Bacon is more than just a beloved breakfast staple; it’s a versatile ingredient that can elevate any dish it accompanies. Yet, achieving that perfect balance of crispy edges and tender meat can be elusive. Here are the 10 best ways to cook bacon perfectly every time:

1. Stovetop Skillet: Lay the bacon strips in a cold non-stick skillet and heat over medium. As the bacon slowly heats up, it will begin to release fat and shrink. Flip occasionally until it reaches your desired level of crispiness.

2. Oven Baked: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil, place bacon strips on top, and bake for 15-20 minutes, depending on your preferred crispness.

3. Microwave: For quick and no-fuss cooking, line a microwave-safe plate with paper towels. Arrange bacon strips on the paper towels not touching each other, cover with another layer of paper towels, and cook on high for about 4-6 minutes.

4. Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (182°C), place bacon strips in the basket without overlapping, and cook for about 8-10 minutes until crispy.

5. Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place strips over indirect heat and close the lid. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side for that smoky flavor.

6. The Oven Broiler: Set your oven broiler on high and position an oven rack in the top third of the oven. Place bacon on a broiler pan and broil for 1-2 minutes per side—watch closely as it can burn quickly.

7. Candied Bacon: Before baking or cooking in the skillet, coat your bacon strips with a mixture of brown sugar and maple syrup. The end result is a sticky-sweet version of this classic breakfast food.

8. Maple Glazed: Brush bacon with pure maple syrup during the last few minutes of baking or frying to add a touch of sweetness to its salty flavor.

9. Slow Cooker: If you’re not in a hurry, layer your slow cooker with bacon strips, cover, and cook on low for 2-3 hours.

10. Sous Vide: Vacuum seal bacon with seasonings of choice and sous vide at 147°F (64°C) for several hours before finishing in a hot skillet or oven.

Remember that no matter which method you choose, starting with high-quality bacon will yield the best results. Watch carefully while cooking; because thickness varies greatly among types of bacon, your cooking time may need adjustment to get that perfect bite of heavenly goodness every time!