Tag Archive for: recommend

The Day I Learned How to Stop Using Paper Towels for Good

It all started with one nearly empty roll of paper towels and a messy patio on the morning of a dinner party. I didn’t realize it then, but that little moment of scarcity would spark a lifelong habit shift and save me hundreds of dollars over time. If you’ve ever wondered how to stop using paper towels without feeling deprived, here’s how one small change made a big impact.

how to stop using paper towels on kitchen countertop

Years ago, I had a frugality wake-up call—something I admit to needing from time to time. It’s so easy to get sloppy when we’re surrounded by abundance and a seemingly endless supply of everything.

It was the morning of our annual Holiday Dinner Party. I had limited time and a long to-do list, including “clean patio chairs.” Those chairs had been through a few rainstorms and were looking rough. I grabbed my cleaning supplies only to discover I had just one roll of paper towels and it was half-used.

Normally, this shortage would have sent me on a quick trip to the store. But at that time, I didn’t have a car during the day (my husband and I shared one). Walking to the store wasn’t an option, so I decided to make do with what I had.

The Simple Swap That Changed Everything

I carefully tore off three paper towels. I scrubbed, cleaned, and, out of habit, almost tossed them in the trash. But instead, I flattened them out, smoothed the wrinkles, and kept cleaning. What started as irritation turned into a little personal challenge: how long could I make those three towels last?

To my surprise, the chairs ended up sparkling clean, and I still had towels left. That small win shifted my thinking. I realized how often I used things mindlessly, simply because I could.

That day, scarcity made me resourceful and proud. I began asking myself “What if?”

  • What if I treated everything as if it might run out?
  • Would I be more thoughtful with errands if gasoline were scarce?
  • Would I measure the laundry soap instead of eyeballing it?
  • What if this was the only tube of toothpaste for the foreseeable future? Could I make it last?
  • Would I throw away half a pot of cold coffee or freeze it in ice cube trays for later if some rare beetle destroyed the world’s coffee harvest?

That simple “make do” moment was the beginning of a lasting mindset shift.

How to Use Bar Mops for Everyday Cleaning

how to use bar mops terry towels white clothes for everyday cleaning

That single roll of paper towels turned into a wake-up call that changed my attitude about abundance and waste. Over 20 years later, I haven’t given up paper towels completely, but a single roll now lasts me about six months. The secret? Bar mops.

A bar mop is a small white 100% cotton terry cloth towel, basically a cross between a washcloth and a dish towel. You’ll see them in restaurants and bars because they’re tough, absorbent, and endlessly reusable.

In our home, I use bar mops for everything I once used paper towels for:

  • Cleaning up spills and wiping down counters
  • Drying dishes or washing windows
  • Dusting furniture and cleaning baseboards
  • Detailing the car
  • Scrubbing grime or polishing fixtures
  • Even as napkins or hot pads in a pinch

They’re strong, inexpensive, and surprisingly satisfying to use once you get the hang of it.

My Routine for Keeping Bar Mops Fresh and White

I have a small hamper under the kitchen sink, where I toss used bar mops. I use many every day, and with abandon. When the hamper gets full, I launder them.

My laundry routine:

  • HOT water
  • ½ cup borax
  • 2 tablespoons liquid laundry detergent
  • Heavy-duty cycle
  • Extra rinse
  • White vinegar in the final rinse (in the fabric softener reservoir)

Now and then, I pretreat serious stains, and once or twice a year, I’ll add bleach. The secret to keeping them sparkling white is that half-cup of borax and washing them often before stains set in. Used daily, they don’t mildew or discolor.

When one gets too stained, it graduates to my husband’s workshop as a shop rag. Nothing goes to waste!

Where to Buy Quality Bar Mops for Less

You can find bar mops almost anywhere these days, but a few places consistently offer good quality for less.

How many should you start with? It depends on how often you use paper towels. If you go through a roll a week, try starting with two dozen bar mops. If you find yourself running out before laundry day, add another pack. Experiment until you find your perfect number.

I have six dozen bar mops. I fold them in half and store them standing file drawer style in a kitchen drawer with the fold up. This makes them easy to grab. In our home, bar mops need to be super handy.

Why Living with Less Feels So Much Better

What started as frustration over running out of paper towels became a bigger lesson in mindful living. I realized that when we treat things like they’re unlimited, we tend to waste, not just money, but energy and gratitude.

Living with a sense of intentional scarcity doesn’t mean deprivation. It means appreciating what we have, using it fully, and finding satisfaction in simplicity.

