I’m a huge fan of bacon—whether it’s for breakfast, added to a salad, or used to give a smoky flavor to a dish.
But if there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years, it’s that knowing how to properly store bacon makes all the difference in keeping it fresh and delicious.
From raw bacon to leftover cooked strips and even bacon grease, I’ve got you covered with the best methods to store it all.
How I Store Uncooked Bacon
When it comes to uncooked bacon, whether you’ve just brought it home from your local grocery store or you’ve bought a huge pack, the key to keeping it fresh is in how you store it.
Unopened Bacon
If you’re not planning on using the bacon right away, keeping it in its original packaging is the way to go. An unopened package of bacon will last about 1-2 weeks in the fridge, but if I know I’m not using it anytime soon, I throw it in the freezer.
Bacon can last up to 8 months in the freezer, but always double-check the use-by date or expiration date for accuracy.
Opened Raw Bacon
Once I’ve opened a package, I try to use it within a week. If I have extra, I wrap the individual bacon strips in plastic wrap or parchment paper and then place them in a resealable bag or airtight container.
This is especially important for keeping the bacon from going bad quickly. If I have a lot of extra bacon, I pop it in the freezer in a freezer-safe bag for longer storage—up to 6 months.
Freezing Bacon in Batches
I often buy pounds of bacon, especially when I see a good deal at the grocery store. My trick is to freeze the strips individually. I lay the individual slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze them in a single layer.
After a couple of hours, I transfer them to a heavy-duty freezer bag. This makes it super easy to grab only what I need for future meals.
How I Store Cooked Bacon
Sometimes I cook a big batch of bacon to have it on hand for easy meals throughout the week. Here’s how I keep my leftover bacon fresh:
Leftover Cooked Bacon
Once the bacon is cooked, I let it cool on a cooling rack to let the excess grease drain off. Afterward, I store the crispy bacon in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. It stays good in the fridge for about 4-5 days, which is perfect for tossing into salads or sandwiches.
Freezing Cooked Bacon
Freezing cooked bacon is one of my favorite tricks. I freeze the cooked strips the same way I freeze raw bacon—lay them on a baking sheet in a single layer and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag after freezing for a couple of hours.
When I want crispy bacon for breakfast or a recipe, I just pull a few slices from the freezer and reheat them. This method keeps the bacon from sticking together and maintains that crispy texture I love.
Reheating Cooked Bacon
When reheating bacon, I’ve found the air fryer works best to bring back its crispy texture. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5-10 minutes, or pop it in the microwave sandwiched between sheets of paper towels for a quick fix.
Storing Bacon Grease
I never let bacon grease go to waste! It’s great for adding flavor to a variety of dishes. After frying up some bacon, I let the bacon fat cool just a bit before straining it through a coffee filter into a mason jar.
I store the jar in the fridge, where it keeps for up to a month. You can also freeze it if you want it to last even longer.
Pro Tip: Always strain out the bacon bits to avoid spoilage and to keep the grease fresh.
How to Tell if Bacon Has Gone Bad
Even with the best storage techniques, bacon can still go bad. Here’s how I know when it’s time to throw it out:
- Slimy feel: If the bacon feels slimy, it’s a sign that it’s starting to spoil. Bacon should feel firm to the touch.
- Strange smell: Bacon that smells sour or off is no good and should be thrown out immediately.
- Discoloration: If your bacon has turned grayish or green, it’s past its prime.
FAQs
Q: Can you store bacon at room temperature?
A: No, bacon should never be stored at room temperature. Always refrigerate or freeze it to ensure its best quality.
Q: How long does raw bacon last in the fridge?
A: An unopened package of bacon can last up to 2 weeks in the fridge. Once opened, you should use it within 5-7 days.
Q: Can I freeze bacon after cooking it?
A: Yes! Freezing cooked bacon is a great way to preserve it. Just lay the strips on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze, and transfer them to a freezer-safe bag.
Q: How do I prevent freezer burn on bacon?
A: To avoid freezer burn, store bacon in an airtight bag or freezer-safe bag. Removing as much air as possible before sealing will help keep the bacon fresh.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat bacon?
A: The air fryer is my favorite way to reheat bacon, as it brings back the crispiness in just a few minutes. You can also reheat it in the oven or microwave.
Tips & Tricks for Storing Bacon
- Freeze in individual portions: Freezing bacon in individual slices is a best practice for easy meal prep. It prevents the slices from sticking together, so you can pull out only what you need.
- Use bacon grease wisely: Store your bacon fat in a jar and use it to cook vegetables, eggs, or even meats for added flavor.
- Always wrap opened bacon: Whether in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, always wrap your bacon tightly and store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.
Storing bacon properly has been a game-changer for me. Whether it’s uncooked bacon, leftover cooked bacon, or even bacon grease, keeping it fresh for future use is so easy with the right storage techniques.
These methods help me cut down on food waste and ensure I always have crispy bacon ready to go for all my favorite dishes. If you’re a bacon lover like me, these storage hacks will save you time, money, and ensure your bacon stays delicious!
