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December 10, 2024
When it comes to cooking bacon on a Traeger grill, it’s all about finding the perfect balance between crispy and chewy. Cooking bacon on a Traeger is a great way to infuse it with a delicious smoky flavor, while also allowing the fat to render out and create a crispy texture.
The cooking time for bacon on a Traeger can vary depending on the thickness of the bacon, as well as personal preference. However, a general guideline is to cook bacon on a Traeger for about 20-30 minutes at a temperature of around 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
To achieve the perfect texture, it’s important to flip the bacon halfway through the cooking process. This will help to ensure that both sides of the bacon are evenly cooked and crispy. Additionally, you can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the bacon. The bacon is typically done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit (71 degrees Celsius).
It’s worth noting that cooking times may vary depending on the specific Traeger model and the amount of bacon being cooked. It’s always a good idea to keep a close eye on the bacon while it’s cooking and adjust the cooking time as needed.
Once the bacon is done cooking, remove it from the Traeger grill and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the bacon to become even crispier and easier to handle. Whether you prefer your bacon crispy or chewy, cooking it on a Traeger grill is sure to result in a delicious and flavorful breakfast treat.
How long to cook bacon on Traeger: A step-by-step guide
Cooking bacon on a Traeger grill can be a delicious and smoky way to enjoy this classic breakfast treat. If you’re wondering how long to cook bacon on a Traeger, we’ve got you covered. Follow our step-by-step guide below for perfectly cooked bacon every time.
Step 1: Preparing the bacon
Start by selecting high-quality bacon. Thick-cut bacon works best for grilling on a Traeger. Remove the bacon slices from the package and separate them to ensure even cooking. If desired, you can season the bacon with your favorite spices or rubs for added flavor.
Step 2: Preheating the Traeger grill
Preheat your Traeger grill to 400°F (200°C) according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This will ensure that the grill is hot enough to cook the bacon evenly and prevent it from sticking to the grates.
Step 3: Grilling the bacon
Place the bacon directly on the preheated grill grates. Close the lid and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the bacon and desired crispiness. Flip the bacon halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning on both sides.
Note: Cooking times may vary, so keep a close eye on the bacon as it cooks to prevent it from burning.
Step 4: Removing and draining the bacon
Using tongs, carefully remove the bacon from the grill and place it on a paper towel-lined plate or rack to drain excess grease. Allow the bacon to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Step 5: Serving and enjoying
Once the bacon has cooled slightly, serve it alongside your favorite breakfast dishes or use it to create delicious sandwiches or salads. The smoky flavors from the Traeger grill will add an extra level of deliciousness to your bacon.
Pro tip: If you prefer a chewier texture, reduce the cooking time slightly. For extra crispy bacon, extend the cooking time by a few minutes.
Now that you know how long to cook bacon on a Traeger, you can enjoy this tasty treat with the perfect balance of smokiness and crunch. Get grilling and savor the deliciousness!
Preparing the bacon
To cook bacon on a Traeger grill, you first need to prepare the bacon strips.
Step 1: Choose the right bacon
Look for high-quality bacon that is thick cut. This type of bacon cooks better on the grill, as it is less likely to burn or dry out.
Step 2: Preheat the grill
Preheat your Traeger grill to 400°F (200°C), using indirect heat. This temperature allows the bacon to cook evenly and achieve a crispy texture.
Step 3: Trim excess fat
If desired, you can trim any excess fat from the bacon strips. This step is optional, as some people prefer to keep the fat for added flavor.
Step 4: Season the bacon
You can season the bacon with your favorite spices or simply sprinkle some black pepper on top. This step enhances the overall flavor of the bacon.
Step 5: Arrange the bacon on a grill rack
Place the bacon strips on a grill rack, ensuring that they are not overlapping. This allows the heat to circulate evenly around the bacon, ensuring it cooks properly.
Step 6: Start the cooking process
Once the grill is preheated, place the grill rack with the bacon onto the Traeger grill. Close the lid and let the bacon cook for approximately 15-20 minutes or until it reaches your desired level of crispiness. Be sure to monitor the bacon to prevent it from burning.
Note: Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the bacon and the desired doneness.
Step 7: Remove and rest
When the bacon is cooked to your liking, remove it from the grill and let it rest on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess grease. This step helps to make the bacon less greasy and more enjoyable to eat.
Step 8: Serve and enjoy
Serve the bacon while it is still warm and crispy. It can be enjoyed on its own, as a topping for burgers or salads, or used in various other dishes.
Choosing the right temperature
When it comes to cooking bacon on a Traeger, choosing the right temperature is key to achieving perfect results. Here are some tips to help you decide on the ideal temperature for your bacon:
Low and slow
One popular method is to cook bacon on a Traeger at a low temperature of around 225°F (107°C). This slow cooking method allows the bacon to cook evenly and retain its moisture, resulting in crispy yet tender slices.
Begin by preheating your Traeger to the desired temperature. Lay the bacon strips on a lined baking sheet or directly on the grill grates, making sure to leave space between each slice.