For me, the humble bar mop became a daily reminder that less can truly be more for my wallet, for the planet, and for my peace of mind.

Question: What’s one disposable item you’ve successfully replaced with something reusable? Share in the comments below.


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27 Things You Should Never Put in the Fridge (and Why It Matters!)

Is your fridge packed to the brim? Before you start eyeing a bigger model, take a closer look—because you might be storing things in the refrigerator that don’t belong there in the first place. Some foods lose flavor, texture, or even nutritional value when chilled, while others become completely inedible. The good news? Knowing what not to refrigerate can free up space, keep your groceries fresher for longer, and help you cut down on waste.

27 things to never put in the refrigerator

While certain foods must be refrigerated, others actually do better at room temperature. And then there are those tricky in-between items that can survive in either spot. Do you know which ones really shouldn’t be in the refrigerator? You might be surprised!

Fruits That Hate the Fridge

1. Tomatoes

can tomatoes be stored in the refrigerator

Want your tomatoes to taste like cardboard? Stick them in the fridge. The cold stops the ripening process, messes with their texture, and dulls their flavor—leaving you with mealy, tasteless fruit (yes, tomatoes are fruit!). Ever notice how grocery stores keep them out of the refrigerated section? There’s a reason for that.

Instead, store fresh tomatoes on the countertop at room temperature, stem-side up to prevent bruising. If you grow your own, leave a small piece of the vine attached when harvesting. This little trick helps them stay fresh longer and can even boost their flavor. Want to slow ripening? Keep them in a cool, shady spot, but skip the fridge!

2. Unripe Bananas

can you store bananas in the refrigerator

Bananas are one of the few fruits that keep ripening after they’re picked—but only if you let them. Pop them in the fridge too soon, and you’ll put that ripening process on ice (literally). Instead, keep unripe bananas on the countertop, away from direct sunlight, and let nature do its thing.

Once they reach peak ripeness, you can refrigerate them to slow down further ripening. Just don’t panic when the peel turns black—that’s totally normal. The fruit inside stays perfectly sweet and ready for smoothies, oatmeal, or, let’s be honest, banana bread.

3. Citrus Fruit

can you store citrus fruits in the refrigerator

Oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruits thrive at room temperature. While it might seem logical to keep them chilled, the cold air in the fridge can actually dry them out, dull their bright flavors, and even cause the rinds to harden.

For the juiciest, most flavorful citrus, store them in a cool, dry place—like a fruit bowl on the counter. If you have an abundance and need to keep them fresh longer, refrigeration is an option, but let them come to room temperature before eating for the best taste.

4. Uncut Melon

can you store assorted melons in the refrigerator

Melons, like watermelon and cantaloupe, get sweeter and more flavorful when left to ripen at room temperature. But here’s something you might not know—the fridge can actually zap some of their nutritional value. Chilled temperatures can reduce the antioxidants found in melons, meaning you’re missing out on some of their natural health benefits.

Plus, let’s be honest—whole melons hog a ridiculous amount of fridge space. Instead, keep them on the countertop until you’re ready to slice in. Once cut, transfer the leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days to keep them fresh.

A quick note on honeydew: Unlike its melon cousins, honeydew won’t ripen further once it’s picked. Whether in the fridge or on the counter, it’s as ripe as it’ll ever be.

5. Green Avocados

can you store green avocados in the refrigerator

A perfectly ripe avocado is a thing of beauty—but patience is key! If you toss an unripe avocado in the fridge, it’ll stubbornly refuse to ripen, staying rock-hard for what feels like forever. Instead, keep it on the counter and let nature do its thing.

Once your avocado is just right, you can extend its life by popping it in the fridge. The skin may darken, but the creamy goodness inside will stay fresh for a few extra days—just in time for that perfect batch of guacamole.

6. Nuts

can you store assorted nuts in the refrigerator

Storing nuts in the fridge might seem like a good idea, but it can actually rob them of their rich, nutty flavor. Worse, they’re like little sponges, soaking up odors from everything around them—garlic-scented almonds, anyone? No thanks. Plus, the cold can make them soft instead of crisp and crunchy.

For short-term storage (a week or two), keep nuts in a covered container in the pantry or even in a bowl on the countertop for easy snacking. If you’ve stocked up and won’t go through them quickly, the best long-term storage is the freezer. Just use an airtight container or vacuum-sealed bag to lock in freshness and keep them from absorbing any weird freezer smells.

