Bacon is a beloved American staple that’s versatility knows no bounds. Its crispy, salty, and savory essence makes it a crowd-pleaser, and its applications in cooking are endless. If you’re a self-proclaimed bacon aficionado seeking innovative ways to incorporate this tasty ingredient into your daily dinner repertoire, we’ve curated a list of 38 easy-to-execute recipes that showcase the many faces of bacon.
38 Easy Dinner Ideas Using Bacon
Bacon-wrapped Chicken
Indulge in a mouthwatering delight by wrapping chicken breasts with the savory goodness of bacon. A pinch of salt and pepper adds depth to the dish, while baking at 400°F for 20-25 minutes allows the chicken to cook through to a crispy perfection. Pair it with your preferred vegetables for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Transform a humble sandwich into a satisfying meal by combining your go-to bread with scrambled eggs, the crunch of crispy bacon, and melted cheese. Then, elevate the dish further by grilling everything together to create a harmonious balance of textures and flavors.
Bacon Mac and Cheese
Transform your beloved mac and cheese dish by infusing it with the smoky flavor of crispy bacon and taking it to new heights with a delectable, oven-baked twist. To achieve this delightful combination, start with your go-to mac and cheese recipe and then add in some savory strips of cooked bacon. Once you’ve combined these two ingredients, transfer the mixture to a baking dish and let the oven work its magic, resulting in an indulgent, cheesy delight that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Carbonara Pasta
To elevate this classic pasta dish, start by cooking your favorite type of pasta according to package instructions. Meanwhile, cook a few slices of browned bacon until crispy, then chop it into small pieces. Once the pasta is done, combine it with the cooked eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, and crumbled bacon for a mouthwatering meal that’s both easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Bacon, Potato, and Egg Casserole
This comforting casserole combines the savory flavors of bacon, potatoes, and eggs in a satisfying dish that’s equally suitable for morning meals, afternoon gatherings, or a casual evening supper. With its impressive balance of protein and taste, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to leave everyone feeling full and content.
Bacon Infused Meatloaf
The mere mention of bacon-wrapped meatloaf brings to mind visions of tender, savory meat enveloped in a crunchy, smoky aura of crispy bacon. This quintessential comfort food is a crowd-pleaser, equally at home on family dinner tables, at casual gatherings, or whenever a craving for warmth and familiarity strikes.
Bacon Fettuccine Alfredo
Combining the rich flavors of creamy Alfredo sauce and savory bacon, bacon fettuccine Alfredo is a timeless pasta dish that effortlessly satisfies even the most discerning palates. With its bold simplicity, this classic recipe has earned its place as a reliable go-to for any occasion, whether you’re in the mood for a comforting weeknight meal or a show-stopping dinner party.
Bacon-wrapped Pork Tenderloin
Indulge in the savory delight of bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin, a timeless favorite for good reason: its harmonious balance of flavors, effortless preparation, and endless versatility make it a standout dish. To create this mouthwatering masterpiece, simply wrap pre-marinated pork tenderloin with crispy bacon and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for approximately 30-35 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches a safe 145°F.
Bacon Cheeseburger Soup
Indulge in the warmth and comfort of a home-cooked meal by topping baked potatoes with the perfect trifecta of flavors – crispy bacon, melted cheese, and a dollop of creamy sour cream. The combination is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling cozy and content.
Bacon and Caramelized Pineapple Pizza
A fusion of flavors, bacon and caramelized pineapple pizza may raise eyebrows at first, but it’s an unexpectedly harmonious blend that can tantalize the taste buds. By marrying the traditional Hawaiian pizza with the rich, smoky essence of bacon, a sweet and tangy symphony is created.
Bisquick Impossible Quiche
This Bisquick Impossible Quiche recipe is a culinary gem that effortlessly combines simplicity and flavor to create a satisfying meal in no time. With only a few basic ingredients and minimal fuss, this quiche defies its name by being incredibly easy to prepare, making it an ideal solution for a stress-free dinner option.
Creamy Bacon and Mushroom Pasta
This comforting dish is a crowd-pleaser, effortlessly combining the smoky richness of crispy bacon, the earthy depth of sautéed mushrooms, and the velvety texture of a sumptuous cream-based sauce. The result is a mouthwatering culinary experience that’s both satisfyingly familiar and indulgently decadent.
