Bacon is a delicious and versatile meat that can be enjoyed in many different ways. However, properly storing leftover cooked bacon is important to keep it fresh and prevent bacterial growth. Here are some tips on the best ways to store leftover cooked bacon.
Can you freeze leftover cooked bacon?
Yes, freezing is an excellent way to store leftover cooked bacon. Freezing stops bacterial growth and keeps the bacon fresh for extended periods. There are a few methods you can use to freeze cooked bacon:
- Place bacon strips in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment or waxed paper. Freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container. This prevents the strips from sticking together.
- Alternatively, you can roll up individual slices and place in a freezer bag. Squeeze out excess air and seal.
- For crumbled bacon, spread out crumbs in a single layer on a lined baking sheet and freeze. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag or container.
Properly frozen bacon can last in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Defrost it overnight in the fridge before using.
How should you store cooked bacon in the refrigerator?
Cooked bacon can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-7 days. Here are some tips for fridge storage:
- Let the cooked bacon cool completely before refrigerating. Storing warm bacon speeds up bacterial growth.
- Place bacon slices between sheets of wax or parchment paper. This prevents them from sticking together.
- Wrap the stack tightly in plastic wrap or place in a resealable bag, squeezing out excess air. Oxygen can cause the fat to go rancid.
- Store cooked crumbled bacon loosely covered in an airtight container. The crumbles retain texture better than strips.
- Keep bacon stored in the coldest part of the fridge, usually the bottom shelf or meat drawer.
Make sure to use refrigerated cooked bacon within 3-7 days for best quality. Bacon will develop an off odor, color, and slimy texture when it spoils.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover cooked bacon?
The best reheating methods for cooked bacon are:
- skillet: Place the bacon slices in a cold skillet and set over medium-low heat. Cook, turning occasionally, until warmed through and starting to sizzle, 1-2 minutes.
- Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F. Place bacon slices on a baking sheet and bake for 5 minutes, until heated through.
- Microwave: Place strips of bacon between paper towels and microwave on High for 30 seconds to 1 minute. Check and continue heating until hot and a bit crispy.
Avoid reheating cooked bacon in the microwave without paper towels, as this makes it rubbery. Also don’t reheat cooked bacon at high temperatures for too long, as this dries it out.
What are some ways to use up leftover bacon?
Some creative ways to use up extra cooked bacon include:
- Crumble on top of salads, baked potatoes, soups or omelets
- Mix into dips, spreads and dressings for extra flavor
- Make bacon bits by frying bacon until crisp then crumbling
- Toss crumbled bacon into rice, pasta dishes, or casseroles
- Add to doughs and batters, like pizza dough, biscuits or pancakes
- Mix with mayo and stuff into an omelet or top a burger
- Make candied bacon by coating strips with brown sugar or maple syrup and baking
With so many uses for leftover bacon, you’ll never have to waste perfectly good crispy, cooked bacon again!
What are the risks of improperly storing cooked bacon?
There are a few risks associated with improperly storing leftover cooked bacon:
- Bacterial growth: Foodborne pathogens like salmonella can multiply quickly on improperly stored bacon. Always refrigerate within 2 hours.
- Spoilage: Signs of spoiled bacon include slimy texture, dull or yellow coloring, sour odor, and mold growth. Only store 3-7 days refrigerated.
- Rancid fat: Exposure to air can cause bacon fat to oxidize and turn rancid. Store tightly wrapped.
- Reduced quality: Storing warm, tightly stacked, or for too long reduces crispness and flavor.
So be diligent about refrigerating bacon promptly after cooking, maintaining cold fridge temperatures, and using within a week to prevent any risks from improper storage.
Conclusion
Storing leftover cooked bacon properly is simple. Refrigerating for 3-7 days, freezing for 2-3 months, reheating gently, and using creatively are the best ways to keep cooked bacon safe and delicious. With proper storage, you can enjoy the convenience of ready-to-eat bacon whenever you need it.