7. Strawberries

can you store strawberries in the refrigerator

Refrigerating strawberries—or any berries, for that matter—can zap their natural sweetness and turn them into sad, mushy versions of their former selves. Instead, store fresh strawberries on the countertop, out of direct sunlight, and aim to use them within a day or two for the best flavor and texture.

One more thing: Keep them dry. Moisture is the enemy of fresh berries. Wait to wash them until you’re ready to eat, or they’ll spoil much faster. If you need to store them a bit longer, arrange them in a single layer on a paper towel in a breathable container, but even then, don’t expect them to last more than a couple of days. Fresh berries are meant to be enjoyed quickly.

8. Apples

can you store apples in the refrigerator

For the best flavor and texture, keep fresh apples on the countertop. While refrigeration can help them stay crisp longer, there’s a catch—apples naturally release ethylene gas, which can cause nearby fruits and veggies to ripen (or spoil) faster than you’d like.

If you do need to store apples in the fridge, take a simple extra step: Place them in an airtight container or a sealed bag. This keeps them from affecting other produce while still maintaining their crunch. And if an apple starts to soften? Time for applesauce, pie, or a quick snack with peanut butter.

9. Cucumbers

can you store cucumbers in the refrigerator

Cucumbers might seem like fridge staples, but they’re actually pretty sensitive to the cold. Storing them below 50°F can lead to chilling injuries—think soft, mushy spots, watery texture, and faster decay. Not exactly the crisp, refreshing crunch you’re hoping for.

For the best results, keep whole, uncut cucumbers at room temperature. Stored this way, they can stay fresh for up to two weeks. If you’ve already sliced one, wrap it tightly and refrigerate, but plan to use it within a day or two for the best texture.

10. Peaches

can you store peaches in the refrigerator

Peaches—and their stone fruit cousins like nectarines, plums, and apricots—suffer the same sad fate as tomatoes when stored in the fridge. The cold can zap their sweetness, dull their flavor, and leave you with mealy, disappointing fruit.

For the juiciest, most flavorful peaches, store them at room temperature in a fruit bowl. Let them ripen naturally, and once they’re perfectly soft and fragrant, enjoy them within a few days. If you absolutely must refrigerate, do it only when they’re fully ripe to slow down spoilage—but expect a slight downgrade in texture.

Veggies That Should Stay at Room Temperature

11. Raw Potatoes

can you store potatoes in the refrigerator

Tossing potatoes in the fridge might seem like a good idea, but cold temps actually mess with their natural starches, turning them into sugar too quickly. The result? Weirdly sweet, gritty-textured spuds that won’t cook up quite right.

For the best flavor and texture, store raw potatoes in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated spot—like a pantry or a breathable basket. Keep them away from onions, which can speed up spoilage. And whatever you do, don’t wash them until you’re ready to use them—moisture invites sprouting and rot.

12. Dry Onions

can you store onions in the refrigerator

Whole, uncut onions and refrigerators do not mix. The fridge’s humidity turns them into a mushy, moldy mess in no time. Even worse, the cold converts their natural starches into sugars, which can make them taste oddly sweet—and if left long enough, they’ll liquefy into a slimy disaster. Yuck.

For best storage, keep onions in a cool, dry, well-ventilated space. The easiest option? Leave them in the mesh bag they came in. Want them to last even longer? Try this old-school trick: Drop an onion into the toe of a clean pair of pantyhose, tie a knot above it, add another onion, and repeat. Hang the whole thing in your pantry, and you’ll have fresh onions for a month or more!

13. Fresh Garlic

can you store garlic in the refrigerator

Garlic and refrigerators don’t get along. The moisture inside can cause unpeeled cloves to sprout or turn moldy faster than you’d think. Plus, unless you want your butter and berries to have a garlicky aftertaste (yikes!), it’s best to keep those pungent bulbs out of the fridge.

For the longest shelf life, store whole, unpeeled garlic bulbs in a cool, dry place with good air circulation—like a mesh bag or a ventilated basket. This way, they’ll stay fresh and flavorful for weeks, if not months.

Pantry Staples That Last Longer Without Refrigeration

14. Honey

can you store honey in the refrigerator

Honey is one of those magical foods that never goes bad—thanks to its natural preservative power (sugar!). As long as it’s stored in a sealed container, it can last forever. The fridge, however, is not its friend. Cold temps can cause honey to crystallize and turn into a sticky rock-hard mess that will have you wondering if it’s still edible.

