Nothing beats the smell of sizzling bacon in the morning But what do you do with the leftovers after breakfast? Can you vacuum seal cooked bacon to extend its shelf life? The answer is yes!
Read on to learn if and how to vacuum pack cooked bacon plus tips to keep it fresh as long as possible.
Benefits of Vacuum Sealing Leftover Bacon
Vacuum sealing is one of the best ways to save cooked bacon and prevent waste. Here are some of the key benefits:
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Extends shelf life – Properly sealed bacon stays fresh 3-6 months in the fridge or 6-12 months in the freezer.
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Preserves texture – Sealing locks in moisture and prevents bacon from drying out.
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Maintains flavor – Removing air prevents oxidation that makes bacon taste stale.
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Provides convenience – Sealed portions are ready to thaw and reheat when needed
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Reduces waste – Use leftover bacon rather than having it go bad.
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Saves money – Get more use out of pricey bacon packs.
For these reasons, vacuum packing is highly recommended for storing cooked bacon you can’t eat right away.
Step-By-Step Guide to Vacuum Packing Bacon
Vacuum sealing cooked bacon is simple with the right supplies. Here is a step-by-step guide:
Supplies Needed
- Bacon cooked to desired doneness
- Plastic wrap
- Vacuum sealer bags
- Vacuum sealing machine
- Permanent marker
Instructions
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Allow cooked bacon to cool completely. Sealing hot bacon causes moisture buildup.
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Cut bacon into desired portion sizes. Slices, crumbles, or pieces for adding to recipes.
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Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap. This prevents sticking together.
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Place wrapped bacon inside vacuum bags. Leave room for the seal at the top.
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Vacuum seal the bag, removing all air. Wipe any grease from the seal area.
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Label bag with contents and date. Store in fridge or freezer.
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To use, thaw sealed bacon overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently before serving.
Follow this process, and your cooked bacon will stay fresh for months! The plastic wrap and vacuum seal work together to prevent freezer burn.
Storage Time for Sealed Bacon
How long does vacuum packed cooked bacon last? Follow these storage guidelines:
- Refrigerator: 3 to 6 months
- Freezer: 6 to 12 months
Properly sealed, leftover bacon stays safe and retains good quality for many months. However, check for any signs of spoilage before eating, like off odors, discoloration, or sliminess.
For best quality, use refrigerated bacon within 3 months and frozen within 6 months. The longer bacon is stored, the more its texture and flavor degrade.
Tips for Freezing Cooked Bacon
Follow these tips for safely freezing and storing vacuum sealed cooked bacon:
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Let bacon cool to room temperature before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.
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Portion bacon in desired amounts. Freeze flat in a single layer for easy thawing.
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Wrap pieces in plastic before sealing. This prevents them from freezing together in a block.
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Press out all air and seal bags properly. Air exposure causes freezer burn.
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Label bags with contents and freeze date. Track shelf life.
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Store sealed bacon flat in the back of the freezer where temperature stays consistent.
Ideas for Using Leftover Bacon
Don’t let leftover cooked bacon go to waste! Beyond eating it as is, here are creative ways to use it:
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Crumble on salads, baked potatoes, or omelets.
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Include in cooked dishes like pasta, fried rice, beans, or quiche.
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Make bacon jam to spread on biscuits, toast, or sandwiches.
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Add to pancake or waffle batter for a savory breakfast twist.
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Sprinkle on pizza, flatbreads, bruschetta, and other appetizers.
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Fold into dips, like beer cheese, spinach artichoke, or potato skins.
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Crumble over roasted vegetables, green beans, or Brussels sprouts.
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Mix into ground beef or turkey for juicy burgers and meatloaf.
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Toss with roasted sweet potatoes, winter squash, or cauliflower.
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Use in place of pancetta in carbonara, soup, or risotto recipes.
The smoky flavor and crunchy texture of bacon are perfect for elevating so many dishes. Get creative with leftover cooked bacon!
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions about vacuum sealing cooked bacon? Here are answers to some common FAQs:
How long does vacuum sealed, cooked bacon last in the fridge?
Properly stored in the fridge, sealed cooked bacon lasts 3 to 6 months.
Can you seal bacon while it’s still hot?
No, hot bacon should be cooled to room temperature first to prevent moisture buildup in the package.
Is it safe to vacuum seal half-cooked or raw bacon?
No. Raw bacon can harbor dangerous bacteria and should always be fully cooked before vacuum sealing.
What happens if bacon isn’t sealed correctly?
If air remains in the bag, it will cause faster spoilage and freezer burn. Check the seal is tight before freezing.
Can you freeze bacon without vacuum sealing?
Yes, but an airtight vacuum seal extends shelf life significantly by preventing freezer burn.
Get More Miles from Your Bacon
Don’t throw out leftover bacon! With proper cooling, sealing, and storage, cooked bacon stays fresh for many months.
Vacuum pack extra bacon to save time on breakfasts and add flavor to recipes. Follow these tips to enjoy bacon’s convenience while reducing waste.