This isn’t just for BBQ pros or summer weekend warriors. Grilled bacon is easy, quick, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re prepping for a garden brunch or just adding a smoky twist to your burger, learning how to grill bacon properly can elevate your meals with very little effort.
In this ultimate guide, we’ll cover every step—from choosing the right type of bacon and setting up your grill, to perfect cooking times, flavour combos, storage tips, and more. We’ll also highlight some excellent grilling gear from Aosom UK’s range of barbecues and accessories, so you’re fully equipped to master this skill.
Preparing Your Grill for Bacon – Full Guide
Before you slap that first glorious rasher onto the grill, your equipment needs to be prepped properly. This step often gets overlooked, but it’s the foundation for bacon that’s evenly cooked, delightfully crispy, and doesn’t stick or burn.
Grilling bacon is a bit different from grilling steak or burgers—because bacon has more fat, it can drip, flare, and curl if your setup isn’t right. So, take a few extra minutes to get your grill in top shape.
Step-by-Step Setup
Step 1: Clean the Grates Thoroughly
Dirty grates cause bacon to stick, burn, and pick up old flavours. A crusty grill also leads to uneven heat distribution, which can leave you with half-raw, half-charred bacon. Not ideal.
How to do it:
- Use a stiff-bristled grill brush or scraper to remove all food residue and carbon build-up.
- Clean the grill while it’s still warm (not hot) for easier removal.
- If it’s really caked on, heat the grill for 5–10 minutes first, then scrub.
- Wipe the grates with a damp paper towel to catch any loose debris..
Step 2: Oil the Grates
Bacon can stick and tear if your grill isn’t oiled—especially with cast iron or metal grates. A light coat of oil creates a barrier and makes flipping easier.
How to do it safely:
- Fold a paper towel into a square, soak it in neutral oil (like vegetable or canola).
- Grip it with long-handled tongs and gently rub it over the grates.
- Do this after cleaning, and just before heating.
Important: Don’t spray oil directly onto a hot grill. It can cause dangerous flare-ups. Oil even if using a non-stick grill mat or foil, just to be sure nothing catches.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill to the Right Temperature
Getting the temperature right is essential for bacon that’s not burnt to a crisp or chewy in the middle.
Ideal temp:
- 190°C to 200°C (375°F to 400°F)
- This allows the bacon fat to render slowly while crisping the meat
Gas Grills:
- Set burners to medium and close the lid for 10–15 minutes.
- Use the built-in thermometer (common in Aosom’s gas models like the Deluxe Duo Gas BBQ) to monitor the internal temperature.
Charcoal Grills:
- Light coals and let them turn white or ashy, which means they’re hot and ready.
- Spread coals evenly for direct heat or bank them to one side for indirect grilling (ideal for flare-up control).
Essential Tools You’ll Need
Having the right tools on hand makes grilling bacon smoother, safer, and more precise.
Grill-Safe Tongs
- Choose long, heat-resistant tongs for control.
- Avoid sharp edges to prevent tearing the bacon.
- Helps you flip without touching the grill or getting splattered.
Tray Lined with Paper Towels
- As bacon finishes cooking, place it on a metal tray or plate lined with kitchen roll.
- This absorbs excess grease, preserving crispiness.
- Keeps your prep station tidy and ready to serve.
Spray Bottle of Water
- Always handy in case of flare-ups, especially when bacon fat drips onto hot coals or burners.
- Use a fine mist spray, not a hose-like squirt.
- Gently tame any high flames before they scorch your bacon.
Foil or Grill Mat (Optional)
- Not essential, but excellent for beginners.
- A foil sheet with small holes or a grill mat lets fat drip while stopping bacon from falling through.
- Makes clean-up faster and prevents burnt grease smells.
Using a foil tray with raised edges also creates a mini pan effect, keeping bacon contained and evenly heated. Don’t forget to clean the grill once it cools down. Bacon grease can build up quickly and affect future grilling sessions. Wipe grates with paper towels and re-oil lightly if storing for later.