Creamy Bacon Chicken
Imagine a harmonious marriage of rich flavors and textures – the smoky sweetness of bacon, the tender juiciness of chicken, and the indulgent creaminess of a velvety sauce. This trifecta of delights comes together to create a dish that’s as comforting as it is satisfying. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and easy or hearty and filling, creamy bacon chicken has got you covered. Serve it over a bed of al dente pasta, alongside a fluffy mound of mashed potatoes, or with a side of fluffy rice – the possibilities are endless.
Bacon Jam Pizza
A culinary masterpiece unfolds with the harmonious union of bacon jam pizza’s sweet, savory, and smoky notes, all set against a crispy backdrop. This unexpected yet timeless combination effortlessly weaves together flavors that will leave diners enthralled and eager to share their experience with others.
Bacon & Potato Layer Bake
A warm and inviting bacon and potato layer bake is the epitome of comfort food on a chilly winter’s day. While its humble ingredients may not seem extraordinary at first glance, the harmonious union of velvety potatoes, crunchy bacon, and pungent cheese creates a culinary masterpiece that’s impossible to resist.
Bacon-wrapped Salmon
Envelop salmon fillets in a delicious blanket of crispy bacon by wrapping them tightly before baking in a preheated oven set to 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes. The resulting dish will be tender, flaky salmon with a savory, smoky flavor from the bacon.
Bacon and Egg Stir Fry
To elevate your grilling game, thread bite-sized pieces of bacon-wrapped chicken onto skewers and place them on the grill. Monitor their progress closely, ensuring that the bacon reaches a satisfying crispiness and the chicken is thoroughly cooked through.
Bacon Tomato Soup
As the smoky aroma of crispy bacon mingles with the rich flavors of creamy tomato soup, a delightful harmony of textures is born. The savory crunch of the bacon provides a satisfying contrast to the smooth, sweet broth, while sautéed onions and herbs add depth and warmth to each spoonful. This comforting blend is equally at home on a cozy afternoon or as an elegant starter for a special occasion.
Bacon-wrapped Asparagus
To elevate the humble asparagus to new heights, simply wrap it in strips of crispy bacon and roast in a preheated oven set at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 to 12 minutes. The key is to achieve that perfect balance between the smoky, savory flavor of the bacon and the tender yet still slightly firm texture of the asparagus. When done correctly, this simple technique yields a side dish that’s both indulgent and impressive.
BLT Salad
Imagine a quintessential salad, brought to life by the harmonious union of crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, smoky bacon, and crunchy croutons. When you combine these fresh flavors with your go-to dressing, you’re left with a culinary masterpiece that’s both satisfying and refreshing.
Bacon and Cheese Stuffed Burgers
Combine a savory slice of cheese with crispy bacon, then carefully wrap the patty. Next, place it under the warmth of your grill, allowing it to cook slowly until it reaches a tender and juicy consistency from the inside out.
Bacon-Wrapped BBQ Shrimp
Transforming succulent jumbo shrimp into an indulgent culinary delight is as simple as wrapping them in crispy bacon, drizzling with a rich barbecue sauce, and imparting a subtle smokiness through the grilling process. This harmonious fusion of flavors will surely tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.
Bacon and Mushroom Risotto
Indulge in the harmonious union of crispy bacon bits, earthy sautéed mushrooms, and rich risotto to create a satisfying and aromatic culinary experience that will leave you feeling comforted and fulfilled.
Bacon-Wrapped Meatballs
To elevate your meatball game, try forming seasoned meatballs and wrapping them in a layer of crispy bacon before baking to perfection. This savory combination makes for a mouthwatering appetizer or satisfying main course.
Bacon and Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast
To elevate the humble chicken breast to new heights, start by creating a slit down the center of each piece. This allows you to fill it with a flavorful mixture of sautéed spinach, crispy bacon, and melted cheese. The combination of textures and tastes is sure to delight. Simply bake the stuffed breasts in the oven until cooked through, resulting in a satisfying and filling dinner that’s perfect for any night.
