Imagine this: a perfectly cooked strip of bacon, crisp and golden brown, just waiting to be enjoyed. But how do you get it that way without making a huge mess in your oven? That’s where a bacon tray comes in. It’s a simple kitchen tool, but choosing the right one can feel surprisingly tricky. You want something that cooks your bacon evenly, catches all the grease, and is easy to clean. But with so many different types and brands out there, it’s tough to know which one will be your new best friend in the kitchen.
We’ve all been there, staring at a shelf full of options, wondering if one tray is really better than another. Does it need to be non-stick? What about the size? These questions can make deciding on a bacon tray a real headache. But don’t worry, we’re here to help! By the end of this post, you’ll have a clear understanding of what makes a great bacon tray and how to pick the perfect one for your cooking needs. Get ready to say goodbye to greasy messes and hello to perfectly cooked bacon every time!
Our Top 5 Bacon Tray Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Bacon Tray Detailed Reviews
1. Nordic Ware Bacon Rack with Lid
Rating: 8.8/10
Tired of greasy messes and unevenly cooked bacon? The Nordic Ware Bacon Rack with Lid is here to save your breakfast! This handy tray makes cooking bacon in your microwave a breeze. It’s made from tough, safe plastic that’s free of BPA and melamine. The special ribbed surface lifts your bacon, letting the grease drip away. Plus, the lid traps splatters, keeping your microwave clean. You can also use it for sausage and other yummy breakfast meats. It’s a smart way to make breakfast magic!
What We Like:
- Makes bacon cooking easy and less messy in the microwave.
- The ribbed surface helps bacon cook evenly and drains grease.
- The lid keeps your microwave clean by containing splatters.
- It’s BPA and melamine free, so it’s safe to use.
- Works for more than just bacon, like sausage.
- It’s made right here in the USA.
What Could Be Improved:
- It needs to be hand washed, as it’s not dishwasher safe.
This Nordic Ware Bacon Rack is a fantastic tool for anyone who loves crispy bacon without the hassle. It simplifies cooking and cleanup, making breakfast a more enjoyable experience.
2. PrepSolutions Microwavable Bacon Grill
Rating: 8.6/10
Tired of greasy pans and messy kitchens when you make bacon? The PrepSolutions Microwavable Bacon Grill in white is here to change that! This handy gadget lets you cook your favorite crispy bacon right in your microwave, making breakfast a breeze.
What We Like:
- Cooks 4 to 6 slices of bacon at once, saving you time.
- The vented cover keeps grease from splattering all over your microwave.
- Designed to let bacon fat drip away, making it a healthier way to enjoy bacon.
- It’s also great for heating up other snacks like sausage, pizza rolls, and taquitos.
- The nonstick surface makes cleaning super easy, and it’s dishwasher safe.
- The recessed handle makes it simple and safe to take out of the microwave.
- PrepSolutions makes useful kitchen tools that are built to last.
What Could Be Improved:
- You need a microwave with a turntable at least 12.5 inches wide for it to fit.
- It only comes in white, so there are no other color options.
This bacon grill offers a simple and clean way to enjoy perfectly cooked bacon. It’s a smart addition to any kitchen for quick and easy meal preparation.
3. GoodCook 15” x 10.5” Nonstick Carbon Steel Baking Pan & Raised Wire Rack – Pizza Crisper
Rating: 9.1/10
Get ready for perfectly crispy food every time with the GoodCook 15” x 10.5” Nonstick Carbon Steel Baking Pan & Raised Wire Rack set. This versatile kitchen duo is designed to help you bake, roast, and cool a variety of foods with ease. Whether you’re making pizza, cooking bacon, or baking cookies, this set delivers fantastic results.
What We Like:
- Achieves super crispy results for bacon, chicken, fries, and more thanks to the raised wire rack.
- The nonstick coating is PFOA-free and releases food easily, making cleanup simple.
- Durable carbon steel construction resists warping, ensuring it lasts for years.