But don’t panic if you’ve already made the fridge mistake. Simply place the honey jar in a pot of warm water, and let it slowly return to its liquid state. It might take some time, but trust me, it’s worth the wait. Just be patient, and your honey will be as good as new.

15. Coffee Beans & Ground Coffee

can you store coffee in the refrigerator

Coffee is one of those simple joys in life that can be easily ruined by improper storage. When you refrigerate coffee beans or ground coffee, the moisture in the fridge can quickly rob them of their rich, robust flavor. Even worse, the fridge can make your coffee taste flat and stale. The freezer is only a better option if the beans are in a vacuum-sealed bag, and even then, it’s a bit of a gamble.

For the best flavor, store roasted coffee beans in a sealed container on your pantry shelf or countertop away from sunlight. To keep your coffee at its peak, try to use the beans within two weeks of roasting, and once ground, use them within a couple of hours. That’s the sweet spot for a fresh, aromatic cup that hits just right.

16. Oils

can you store oils in the refrigerator

When it comes to oils, the fridge is not their friend. Vegetable oil, olive oil, and other common cooking oils will solidify in the cool temperatures of the refrigerator, making them harder to pour and less effective for cooking. Instead, store these oils in a cool, dark spot in your pantry to keep them in liquid form and preserve their flavor.

However, nut-based oils (like walnut or hazelnut oil) are an exception. These should be stored in the fridge to maintain freshness and prevent them from turning rancid too quickly.

17. Hot Sauce

can you store hot sauces in the refrigerator

Hot sauce is one condiment that thrives at room temperature. With its high vinegar content and bold, fiery flavors, hot sauce is naturally preserved and doesn’t need refrigeration to stay safe. In fact, the fridge can actually dull its heat and alter its signature tangy kick.

The peppers in hot sauce remain just as potent when stored in a cabinet or pantry—no need to take up valuable fridge space. So, unless the label specifically recommends refrigeration (which is rare), keep your hot sauce on the countertop and let the flavors shine through until it’s time to use it up.

18. Peanut Butter and Spreads

can you store peanut butter in the refrigerator

Peanut butter and spreads like Nutella are best kept out of the fridge. When refrigerated, they can turn into a thick, stubborn block that’s nearly impossible to spread.

Unless the jar specifically says otherwise (this is common with natural varieties that contain fewer preservatives), store your peanut butter and chocolate spreads in the pantry. This keeps them at their smooth, spreadable best for sandwiches, toast, or whatever you use them for. Just give it a good stir when you first open the jar, and you’re all set.

19. Bread

can you store fresh bread in the refrigerator

It might seem like a good idea to store bread in the fridge, especially with its moisture content. After all, it’s supposed to keep mold at bay, right? But here’s the catch: while it slows mold growth, refrigeration actually makes bread tough, chewy, and well, just not as tasty.

Instead of popping it in the fridge, store your bread at room temperature in a cool, dry place—just keep it tightly wrapped or in a breadbox to maintain freshness. And if you know you won’t use the whole loaf before it starts to go stale, toss it in the freezer. Bread freezes beautifully for up to a month. The same goes for cookies and pastries—just reheat for that fresh-baked flavor.

20. Coconut Oil

can you store coconut oil in the refrigerator

Coconut oil is a pantry staple with a shelf life of up to two years when stored at room temperature. So, there’s no need to keep it in the fridge—unless, of course, you enjoy scraping out rock-hard coconut oil with a chisel. When kept in a cool, dark place, it remains soft and scoopable, ready for cooking and skincare.

21. Ketchup

can you store ketchup in the refrigerator

Ketchup might survive just fine in the fridge, but why waste valuable fridge door space when it doesn’t need to be chilled? Thanks to the vinegar and salt, ketchup is pretty resistant to spoiling, even once it’s opened. Most bottles will be perfectly happy on the pantry shelf. Of course, always check the label just to be sure—some brands might have special instructions. But in general, it’s one less thing for your fridge to hold onto.

22. Soy Sauce

can you store soy sauce in the refrigerator

Thanks to its high salt content, soy sauce is one condiment that doesn’t need to be refrigerated, even after opening. The salt acts as a natural preservative, keeping it perfectly safe at room temperature. The same goes for other similar condiments like teriyaki sauce or Worcestershire sauce. But hey, when in doubt, just take a peek at the label—if it says otherwise, follow those instructions. Otherwise, keep it on the shelf and save that fridge space.

