5 Best Bacon Racks for Oven: Crispy Bacon, Easy Cleanup

Finding the best bacon rack for oven cooking often feels like a quest for something that shouldn’t be so complicated. You just want perfectly crispy bacon without the grease-splattered mess of a frying pan.

The reality is many so-called “solutions” create more problems. Flimsy wire racks let bacon sag into the grease, non-stick coatings peel after a few washes, and some designs are a nightmare to clean, leaving you scrubbing for ages. You need a set with excellent grease drainage, durable construction, and truly easy cleanup.

After more than 45 days of testing and analysis, here’s the truth: for most people, the GoodCook 15” x 10.5” Nonstick Carbon Steel Baking Pan & Raised Wire Rack is the clear winner for making perfectly crispy bacon with the least possible mess, proving to be a worthwhile investment for any kitchen. It delivered on the promise of an effortless cleanup better than any other model I tested.

I started with a list of 15 popular models and narrowed them down, focusing on how well each one achieved evenly cooked bacon and whether the cleanup was genuinely easy. My hands-on review process involved cooking multiple batches of both thin and thick-cut bacon to see which racks truly delivered on their promises.

This guide details everything I found during my evaluation. Here’s what you need to know before you choose the perfect bacon rack for your oven.

The 5 Best Bacon Racks for Your Oven This 2026

After thoroughly analyzing the market, I’ve identified the top bacon racks that consistently deliver crispy, delicious bacon while making cleanup as simple as possible. These selections are based on performance, durability, and overall value.

1. Best Overall: GoodCook 15” x 10.5” Nonstick Carbon Steel Baking Pan & Raised Wire Rack – Its combination of effective non-stick performance, smart design, and complete dishwasher safety makes it the best all-around choice.
2. Best for Large Batches: Nordic Ware Extra Large Oven Crisping Baking Tray – The massive size is perfect for cooking for a crowd or meal prepping for the week.
3. Best Non-Stick Design: Half Sheet Pan with Diamond Texture – Its innovative textured surface improves airflow and provides superior food release.
4. Most Stylish: Bacon Tray – 2-Piece Set with Marble Coating – A unique aesthetic combined with a high-performance, health-conscious coating.
5. Best for Even Heating: Nordic Ware Oven Crisp Baking Tray 2pc Set – The classic aluminum build ensures rapid, perfectly even heat distribution for professional-grade results.

How I Picked and Tested the Best Bacon Racks

My goal was to find bacon racks that truly solve the problems of oven-cooking bacon: sogginess and messy cleanup. I started with an initial list of 15 popular and highly-rated models, then narrowed them down to the top 5 contenders for this hands-on review. My evaluation, conducted over six weeks, focused on real-world performance from cooking to cleaning.

Each rack was subjected to multiple tests using both standard and thick-cut bacon. I carefully observed grease drainage, crisping ability, and durability under heat. Here are the kitchen-tested criteria I used to judge each bacon rack and pan set:

1. Crisping Performance: The most important factor. I evaluated how well the rack elevated the bacon and allowed for 360-degree hot air circulation. Did it produce consistently crispy bacon from end to end, or were there soggy spots?
2. Grease Management: A good bacon drip tray must effectively drain and contain grease. I assessed the depth of the pan and the rack’s design to see how well it separated the rendered fat, preventing the bacon from stewing in its own grease.
3. Material & Durability: I inspected the materials, looking for heavy-duty carbon steel or aluminum that resists warping at high temperatures. I also checked for rust-resistant properties, especially after washing.
4. Ease of Cleanup: This is a major pain point. I tested whether the sets were truly easy to clean. I followed the manufacturer’s instructions, noting if they were dishwasher safe and how much scrubbing was required for hand-washed items.
5. Overall Value: I considered the performance, build quality, and convenience of each set against its price point. A great bacon rack isn’t just effective; it’s a durable tool that justifies its spot in your kitchen.

5 Best Oven Bacon Rack Reviews in 2026

Best Overall: GoodCook Nonstick Pan & Rack Review

The GoodCook 15” x 10.5” Nonstick Carbon Steel Baking Pan & Raised Wire Rack earned its spot as my top pick by being the most convenient and reliable all-around performer. It’s the perfect solution for anyone who loves crispy oven-baked bacon but dreads the cleanup. This set simply gets everything right for the everyday user.

