1-First Step: Prep your tools and oven Preheat your oven to 400°F. Choose a large rimmed baking sheet so rendered fat stays contained. Line the sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup; parchment is optional but highly recommended to minimize sticking and mess.

2-Second Step: Arrange the bacon Lay 8 bacon slices side by side on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Do not overlap the slices. Cooking in a single layer helps the bacon crisp evenly. If you need more capacity for a crowd, use two sheets rather than stacking slices on one.

3-Third Step: Bake and monitor Place the baking sheet on the middle rack. Bake for 10 to 20 minutes depending on your oven, bacon thickness, and how crispy you like it. Start checking at 10 minutes to avoid overcooking. Regular slices often finish around 12 to 15 minutes, while thick-cut can take 18 to 20 minutes.

4-Fourth Step: Rotate for even cooking About halfway through cooking, rotate the pan 180 degrees. Ovens can have hot spots, and rotation helps every slice brown evenly. There is no need to flip the bacon; it cooks evenly on both sides from the oven’s heat.

5-Fifth Step: Drain and crisp When the edges are browned and your desired doneness is reached, remove the sheet from the oven. Transfer strips to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Bacon often crisps up a bit more as it cools, so pull it when it is slightly less done than the final texture you want.

6-Final Step: Render and save the grease To save bacon grease, carefully pour the hot fat through a fine-mesh sieve lined with a paper towel into a heat-safe glass jar. Let the grease cool slightly before covering and refrigerating. Stored this way, bacon grease will solidify and can be kept for later use in cooking eggs, vegetables, or for adding flavor to dishes.