How long to cook bacon in a pan?

Cooking bacon in a pan typically takes around 5-7 minutes, depending on the thickness of the bacon and your desired level of crispness. Here's a general guideline:

1. Preparation:

- Use a non-stick pan or a well-seasoned cast iron pan.

- Line the pan with paper towels to help absorb excess grease.

2. Heat the Pan:

- Place the pan over medium heat. Once the pan is hot, add the bacon strips. Don't overcrowd the pan; give the pieces of bacon some space.

3. Cooking Time:

- Cook the bacon for 2-3 minutes on one side without moving it.

- Flip the bacon strips over and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until they reach your desired level of crispiness.

4. Adjusting the Temperature:

- If your bacon starts to burn or crisp up too quickly, reduce the heat to medium-low.

- If it's not crisping up enough, increase the heat slightly.

5. Timing Tips:

- Thin bacon usually cooks faster and may only need 3-4 minutes total cooking time.

- Thick-cut bacon might take a couple of extra minutes.

6. Draining the Excess Grease:

- Once the bacon is cooked, remove it from the pan and transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess grease.

Remember to keep a close eye on the bacon during cooking, as cooking times can vary slightly based on your stove, pan type, and personal preferences.