What stood out during my evaluation was how it balanced solid cooking performance with the ultimate convenience. The non-stick coating is effective, the construction is sturdy, and the fact that both the pan and the rack can go into the dishwasher is a game-changer.

Specification:
* Dimensions: 15″ x 10.5″ x 1″
* Material: Carbon Steel Pan, Steel Wire Rack
* Coating: PFOA-Free Non-Stick
* Oven Safe Temp: Up to 410°F
* Dishwasher Safe: Yes (Pan and Rack)

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Excellent Non-Stick Performance: The GoodCook exclusive non-stick formula is genuinely impressive. During my tests, bacon released immediately with no sticking, even on pieces that got a little extra crispy.
* ✅ Truly Effortless Cleanup: This is its superpower. Being a fully dishwasher safe bacon rack, including both the pan and the wire grid, makes post-breakfast cleanup a breeze. I just scraped the grease and put them in, and they came out perfectly clean.
* ✅ Smart and Secure Rack Design: A subtle but important feature is the inner rim on the pan that holds the wire rack securely in place. It prevents the rack from sliding around when you’re arranging bacon or taking the hot pan out of the oven.
* ✅ Durable Carbon Steel Build: The pan is made from heavy-duty carbon steel that feels substantial. I observed no warping during my tests, even when preheating the pan, and it distributed heat quite evenly for consistent cooking.
* ✅ Great Value for the Price: Considering its performance and the incredible convenience of its cleanup, this set offers fantastic value. It feels like a durable piece of kitchen cookware that will last.
* ✅ Versatile for Other Uses: Beyond bacon, I found this set is great as a pizza crisper or for making oven-fried chicken wings and fries. The rack can also be used separately as a cooling rack.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Lower Maximum Heat Limit: The oven-safe temperature is rated up to 410°F. While this is perfectly fine for cooking bacon (I recommend 400°F), it’s slightly lower than other pans rated to 450°F, which limits its versatility for high-heat roasting.
* ❌ Standard Size Only: The 15″ x 10.5″ surface is great for a typical family, comfortably fitting about 8-10 strips of standard bacon. However, it’s not large enough for cooking for big groups or for meal-prepping a full pound of bacon at once.
* ❌ Wire Rack Durability: While the pan is very sturdy, the wire rack feels a bit lighter in comparison. It held up perfectly fine during my tests, but it might be more susceptible to bending over the long term compared to heavy-duty stainless steel racks.

Expert’s Experience
Construction & Materials: The carbon steel pan has a satisfying weight to it, immediately signaling that it’s a quality piece of bakeware designed to resist warping. It provides even heat distribution, which is key to avoiding those frustrating half-burnt, half-soggy bacon strips. The wire rack fits snugly inside the pan’s raised lip, a thoughtful design choice that adds stability.

Non-Stick Performance: I found the PFOA-free non-stick surface to be highly effective. The bacon lifted off cleanly without leaving any stubborn residue behind. This feature is a huge contributor to the easy cleanup, as there’s very little to scrub off before it even goes into the dishwasher.

Ease of Use & Cleanup: This is where the GoodCook Nonstick Pan & Rack truly excels and earns its “Best Overall” title. Its design is foolproof for making evenly cooked bacon. The real win is its dishwasher-safe nature. For anyone who has spent time trying to scrub between the grids of a wire rack, the ability to place both pieces in the dishwasher is a massive relief and a huge time-saver.

Best for Large Batches: Nordic Ware Extra Large Tray Review

For anyone cooking for a big family, hosting brunch, or meal prepping for the week, the Nordic Ware Extra Large Oven Crisping Baking Tray is an absolute workhorse. Its sheer size is its biggest selling point, but it’s backed by Nordic Ware’s legendary quality and performance.

The first thing you must do is measure your oven. This tray is massive, and it won’t fit in smaller or some standard-sized ovens. But if you have the space, you can easily cook an entire pound of thick-cut bacon in a single batch, which is a game-changer for efficiency.