Bacon and Cheddar Stuffed Potatoes
Indulge in a delightful culinary experience by topping baked potatoes with an assortment of mouthwatering ingredients. Start with a crunchy foundation of crispy bacon bits, then add a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese for an added layer of flavor. Feel free to get creative and customize your potato with a range of favorite toppings, from the tangy zip of sour cream to the oniony pungency of chives.
Bacon-Wrapped BBQ Meatloaf
Transform a timeless meatloaf recipe by enveloping it with crispy bacon and baking it to perfection, finishing it off with a sweet and tangy glaze infused with the rich flavors of barbecue sauce.
Bacon-Wrapped BBQ Pork Ribs
Indulge in the rich flavors of smoked or grilled pork ribs by wrapping them in crispy bacon strips, then slathering on your go-to BBQ sauce. As the tender meat falls apart at the bite, you’ll be treated to a symphony of smoky notes and tangy sweetness.
Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Bell Peppers
Transform bland bell peppers into a flavorful and filling meal by hollowing them out and filling the cavity with a savory blend of seasoned ground meat, fluffy rice, and an assortment of vegetables. To add an extra layer of complexity and richness, wrap the stuffed bell peppers in crispy bacon before baking until golden brown and tender.
Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Mushrooms
Transform earthy mushroom caps by filling them with a harmonious blend of creamy cream cheese, fragrant herbs, and crunchy crispy bacon. The combination then bakes to perfection, yielding tender fungi with a golden-brown cap.
Bacon-Wrapped BBQ Corn on the Cob
Indulge your senses by transforming ears of corn into a mouth-watering side dish. Simply wrap each ear in crispy bacon and throw it on the grill. As the kernels caramelize, brush them with a rich BBQ sauce for a delightful harmony of smoky and sweet flavors that will leave you craving more.
Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Chicken Thighs
Indulge in the rich flavors of baked chicken thighs by first seasoning them generously. Next, create a delectable filling by combining the likes of spinach and melted cheese, before wrapping each piece with crispy bacon strips. The resulting dish promises to be a harmonious blend of savory and sweet notes, sure to delight even the most discerning palates.
Bacon and Tomato Pasta
Indulge in the rich flavors of a hearty homemade pasta dish by combining the savory goodness of crispy bacon, the tanginess of diced tomatoes, the aromatic essence of garlic, and the freshness of herbs. This easy-to-whip-up meal is perfect for a quick yet satisfying dinner solution.
Bacon-Wrapped Smokies
Transform ordinary cocktail sausages into an extraordinary appetizer by wrapping each one in crispy bacon. Secure the strips with toothpicks to prevent them from unwrapping during baking, then pop them in the oven for a mouthwatering treat that’s sure to impress.
Bacon-Wrapped Sweet Potato Fries
Indulge your taste buds by elevating the humble sweet potato fry to new heights through a clever combination of textures and flavors. Simply wrap the fries in strips of crispy bacon, then bake them until golden brown and crispy. The result is a deliciously addictive snack that pairs perfectly with a tangy dipping sauce of your choice.
Bacon-Wrapped BBQ Brisket
Indulge in the rich flavors of a tender beef brisket by opting for either a low-and-slow smoking process or a slow-cooking method. Elevate its natural taste and texture even further by enveloping it in crispy, savory bacon.
Bacon and Cheddar Stuffed Mushrooms
Transform mushroom caps by hollowing them out and filling the cavity with a savory blend of cheddar cheese, fragrant herbs, and crispy bacon bits. Then, place them in the oven and let them cook until they’re steaming hot and the cheese is melted to perfection.
Bacon-Wrapped Smoked Sausage
Elevate your dinner game by wrapping smoked sausages in crispy bacon and grilling or smoking them to perfection. Serve with your preferred dipping sauce or mustard for an added layer of flavor. The perfect marriage of textures and indulgence, this simple yet satisfying combination is sure to become a new favorite. And it’s just the tip of the iceberg – with 38 easy dinner ideas featuring bacon as the star ingredient, you’ll discover endless ways to add depth and excitement to your meals. Whether you’re in the mood for classic comfort food or creative twists on old standbys, these recipes will delight and inspire. So go ahead, get cooking, and rediscover the joy of cooking with bacon.