The best bacon in microwave tray delivers perfectly cooked, crisp bacon without the mess and hassle of traditional stovetop methods, ideal for busy cooks. When selecting one, consider factors like material durability, ease of cleaning, and capacity. A poorly chosen tray might lead to uneven cooking, difficult cleanup, or breakage, diminishing the experience and wasting your investment.
Different designs offer unique benefits, such as grease channeling or crisping surfaces. Navigating the available models ensures you find a reliable kitchen tool.
To help you achieve that ideal crispy strip, we’ve curated a list of top-rated bacon microwave trays.
To achieve the best bacon in a microwave tray, focus on designs that elevate the bacon above rendered fat. Products like the PrepSolutions Microwavable Bacon Grill or the Nordic Ware Bacon Rack with Lid feature ribbed surfaces or sloped designs that allow grease to drain, promoting crispiness. Other options, such as those made from food-grade silicone or premium glass like the ONEMORE Microwave Bacon Tray or the Glass Microwave Bacon Cooker, also offer safe and effective ways to achieve this.
Best Bacon in Microwave Tray: At a Glance
| Image | Product | Buy |
|---|---|---|
Best Pick 1  | PrepSolutions Microwaveable Bacon Grill, Cooks 7-9 Pieces of Crispy Bacon Best for: Large batches | Check Price |
Best Pick 2  | Nordic Ware Bacon Rack with Lid, 10.25x8x2 Inches Best for: Lidded cooking | Check Price |
Best Pick 3  | The Original Makin Bacon Microwave Bacon Dish – Makes Crispy Best for: Quick results | Check Price |
Best Pick 4  | ONEMORE Microwave Bacon Tray with Lid Ceramic Bacon Cooker Meat Best for: Ceramic option | Check Price |
Best Pick 5  | Nordic Ware Microwave Bacon Tray & Food Defroster Best for: Dual function | Check Price |
How We Picked
To identify the best bacon in microwave tray, we prioritized ease of use, crispness of the cooked bacon, and effective grease management. We evaluated build quality, considering materials like durable silicone, food-grade glass, and BPA-free plastics. Real-world performance was assessed by how well each tray cooked multiple bacon strips evenly and without excessive splattering.
Safety and durability were key, ruling out products with thin materials or questionable certifications. Standout features, such as integrated lids for splatter control and efficient grease drainage spouts, significantly influenced our final selections, ensuring a superior microwave bacon cooking experience even by 2026 standards.
What Most Buyers Get Wrong
Ridges: Your Key to Crispy Bacon
When choosing a microwave bacon tray, look closely at the design of the raised ridges. These aren’t just decorative; they are crucial for achieving that perfect crispiness. The elevated surface allows bacon fat to drain away from the meat as it cooks.
Products like the Nordic Ware Bacon Rack and the ONEMORE Ceramic Bacon Tray specifically highlight this feature. A well-designed ridge system means less greasy, more delicious bacon, avoiding the soggy results you might get from other methods.
Material Matters for Microwave Bacon
The material of your microwave bacon tray impacts both safety and durability. Many opt for BPA-free plastics, but for a more natural cooking experience, consider glass or food-grade silicone. The Glass Microwave Bacon Cooker emphasizes a no plastic touching food approach, which is a significant benefit for health-conscious cooks.
Silicone options, like the 10-Inch Large Silicone Food Grade Bacon tray, offer flexibility and high heat resistance, ensuring safe and odorless cooking without compromising on crispiness.
1. PrepSolutions Microwaveable Bacon Grill, Cooks 7-9 Pieces of Crispy Bacon
Best for: Fits 7-9 bacon strips, includes splatter cover.
The Progressive International microwave bacon grill accommodates 7 to 9 pieces of bacon, allowing you to cook larger batches for family breakfasts. Its ample cooking surface ensures you can prepare more crispy bacon at once for efficient meal preparation.
This large-sized tray, designed for home kitchens, measures to fit a substantial amount of bacon. It includes a vented, anti-splatter cover with a recessed handle for easy removal, keeping your microwave clean. The tray itself is made for microwave cooking of bacon.
Pros
- Cooks 7-9 bacon pieces
- Included anti-splatter cover
- Spacious cooking surface
- Recessed handle on cover
Cons
- Warranty is limited to 1 year for defects.
