A Complete Guide to Cooking Perfect Crispy Bacon on the Cuisinart Griddler

As a bacon fanatic I was thrilled when I discovered how easy it is to cook bacon to crispy perfection on the Cuisinart Griddler. This versatile appliance allows you to make deliciously crispy bacon in just minutes with virtually no messy splatters.

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about cooking bacon on the Cuisinart Griddler using a variety of methods. I’ll share tips on choosing the right bacon, proper prep techniques, cook times, cleaning advice, and even tasty ways to enjoy your griddled bacon. Follow my techniques below for flawless crispy bacon every time!

Why Use a Cuisinart Griddler for Bacon?

Here are some of the biggest benefits to using a Cuisinart Griddler instead of the stove or oven for cooking up crispy bacon

• Large nonstick cooking surface cooks many slices at once
• Adjustable temperature prevents burning or undercooking
• Dual heating plates cook bacon evenly on both sides
• Closed press position flattens bacon beautifully
• Contained grease prevents splatters and stovetop mess
• Easy cleanup – grease wipes right off the removable plates

With the right techniques, the Cuisinart Griddler consistently delivers perfect results that other cooking methods just can’t match.

Choosing the Right Bacon

To get the best results on your Cuisinart Griddler, opt for good quality thinly sliced bacon. Here’s what to look for:

• Around 1/16 inch thick – avoids the need to trim thick slices
• Look for uniform, consistently sliced packs
• Moderate fat marbling provides flavor and crispy texture
• Applewood or maple smoked varieties have wonderful depth
• Avoid thick, irregular slices which won’t cook evenly

Well-marbled, thin, evenly cut bacon cooks up super crispy and delicious on the Cuisinart Griddler.

Prep Tips for Perfect Griddled Bacon

Proper prep is key for achieving crispy bacon bacon every time on your Cuisinart Griddler. Follow these tips:

• Let bacon come to room temp before cooking – prevents burning
• Use paper towels to pat bacon dry – removes excess moisture
• Arrange slices in a single layer without overlapping
• Trim edges if needed to fit your griddler’s surface
• Brush griddler plates with oil if needed to prevent sticking

With the bacon prepped, it’s time to start cooking!

How to Cook Bacon on a Cuisinart Griddler

Method 1: Open Griddle

1. Preheat griddler to 350°F.
2. Add bacon slices in a single layer.
3. Cook for 5-7 minutes, then flip.
4. Cook 5-7 minutes more until desired crispness.

Method 2: Closed Press

1. Preheat griddler plates.
2. Add bacon, close lid, lock if possible.
3. Cook 10-15 minutes until crispy.
4. Use tongs to transfer to a paper towel lined plate.

Method 3: Bacon Press

1. Preheat griddler to medium heat.
2. Place bacon on griddler.
3. After 5 minutes, place bacon press on top.
4. Cook for 4-6 more minutes until crispy.

Experiment to find your ideal method and cook times based on your griddler model and bacon preferences.

Achieving the Perfect Texture

Crispy, evenly browned bacon is the goal when cooking on a Cuisinart Griddler. Follow these tips:

• Preheating thoroughly prevents underdone spots. Bring to temperature before adding bacon.

• Cook times will vary based on thickness. Thin bacon may need less time. Monitor closely.

• Use a bacon press for quicker, even results. Otherwise, flip carefully with tongs.

• Avoid moving bacon too much during cooking. This can rip unevenly cooked spots.

With the right technique, you’ll achieve perfectly crisped, flat bacon off the griddler every time.

Cleaning and Maintaining Your Cuisinart Griddler

While the Cuisinart Griddler minimizes splatters, proper cleaning after cooking bacon is still a must:

• Allow residual heat to solidify grease before wiping plates clean.

• Use a non-abrasive sponge or brush with hot soapy water.

• Rinse and dry thoroughly. Avoid immersing removable plates.

• Apply a small amount of cooking oil to the plates before storing.

• Periodic degreasing helps remove built-up grease. Use baking soda paste.

With proper care after each use, your Cuisinart Griddler will continue churning out perfect bacon for years to come.

Creative Ways to Enjoy Cuisinart Griddler Bacon

The possibilities are endless when it comes to enjoying crispy bacon straight off your Cuisinart Griddler:

• Crumbled over salads
• In breakfast sandwiches
• Wrapped around smoked gouda stuffed dates
• Topping baked potatoes
• In quiche, frittata, or omelet
• On burgers or pizza
• Candied bacon crumbles for popcorn or cookies
• In baked beans or Brussels sprouts

With perfectly cooked griddled bacon ready in just minutes, the recipe ideas are practically endless!

FAQs About Cooking Bacon on the Cuisinart Griddler

What’s the ideal temperature for cooking bacon on a Cuisinart Griddler?

I recommend 350°F. Higher temperatures increase the risk of burning. Monitor closely and lower heat if needed.

How much bacon can I cook at once on a Cuisinart Griddler?

Most standard 8-inch square griddler plates can hold about 6 slices without overlapping. Larger 12-inch models hold more.

Is it safe to cook bacon with the lid closed on a Cuisinart Griddler?

Yes, using the closed press position is perfectly safe and actually helps the bacon cook evenly. Just watch your cook times.

How can I prevent grease buildup over time on my Cuisinart Griddler?

Always wipe the cooking plates clean after each use. Occasionally degrease by scrubbing with baking soda paste.

What about cooking turkey bacon on a Cuisinart Griddler?

Turkey bacon works great! Just reduce cooking times by 2-3 minutes since it cooks faster than pork bacon.

With the right techniques and cook times, you can easily achieve perfect crispy bacon off your Cuisinart Grid