Close the lid and let the bacon cook for about 20-30 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of crispiness. Remember to keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
High heat for quicker results
If you prefer your bacon to have a bit more crunch, you can increase the Traeger’s temperature to around 375°F (190°C).
This higher heat will cook the bacon faster, so you’ll need to adjust your cooking time accordingly. Keep a close eye on the bacon as it may cook quicker than expected.
Once the bacon is cooked to your liking, carefully remove it from the Traeger and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess grease.
Whether you choose to cook your bacon low and slow or at a higher temperature, the Traeger will help you achieve deliciously cooked bacon every time. So go ahead, experiment with different temperatures and find the perfect cooking method that suits your taste preferences.
Placing the bacon on the grill
Once your Traeger grill is preheated and ready, it’s time to place the bacon on the grill. Here’s how you can do it:
Step 1: Prepare the bacon
Before placing the bacon on the grill, you may want to prepare it by trimming off excess fat or slicing it into smaller pieces. This can help the bacon cook more evenly and make it easier to handle on the grill.
Step 2: Use a wire rack or aluminum foil
Using a wire rack or laying a sheet of aluminum foil on your Traeger grill can help prevent the bacon from sticking and make cleanup easier. Make sure the wire rack or foil is large enough to accommodate all the bacon slices without overlapping.
Step 3: Lay the bacon slices on the grill
Place the prepared bacon slices on the wire rack or aluminum foil, making sure to leave space between them. This allows the heat to circulate and ensures that the bacon cooks evenly.
Alternatively, you can also use a cast iron skillet or griddle on the grill to cook the bacon. This method can help contain the bacon grease and make cleanup even easier.
Step 4: Close the grill and cook
Close the lid of your Traeger grill to help trap the heat and ensure thorough cooking. Let the bacon cook for the recommended time based on your desired crispness. Consult your Traeger grill instructions or recipe for specific cooking times and temperatures.
| Cooking level | Cooking time |
|---|---|
| Soft and chewy | 8-10 minutes |
| Crispy | 12-15 minutes |
| Extra crispy | 15-20 minutes |
Remember to keep an eye on the bacon while it’s cooking to avoid burning it. You can also flip the bacon slices halfway through cooking for more even browning.
Once the bacon reaches your desired level of crispness, remove it from the grill and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess grease. Let the bacon cool for a few minutes before serving.
Now that you know how to place the bacon on the grill, you can enjoy delicious, smoky bacon cooked to perfection on your Traeger. Happy grilling!
Monitoring the cooking process
It is important to monitor the cooking process of your bacon on your Traeger grill to ensure it is cooked to your desired level of crispiness. Here are some tips for monitoring the cooking process:
- Set a timer: Before placing the bacon on the grill, set a timer for the recommended cooking time. This will help you keep track of how long the bacon has been cooking.
- Check the temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the bacon. The USDA recommends cooking bacon to a minimum internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Flip the bacon: About halfway through the cooking time, gently flip the bacon strips using tongs. This will help ensure even cooking and prevent one side from becoming overly crispy.
- Watch for flare-ups: Bacon has a high fat content, which can cause flare-ups on the grill. Keep a close eye on the bacon and be ready to move it to a cooler part of the grill if flare-ups occur.
- Check for crispiness: Towards the end of the cooking time, check the crispiness of the bacon by gently touching it with tongs. If it feels too soft or rubbery, continue cooking for a few more minutes.
By monitoring the cooking process and following these tips, you can ensure that your bacon is cooked to perfection on your Traeger grill.
Q&A
How long should I cook bacon on a Traeger?
The cooking time for bacon on a Traeger grill can vary depending on the thickness of the bacon slices and your personal preference for crispiness. Generally, it takes about 15-20 minutes to cook bacon on a Traeger. However, it’s a good idea to start checking the bacon around the 10-minute mark and continue cooking until it reaches your desired level of crispiness.
What temperature should I cook bacon on a Traeger?
The temperature for cooking bacon on a Traeger grill should be set to 375°F (190°C). This allows the bacon to cook evenly and achieve a nice crispy texture without burning. Make sure to preheat your Traeger grill to this temperature before placing the bacon on the grill.
Can I cook bacon directly on the grill grates of a Traeger?
Yes, you can cook bacon directly on the grill grates of a Traeger. However, it’s recommended to use a grill pan or aluminum foil to prevent the bacon grease from dripping onto the grill and causing flare-ups. These accessories also make it easier to clean up after cooking bacon.
Should I flip the bacon while cooking it on a Traeger?
Flipping the bacon while cooking it on a Traeger is not necessary, but you can do so if you prefer. The Traeger grill cooks the bacon evenly on both sides due to the convection heat circulation. However, flipping the bacon can help achieve a more uniform crispiness if desired.
How long do you cook bacon on a Traeger?
It typically takes about 20-25 minutes to cook bacon on a Traeger grill. Make sure to preheat the grill to 400°F and lay the bacon strips in a single layer on the grill grates. Flip the bacon once halfway through cooking to ensure it cooks evenly.