Making sliced bacon in the Instant Pot is simple and keeps cleanup easy. The high sides of the pot reduce grease splatter, and the sauté function produces crispy slices with minimal fuss. This method works well for Instant Pot beginners and seasoned users alike. Below you’ll also find a quick way to turn leftover slices into bacon bits for salads, casseroles, and more.
Kitchen gadgets like the Instant Pot have become staples in many homes because they save time and make cooking easier. If you enjoy oven-free recipes or want a quick breakfast fix, cooking bacon in the Instant Pot is a great place to start. It’s fast, tidy, and portable enough for camping or hotel stays.
Can You Cook Bacon in an Instant Pot?
Yes. You don’t need to use the pressure setting to cook bacon—use the sauté function instead. The sauté feature lets you brown and crisp bacon right in the inner pot, while the high sides keep grease contained.
How to Make Crispy Bacon in the Instant Pot
All you need is an Instant Pot and a package of sliced bacon.
1. Cut each bacon slice in half so pieces fit flat across the bottom of the pot. If you have an 8qt Instant Pot you may not need to cut the slices; a 6qt works best with halves.
2. Select the “Sauté” function and press until the “High” setting is active. Set the timer for 30 minutes to keep the pot on while you work.
3. Let the pot preheat for 2–3 minutes. Add 4–6 bacon halves to the bottom, spread in a single layer without overlapping.
4. Cook for 2–3 minutes on the first side, until browned and starting to crisp. Flip with tongs and cook the other side 1–3 minutes, or until it reaches your preferred crispness.
5. Transfer cooked slices to a paper towel–lined plate to drain. Repeat in batches until all bacon is cooked.
How to Make Bacon Bits
Leftover or extra cooked bacon can be turned into bacon bits quickly with a food processor.
1. Add cooled, drained bacon slices to the food processor bowl.
2. Secure the lid and pulse several times until the bacon is broken into small pieces. Pulse briefly to avoid turning it into a paste.
3. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Ways to Use Bacon Bits
- Sprinkle over salads for a salty crunch.
- Mix into loaded mashed potatoes or casseroles.
- Top baked potatoes or soups.
- Stir into dips or egg dishes for extra flavor.
FAQ
No. Cooking bacon in the Instant Pot on sauté is done without the lid. Because grease can spatter, consider using a splatter shield or rely on the pot’s high sides to reduce splatter.
Store cooked bacon in a covered container and consume within 3 days for best quality.
Yes. Freeze cooked bacon in flat layers separated by parchment or waxed paper and store in an airtight freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Instant Pot Bacon
Ingredients
- 12 slices bacon, cut in half
Instructions
- Plug in your Instant Pot and remove the lid.
- Select the “Sauté” feature and set it to High. Set the timer for 30 minutes.
- Let the pot preheat 2–3 minutes. Cut bacon in half if needed so slices fit flat without overlapping.
- Add 4–6 bacon halves to the bottom of the pot and cook 2 minutes on one side, until lightly browned.
- Flip and cook 1–2 more minutes, until crisp to your liking.
- Transfer cooked bacon to a paper towel–lined plate to drain. Repeat in batches until all bacon is cooked.
Notes
Instant Pot size: This recipe was tested in a 6qt Instant Pot. An 8qt may allow you to cook more slices at once.
Crisp bacon: Using the High sauté setting renders fat quickly and crisps bacon, but watch closely to avoid burning.
Bacon bits: Pulse cooled, drained cooked bacon in a food processor until you reach small pieces. Store refrigerated up to 3 days.
Nutrition
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