This microwave bacon tray is ideal for families or those who enjoy cooking multiple bacon strips simultaneously for breakfast or meals. Its splatter-free design makes cleanup simple.
2. Nordic Ware Bacon Rack with Lid, 10.25x8x2 Inches
Best for: BPA-free, USA-made with lid, 5-year warranty.
Nordic Ware’s bacon rack with lid, made in the USA, offers a BPA and melamine-free construction for healthy cooking. Its ribbed surface elevates bacon, allowing grease to drain away while the lid contains splatters.
Measuring 10.25x8x2 inches, this tray features a textured, ribbed surface specifically designed to lift bacon above accumulated grease. It comes with a lid to prevent microwave messes and is recommended for hand washing with warm, soapy water due to its material composition.
Pros
- BPA and melamine free material
- Ribbed surface for grease drainage
- Includes splatter-containment lid
- Made in the USA
Cons
- Not recommended for dishwasher use.
This Nordic Ware bacon rack is a durable choice for home cooks seeking a clean and efficient way to microwave bacon. Its USA-made quality and long-term warranty offer peace of mind.
3. The Original Makin Bacon Microwave Bacon Dish – Makes Crispy
Best for: Reduces fat, dishwasher safe, compact storage.
The Original Makin’ Bacon dish cooks bacon in minutes by lifting it above the fat, promising up to a 35% fat reduction compared to skillet preparation. Cleanup is simplified with an integrated splatter control method using a paper towel.
This compact, dishwasher-safe dish is molded in the USA from a BPA-free, high-heat resistant plastic. Its design allows bacon to cook evenly above rendered fat, and a simple paper towel draped over the strips effectively manages splatter, reducing microwave mess.
Pros
- Reduces fat by up to 35%
- Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning
- Controls splatter with paper towel
- Compact and easy to store
Cons
- No included lid for splatter containment.
This bacon dish is perfect for individuals looking for a healthier, less messy alternative to frying bacon in a pan. Its straightforward design and easy upkeep make it ideal for busy kitchens.
4. ONEMORE Microwave Bacon Tray with Lid Ceramic Bacon Cooker Meat
Best for: Ceramic, oven and microwave safe with lid.
ONEMORE’s ceramic bacon tray with lid is designed for evenly cooked, crispy bacon every time, featuring raised ridges to drain away fat. This versatile 11-inch round cooker can also be used as a meat rack or plate.
Constructed from durable ceramic, this 11-inch round tray allows bacon fat to drain through its raised ridges, ensuring a crispy texture. It is safe for use in the microwave and oven (but the lid is not dishwasher safe), offering flexibility for various cooking needs.
Pros
- Ceramic construction for even cooking
- Raised ridges drain grease effectively
- Safe for microwave and oven
- Includes a lid for splatter control
Cons
- Lid is not dishwasher safe.
This ceramic bacon cooker is suitable for anyone who prioritizes crispy bacon and prefers a durable cooking surface. Its multi-functionality extends its use beyond just bacon preparation.
5. Nordic Ware Microwave Bacon Tray & Food Defroster
Best for: Sloped design for drainage, also a defroster.
Nordic Ware’s slotted microwave bacon tray and food defroster features a slanted design and raised ridges to efficiently drain away grease and moisture. Its generous rectangular shape accommodates many bacon slices for convenient cooking.
This tray’s sloped design effectively funnels grease away from the bacon as it cooks in the microwave. The large, rectangular capacity allows for multiple strips of bacon to be prepared simultaneously. It is made in the USA and safe for microwave use.
Pros
- Sloped design drains grease and moisture
- Large rectangular capacity
- Doubles as a food defroster
- Made in the USA
Cons
- Not safe for use under broilers or on stovetops.
This Nordic Ware bacon tray is a functional addition for cooks who appreciate a cleaner microwave and want a dual-purpose item for defrosting. Its USA manufacturing adds to its appeal.
6. Joie Piggy Microwave Bacon Tray, Grooved Cooking Tray for Microwaving
Best for: Compact, 4-5 strips, dishwasher safe.
The Joie Piggy Microwave Bacon Tray is a compact solution for microwaving bacon, designed to cook 4 to 5 strips at a time with minimal mess. Its grooved cooking surface helps to lift bacon and allow grease to drain.
This durable plastic tray is safe for both microwave and dishwasher use, simplifying cleanup. Each piece of bacon can be microwaved for approximately 1 minute, making it a quick cooking method. The lid is vented to release steam safely.