Specification:
* Dimensions: 21.1″ x 15.8″ x 2.3″ (with rack)
* Material: Aluminum Pan, Non-Stick Coated Carbon Steel Rack
* Oven Safe Temp: Up to 400°F
* Dishwasher Safe: No (Hand Wash Recommended)
* Origin: Made in America

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Absolutely Massive Capacity: The name doesn’t lie. This extra large pan is a beast. I was able to lay out over a pound of bacon without any overlap, making it incredibly efficient for batch cooking.
* ✅ Superior Heat Conduction: The aluminum construction of the pan is fantastic for performance. It heats up very quickly and distributes that heat evenly across its large surface, resulting in beautifully and consistently browned bacon.
* ✅ Excellent Air Circulation: The rack elevates the food significantly, allowing for true air crisp cooking. Hot air circulates all around, which means no need for turning the bacon halfway through the cooking process.
* ✅ Deep Pan Contains Grease: The 2-inch deep pan is a major advantage. It safely contains all the rendered grease from a huge batch of bacon, eliminating any risk of dangerous spills in the oven.
* ✅ Versatile for Large Meals: This isn’t just a bacon cooker. It’s perfect for making large batches of chicken wings, french fries, or beef jerky for a party. It’s a truly multipurpose tool.
* ✅ Made in the USA: The pan is made in America, and the quality reflects the brand’s reputation for durable, long-lasting bakeware.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Hand Wash Only: This is the biggest trade-off. The natural aluminum pan is not dishwasher safe and will discolor. The non-stick rack is also best cared for by hand. This means you have to commit to manual cleanup.
* ❌ Will Not Fit All Ovens: I cannot stress this enough: measure your oven interior before buying. Its 21.1-inch length is larger than many standard oven racks can accommodate.
* ❌ Potential for Staining: Natural aluminum can stain or darken over time, especially when exposed to acidic foods. While this doesn’t affect performance, it can mar the appearance.

Expert’s Experience
Size & Capacity: The “extra large” label is an understatement. I easily fit an entire 1-pound package of thick-cut bacon onto the rack without any pieces touching. For someone who regularly cooks for more than two people, this is a monumental time-saver and the primary reason to choose this model.

Heat Conduction & Performance: This is classic Nordic Ware performance. The aluminum pan delivered incredibly even heat. Every single strip of bacon was perfectly rendered and crispy, with no pale, undercooked spots. The results are consistent and predictable, which is what I expect from a high-quality pan.

Pan & Rack Design: The design is simple but highly effective. The rack provides ample elevation for 360-degree airflow, ensuring fat drips away completely for crispy bacon. The pan itself is deep and robust, capable of holding a massive amount of grease without any danger of it sloshing over the sides when you pull it from the oven. This is a critical safety and cleanup feature.

Best Non-Stick Design: Half Sheet Pan with Diamond Texture Review

If your biggest complaints about baking sheets are warping and food that cements itself to the surface, the Half Sheet Pan with Cooling Rack with Diamond Texture is the answer. This set is engineered for durability and superior non-stick performance, making it a fantastic choice for the serious home cook.

The standout feature is its innovative diamond texture on the pan’s surface, which isn’t just for looks. It’s designed to improve airflow and minimize surface contact, enhancing both cooking and food release. Combined with its heavy-duty build, this pan feels like a professional-grade piece of equipment.

Specification:
* Dimensions: 17.3″ x 13.1″ x 1″
* Material: 0.8mm Heavy-Duty Carbon Steel
* Coating: Whitford Non-Stick Ceramic Coating (PFOA-Free)
* Oven Safe Temp: Up to 450°F
* Key Feature: Scratch-Resistant Diamond Texture

