How Do I Cook Canadian Bacon? 3 Quick and Easy Methods

With its savory smoked flavor and ham-like texture, Canadian bacon is a breakfast staple for many. But unlike regular bacon, Canadian bacon comes pre-cooked and just needs a quick heat up before eating. So how exactly do you properly cook Canadian bacon?

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover the top 3 quick, easy methods to cook Canadian bacon – pan frying, microwaving, and baking. Whether you’re prepping a hearty breakfast, need a pizza topping, or want to enjoy a classic BLT, read on to learn how to perfectly cook Canadian bacon every time.

An Overview of Canadian Bacon

First let’s quickly go over what exactly Canadian bacon is

Made from pork loin, not belly meat like regular bacon.
Cured and smoked, giving it a ham-like flavor.
Sold pre-cooked, needing just a reheat before eating.
Lower in fat than regular bacon due to using the pork loin.
Packs 10-15g of protein per serving.

With its leaner nutrition profile, Canadian bacon makes a tasty alternative to regular bacon. Its versatility also allows it to be used in sandwiches, omelets, pizza and more.

Now let’s get into the nitty gritty of how to cook it.

Pan Frying for Crisp, Fast Canadian Bacon

Pan frying is one of the quickest ways to cook Canadian bacon. It gives you crispy edges while heating the interior.

Here’s how to pan fry Canadian bacon perfectly:

Heat 1 tbsp oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Add Canadian bacon slices in a single layer.
Cook 1-2 minutes per side until lightly browned.
Remove from pan and let rest 1 minute before serving.

Pan frying takes just 2-4 minutes total. It leaves you with hot, crispy Canadian bacon ready for breakfast sandwiches, burgers, appetizers and more.

Microwaving for Fast, Hands-Free Cooking

Microwaving is an even quicker method, with no need to watch the stove. Here’s how to microwave Canadian bacon:

Place bacon slices on a microwave-safe plate.
Cover with a paper towel to prevent splatters.
Microwave on 50% power for 35-60 seconds.
Check for doneness and microwave 10-20 seconds more if needed.
Let cool 1 minute before eating.

This hands-free method lets you cook Canadian bacon in under 2 minutes. It’s great for quick weeknight meals and sandwiches.

Baking Multiple Slices for Meals and Gatherings

Baking is perfect when cooking Canadian bacon for several people or meal prepping. Simply:

Preheat oven to 400°F.
Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
Arrange bacon slices in a single layer.
Bake 10-15 minutes until sizzling.
Let cool 5 minutes before serving.

With baking, you can easily cook a pound of Canadian bacon at once. It’s great for topping homemade pizzas, complementing eggs and hashbrowns at brunch, or prepping bacon for BLTs.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

Once cooked, Canadian bacon can be enjoyed in many ways:

Breakfast sandwiches with egg and cheese
Tacos, burgers, or pizza topping
Adding to pasta, salads, baked potatoes
Pairing with eggs benedict
Eaten on its own as a protein

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge up to 4 days. Reheat only once for food safety.

With its lean nutrition profile and versatility, Canadian bacon is a tasty alternative to regular bacon. Follow these simple cooking methods to enjoy its signature sweet, smoky flavor anytime.

So next time you’re looking for an easy protein to pair with eggs, load on a sandwich, or spice up dinner, reach for Canadian bacon. In just minutes you can have hot, delicious slices ready to complement any meal.

Homemade Canadian Bacon Recipe – How to Make Canadian Bacon Easy

FAQ

Do you cook Canadian bacon like regular bacon?

Canadian bacon is so named because it originated in Canada, but it is also known as back bacon or rashers. It’s often served in classic eggs benedict and used to top Hawaiian-style pizza. Because Canadian bacon is sold already cooked, it can be eaten as is or sauteed or fried.

How do you know if Canadian bacon is cooked?

Checking for Doneness You can check the doneness of the bacon by determining the desired level of crispness. If you prefer crispy bacon, cook it for a bit longer. For a softer texture, remove it from the pan once it reaches a golden brown color.

Do you need oil for Canadian bacon?

However, MasterClass does note that slightly cooking your Canadian bacon can add extra flavor. If you do decide to cook your Canadian bacon on the stovetop, you’ll want to be sure to add a little oil to your pan first, as the meat won’t produce enough fat on its own and may burn otherwise, unlike traditional bacon.

How long does Canadian bacon take?

Place Canadian Bacon slices in a lightly oiled skillet. Cook over medium heat for 2 minutes. Turn and cook 1-2 minutes longer or until lightly browned.

How do you cook Canadian bacon on a stove?

How To Cook Canadian Bacon on Stove Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add oil or butter, tilting to coat pan. When oil is hot, add Canadian bacon slices in a single layer. Cook 2-3 minutes per side until lightly browned. Cook in batches if needed to avoid crowding. Transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate.

How long do you cook Canadian bacon?

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the Canadian bacon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Cook the bacon for about 10-12 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of crispiness. Keep a close eye on it, as the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the slices.

How do you cook Canadian bacon in a frying pan?

Flip the bacon and fry the other side for 30-60 seconds. Heat 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of butter or cooking oil in a nonstick skillet. Swirl the butter or oil to coat the entire surface of the skillet evenly. Once it begins to sizzle slightly, it will be hot enough to add the Canadian bacon.

How do you make home cured Canadian bacon?

Home-cured Canadian bacon is amazingly easy to make and takes only a couple of specialized things — plus a bit of time. And it’s far less expensive than the little packets at your grocery store! Make the curing solution: Combine 6 cups (1 1/2 quarts) water and the rest of the ingredients except the pork loin.