Simple yet decadent, Bacon On a Stick Recipe is strips of smoky and salty goodness that are skewered and cooked until crispy and caramelized. Garlic Butter Chicken Skewers are more popular at fairs and street food stalls because they have great taste (and someone surely dies of 1kg of garlic butter chicken), are easier to handle than unrefined, and are easily carried around. The concept is simple: wrap bacon around a stick or skewer, then apply heat until the fat renders and the texture crisps up.
The recipe for bacon on a stick is usually all about getting the balance of crunch and chew just right. It typically consists of peeling/crimping bacon, skewering it onto wooden sticks (some barrel their bacon and finish with a light glaze like maple syrup or honey / brown sugar). There are different ways to cook it, like in the oven or on a grill pan (even an air fryer), but they all have one thing in common: allowing for meat juices to be released so that bacon can fry before burning.
This snack is perfect for parties, casual gatherings or as a new twist on an American favorite, bacon. Although it is rich and fatty, it is often eaten in small portions due to its strong flavor. Bacon on a stick is quite simple to make, even for beginners; however, small details that affect frying, such as bacon thickness and cooking temperature & time, can greatly change your result.
Table Of Contents
- Essential Ingredients for Bacon on a Stick
- How to Skewer Your Bacon
- Seasoning Your Bacon to Perfection
- Cooking Your Bacon on a Stick
- Serving Suggestions for Bacon on a Stick
- A Perfect Party Appetizer
- Creative Variations of Bacon on a Stick
- Why Bacon on a Stick is a Great Snack for Any Time of Day
- Healthier Options for Bacon on a Stick
Essential Ingredients for Bacon on a Stick
Before you get started, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients for the perfect Bacon on a Stick.
- 1 lb thick-cut bacon: The heart of the recipe; thick-cut bacon provides that perfect balance of crispy and chewy texture.
- Wooden or metal skewers: These are used to skewer the bacon for easy cooking. Ensure they’re sturdy enough to hold the bacon in place while it cooks.
- 2 tbsp brown sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness that caramelizes as the bacon cooks.
- 1 tbsp black pepper: Provides a nice kick and balances out the sweetness.
- 1 tbsp chili powder: Optional for those who love a bit of spice. Adds depth and heat to the flavor.
- A pinch of cayenne pepper: For an extra spicy kick, adjust according to your preference.
- Fresh herbs (optional): For an added flavor note, you can season your bacon with rosemary, thyme, or sage.
How to Skewer Your Bacon
To start making Bacon on a Stick, you need to skewer the bacon strips properly. Follow these simple steps:
- Take your skewer and carefully thread a strip of bacon onto it. You can fold the bacon in half for a layered effect or wrap it around the skewer for a more decorative look.
- Make sure to leave some space between each layer of bacon so it cooks evenly. If you’re using thin bacon, you may want to fold it in half to prevent it from falling apart during cooking.
- You can use one or two skewers, depending on the size of the bacon strips. If you want to make more than one, use multiple skewers.
Seasoning Your Bacon to Perfection
The seasoning is what takes Bacon on a Stick from basic to amazing. Here’s how to coat your bacon:
- Brown Sugar: Rub 2 tablespoons of brown sugar evenly onto the bacon. This will caramelize as the bacon cooks, creating a sweet and savory flavor.
- Black Pepper: Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of black pepper over the bacon for a bit of heat.
- Chili Powder and Cayenne Pepper: For an extra spicy kick, add 1 tablespoon of chili powder and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
- Fresh Herbs: If you like herbal flavors, add a little rosemary or thyme to the bacon before cooking. It infuses the bacon with a fresh aroma.
Cooking Your Bacon on a Stick
There are two main methods to cook your Bacon on a Stick: grilling or baking. Here’s how to do both:
Grilling Bacon on a Stick:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F / 190°C).
- Place the bacon skewers directly on the grill grates.
- Grill the bacon for 10-15 minutes, flipping every 3-4 minutes for even cooking.
- Keep an eye on the bacon, ensuring it doesn’t burn but becomes nice and crispy.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the bacon from the skewers.
Baking Bacon on a Stick:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the skewers on a baking rack set over a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil to catch any grease.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- The bacon should be crispy and golden brown when it’s ready.
- Allow it to cool slightly before removing it from the skewers.
Serving Suggestions for Bacon on a Stick
Now that your Bacon on a Stick is ready, it’s time to serve it up! Here are a few ideas:
- Dipping Sauces: Serve with your favorite dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing.
- Bacon and Eggs: Pair the bacon with a side of scrambled eggs or a fried egg for a hearty breakfast.
- Bacon Wrapped Vegetables: Add some grilled vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to make it a more balanced meal.
A Perfect Party Appetizer
Want to make an appetizer that pleases a crowd at your next party or gathering? For bacon on a stick, that’s perfect. A breeze to make, a blast to eat and attention-getting for sure. Most people prepare several skewers in advance so they are set and done, ready for guests to dig into when they come. Pair it up with different types of dipping sauces like honey mustard, aioli or spicy barbecue sauce that will have everyone keep coming back!