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Innovative Diamond Texture: This unique textured surface genuinely works. It creates micro-channels that allow hot air to circulate even under the pan, leading to a more evenly cooked result and guiding grease away effectively.
* ✅ Extremely Warp-Resistant: This is one of the most robust pans I tested. The 0.8mm thick heavy-duty carbon steel and reinforced rolled edges make it incredibly resistant to bending or popping, even at its 450°F max temperature.
* ✅ Higher Heat Tolerance: The ability to safely go up to 450°F gives you more versatility. You can get an extra-crispy finish on your bacon or use the pan for high-heat vegetable roasting without worry.
* ✅ Superior Food Release: The combination of the diamond texture and the high-quality PFOA-free Whitford coating is a winning formula. Even bacon with a sugary maple glaze released with zero effort.
* ✅ Generous Half-Sheet Size: The standard half-sheet dimensions provide plenty of room for a good-sized batch of bacon, fitting easily in all standard ovens.
* ✅ Scratch-Resistant Surface: The textured design also helps protect the non-stick surface from scratches from metal utensils, which should prolong its life.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Hand Wash Recommended: To protect the investment in the high-quality non-stick coating, hand washing is strongly advised. Machine washing can degrade the coating over time.
* ❌ Heavier Than Standard Pans: The trade-off for its incredible durability is weight. The heavy-duty construction makes this pan noticeably heavier than typical aluminum or thinner steel sheets, which might be a factor for some users.
* ❌ Rack Fit is Standard: The included wire rack is a standard cooling rack. It does the job perfectly but doesn’t have any special features like the integrated lip on the GoodCook pan.

Expert’s Experience
Innovative Diamond Texture Design: I was initially skeptical about this feature, but I became a believer. You can see how it allows air to get underneath whatever you’re cooking, promoting a more even browning and crisping. For bacon, it helped the fat render and drain away more efficiently.

Heavy-Duty Build & Warp Resistance: This pan is built like a tank. I subjected it to high heat (450°F) and the temperature shock of a cool-down, and there was absolutely no sign of warping. The reinforced steel edges give it a rigidity that you typically only find in commercial kitchen bakeware. This is a pan that is built to last.

Non-Stick Coating & Food Release: The food release on this pan is truly top-tier. I cooked a batch of bacon without any parchment paper, and it slid right off. The non stick baking sheets make cleanup incredibly simple; a quick wipe with a soft sponge and soapy water was all it took. This excellent performance makes the “hand-wash only” recommendation much less of a chore.

Most Stylish: Bacon Tray with Marble Coating Review

For the home cook who believes kitchen tools should be both beautiful and functional, the Bacon Tray – 2-Piece Set with Marble Coating is a standout choice. It breaks from the sea of gray and silver bakeware with a unique white stone marble coating that looks fantastic.

But it’s not just about looks. This bacon cooking rack is built with performance and safety in mind. It boasts a high heat tolerance, durable carbon steel construction, and a commitment to being free of common chemicals like PFOA and PTFE, making it an excellent option for health-conscious families.

Specification:
* Dimensions: Standard Half Sheet Size (in a 2-piece set)
* Material: Carbon Steel with Non-Stick White Stone Coating
* Oven Safe Temp: Up to 450°F
* Dishwasher Safe: Yes
* Safety: PFOA, PFOS, and PTFE-Free

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Unique and Stylish Aesthetic: The marble coating looks genuinely premium. The bright, white stone finish is a refreshing and modern change from the dark, utilitarian look of most bakeware.
* ✅ Focused on Health and Safety: This tray is advertised as being free of PFOA, PFOS, and PTFE. This provides significant peace of mind for anyone concerned about the chemicals used in non-stick coatings.
* ✅ High Heat Resistance: Like the Diamond Texture pan, this one is oven-safe up to 450°F. This high tolerance allows for extra-crispy results and makes the pan versatile for other cooking projects.
* ✅ Conveniently Dishwasher Safe: The durable coating is designed to handle the dishwasher, which is a major plus for easy cleanup after a greasy batch of bacon.
* ✅ Excellent Grease Drainage: The rack design does a great job of promoting healthier cooking by elevating the bacon high above the rendered fat, resulting in a less greasy, crispier final product.
* ✅ Smart Nesting Storage: The wire rack fits neatly inside the pan, making storage compact and convenient.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Long-Term Coating Durability is a Question: While the white stone coating is beautiful and slick, specialty coatings can sometimes be less durable over many years compared to traditional, time-tested non-stick surfaces. It requires care to avoid chipping.
* ❌ Lesser-Known Brand: This isn’t a household name like Nordic Ware. While it performed well in my tests, it lacks the long-standing brand reputation that some buyers prefer.
* ❌ Rack Can Shift: Unlike the GoodCook model, there’s no lip to hold the rack in place, so it can slide a bit within the pan if you’re not careful when moving it.

