Cook crisp, even bacon with the right pan—no sticking, no splatter, perfect slices every time.
I hate greasy mornings ruined by uneven bacon. The right cookware makes bacon cooking safe, fast, and delicious. I tested pans and accessories that handle drippings, reduce splatter, and help you get crispy edges without burning. This guide keeps things simple and practical so you can pick the best frying pan for cooking bacon based on real use, not hype.
GoodCook Nonstick Carbon Steel Baking Pan
I use this GoodCook baking pan and rack when I want bacon crisped evenly without standing in front of a stove. Laying bacon on the raised wire rack keeps strips above the pan so hot air circulates all around them. The carbon steel sheet conducts heat quickly and helps the fat render out. For batch-cooking, the size gives room for many strips without overlap. Cleanup is straightforward because the pan is nonstick and dishwasher-safe, though I hand-wash to keep the finish longer. The large surface works in ovens and under broilers for consistent browning.
Using the pan on a rimmed sheet catches grease cleanly which is safer for oven cooking and reduces stovetop splatter. The raised rack lifts bacon so the underside gets as crisp as the top. I like that the pan is versatile for pizza crisping or roasting vegetables. It’s also lightweight for easy handling, yet sturdy enough to hold full racks of bacon. If you prefer oven-baked bacon to stovetop flipping, this set is a practical choice. Remember to let grease cool before disposal and line the pan for faster cleaning if you want to preserve the nonstick coating even longer.
Pros
- Large capacity for batch cooking bacon efficiently.
- Raised rack promotes even airflow for crispy results.
- Nonstick finish simplifies cleanup.
- Dishwasher-safe but durable enough for hand washing.
- Multiuse: works for broiling, pizza crisping, and roasting.
Cons
- Not a traditional frying pan—requires oven space.
- Carbon steel can discolor over time if not cared for.
- Rack spacing may allow small bacon pieces to slip through.
- Edge height can collect grease—needs careful handling.
- Some users prefer a heavier sheet for long-term durability.
My Recommendation
This GoodCook pan and rack is best for home cooks who like to make large batches of bacon at once or want a low-fuss, hands-off method. I recommend it if you bake bacon to avoid stovetop splatter and want evenly crisp strips without flipping. It suits brunch hosts and meal preppers who value consistent results and easy cleanup. For those seeking the best frying pan for cooking bacon, consider this as an oven alternative that reduces mess and gives uniform crispness.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Batch cooking | Large surface and rack hold many strips at once |
| Even crisping | Raised rack allows airflow for consistent texture |
| Low maintenance | Nonstick and dishwasher-safe for easier cleanup |
BergKoch 13″ Splatter Screen
I grab the BergKoch splatter screen when I fry bacon on the stovetop. A good splatter guard reduces grease on countertops and keeps tiny oil drops off the stove. This stainless steel screen fits most pans and lets steam escape while blocking hot oil. I value the comfortable handle and tight mesh that stops fine droplets but still lets me watch the bacon cook. It’s simple but vital for safe bacon frying, especially when cooking thick-cut strips that sputter more as fat renders.
Using this splatter screen means less scrubbing later and a cleaner kitchen. I also like that it’s dishwasher-safe for quick cleanup. For people in small kitchens or those who cook bacon frequently, this is one of the easiest accessories to own. It doesn’t change how bacon cooks, but it makes the process less messy and lowers the risk of burns from hot grease. If you want the best frying pan for cooking bacon, add a splatter screen to your setup for protection and easier cleanup.
Pros
- Tight mesh blocks fine grease splatter effectively.
- Stainless steel construction is durable and rust-resistant.
- Fits most pans and is easy to store.
- Comfortable handle keeps your hand away from heat.
- Dishwasher-safe for fast cleaning.
Cons
- Only an accessory—not a pan for cooking bacon itself.
- Mesh can trap debris—needs regular cleaning.
- May not fit very large or odd-shaped pans snugly.
- Doesn’t eliminate all steam buildup—be cautious with lid use.
- Handle can get hot if left on pan too long.
My Recommendation
This BergKoch splatter screen is for anyone who fries bacon on the stovetop and wants less mess. I recommend it to households focused on safety and cleanliness. It pairs well with any pan you already own and makes the whole bacon-cooking routine less stressful. If you’re assembling gear to find the best frying pan for cooking bacon, don’t forget a solid splatter guard to complete your setup.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Mess reduction | Fine mesh blocks hot grease effectively |
| Kitchen safety | Reduces risk of burns from splattering oil |
| Quick cleanup | Dishwasher-safe and easy to rinse |
SENSARTE Nonstick Grill Pan
The SENSARTE nonstick grill pan gives me the grill marks and fat drainage I like when cooking thicker bacon and breakfast meats. Its ridged surface lifts bacon slightly so grease drains away, helping achieve a firmer, less greasy bite. The pour spouts make it easy to tip away excess fat into a jar. The nonstick coating lets me use less oil and makes cleanup quicker. I appreciate its square shape for more cooking surface on stovetops and for fitting multiple strips side-by-side.
I use this pan when I want a seared look and firmer texture without flipping constantly. The PFOA-free nonstick finish performs well at medium-high heat, but I avoid empty overheating to protect the coating. It’s also convenient for indoor grilling of vegetables or sandwiches. If you’re hunting the best frying pan for cooking bacon and prefer pan-seared texture with minimal grease, this grill pan is a reliable, versatile option.
Pros
- Ridged surface creates grill marks and drains fat.
- Square shape provides more cooking area.
- Pour spouts for easy grease disposal.
- PFOA-free nonstick makes cooking and cleanup easy.
- Works well for other foods like veggies and sandwiches.
