If your bacon is burnt, here are a few ways to deal with it depending on how bad it is:
If It’s Slightly Overcooked
- Trim off any blackened edges with a knife.
- Crumble it into salads, soups, baked potatoes, or casseroles where the smoky flavor won’t be as noticeable.
If It’s Heavily Burnt
- It’s best to throw it away. Heavily charred bacon tastes bitter and contains increased amounts of compounds that can form when meat is burned at high temperatures. Eating small amounts occasionally is unlikely to be harmful, but it’s not recommended as a regular practice.
Tips to Prevent Burnt Bacon
Air Fryer
- Cook at 350°F (175°C) for 7–10 minutes, depending on thickness.
- Check it after 6 minutes, as air fryer models vary.
- Arrange the slices in a single layer without overlapping.
Oven
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Skillet
- Cook over medium heat, turning the slices every few minutes until they reach your desired crispness.
The key is to cook bacon slowly enough for the fat to render before the meat burns.