23. Spices

can you store spices in the refrigerator

Most ground spices can last for years when stored properly, and they’ll keep their flavor and aroma intact. The key is to keep them in a dry, dark place—think a spice rack or cupboard, away from heat and light. At room temperature, your spices will stay potent, flavorful, and ready to elevate your meals.

24. Jam and Jelly

can you store jam or jelly in the refrigerator

Thanks to their high sugar content, most jams and jellies are perfectly happy living in the pantry for up to a month after opening. No need to squeeze them into the fridge, where they might lose some of their spreadable charm. But as always, double-check your specific brand’s label for any special instructions. In general, room temperature is the way to go for your favorite fruity spreads.

More Foods that Thrive Outside the Fridge

25. Fresh Basil

can you store fresh basil in the refrigerator

Fresh basil is so lovely and useful, but storing it in the fridge? Not the best move. When basil hits the cold, it absorbs the smells of other foods and turns black. Instead, keep your basil on the countertop with its stems submerged in water, like a little bouquet of flavor. This simple trick will keep your basil fresh and vibrant longer—no fridge required.

26. Chocolate

can you store chocolate in the refrigerator

Chocolate, with its long shelf life, doesn’t belong in the fridge. In fact, storing it in the fridge can mess with its flavor and texture. Keep it on the countertop for the best taste and texture. If you must refrigerate it, just know that you might end up with “sugar bloom”—a grainy, gritty layer that forms when the sugar rises to the surface. The solution? Enjoy it at room temperature, and let its smooth texture shine!

And Never Store These in the Fridge

27. Batteries

can you store batteries in the refrigerator

Batteries are one of those things that many people mistakenly believe should be stored in the fridge or freezer to extend their life. The truth? Extreme cold (or heat) can actually shorten their performance. Storing batteries in the fridge doesn’t help and can even harm them.

Instead, keep them in a clean, dry, room-temperature spot. Major battery brands recommend this as the ideal storage condition. A properly stored battery, like your typical alkaline variety, will only lose about 3% of its charge per year. Single-use lithium batteries lose even less, making fridge storage unnecessary. Keep it simple—room temperature is all they need!

 

Question: What’s one thing you used to refrigerate, only to learn you were doing it all wrong? Join the conversation in the comments below.

Cook Bacon in the Oven Without the Hassle

Want to cook bacon in the oven without the mess and hassle of stovetop cooking? This method is a game-changer, reducing splatters and confining smells. Follow our step-by-step guide to enjoy perfectly crispy bacon every time, and make cleanup a breeze.

cook bacon in oven on parchment paper crispy

My Love-Hate Relationship with Bacon

I must admit to a kind of love-hate relationship with bacon. On the one hand, my family loves bacon, which means I cook it often. But until I discovered the best, easiest way to do that, I dreaded frying bacon!

The problem in two words: splatters and smell. I’m not a fan of splatters all over the cooktop. And that lingering smell of stale bacon throughout the house for hours and beyond? That nearly knocks me out.

Then there’s the problem of keeping the first batch hot and crispy when only about 1/4 pound fits well in a stovetop skillet.

Trust me, I’ve tried all the methods—stovetop, microwave, griddle, and outdoor grill. The outdoor grill has been mostly my go-to method, but when it’s 10°F with a foot of snow out there, not so much.

All that is history now that I’m hooked on the absolute best way to cook bacon—in the oven. It’s easy with minimal, if any, splatters. The smell of bacon is all but limited to the baking time. I can cook an entire pound of bacon at once, and cleanup is a cinch!

Why You Should Cook Bacon in the Oven

Almost everyone has an oven, and while there are other methods out there, this one beats them all hands down. No need to buy a countertop grill, air fryer, or any other fancy equipment.

Until I gave it a try, I assumed cooking bacon in the oven would be messier and more time-consuming than using my cast iron skillet on the stovetop. But I was so wrong. With the oven method, I can cook an entire pound of bacon without babysitting it. The bacon stays flat, there are no splatters, and best of all? The smell doesn’t linger forever. Oven-baked bacon is easy, efficient, and the results are consistently perfect. Oh, and I start it in a cold oven!

No Need to Flip

Set the timer, and you’re done. The oven takes care of everything automatically. No flipping, no checking, and no splatters. The bacon bubbles and sizzles away, but here’s the best part—no splattering! Just perfectly cooked bacon every time, without the mess.