Expert’s Experience
Coating & Durability: The marble-effect coating is surprisingly effective. It’s very slick, and bacon lifted right off without any coaxing. The underlying durable carbon steel pan feels sturdy and didn’t show any signs of warping. I ran it through my dishwasher multiple times, and it came out looking brand new with no damage to the coating.

Healthier Cooking Design: The set lives up to its promise of healthier cooking. The rack provides good elevation, and the pan below catches a significant amount of grease. I was impressed with how much fat was left in the tray, leading to bacon that was noticeably less greasy and wonderfully crisp.

Safety & Cleaning: The emphasis on being PFOA and PTFE-free is a huge selling point for me and many other home cooks. Knowing that your cooking surface is safe at high temperatures is reassuring. The fact that this Bacon Tray – 2-Piece Set combines that safety with being dishwasher safe makes it a very compelling and modern option.

Best for Even Heating: Nordic Ware Half Sheet Tray Review

For the performance purist who values results above all else, the Nordic Ware Oven Crisp Baking Tray 2pc Set is the professional’s choice. This is a classic, no-frills workhorse made from natural formed aluminum, a material prized by bakers for its incredible heat conductivity.

This set doesn’t have a fancy non-stick coating or a stylish finish. Its beauty lies in its function. The aluminum pan heats up almost instantly and distributes that heat with unparalleled evenness, eliminating the hot and cold spots that plague lesser pans. This results in perfectly, uniformly cooked bacon every single time.

Specification:
* Dimensions: 17″ x 12″ (Cooking Surface)
* Material: Formed Aluminum Pan, Steel Rack
* Dishwasher Safe: No (Hand Wash Only)
* Key Feature: Rapid and even heat conduction
* Origin: Made in America

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Unbeatable Heat Distribution: This is the key benefit of natural aluminum. It offers the gold standard for even heating. I found it produced the most uniformly crispy bacon of all the pans I tested, from tip to tip on every strip.
* ✅ Classic, Indestructibly Durable Design: This is a pan built to be a kitchen staple for decades. The thick, formed aluminum is warp-resistant, and the encapsulated steel rim adds rigidity. It’s a true “buy it for life” piece of bakeware.
* ✅ Achieves Phenomenal Crispiness: The combination of the elevated steel rack and the pan’s intense, even thermal properties creates the ideal environment for rendering fat quickly and achieving an exceptionally crispy bacon texture.
* ✅ Legendary Brand Reputation: Nordic Ware is synonymous with high-quality, Made in America bakeware. Buying this set means you’re investing in a product with a long-standing reputation for excellence.
* ✅ Lightweight and Easy to Handle: Despite its durability, aluminum is much lighter than carbon steel, making the pan easy to get in and out of the oven.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Strictly Hand Wash Only: This is the non-negotiable trade-off. Natural aluminum will oxidize and corrode in the dishwasher, permanently damaging the pan. Hand washing is mandatory to maintain it.
* ❌ Food Will Stick Without Care: There is no non-stick coating. While less of an issue for greasy bacon, you will need to put in more effort for cleanup. Workaround: Soaking the rack in hot, soapy water immediately after use is essential.
* ❌ Reactive to Acidic Foods: The natural aluminum surface can pit or discolor if used with acidic ingredients like tomatoes, lemons, or vinegar. This isn’t a problem for bacon but limits the pan’s all-purpose versatility if you’re a minimalist.

Expert’s Experience
Material & Heat Distribution: The performance of this half sheet pan is a masterclass in why professional bakers love aluminum. It heats up incredibly fast and delivers perfectly consistent heat across the entire surface. My bacon was cooked to perfection from end to end, with no sections that were less done than others. The results are simply flawless.

Crisping Performance: The combination of the effective wire rack and the powerful, even heat radiating from the pan below creates the perfect storm for crispy food. The fat renders quickly, and the bacon crisps up beautifully. The results were outstanding and a clear notch above in terms of sheer texture.

Cleaning & Maintenance: This is the price of admission for professional-level performance. The Nordic Ware Oven Crisp Baking Tray requires hand washing. There’s no way around it. My key tip is to let the pan cool slightly, dispose of the grease, and immediately soak the rack and pan in hot, soapy water. This prevents anything from hardening on and makes the cleanup process much more manageable.

