Best Skillet for Bacon: Top Picks for Perfectly Crispy Strips

In the realm of bacon preparation, the selection of an appropriate skillet is paramount. The ideal skillet should distribute heat uniformly, enabling the bacon to achieve perfect crispiness. However, given the vast array of choices, finding the right one might seem daunting. This is where our expertise comes into play.

We spent hours researching and testing various skillets to find the best one for cooking bacon. Here’s what we found:

Things to Consider When Buying a Skillet for Bacon:

Material: The skillet’s material is crucial when it comes to cooking bacon. Cast iron and stainless steel are two of the most popular choices. Cast iron skillets retain heat well and can create a crispy crust on your bacon, while stainless steel skillets are easier to clean and lighter in weight.
Size: The size of the skillet is another crucial factor to consider. You want a skillet that is large enough to fit all your bacon slices without overcrowding them, which can lead to uneven cooking.
Shape: The shape of the skillet can also affect how your bacon cooks. A skillet with a flat bottom and slightly curved sides is ideal for cooking bacon, as it allows the grease to drain away from the bacon, resulting in crispy, evenly cooked slices.

Our Top Pick: Lodge Cast Iron Skillet

After testing various skillets, we found that the Lodge Cast Iron Skillet is the best skillet for cooking bacon. This skillet is made of high-quality cast iron, which retains heat well and creates a crispy crust on your bacon. It’s also pre-seasoned, which means you can use it right out of the box.

The Lodge Cast Iron Skillet is available in various sizes, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs. It has a flat bottom and slightly curved sides, which allows the grease to drain away from the bacon, resulting in evenly cooked slices.

Overall, the Lodge Cast Iron Skillet is a durable and versatile skillet that is perfect for cooking bacon and other dishes. Its quality construction and excellent heat retention make it a worthwhile investment for any kitchen.

Table of Contents

Best Skillets for Bacon

As bacon lovers, we know that the perfect skillet is essential for cooking crispy, delicious bacon. After extensive research and testing, we have compiled a list of the best skillets for cooking bacon. Whether you prefer cast iron, non-stick, or stainless steel, we’ve got you covered. Check out our top picks below:

Lodge Cast Iron Skillet
Calphalon Contemporary Nonstick Fry Pan
All-Clad Stainless Steel Fry Pan
T-fal E93808 Professional Total Nonstick Fry Pan
GreenPan Valencia Pro Ceramic Frypan

With these skillets in your kitchen, you’ll be able to cook up perfect bacon every time.

SENSARTE Nonstick Ceramic Grill Pan for Stove Tops

If you’re looking for a versatile and durable grill pan that is safe for your health and easy to clean, the SENSARTE Nonstick Ceramic Grill Pan for Stove Tops is definitely worth considering.

Pros

Naturally Non-Stick – SGS approved. Healthy and safe ceramic, 100% non-toxic, free of PTFE, PFOA, PFAS, PFOS, lead, cadmium and other toxic materials that can leach into your food, safe for you, your family and the environment.
Nonstick & Easy to Clean – Natural and healthy ceramic is very effective at preventing anything from sticking to the surface even with very little oil, and also makes cleaning a breeze, just wipe with a paper towel or rinse with water.
Sturdy & Durable – This grilling pan is made of die-cast aluminum, heavy-duty, sturdy, durable and won’t warp in 10 years. The Bakelite handle is comfortable to grip and stays cool to the touch.

Cons

Not Oven Safe – This grill pan is not oven safe, so you can’t use it to finish off dishes in the oven.
Not Dishwasher Safe – Although this grill pan is easy to clean, it is not dishwasher safe. You’ll need to wash it by hand.
Not Induction Compatible – This grill pan is not compatible with induction cooktops.

The SENSARTE Nonstick Ceramic Grill Pan for Stove Tops is a versatile tool that can be used to sear, sauté, bake, broil, braise or fry. You can cook steak, bacon, grill cheese, chicken breast and veggies indoor or outdoor, no matter the weather is hot or cold, wet or dry. The raised ribs leave perfect grill marks for a great presentation and keep the fat down in the grooves. The pour spouts on either side of the pan make it easy to drain those excess fats and liquids.