- The set is oven-safe up to 410°F and dishwasher-safe, which is super convenient.
- The wire rack can be used separately for cooling or glazing baked goods.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the pan is a standard size, some users might prefer a larger option for bigger batches.
- The nonstick coating, while good, might show signs of wear over time with very heavy use.
This GoodCook baking pan and rack set makes achieving delicious, crispy food simple and cleanup a breeze. It’s a solid addition to any kitchen for everyday cooking needs.
4. Nordic Ware Microwave Bacon Tray & Food Defroster
Rating: 9.0/10
Tired of greasy messes and unevenly cooked bacon? The Nordic Ware Microwave Bacon Tray & Food Defroster is here to help. This clever kitchen gadget lets you cook perfect bacon right in your microwave. It also works wonders for quickly defrosting your favorite foods. Say goodbye to soggy bacon and hello to crispy goodness!
What We Like:
- The slanted tray and raised ridges keep your bacon up and away from grease. This means your bacon cooks up crispy, not greasy.
- It has a large, rectangular shape that holds a lot of bacon slices at once. No more cooking in small batches!
- The sloped design efficiently drains away grease and moisture. Cleanup is a breeze.
- It’s also great for defrosting food quickly and evenly in the microwave.
- This tray is made in the USA, so you know you’re getting quality craftsmanship.
What Could Be Improved:
- Remember, this tray is only for microwave use. Do not use it under the broiler or on stovetop burners.
The Nordic Ware Microwave Bacon Tray & Food Defroster makes cooking bacon easy and mess-free. It’s a handy tool for any kitchen, simplifying meal prep and cleanup.
5. Nordic Ware 11 in. W x 11 in. L Microwave Bacon/Meat Rack White
Rating: 9.1/10
Tired of greasy stovetop splatters and unevenly cooked bacon? The Nordic Ware 11 in. W x 11 in. L Microwave Bacon/Meat Rack in white offers a simple and clean solution. This handy rack lets you cook bacon and other meats right in your microwave, making breakfast or a quick snack a breeze. Its design allows grease to drip away, leading to crispier results. It’s also a great way to free up your stovetop for other cooking tasks.
What We Like:
- It makes bacon crispy and delicious in the microwave.
- Cleanup is super easy; just wash it with soap and water.
- It fits most standard microwaves, saving you counter space.
- No more messy stovetop splatters to clean up.
- It’s made from durable, food-safe plastic that will last.
What Could Be Improved:
- It only cooks a few strips of bacon at a time, so it’s best for small batches.
- Some users found it a little tricky to get the hang of the first time.
If you want a no-fuss way to cook bacon, this microwave rack is a smart buy. It delivers good results with minimal effort.
The Ultimate Bacon Tray Buying Guide
Love bacon? Who doesn’t! But cooking it can be messy. Grease splatters everywhere. Eating it can be greasy too. A bacon tray is your new best friend. It makes cooking and serving bacon easier and cleaner. Let’s find the perfect one for you.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a bacon tray, check for these important things.
Even Cooking
- Raised Edges: These keep bacon from curling up. They help it cook flat and evenly.
- Drainage System: Look for trays with holes or channels. This lets grease drip away. Your bacon will be crispier!
- Non-Stick Surface: A good non-stick coating means bacon won’t stick. Cleanup is a breeze.
Easy Handling
- Sturdy Handles: You need handles that are easy to grip. They should stay cool so you don’t burn yourself.
- Right Size: Think about how much bacon you usually cook. Do you need a small tray for one or two people? Or a large one for a crowd?
Durability
- Thick Material: A thicker tray won’t warp in the oven. It will last a long time.
- Heat Resistance: The tray must handle high oven temperatures.
Important Materials
What your bacon tray is made of matters. It affects how it cooks and how long it lasts.
Metal Trays
- Aluminum: This material heats up fast and evenly. It’s usually lightweight. Some aluminum trays have a non-stick coating.
