How to Make Turkey Bacon Taste Like Real Bacon: A Complete Guide

Turkey bacon has become a popular alternative to regular pork bacon due to its lower fat and calorie content However, many people find that turkey bacon lacks the smoky, salty, crispy flavor of real bacon. The good news is that with a few simple tricks, you can make turkey bacon taste much closer to the real thing!

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make turkey bacon taste like real bacon. We’ll look at:

• The differences between turkey bacon and regular bacon
• Tips for choosing the best turkey bacon
• Cooking methods to make turkey bacon crispy
• Ways to add smoky, salty flavor
• Recipe ideas to enjoy turkey bacon

The Main Differences Between Turkey Bacon and Regular Pork Bacon

To understand how to improve the flavor of turkey bacon, it helps to first look at how it differs from regular pork bacon:

• Fat content – Pork bacon contains more fat, which gives it a richer flavor and crispy texture when cooked. Turkey bacon is lower in fat.

• Sodium content – Turkey bacon often contains added sodium to enhance flavor. Be sure to compare brands and choose lower sodium options when possible.

• Smoky flavor – The smoky taste in pork bacon comes from the curing and smoking process. Turkey bacon tends to have a milder smoky taste.

• Crispiness – The higher fat content in pork bacon helps it get crispy when cooked. Turkey bacon can end up chewier.

How to Choose the Best Turkey Bacon

Just like regular bacon, not all turkey bacon is created equal. Here are some tips for picking the best brand:

• Look for turkey bacon made from thigh meat rather than breast meat. Thighs have a bit more fat, which improves texture and flavor.

• Choose turkey bacon with minimal ingredients and no added phosphates. This indicates a more natural, better quality product.

• Opt for turkey bacon cured with natural nitrites like celery powder rather than artificial sodium nitrite.

• Look for brands that use real wood smoke rather than liquid smoke flavoring. This provides a more authentic smoky taste.

• Compare nutrition labels and choose turkey bacon with lower sodium when possible.

Cooking Methods for Crispy, Flavorful Turkey Bacon

The right cooking method can make all the difference when it comes to producing turkey bacon with a texture and taste similar to real pork bacon. Here are some of the best cooking tips:

Pan-Fry in a Skillet

Frying turkey bacon in a skillet with a small amount of oil mimics the fat-frying that gives pork bacon its signature crispiness.

• Add just 1/2 tablespoon oil to a hot skillet over medium heat.

• Lay turkey bacon strips in a single layer and fry for about 4 minutes per side until crispy.

Bake on a Wire Rack

Baking turkey bacon on a wire rack suspends it above the baking sheet allowing for crisping on all sides.

• Place a wire rack on top of a baking sheet and arrange turkey bacon on the rack without overlapping.

• Bake at 400°F for 12-18 minutes depending on thickness.

Microwave Between Paper Towels

Microwaving is a quick cooking method, but can make turkey bacon rubbery. Placing it between paper towels absorbs excess moisture.

• Lay 2 paper towels on a microwave-safe plate. Arrange turkey bacon strips without overlapping.

• Top with 2 more paper towels and microwave on high 2-3 minutes until crispy.

Seasonings and Ingredients for Added Flavor

The milder flavor of turkey bacon also means it benefits from extra seasoning and ingredients. Here are some easy ways to impart more smoky, savory taste:

• Smoked paprika – Add 1⁄4 teaspoon to turkey bacon before cooking. The paprika provides a natural smoke flavor.

• Worcestershire sauce – Brush raw turkey bacon with a mixture of Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, honey, and pepper before cooking.

• Liquid smoke – Use this product sparingly by whisking just 1⁄2 teaspoon into a marinade or glaze for turkey bacon.

• Maple syrup – Brush maple syrup onto cooked turkey bacon and broil 2-3 more minutes to caramelize.

• Coarse black pepper – Generously season both sides of raw turkey bacon with fresh cracked black pepper.

• Chili powder – Mix 1 teaspoon chili powder into a dry rub along with brown sugar, salt, pepper and paprika. Rub onto raw turkey bacon before cooking for heat and sweetness.

Recipes and Serving Ideas for Turkey Bacon

The final step to making turkey bacon taste like the real deal is learning creative ways to incorporate it into recipes. Here are some serving ideas to enjoy turkey bacon at its full smoky, salty, crispy potential:

Turkey Bacon Breakfast Sandwich

• Toast bread, cook a fried egg, slice cheese.
• Add heated-up turkey bacon and a slather of mayo or aioli.
• The runny egg yolk helps moisten the turkey bacon as you eat it.

Turkey BLT Salad

• Make turkey bacon extra crispy by baking it.
• Crumble on top of a salad with romaine lettuce, tomatoes, avocado.
• Toss with a tangy vinaigrette instead of mayo for lighter flavor.

Turkey Bacon Wrapped Scallops

• Wrap thinly sliced turkey bacon around large scallops.
• Secure with a toothpick and broil until bacon is crisp.
• The turkey bacon infuses the scallops with a smoky, salty flavor.

Turkey Bacon Mac and Cheese

• Chop turkey bacon and cook until very crispy.
• Stir the chopped turkey bacon into mac and cheese along with extra sharp cheddar for flavor.
• Can also use turkey bacon grease instead of butter when making the roux for extra bacon taste.

Maple Turkey Bacon Donuts

• Take pre-made donut holes and dip them into maple glaze made with maple syrup and powdered sugar.
• Roll glazed donuts in crumbled turkey bacon.
• The sweet maple and savory bacon combine for the perfect bite.

With the right techniques and recipes, you can absolutely make turkey bacon taste like the real thing. Choosing high quality turkey bacon and taking steps to add crispiness, smoke, salt and extra flavor are key. Frying, baking and seasoning turkey bacon well before serving it in creative ways makes all the difference. With this complete guide, you’ll be a turkey bacon pro in no time!