Consider using a BBQ cover like the Outsunny Waterproof BBQ Cover. It fits most standard grills and protects your BBQ from rain, UV rays, and dust, making sure your setup stays clean and ready for next time.
Choosing the Right Bacon for Grilling
All bacon is delicious, but not all bacon grills equally.
Thick-Cut is King
Standard thin rashers burn too easily and slip through grill grates. Thicker cuts hold their shape, offer better bite, and don’t overcook before crisping.
Top Bacon Types for Grilling
| Type | Description | Why It Works on the Grill |
| Applewood Smoked | Mild sweetness and deep smoky taste | Enhances BBQ flavour |
| Hickory Smoked | Bolder, stronger smoke | Perfect for burgers and meats |
| Peppered | Coated with cracked black pepper | Adds texture and spice |
| Maple-Glazed | Sweet with caramelised finish | Balanced with smoky grill taste |
Grilling Techniques
Ready to cook? Here’s the method that never fails.
Direct vs Indirect Heat
- Indirect heat (preferred): Keeps grease from flaring up.
- Direct heat (advanced): Works well with thicker bacon and attentive flipping.
How to Grill Bacon Properly
- Place bacon perpendicular to grates so they don’t fall through.
- Close the lid to maintain heat and mimic oven roasting with added smoke.
- Turn bacon every 3–4 minutes using tongs to prevent burning.
- Remove when golden brown and slightly curled.
Cooking Times
| Texture Preferred | Grill Time | Notes |
| Chewy | 8–10 mins | Flip once or twice |
| Crispy | 12–15 mins | Frequent flipping, indirect heat |
Common Grilling Mistakes
Avoid these to get the perfect strip every time.
Top Pitfalls
| Mistake | How to Fix it |
| Bacon falling through grates | Use foil, grill mat or perpendicular placement |
| Grease flare-ups | Use indirect heat, move bacon quickly if flares arise |
| Bacon sticks to grill | Oil the grates before cooking |
| Uneven crisping | Flip regularly and adjust placement |
Tip: Try grilling on a cast iron skillet placed over the BBQ grates for perfect control.
Healthier Grilling Tips
Grilled bacon can be indulgent and light.
Simple Adjustments for a Healthier Dish
- Use a raised rack or pan with holes: Grease drains off naturally.
- Pat down with paper towels post-cook
- Choose leaner bacon cuts (e.g. back bacon over streaky)
- Portion control: Two strips go a long way on a salad or sandwich.
Flavour Variations: How to Season Your Bacon
Bacon is a blank canvas—don’t be afraid to add flavour.
Sweet & Savoury Combos
| Style | Ingredients | How to Apply |
| Sweet | Brown sugar, maple syrup | Coat before or mid-way through grill |
| Spicy | Cayenne, chilli flakes | Rub dry spices before cooking |
| Savoury | Garlic powder, smoked paprika | Add pre-grill for deeper flavour |
| BBQ | Classic BBQ sauce | Brush on halfway through cooking |
Alternative Grilling Methods for Bacon
Looking for control or convenience? Try these:
1. Bacon Skewers
Weave strips on soaked wooden skewers. Easier to flip, no curling.
2. Cast Iron Skillet on Grill
Retains bacon fat for extra flavour, especially good with eggs or mushrooms added.
3. Foil Tray
Make a foil “basket” to catch grease. Adds smokiness without mess.
Best Grill Types for Grilling Bacon
Different grills offer different perks. Here’s what works best.
Grill Comparison Table
| Type | Pros | Ideal For |
| Gas Grill | Easy temperature control, fast heating | Everyday grilling |
| Charcoal Grill | Authentic smoky flavour, better crust | BBQ lovers |
| Electric Grill | Compact, low-smoke, indoor-friendly | Urban living or balcony setups |
Top Aosom Picks for Bacon Grilling
Outsunny Portable Charcoal BBQ Grill
- Cold-rolled steel body with a smoker, side shelves, and 1000℉ heat capability.