The grill skillet can be used on gas, electric, and glass or ceramic cooktops. The 4.5mm thick high magnetic conductivity stainless steel base helps distribute heat evenly and quickly. The grill pan is perfect for those who want to cook healthy and delicious meals without the use of toxic materials.

In conclusion, the SENSARTE Nonstick Ceramic Grill Pan for Stove Tops is a great investment for those who want to cook healthy and delicious meals without worrying about toxic materials. It’s versatile, durable, and easy to clean. We highly recommend it!

Cooks Standard Nonstick Square Grill Pan 11 x 11-Inch

If you’re looking for a durable and efficient grill pan for bacon, the Cooks Standard Nonstick Square Grill Pan 11 x 11-Inch is a great option.

Pros

The hard anodized surface is durable and harder than stainless steel.
The heavy gauge aluminum core distributes heat evenly and prevents hot spots.
The nonstick coating delivers exceptional performance and makes cleaning easy.

Cons

Not induction compatible.
The ripples in the bottom make it somewhat difficult to clean.
The nonstick coating may wear off over time.

We recently used this grill pan to cook bacon and were impressed with how evenly it cooked. The nonstick surface worked really well, and the bacon didn’t stick to the pan. The handle stayed cool, which made it easy to move the pan around. We also appreciated how easy it was to clean, although the ripples in the bottom did make it a bit tricky to get all the grease out.

One thing to note is that this grill pan is not induction compatible, so make sure your stovetop is compatible before purchasing. Additionally, while the nonstick coating is great, it may wear off over time with frequent use.

Overall, we would recommend the Cooks Standard Nonstick Square Grill Pan 11 x 11-Inch for anyone looking for a durable and efficient grill pan for bacon. It’s easy to use, easy to clean, and delivers great results.

ZOOFOX Cast Iron Grill Pan

If you are looking for a versatile, pre-seasoned cast iron grill pan, the ZOOFOX Cast Iron Grill Pan is worth considering.

Pros

The thick bottom of the 10-inch square skillet ensures even heating and heat retention, making it compatible with all stove types except oven, including induction, safe-temp up to 500℉.
The two side grip handles are user-friendly and allow for easy lifting or transport, and the included two silicone handle cover make it easy to hold and protect your hands from hot pan handles.
The pre-seasoned grill pan is ideal for cooking a variety of foods, including Panini sandwiches, steaks, burgers, chops, fish, bacon, sausages, quesadillas, and grilled cheese. You can use it in the oven, on the stove, on the grill, or over a campfire.

Cons

The ZOOFOX Cast Iron Grill Pan is not dishwasher safe and should be cleaned with warm water and a soft sponge. It’s better to season the grill every time after cooking.
Although the silicone handle covers are a nice bonus, they are not attached to the pan and can easily slip off, which can be inconvenient.
The cast iron material is heavy, which may not be suitable for all users.

Overall, we recommend the ZOOFOX Cast Iron Grill Pan for its superior craftsmanship, heat retention, and multiple uses. It’s a versatile and durable kitchen tool that can help you prepare a variety of dishes with ease.

JUSTUP Nonstick Egg Frying Pan

If you’re looking for a versatile egg frying pan that can also cook other foods, the JUSTUP Nonstick Egg Frying Pan is definitely worth considering.

Pros

Made of high-quality granite materials
Non-stick and easy to clean
Compatible with all stoves

Cons

Not dishwasher safe
Not oven safe
Relatively new product with few reviews

We were impressed with the JUSTUP Nonstick Egg Frying Pan’s high-quality granite materials, which are both safe and durable. The non-stick surface is ideal for cooking bacon, steaks, pancakes, and more, and the suspended stripe design helps drain excess grease. We found the pan to be very easy to clean, with no dead spots for cleaning.

The pan heats up quickly and evenly, producing less grease and smoke than other pans. It’s also compatible with all stoves, so you don’t need to worry about incompatibility. The pan’s foldable design makes it space-saving and easy to carry and store.

Overall, we think the JUSTUP Nonstick Egg Frying Pan is an excellent solution for preparing breakfast or as a gift for family and friends. However, it’s important to note that the pan is not dishwasher or oven safe, and it’s a relatively new product with few reviews.