Cook a Pound All at Once

an entire pound of raw bacon on foil-lined baking sheet

It might sound like a lot, but one pound of bacon actually makes 4 to 6 servings. With the oven method, you can cook the entire pound at once on a single half-sheet pan. It’s incredibly convenient and ensures you have plenty of bacon ready to enjoy without multiple batches.

Tips for Extra Crispy Oven-Baked Bacon

ook bacon in oven on cooling rack for extra crispy

Baked on a sheet pan, bacon comes out crispy around the edges but still slightly chewy in the middle—the way many of us prefer. But if you like it extra crispy, no problem. Lay the bacon on top of a metal cooling rack set over the foil-lined sheet pan. Now it will come out super crispy all the way through.

Easy Cleanup After You Cook Bacon in the Oven

It’s so easy. If you want to reserve the bacon fat for later use, simply allow it to cool on the sheet pan for a few minutes, then pour it into your container of choice. If not, wait for the pan to cool, then gather up the foil and discard. Wash with soap and water, as usual. That’s it! No baked-on mess or ugly stains.

a pound of bacon on a baking half sheet wrapped in foil

Step-by-Step Guide to Cook Bacon in the Oven

cook bacon in the oven pile of crispy bacon stacked on plate

Cooking bacon in the oven is easy, produces excellent results, and might just become your go-to method once you try it. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Do not preheat your oven.  You want to start out in a cold oven, which ensures the bacon cooks evenly and crisps up beautifully.
  2. Prepare a large, rimmed baking sheet by lining it with aluminum foil. This not only makes for easy cleanup but also helps reflect heat, cooking the bacon more evenly.
  3. Lay the bacon strips in a single layer on top of the foil. For best results don’t overlap the pieces.
  4. Optional: Place parchment paper on top of the foil to absorb grease. This can help reduce splatters and make cleanup even easier.
  5. Place the pan in the cold oven, close the door and turn it on to 400℉.
  6. Bake the bacon in for about 25 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and cooked to your liking. Keep an eye on it toward the end of the cooking time so it doesn’t overcook, otherwise known as burnt!
  7. Using tongs, transfer the perfectly cooked bacon to a paper-towel-lined platter to drain any excess grease.

That’s it! Enjoy your perfectly oven-baked bacon with minimal mess and maximum flavor.

cook bacon in oven on parchment paper crispy

Perfect Oven-Baked Bacon Recipe

This recipe is the absolute best way I've found to cook bacon. There's no need to flip the bacon or stand at the stove watching it. You can cook a whole pound at once and the cleanup is very easy with minimal mess. Try it—I think you'll agree!
4.88 from 8 votes
Print Pin Rate
Course: Anytime, Breakfast, How to
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 28 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 150kcal

Equipment

  • Rimmed baking sheet
  • Metal cooking rack (optional)
  • Aluminum foil
  • Paper towels
  • Tongs

Ingredients

  • 1 pound bacon, thin or thick-cut

Instructions

  • Do not preheat the oven!
  • Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil.
  • Lay bacon on top of the foil in a single layer.
  • Optional: Place parchment paper on top of the foil to aid in absorbing grease.
  • Optional: For extra crispy bacon, fit a metal, oven-safe baking cooling rack on top of the foil-lined and (optionally) parchment paper sheet pan.
  • Place pan of bacon in the cold oven. Close the door and set to 400 F.
  • Bake until golden brown or to taste, for about 25 minutes. Watch carefully to as to avoid overcooking.
  • Using tongs, move the perfectly oven-baked bacon to a paper-towel-lined platter.
  • Serve and enjoy!

Notes

Elevating the bacon on a cooling rack above the foil-lined sheet pan allows air to circulate more readily, resulting in an extra-crispy outcome. Because all ovens behave differently, begin monitoring at about 18 minutes so you know how quickly or slowly your oven will cook the bacon. This is especially important if using very thinly cut bacon. Once you become familiar with how your oven works with bacon, you'll be able to set the timer exactly right to eliminate the need to monitor. 
Leftover bacon, wrapped tightly in foil or stored in a lidded container, will be good for up to one week when stored in the refrigerator. Frozen, up to 3 months. 
To reuse leftover bacon, microwave on high for 30 seconds to 1 minute, or to your liking. 

Nutrition

Calories: 150kcal
Tried this recipe?Mention @EverydayCheapskate or tag #EverydayCheapskate!

Question: What’s your favorite way to cook bacon? Do you prefer the stovetop, microwave, or have you tried baking it in the oven? Let us know in the comments down below.


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