Outsunny 4+1 Burner Gas BBQ Grill
- Great for quick bacon and sides with a side burner and storage cabinet.
Serving Grilled Bacon: Ideas and Recipes
You’ve grilled it—now what? Here’s how to plate up:
Meal Inspiration
- Full English Breakfast – Add grilled bacon to eggs, beans, and toast.
- BLT Sandwiches – Grilled bacon, fresh lettuce, tomato, and mayo.
- Bacon-Wrapped Chicken or Prawns – A guaranteed BBQ hit.
- Loaded Salads – Sprinkle chopped bacon for smoky crunch.
Storing Leftover Grilled Bacon
Keep those crispy bites for later.
Storage Guidelines
| Method | How-To | Shelf Life |
| Fridge | Wrap in foil or airtight container | 4–5 days |
| Freezer | Freeze strips with parchment between layers | Up to 2 months |
To reheat: Use grill or oven at 180°C for 5 minutes—don’t microwave, it goes soggy.
Whether you’re new to grilling or a seasoned BBQer, grilling bacon brings unbeatable flavour, less mess, and more control. From the right gear to pro techniques and product picks, you’re now ready to do bacon justice.
You might ask, “Why not just use a frying pan?” Well, here’s why grilling is better.
Benefits of Grilling Bacon Over Traditional Methods
| Feature | Grilling Bacon | Pan-Frying/Oven Bacon |
| Less mess | Grease drips away, no splatters | Oil splashes and sticky residue |
| Better texture | Crisp with a smoky edge | Often soggy or chewy |
| Easier clean-up | Foil or trays = no scrubbing | Pans and ovens get filthy |
| Flavour boost | Smoky, charred, BBQ-style taste | More bland |
| Cooks larger batches | More space on grill surface | Limited capacity |
Grilling bacon outdoors means no greasy smell indoors, no need to wipe down kitchen counters, and no worrying about bacon grease burning in a pan. Plus, it’s simply tastier.
Why It’s a Growing Trend
As more UK homes embrace outdoor cooking, bacon is becoming a staple on the grill. And thanks to high-quality BBQs from Aosom, like the Outsunny 4+1 Burner Gas BBQ Grill, grilling bacon has never been more straightforward.
Don’t Stop at Bacon
Explore Aosom’s full barbecue and outdoor cooking range to elevate your grilling game. Whether it’s the perfect gas BBQ, portable charcoal option, or durable covers, Aosom has your back.
FAQs
1. Why does my bacon curl up on the grill, and how can I prevent it?
Bacon curls because the fat and meat cook at different rates, especially over high heat. To reduce curling, start with room-temperature bacon and cook over medium, indirect heat. You can also press it down gently with a grill-safe spatula or use a grill press.
2. What should I do if my bacon is burning too quickly?
If your bacon starts to burn, your grill is likely too hot or the bacon is over direct flames. Move it to a cooler zone of the grill or switch to indirect heat. Also, avoid sugary marinades too early in the cook—these can caramelise and burn fast.
3. Can I grill frozen bacon directly?
Grilling frozen bacon is not recommended. The moisture causes flare-ups and uneven cooking. Defrost bacon fully in the fridge or a sealed bag in cold water before placing it on the grill.
4. Is it safe to grill bacon with the lid closed?
Yes, closing the lid helps maintain consistent heat and infuses the bacon with a smoky flavour. However, keep an eye on the temperature and check occasionally to avoid overcooking, especially with thinner cuts.
5. Can I reuse bacon fat from the grill for cooking?
Technically, yes, but it’s not always practical. Most of the fat drips away or burns off on a grill. If you’re using a foil tray or skillet, you can pour off the rendered fat into a heat-safe container and refrigerate it for later use.