Cons
- Ridged surface can be harder to clean than flat pans.
- Not ideal for very thin bacon that needs a flat surface.
- Nonstick can degrade if overheated or scratched.
- Handles can get warm under heavy stovetop use.
- May not fit perfectly on small burners due to square shape.
My Recommendation
I recommend the SENSARTE grill pan for cooks who like a grilled texture and less greasy bacon. I find it great for thicker cuts and for pairing with other breakfast items. It’s a strong choice if you want the best frying pan for cooking bacon with grill-style searing and easy fat drainage. The pan gives very good value for people wanting multiuse cookware that limits grease contact.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Grill-style bacon | Ridged surface drains fat and creates sear marks |
| Multipurpose use | Good for vegetables and sandwiches as well |
| Less greasy results | Pour spouts and raised ridges reduce fat contact |
Nordic Ware Oven Crisp Baking Tray
The Nordic Ware Oven Crisp tray is built from natural aluminum which heats evenly and crisps well in the oven. I use it with the included rack for bacon that browns uniformly. Aluminum’s fast conduction helps strips render fat efficiently. The tray’s low profile works under a broiler to accelerate browning. It’s especially useful for quick breakfasts when I need consistent results across many slices. The set’s sturdy construction feels professional-grade and handles regular oven use without warping.
For people who prefer oven bacon, this tray makes the process fast and reliable. It’s lightweight but rigid, and the included rack keeps bacon raised for airflow. I recommend lining the tray or cooling and disposing of grease safely after use. If you value oven efficiency and want the best frying pan for cooking bacon via oven methods, this tray set is a top option for crisping and broiling with little fuss.
Pros
- Natural aluminum for fast, even heating.
- Includes rack for raised airflow and crisping.
- Low profile fits easily under broilers.
- Durable construction resists warping.
- Lightweight and easy to handle in and out of oven.
Cons
- Not nonstick—may require lining for easy cleanup.
- Aluminum can discolor with heavy use.
- Tray edges may collect grease—care needed when handling.
- Not ideal for stovetop frying.
- Rack spacing might be wide for thinner bacon pieces.
My Recommendation
I suggest the Nordic Ware Oven Crisp tray for home cooks who prefer oven-baked bacon and want fast, even results. I use it when I need a consistent crisp across many strips. If your goal is to find the best frying pan for cooking bacon but you prefer oven methods, this set is a very efficient alternative that delivers great texture and speed.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Oven-baked bacon | Natural aluminum for even crisping |
| Broiling | Low profile fits well under broilers |
| Large batches | Sturdy tray and rack hold many strips |
U.S. Kitchen Supply 4-Piece Splatter Guard Set
This four-piece splatter guard set gives me flexibility for pans of many sizes. Fine mesh screens keep grease from splattering while letting steam escape, which is helpful when frying bacon. The variety of sizes means I can protect small skillets or large griddles without buying separate guards. Comfortable handles and thin profiles make them easy to store. I find the set indispensable for everyday frying because it reduces cleanup and improves safety without affecting browning or texture.
For households that cook frequently, the set offers a practical solution to mess and burn risk. The mesh is fine enough to block most droplets but still allows visibility and ventilation. I keep one guard near the stove for quick use and one in the dishwasher after heavy use. If you want the best frying pan for cooking bacon, pair your chosen pan with a set like this for a cleaner, safer cooking experience.
Pros
- Multiple sizes fit a wide range of cookware.
- Fine mesh reduces grease splatter effectively.
- Comfort grip handles for safe use.
- Thin and easy to store in cabinets.
- Dishwasher-safe for convenient cleanup.
Cons
- Only an accessory—doesn’t cook bacon by itself.
- Fine mesh requires careful cleaning to avoid buildup.
- Handles can vary in comfort between sizes.
- May not sit flush on very deep pots or odd pans.
- Set can be bulkier to store than a single guard.
My Recommendation
I recommend this U.S. Kitchen Supply splatter guard set for families and frequent cooks who need protection across multiple pan sizes. I use these guards to keep my kitchen cleaner and safer while frying bacon. If you’re building an arsenal around the best frying pan for cooking bacon, include a set like this so every pan is covered and splatter is minimized.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Multiple pan sizes | Four guards cover a wide range of cookware |
| Family kitchens | Reduces cleanup and protects counters from grease |
| Frequent frying | Durable mesh and dishwasher-safe convenience |
FAQs Of best frying pan for cooking bacon
Do I need a splatter screen when I fry bacon?
Yes. A splatter screen reduces hot grease landing on you or kitchen surfaces. It keeps cleanup easier and lowers burn risk while allowing steam to escape so bacon still crisps well.
Is oven-baked bacon better than stovetop bacon?
Oven-baked bacon often cooks more evenly and is less hands-on. It uses a tray and rack to crisp strips uniformly. Stovetop gives faster browning and more control but can splatter more.
What pan material is best for bacon?
Cast iron, heavy-gauge stainless, or carbon steel pans hold heat well for even browning. Nonstick and grill pans help reduce sticking and fat contact. Choose based on your preference for texture and cleanup.
Can I reuse bacon grease safely?
Yes. Cool and strain bacon grease into a glass jar, store in the fridge, and use within a few weeks for flavoring. Discard if it smells off or becomes cloudy.
How do I keep bacon from curling in the pan?
Use a heavy pan to distribute heat evenly, or press strips flat with a spatula while cooking. Starting with room-temperature bacon also helps reduce curling.
Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
For the overall best frying pan for cooking bacon, choose the option that matches your cooking style: oven trays and racks for batch, grill pans for seared texture, and a quality splatter screen to protect your kitchen. My picks cover all needs so you can cook bacon perfectly every time.
