How Much Bacon Bits Equals a Pound of Bacon?

Crispy, salty bacon bits are a popular topping for salads, baked potatoes, soups, and more. But if you only have bacon bits on hand, how much equals a pound of regular sliced bacon?

This article provides a breakdown of bacon bit equivalents and substitutions to help you determine amounts for recipes. We’ll also look at how bacon bits are made and provide tips for buying quality options

Bacon Bits Equal About 3/4 Cup Per Pound of Bacon

The general rule of thumb is that 1 pound of bacon makes about 3/4 cup of bacon bits. So if a recipe calls for 1 pound of chopped bacon, you can substitute in 3/4 cup bacon bits.

Some more specific bacon bit equivalents are

• 1 tablespoon bacon bits = 1.5 slices of bacon
• 1/3 cup bacon bits = 5 slices of bacon
• 1/2 cup bacon bits = 8 slices of bacon
• 2/3 cup bacon bits = 10 slices of bacon
• 3/4 cup bacon bits = 12 slices or 1 pound of bacon

Keep in mind that these conversions are approximate since bacon bit sizes can vary. Always taste and adjust seasonings since bacon bits tend to have more concentrated flavor from being dried.

How Are Bacon Bits Made?

Real bacon bits are made by taking sliced, cooked bacon and drying it out. This dehydration process concentrates the smoky, salty bacon flavor. An antioxidant is usually added to maintain freshness.

Imitation bacon bits are made from textured soy protein rather than real bacon. This vegan alternative tries to mimic the taste, color, and texture of real bacon bits.

When buying bacon bits, look for options made with real bacon rather than soy-based substitutes to get an authentic flavor. Real bacon bits will be higher in fat while soy bits contain no meat.

Tips for Buying and Storing Bacon Bits

Here are some tips for purchasing and storing bacon bits:

• Check the ingredients list for real bacon or soy protein as the main ingredient depending on your preference.

• Avoid bacon bits with MSG artificial colors, excessive preservatives or added sugars.

• Buy small jars and use within 1-2 months for best freshness, since the fat can go rancid.

• Refrigerate bacon bits after opening to prolong freshness. The cold helps slow oxidation and rancidity.

• Freeze extra bacon bits in airtight containers for 4-6 months. Thaw before using.

• Make your own bacon bits by frying bacon slices, drying in a 225°F oven for 1-2 hours, and chopping. Store in the fridge.

Recipes Substituting Bacon Bits for Chopped Bacon

To give you an idea of how to use bacon bits in place of chopped bacon, here are some recipe substitutions:

BLT Salad

• Instead of 2 cups chopped bacon, use 1 1/2 cups bacon bits

Baked Potato Toppings

• Rather than 5 slices crumbled bacon, use 2-3 tablespoons bacon bits

Ranch Pasta Salad

• Substitute 1/4 cup bacon bits for 4 slices chopped bacon

Broccoli Cheese Soup

• Use 3 tablespoons bacon bits instead of cooking and crumbling 5 slices of bacon

Cobb Salad

• Replace 1/2 cup chopped cooked bacon with 6 tablespoons bacon bits

Bacon, Lettuce, and Tomato Sandwich

• Top the sandwich with 1-2 tablespoons bacon bits rather than 2-3 fried bacon slices

Bacon and Brussels Sprouts

• Saute Brussels sprouts then sprinkle with 2-3 tablespoons bacon bits instead of chopping and browning 5-6 slices of bacon

The Bottom Line

When cooking with only bacon bits, remember that generally 3/4 cup of bacon bits substitutes for a full pound of sliced bacon.

Start with less bacon bits than the recipe bacon amount. Then taste and adjust seasonings as needed since the bits have concentrated flavor.

With the conversion information and recipe ideas above, you can now easily use handy bacon bits rather than cooking up pounds of bacon. So bits the way when you’re craving bacon flavor in a pinch!