- Stainless Steel: Stainless steel is strong and won’t rust. It’s a good choice for durability. It might not heat as evenly as aluminum.
- Carbon Steel: This is very strong. It needs to be seasoned to prevent rust. It’s great for high heat.
Silicone Trays
- Food-Grade Silicone: Silicone is flexible. It’s often dishwasher safe. It heats up well. Some people worry about silicone in high heat. Make sure it’s a good quality, food-grade silicone.
Ceramic or Glass Trays
- Porcelain Enamel: These are often pretty and easy to clean. They can be heavier. They are good for even heating.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a bacon tray great. Others make it not so great.
Quality Boosters
- Deep Channels: Deeper channels catch more grease. This means crispier bacon.
- Even Thickness: A tray that is the same thickness all over cooks better.
- Good Non-Stick: A really good non-stick coating makes life so much easier.
Quality Reducers
- Thin Material: Thin trays can bend and warp. They don’t cook bacon evenly.
- Poorly Made Drainage: If the holes are too small or the channels are shallow, grease will pool.
- Cheap Coatings: A non-stick coating that peels off is a big problem.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you’ll use your bacon tray.
Cooking Bacon
- Oven Baking: Most bacon trays are designed for the oven. This is a much cleaner way to cook bacon. No more grease splatters on the stove!
- Crispy Bacon: The drainage system helps make bacon super crispy. It gets rid of excess fat.
- Less Mess: Grease stays in the tray. This means less cleaning up your oven and countertops.
Beyond Bacon
- Roasting Vegetables: You can use it to roast veggies like broccoli or potatoes. The drainage helps them get nice and crispy.
- Baking Cookies or Pastries: Some trays work well for baking.
- Serving Tray: Some attractive bacon trays can be used to serve food right at the table.
10 Frequently Asked Questions About Bacon Trays
Q: What is the main purpose of a bacon tray?
A: The main purpose of a bacon tray is to cook bacon more evenly and with less mess. It helps drain away grease for crispier bacon.
Q: Are bacon trays safe for high oven temperatures?
A: Yes, most good quality bacon trays are designed to withstand high oven temperatures. Always check the product’s instructions.
Q: How do I clean a bacon tray?
A: Many bacon trays are dishwasher safe. For non-stick surfaces, it’s often best to hand wash them with a soft sponge to keep the coating in good condition.
Q: Can I use a bacon tray on the stovetop?
A: Bacon trays are usually made for oven use. They are not designed for direct stovetop heat.
Q: What kind of bacon works best with a bacon tray?
A: All kinds of bacon work well! Thicker cut bacon benefits from even cooking and good drainage.
Q: Will a bacon tray prevent my bacon from curling?
A: Yes, the raised edges or design of most bacon trays help keep the bacon flat as it cooks, preventing excessive curling.
Q: How much grease does a bacon tray hold?
A: The amount of grease a tray holds depends on its size and the design of its drainage channels. Larger trays with deeper channels hold more grease.
Q: Can I put parchment paper or foil in my bacon tray?
A: Some people do, but it can sometimes interfere with the drainage. It’s usually best to use the tray as intended for optimal results.
Q: Are silicone bacon trays as good as metal ones?
A: Both have pros and cons. Silicone is flexible and easy to clean. Metal trays often offer more even heating and durability.
Q: Where is the best place to store my bacon tray?
A: Store your bacon tray in a cupboard or drawer where it won’t get scratched. If it has a non-stick coating, be careful not to stack heavy items on top of it.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Mette Morgan—a lifelong pet enthusiast and the heart behind PetNobs.com.. My journey with animals began at an early age, and over the years, I’ve gathered invaluable experiences and insights on everything from everyday pet care to the unique quirks each animal brings to our lives. Here at PetNobs, I share my genuine passion, practical tips, and personal stories to help you create a loving, well-informed environment for your furry, feathered, or scaled friends. Welcome to my little corner of the pet world—it’s a joy to have you here!