Comparison: How To Best Microwave Bacon (Updated | Dec 8th)

The Original Makin Bacon Dish and the Wow Bacon Cooker use a rack that suspends strips above the fat, while the Joie Piggy and NICO SEE WONDER trays have grooved surfaces that elevate bacon on ridges. Capacity varies: Joie’s 9 × 8 inch tray holds 4‑5 strips, the Makin Dish fits about 6 regular strips, and the Wow cooker can handle 6 strips in a compact cup. Choose a design that matches the number of slices you typically cook and the space you have in your microwave.

For regular use, the Wow Bacon Cooker offers a low‑cost, reusable solution that eliminates paper towels and reduces waste, saving money over time. If you prefer a larger batch, the Original Makin Bacon Dish provides a bigger cooking surface and dishwasher‑safe parts for easy cleanup. Both options avoid the recurring expense of buying pre‑cooked bacon packs.

Pre‑cooked packages like Hormel Black Label Thick Cut are convenient because they require no cooking and can be stored unopened at room temperature. However, they contain added preservatives and typically have the same fat content as fresh bacon, so they don’t reduce calories or fat. If convenience outweighs nutrition for you, they’re a good choice; otherwise, a microwave tray lets you control cooking time and fat drip‑off.

Dishwasher‑safe trays, such as the Original Makin Bacon Dish, Joie Piggy, and GoodCook Everyday Microwave Grill, simplify cleanup and reduce the need for hand‑washing. Non‑dishwasher models may still be easy to rinse, but they add extra maintenance time. If you value quick, hands‑free cleaning, prioritize products that list dishwasher compatibility.

Some cookers, like the Wow Bacon Cooker, need at least 7.25 inches of interior height and must stand upright while cooking. Measure your microwave’s interior space before buying to ensure the unit fits without tilting. Compact designs such as the Midnight Sun Pottery Bacon Mug are ideal for smaller microwaves, while larger trays may require a full‑size countertop model.

Yes, designs that suspend bacon above a drip tray—like the Original Makin Bacon Dish and the Wow Bacon Cooker—allow grease to collect at the bottom, cutting up to 35 % of fat compared with skillet cooking. Grooved trays (Joie Piggy, NICO SEE WONDER) also let fat drip away, though the reduction may be slightly less than fully suspended racks. The key is to let the grease escape rather than soaking the strips.

Non‑stick surfaces, found on the Lkicwah Microwave Grill Pan and MKYSAIL Quick‑Heat Grill, prevent bacon from sticking to the tray, which helps achieve an even crisp without tearing. They also make cleanup faster because food releases easily and the parts are dishwasher‑safe. Look for food‑grade, PFOA‑free coatings to ensure safety and durability.

Compact, lightweight units like the Midnight Sun Pottery Bacon Mug, the Wow Bacon Cooker, and the MKYSAIL Quick‑Heat Grill are designed for limited counter space and easy storage. Their small footprint and minimal accessories make them ideal for dorm rooms, RVs, or hotel stays. If you need to cook multiple slices at once, the Joie Piggy tray offers a balance of size and portability.