Creative Variations of Bacon on a Stick
While the classic Bacon on a Stick recipe is delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to make it your own. Here are some variations to get your creativity flowing:
- Maple Bacon on a Stick: Brush the bacon with maple syrup before cooking for a sweet, sugary crust.
- Cheese Stuffed Bacon on a Stick: Wrap the bacon around chunks of cheese (like cheddar or cream cheese) for a gooey, melty surprise.
- Spicy Jalapeño Bacon on a Stick: Add sliced jalapeños between the layers of bacon for an extra kick. You can even stuff the jalapeños with cheese for an extra level of flavor.
- Bacon-wrapped Veggies on a Stick: Wrap bacon around vegetables such as asparagus, mushrooms, or zucchini before grilling. The bacon adds a savory crunch to the veggies.
- Bacon on a Stick with Glaze: After grilling or baking, drizzle your bacon with a sweet and tangy glaze like teriyaki, balsamic reduction, or honey mustard for an extra layer of flavor.
Why Bacon on a Stick is a Great Snack for Any Time of Day
Bacon on a Stick isn’t just for parties—it can be enjoyed at any time of day! Here’s why:
- Breakfast: Pair your Bacon on a Stick with eggs, toast, and hashbrowns for a hearty breakfast or brunch.
- Snack Time: Craving a savory snack? Bacon on a Stick is a satisfying, protein-packed option that’s perfect when you need a quick pick-me-up.
- Lunch or Dinner: Serve it with a side of mashed potatoes, salads, or roasted vegetables for a light lunch or dinner. You can also incorporate it into a sandwich or wrap for a full meal.
- Late-Night Craving: After a long day, Bacon on a Stick is an indulgent yet satisfying late-night treat.
Healthier Options for Bacon on a Stick
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Turkey Bacon | A leaner alternative to traditional bacon with less fat and fewer calories. |
| Vegetarian Bacon | A plant-based option for those avoiding meat but still craving a bacon-like taste. |
| Tempeh Bacon | Made from fermented soybeans, a great alternative for those seeking a smoky, savory flavor. |
| Lean Pork Bacon | Look for cuts of bacon with less fat for a leaner version. |
| Grilled Bacon-Wrapped Veggies | Wrap bacon around vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for added nutrition and fiber. |
Tips for Making the Perfect Bacon on a Stick
To make sure your bacon on a stick turns out crispy and delicious, here are some tips:
- Use Thick-Cut Bacon: Thin-cut bacon may crisp up too fast and become too brittle. Thick-cut bacon ensures a perfect balance of crispy and tender.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Skewer: Space out the bacon on the skewer to allow for even cooking. If the bacon is too bunched together, it won’t cook evenly and could become soggy.
- Watch the Heat: Cooking at medium heat is key to preventing the bacon from burning before it becomes crispy. If you’re grilling, ensure the flames aren’t directly under the skewers to avoid flare-ups.
- Flip Frequently: Whether you’re grilling or baking, make sure to flip the bacon regularly so it cooks evenly on all sides and becomes crisp without overcooking.
- Let It Rest: After removing the bacon from the heat, allow it to rest for a minute or two before serving. This lets the bacon firm up slightly and cool to a more manageable temperature.
Bacon on a Stick
Equipment
- Wooden or metal skewers
- Grill, oven, or frying pan
- Baking sheet (if baking)
- Tongs (for flipping)
- Aluminum foil (optional, for easier cleanup)
Ingredients
- 1 lb thick-cut bacon
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp chili powder optional
- A pinch of cayenne pepper optional
- Fresh herbs optional, like rosemary or thyme
- Dipping sauces optional, such as honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing
Instructions
- Preheat Grill/Oven: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Skewer the Bacon: Thread the strips of bacon onto the skewers. Fold or coil the bacon to ensure it stays in place. Space the bacon evenly on the skewers.
- Season the Bacon: Sprinkle brown sugar, black pepper, chili powder, and cayenne pepper over the bacon. Optionally, add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for extra flavor.
- Cook the Bacon: Grill Method: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10-15 minutes, flipping every few minutes until crispy and golden brown. Oven Method: Place the skewers on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Pan-Fry Method: Heat a pan over medium heat and cook the bacon skewers for 5-7 minutes per side until crispy.
- Serve: Let the bacon cool slightly before serving. You can remove the bacon from the skewers or serve them as is for a fun presentation. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauces.
Notes
- Customization: Feel free to experiment with seasonings, such as adding garlic powder, paprika, or maple syrup for different flavors.
- Make Ahead: You can prep the bacon on the skewers and store it in the fridge for up to 1 day before cooking.
- Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store the cooked bacon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Share Your Twist!
We would love to hear how you customize Bacon on a Stick! Add your own twist to the recipe, sprinkle in an unusual seasoning, top differently or use a whimsical way of cooking it, whatever it is, share with us! Comment below or tag us on social media your way of this fun, yummy treat. Let’s motivate each other with innovative thoughts!