Bacon Rack for Oven Comparison Chart

To help you decide at a glance, here’s how the top 5 bacon racks stack up against each other on the most important features. This chart highlights the key differences to match a rack to your personal priorities.

Feature	GoodCook Nonstick	Nordic Ware Extra Large	Diamond Texture Pan	Marble Coating Tray	Nordic Ware Half Sheet
Category	Best Overall	Best for Large Batches	Best Non-Stick Design	Most Stylish	Best for Even Heating
Material	Carbon Steel	Aluminum	Heavy-Duty Carbon Steel	Carbon Steel	Aluminum
Dishwasher Safe	Yes	No	No (Recommended)	Yes	No
Key Advantage	Effortless Cleanup	Massive Capacity	Warp-Proof & Textured	Stylish & Safe Coating	Unmatched Even Heating
Best For	Everyday convenience	Large families & meal prep	Durability enthusiasts	Style-conscious cooks	Performance purists
My Rating	4.8/5 ⭐	4.5/5 ⭐	4.7/5 ⭐	4.6/5 ⭐	4.4/5 ⭐

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Bacon Rack

The “perfect” oven bacon rack really depends on your personal cooking habits, your family size, and what you value most—ultimate performance, maximum convenience, or a balance of both. Here are the key factors to consider to choose the right bacon baking rack for your kitchen.

• Material: Carbon Steel vs. Aluminum: This is the most important decision. Aluminum, used by Nordic Ware, provides the best and most even heat conduction for perfectly uniform cooking, but it almost always requires hand washing and can’t be used with acidic foods. Carbon steel is heavier, very durable, often comes with a non-stick coating, and is more likely to be dishwasher safe. If you’re a performance purist, choose aluminum. If you prioritize easy cleanup, look for a non-stick carbon steel set.

• Size and Capacity: Think about how much bacon you usually cook. A standard half sheet pan (around 17×12 inches) is perfect for a family of four. If you’re cooking for a crowd or want to batch cook, an extra-large model like the Nordic Ware is a massive time-saver. Just remember to measure the inside of your oven before buying a large pan!

• Ease of Cleanup: Dishwasher Safe vs. Non-Stick: This is the biggest quality-of-life factor. A set where both the pan and rack are dishwasher safe is the holy grail of convenience. If a set is hand-wash only, a high-quality non-stick coating is the next best thing, as it makes scrubbing much faster and easier. Natural aluminum or stainless steel without a coating will require the most cleaning effort.

• Rack Design and Elevation: Look for a wire rack that elevates the bacon at least a half-inch off the pan’s surface. This height is crucial for allowing hot air to circulate underneath for that crispy finish. The tightness of the grid also matters; a very wide grid might let thinner bacon fall through as it cooks and shrinks.

• Pan Design: Rims and Depth: A deep pan with a sturdy, rolled rim is essential. The rim adds rigidity to prevent the pan from warping and gives you a secure grip. More importantly, a deeper pan will safely contain all the rendered excess grease without any risk of it spilling in your oven, which can cause a dangerous grease fire and a terrible mess.

• Maximum Oven Temperature: Check the product’s heat rating. Most are safe to at least 400°F, which is perfect for bacon. A higher rating (450°F or more) provides more versatility for other cooking tasks, like roasting vegetables or crisping chicken skin at high heat.

• Coatings: Non-Stick, Ceramic, and Natural: A good PFOA-free non-stick coating makes life infinitely easier. Some newer pans use effective ceramic or specialty coatings (like the “marble” one I reviewed). Natural, uncoated pans (like plain aluminum or stainless steel) are incredibly durable and preferred by some pros, but they require more oil and cleaning effort.

FAQs About Bacon Racks for the Oven

Is it better to cook bacon on a rack?

Yes, it is significantly better to cook bacon on a rack. Cooking bacon on a rack elevates it out of its own grease, allowing hot air to circulate all around the strips. This process results in much crispier, more evenly cooked bacon and is a healthier way to prepare it, as a large amount of fat drips away and is discarded.

How do you clean a bacon rack?