Cuisinart Griddle Skillet, Nonstick Double Burner, 10×18-Inch, MCP45-25NSP1

If you’re looking for a versatile griddle skillet that is perfect for cooking bacon, the Cuisinart Griddle Skillet is an excellent option. With its exceptional design, cooking and cleaning features, and exceptional handling, this skillet is a great addition to any kitchen.

Pros

The triple-ply construction of this skillet ensures even heat distribution along the bottom and sidewalls of the cookware, making it perfect for cooking bacon.
The drip-free pouring rim and tightfitting cover seals in moisture and nutrients for healthier, more flavorful results, every time you cook.
The cool grip handles are solid stainless steel riveted stick handles that stay cool on the stove top and provide a safe and solid grip.

Cons

Some users have reported uneven cooking spots out to the edges.
The skillet is thin and buzzes a bit on induction ranges.
It doesn’t hold heat as well as a cast iron pan.

We’ve used the Cuisinart Griddle Skillet for several weeks and found that it heats up quickly and cooks bacon evenly. The non-stick surface makes cleaning up a breeze, and the skillet is dishwasher safe. It’s also suitable for use with induction cooktops, which is a plus.

If you’re looking for a griddle skillet that can handle cooking bacon and other foods, the Cuisinart Griddle Skillet is a great choice. Its exceptional design, cooking and cleaning features, and exceptional handling make it a versatile and reliable addition to any kitchen.

Ecowin Square Grill Steak Pan

If you’re looking for a versatile and high-quality skillet that can handle all your bacon needs, the Ecowin Square Grill Steak Pan is an excellent choice.

Pros

The non-stick coating is top-notch, making it easy to clean and cook with.
The pan heats up quickly and evenly, ensuring your bacon is cooked to perfection.
The long handle is designed to prevent burns, making it easy to handle even when it’s hot.

Cons

The handle can be a bit loose, which may take some getting used to.
The pan is relatively small, so it may not be the best choice if you need to cook large quantities of bacon at once.
Some users have reported that the pan can scratch easily, so you’ll need to be careful when cleaning it.

Overall, we highly recommend the Ecowin Square Grill Steak Pan for anyone who wants a high-quality skillet that can handle all their bacon needs. With its non-stick coating, even heat distribution, and comfortable handle, it’s a great choice for anyone who loves bacon.

When it comes to cooking bacon, we found that the Ecowin Square Grill Steak Pan is one of the best options out there. The non-stick coating is truly impressive, making it easy to cook bacon without worrying about it sticking to the pan. We also appreciated how quickly and evenly the pan heated up, ensuring that our bacon was cooked to perfection every time.

One thing to keep in mind is that the pan is relatively small, so you may need to cook your bacon in batches if you’re cooking for a large group. Additionally, the handle can be a bit loose, which may take some getting used to. However, we found that the long handle was comfortable to hold and prevented burns, making it easy to handle even when the pan was hot.

Overall, we think the Ecowin Square Grill Steak Pan is a great choice for anyone who wants a high-quality skillet that can handle all their bacon needs. With its non-stick coating, even heat distribution, and comfortable handle, it’s a great investment for any bacon lover.

MsMk Square Grill Pan with lid, Stay-Cool Handle, Each Ridge Nonstick, Oven Safe Dishwasher Safe Induction Grill pans for Stove Tops, Square Frying Pan, Bacon Pan, Indoor Chicken Skillet, 11-Inch Grey Grill Pan with lid(11 Inch)

If you are looking to purchase a grill pan that is perfect for indoor cooking, then the MsMk Square Grill Pan with lid is definitely worth considering.

Pros

The nonstick coating is durable and lasts for 20 years with daily use.
The ridges on the pan allow juices and fats to drip off, ensuring that the meat does not boil in its own juices and allowing you to collect the juice for sauce.
The ergonomic stay-cool stainless-steel handle is easy to grip and prevents water and oil from entering the handle, making it easier to clean than other stainless steel handles.

Cons

The pan is heavy, which may make it difficult to handle for some people.
The pan is not compatible with glass stove tops.
The pan may be difficult to clean if food is left to burn on it.

