extra flavor.

Cook the scallops by searing them in a hot skillet or baking them in the oven.

For best results, don’t overcrowd the pan when searing.

Serve your bacon-wrapped scallops hot as an impressive appetizer at your next gathering.

24. Hearty Bacon and Bean Soup

Bacon and bean soup is a comforting dish that will warm you up on cold days. To make it, start by soaking dried beans overnight.

Cook bacon until crisp in a large pot. Set some aside for garnish.

Add chopped onions, carrots, celery, and garlic to the bacon fat and cook until soft.

Pour in chicken stock and the soaked beans. Simmer until the beans are tender, about 1-2 hours.

Season with salt, pepper, and herbs to taste. Serve hot with the reserved crispy bacon bits sprinkled on top.

This hearty soup is filling and nutritious. The bacon adds a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy beans.

25. Bacon and Cheddar Biscuits

Bacon and cheddar biscuits are a tasty twist on classic buttermilk biscuits. They combine savory bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and fluffy biscuit dough for a delicious treat.

To make these biscuits, you’ll need flour, baking powder, salt, cold butter, buttermilk, cooked bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese. The key is using cold ingredients to create flaky layers.

Mix the dry ingredients, then cut in cold butter. Add the buttermilk, crumbled bacon, and cheese. Gently combine and shape the dough.

Cut into rounds and bake at 450°F for about 12-15 minutes until golden brown. The result is savory, cheesy biscuits with a satisfying crunch from the bacon.

Serve these biscuits warm as a side dish or enjoy them on their own for breakfast or a snack. They pair well with eggs, soups, or main dishes.

26. Bacon Breakfast Burrito

Bacon breakfast burritos are a tasty and filling way to start your day. To make them, cook crispy bacon strips and chop them into small pieces.

Scramble some eggs and warm up tortillas.

Spread refried beans on each tortilla as a base. Add the scrambled eggs, chopped bacon, and shredded cheese.

For extra flavor, include some salsa or hot sauce.

Roll up the tortillas tightly to form burritos. You can eat them right away or wrap them in foil to keep warm.

These burritos are great for busy mornings. You can even make a batch ahead of time and freeze them for later. Just reheat in the microwave when you’re ready to eat.

27. Bacon Quiche Lorraine

Bacon Quiche Lorraine is a classic French dish that combines crispy bacon, cheese, and eggs in a flaky crust. You’ll love this savory pie for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.

To make it, start by cooking bacon until crisp.

Mix the bacon with shredded Gruyère cheese and pour into a pie crust. Whisk eggs with half-and-half, then add to the crust.

Bake your quiche until golden and set. The result is a creamy, rich filling with smoky bacon flavor. Serve it warm with a side salad for a satisfying meal.

28. Bacon-Flavored Popcorn

Bacon-flavored popcorn brings a savory twist to a classic snack. You can make this tasty treat using bacon grease instead of oil.

Heat bacon grease in a large pot over high heat. Add a few test kernels. When they pop, pour in the rest of the popcorn.

Shake the pot as the kernels pop to prevent burning. Once popping slows, remove from heat and pour into a bowl.

For extra bacon flavor, sprinkle crumbled bacon bits over the popcorn. You can also add shredded cheddar cheese for a cheesy bacon combo.

29. Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf

Bacon-wrapped meatloaf is a tasty twist on a classic dish. You start by making a traditional meatloaf mixture with ground beef, bread soaked in milk, eggs, and seasonings.

Next, you form the mixture into a loaf shape. Then comes the fun part – wrapping the meatloaf in strips of bacon. Make sure to tuck the ends under to keep it secure.

Before baking, brush the top with a tangy ketchup glaze.

Pop it in the oven at 350°F for about 1.5 hours. The bacon will get crispy and add amazing flavor to the meatloaf.

Let it rest a few minutes before slicing. Serve with mashed potatoes and vegetables for a comforting meal.

30. Bacon Alfredo Pasta

Bacon Alfredo pasta is a rich and creamy dish that combines two favorites. You’ll love the smoky bacon mixed with the smooth Alfredo sauce.

To make it, cook your pasta until it’s just right.

Fry bacon until crispy, then set it aside. In the same pan, make the Alfredo sauce with butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese.

Mix the cooked pasta with the sauce. Add the crispy bacon pieces on top. For extra flavor, you can sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley.

This meal is perfect for a special dinner at home. It’s quick to make but tastes like restaurant food.

31. Bacon and Brussels Sprouts

Bacon and Brussels sprouts make a tasty pair. This combo is easy to cook and full of flavor. You can roast them together in the oven for a simple side dish.

Start by cutting the sprouts in half.

Cook some chopped bacon in a pan until crispy. Add the sprouts to the pan with the bacon fat.

Cook everything on medium heat. The sprouts will get brown and crispy on the outside. They’ll be tender on the inside. You can add some salt and pepper to taste.

This dish goes well with many meals. Try it with chicken, steak, or pork. It’s great for holidays or any day of the week.

Understanding Bacon: Types and Origins

Bacon comes in several varieties with distinct characteristics. Its origins trace back centuries, with different cultures developing unique curing and preparation methods.

Different Types of Bacon

American bacon is a popular choice. It’s cut from pork belly, giving it a streaky appearance with layers of fat and meat. This type crisps up nicely when cooked.

Canadian bacon offers a leaner option. It’s made from pork loin and resembles ham more than traditional bacon.

Back bacon is common in the UK. It combines the loin and belly for a mix of lean meat and fat.

Buckboard bacon uses pork shoulder. It has a meatier texture than belly bacon.

Bacon chops are thick-cut pieces, about 1/2 inch thick. They’re often called bacon steaks and provide a heartier serving.

Traditional Bacon Origins

Bacon’s history dates back thousands of years. Ancient Chinese were among the first to salt pork bellies.

Romans enjoyed a form of bacon called “petaso.” They cured pork with salt, creating an early version of the meat.

In England, the term “bacon” appeared in the 12th century. It referred to all pork at first, but later became specific to cured meat.

Bacon curing methods varied by region. Smoking, salt-curing, and brining were common techniques used to preserve the meat.

Health Considerations with Bacon

Bacon can be part of a balanced diet when eaten in moderation. It offers some nutrients but also comes with health risks if consumed in excess.

Nutritional Benefits of Bacon

Bacon provides protein, which helps build and repair tissues in your body. A 3-ounce serving has about 20 grams of protein.

Bacon also contains B vitamins like niacin, B12, and selenium. These support your nervous system and help make red blood cells.

Some bacon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, depending on what the pigs ate. Omega-3s may lower heart disease risk.

Bacon also has zinc and phosphorus, which aid immune function and bone health.

To get the most nutrients, choose uncured bacon without added nitrates. Look for bacon from pasture-raised pigs fed a natural diet.

Managing Bacon Intake

While bacon has some benefits, it’s high in salt and saturated fat. Too much can raise blood pressure and cholesterol.

Limit bacon to 1-2 servings per week as part of a balanced diet.

Try these tips to enjoy bacon in a healthier way:

• Use small amounts as a flavor enhancer

• Drain cooked bacon on paper towels to remove excess grease

• Pair bacon with fiber-rich veggies or whole grains

• Choose lower-sodium bacon options when possible

You can also try turkey bacon or veggie bacon as alternatives. These often have less fat and calories than pork bacon.