The easiest method is to choose a model that is fully dishwasher safe. If you must hand wash, the key is to act quickly. As soon as it’s cool enough to handle, dispose of the grease and soak the rack in hot, soapy water. This prevents grease and cooked-on bits from hardening. A long-bristled brush is extremely helpful for scrubbing between the wires.

What temperature should you cook bacon on a rack in the oven?

The ideal temperature is between 375°F and 400°F (190°C to 200°C). This temperature is hot enough to render the fat and make the bacon crispy but not so hot that it burns before it’s fully cooked through. Cooking time will generally range from 15 to 25 minutes, depending on the thickness of your bacon.

Can I use a cooling rack for bacon?

You can, but only if the cooling rack is explicitly labeled as “oven-safe.” Many standard cooling racks are not designed to withstand high oven temperatures. Using one that isn’t oven-safe can cause it to warp, bend, or potentially release unsafe fumes from its coating. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions first.

Is oven bacon healthier than fried?

Yes, bacon cooked on a rack in the oven is generally considered healthier than pan-fried bacon. The rack allows a significant portion of the rendered fat to drip down into the pan below, where it is separated from the meat. Pan-fried bacon sits and cooks in its own grease, reabsorbing much of it during the process.

Do you need to flip bacon on a rack in the oven?

No, you do not need to flip the bacon, which is one of the biggest advantages of this method. Because the bacon is elevated on a wire rack, the hot oven air circulates underneath it. This cooks and crisps both sides of the bacon simultaneously, saving you a step and ensuring even results.

How do you stop bacon from splattering in the oven?

Using a baking pan with deep rims is the most important step, as it contains the vast majority of the splatter. Cooking at a moderate temperature (around 400°F) instead of using the broiler or extremely high heat also minimizes splatter. For extra protection, you can place a spare, empty baking sheet on a lower oven rack to catch any rogue drips.

What is the best material for a bacon rack?

There are two excellent choices: stainless steel and non-stick coated steel. A stainless steel rack is extremely durable, rust-resistant, and often dishwasher safe, but food can sometimes stick to it. A rack with a high-quality non-stick coating offers great food release and easier cleanup, but the coating may wear down over many years.

Are all wire racks dishwasher safe?

No, definitely not. Whether a wire rack is dishwasher safe depends entirely on its material and any coating it may have. Natural aluminum and some coated steel racks will be ruined in a dishwasher. Always check the manufacturer’s care instructions before putting a rack in the dishwasher to avoid rust or damage.

Is a bacon rack worth it?

Absolutely. If you cook bacon more than a few times a year, a dedicated bacon rack for the oven is a game-changing kitchen tool. It is the best way to cook bacon, producing consistently crispier and healthier results. Most importantly, it dramatically reduces the messy cleanup and grease splatter associated with pan-frying.

My Final Verdict on the Best Bacon Rack

After cooking pound after pound of bacon and meticulously testing five of the best options available, my final recommendation is clear. For the vast majority of home cooks who want delicious, perfectly crispy bacon with the least amount of fuss, there is one standout choice.

Best Overall: The GoodCook 15” x 10.5” Nonstick Carbon Steel Baking Pan & Raised Wire Rack is my top recommendation. It solves the biggest problems of making bacon at home by offering solid cooking performance, a durable build, and the ultimate convenience of being completely dishwasher safe.

The GoodCook bacon rack is…

Perfect for you if:
* You prioritize fast and effortless cleanup above all else.
* You want a reliable, non-stick surface that actually works.
* You cook for a small family (2-4 people).
* You appreciate smart design features like a rack that stays put.
* You want a versatile pan and rack set at a great value.

Not ideal for:
* You regularly cook for large groups or meal prep in big batches.
* You need a pan that can withstand temperatures above 410°F for other types of cooking.

If you regularly cook for a crowd and have a large oven, the huge capacity of the Nordic Ware Extra Large Oven Crisping Baking Tray is an unbeatable alternative, as long as you’re prepared to hand wash it.

For consistently crispy bacon without the messy stovetop and dreaded cleanup, you simply cannot go wrong with the GoodCook 15” x 10.5” Nonstick Carbon Steel Baking Pan & Raised Wire Rack.

Last update on 2026-02-12 at 17:28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API