In terms of performance, the MsMk Square Grill Pan with lid is a great option for those who want to enjoy chargrilled steaks in the comfort of their own kitchen. The pan is spacious, allowing you to cook more food in one go and saving you time. The ridges on the pan also make it easy to collect juice for sauce, and the limestone non-stick coating is safe to use and allows you to cook a variety of meals while maintaining the full flavor of the food.

The stay-cool handle is also a great feature, as it makes it easy to flip food and prevents water and oil from entering the handle. The pan is compatible with all stove tops and is oven safe up to 700°F, making it a versatile addition to any kitchen.

Overall, if you are looking for a grill pan that is durable, easy to use, and allows for healthy indoor cooking, then the MsMk Square Grill Pan with lid is definitely worth considering.

Bayou Classic Cast Iron Shallow Pan and Press Set

We highly recommend the Bayou Classic Cast Iron Shallow Pan and Press Set for anyone looking for the perfect skillet for cooking bacon.

Pros

The heavyweight cast iron pan heats evenly and retains heat well, making it ideal for searing and braising.
The wooden handle gives the pan a rustic, country-chic look and feel that adds a cozy farmhouse vibe to any kitchen.
The pan is oven and broiler safe, making it versatile for a variety of cooking needs.

Cons

The cast iron pan is not dishwasher safe and requires hand washing, which can be a hassle for some users.
The bacon press covers only half of the pan, which means you need to move it around to flatten bacon strips evenly.
The pan is quite heavy, which can make it difficult to handle for some users.

If you’re looking for a skillet that can handle cooking bacon to perfection, the Bayou Classic Cast Iron Shallow Pan and Press Set is the perfect choice. The pan heats evenly and retains heat well, which means your bacon will cook evenly and come out crispy and delicious every time. Plus, the wooden handle gives the pan a unique, country-chic look that adds a cozy touch to any kitchen.

One of the best things about this skillet is its versatility. It’s not just great for cooking bacon; it’s also perfect for searing and braising other meats and vegetables. Plus, it’s oven and broiler safe, which means you can use it for a variety of cooking needs.

However, there are a few downsides to this skillet. The cast iron pan is not dishwasher safe, which means you’ll need to hand wash it after each use. Additionally, the bacon press covers only half of the pan, which means you need to move it around to ensure even cooking. Finally, the pan is quite heavy, which can make it difficult to handle for some users.

Overall, we highly recommend the Bayou Classic Cast Iron Shallow Pan and Press Set for anyone looking for a versatile skillet that can handle cooking bacon to perfection. It’s a great investment for anyone who loves to cook and wants to add a cozy, rustic touch to their kitchen.

Buying Guide

When choosing the best skillet for bacon, there are a few key features you should consider. Here are some factors to keep in mind when making your selection:

Material

The material of the skillet is important to consider as it will affect the cooking process and the taste of your bacon. Cast iron skillets are a popular choice for cooking bacon due to their even heat distribution and ability to retain heat. Stainless steel skillets are also a good choice for cooking bacon as they are durable, easy to clean, and can handle high heat.

Size

The size of the skillet is another important factor to consider. A larger skillet will allow you to cook more bacon at once, but it may be too large for smaller stovetops. A smaller skillet may be more practical for everyday use, but it may not be large enough to cook a lot of bacon at once.

Shape

The shape of the skillet can also affect the cooking process. A skillet with sloped sides will make it easier to flip the bacon, while a skillet with straight sides will contain the grease and prevent it from splattering.

Handle

The handle of the skillet is another important feature to consider. A skillet with a long handle will make it easier to move the skillet around, while a skillet with a shorter handle may be more compact and easier to store.

When choosing the best skillet for bacon, it’s important to consider these factors to ensure that you get the best cooking experience possible. Remember to choose a skillet that fits your needs and preferences, and don’t be afraid to try out different skillets until you find the perfect one for you.

Here are some additional tips to keep in mind:

Look for a skillet with a non-stick coating to prevent the bacon from sticking to the pan.
Consider purchasing a skillet with a lid to help contain the heat and prevent splattering.
Avoid skillets with plastic handles as they may melt when exposed to high heat.