Pros
- Cooks 4-5 bacon strips
- Dishwasher safe for easy cleanup
- Vented lid for safe microwaving
- Compact size for small spaces
Cons
- Smaller capacity, not ideal for large batches.
This bacon tray is a practical choice for individuals or small households looking for a quick and mess-free way to microwave bacon. Its adorable piggy design also adds a touch of fun.
7. Microwave Bacon Tray -10 Inch Large Silicone Food Grade Bacon
Best for: Food-grade silicone, high heat resistance.
Crafted from food-grade silicone, this 10-inch microwave bacon tray offers safe and odorless cooking, withstanding high temperatures without deforming. The heat-resistant handles ensure easy and safe removal from the microwave.
This large, 10-inch silicone tray is BPA-free and designed for repeated microwave use, featuring a non-stick finish. It can cook crispy bacon in approximately 5 minutes and comes with a set of cooking utensils for added convenience. It is also dishwasher safe.
Pros
- Food-grade, BPA-free silicone material
- High heat resistance
- Includes heat-resistant handles
- Dishwasher safe
Cons
- No lid included for splatter containment.
This silicone bacon tray is an excellent option for health-conscious users who prefer a flexible and heat-resistant material. It’s ideal for frequent bacon preparation in the microwave.
8. Glass Microwave Bacon Cooker, 10-Inch Square Bacon Crisper Tray |
Best for: Lead-free glass, no plastic contact for food.
This 10-inch square glass microwave bacon cooker features premium lead-free glass, ensuring no plastic comes into contact with your food during cooking. It’s designed for healthier microwaving and ease of use for everyday meals.
Constructed from thick, food-grade glass, this 10-inch square tray offers durability and a non-plastic cooking surface. It promotes even cooking for crispier bacon in minutes and is built for the rigors of daily use in the microwave.
Pros
- Constructed from lead-free glass
- No plastic contact with food
- Promotes even, crispy bacon
- Durable for everyday use
Cons
- Glass material is breakable if dropped.
This glass bacon cooker is perfect for consumers who prioritize a glass cooking surface and want to avoid plastic. Its sturdy construction is great for regular use on busy mornings.
9. Microwave Bacon Cooker, 11 x 10 Inch Silicone Bacon Tray,
Best for: Large silicone, deep grooves for crispiness.
The Glolaurge 11 x 10 inch silicone bacon tray provides a fast microwave cooking solution for busy mornings, featuring deep grooves that help lift bacon and drain excess grease for maximum crispiness.
This generously sized 11 x 10 inch tray is made from BPA-free silicone, ideal for cooking bacon, sausage, and hot dogs or for quick reheating. Its raised deep grooves ensure bacon cooks above rendered fat, leading to a crispier texture and less mess.
Pros
- Large 11 x 10 inch cooking area
- Deep grooves for crispier bacon
- BPA-free silicone material
- Suitable for multiple food types
Cons
- Material may retain odors if not cleaned promptly.
This large silicone bacon tray is excellent for meal preppers and families cooking multiple servings of bacon. The deep grooves are key for achieving that perfect crispy texture.
10. Microwave Bacon Cooker with Cover, Microwave Bacon Tray with Grease
Best for: Grease drainage spout, short cook time.
This microwave bacon cooker features raised ridges and a specialized grease drainage spout, offering a healthier and cleaner way to cook bacon in the microwave. Its specific cooking program ensures optimal results for crispy bacon.
Designed with raised ridges and a grease drainage system, this tray lifts bacon away from rendered fat for improved crispiness and reduced mess. It has explicit instructions for microwave use, with a maximum temperature of 250°F and a cooking time of 2.5 minutes.
Pros
- Raised ridges and grease drainage spout
- Promotes healthier bacon cooking
- Specific cook time of 2.5 minutes
- Easy to use with clear instructions
Cons
- Maximum temperature limited to 250°F.
This microwave bacon cooker is ideal for users who want straightforward, controlled microwave cooking for perfectly crispy bacon. Its built-in drainage system makes for an easier cleanup.
Lid vs. No Lid: The Real Microwave Bacon Tray Divide
When selecting a best bacon in microwave tray, the critical specification is whether it includes a lid, as this dictates containment and cooking consistency. While many options tout raised ridges to drain fat – the Nordic Ware Bacon Rack with Lid and the ONEMORE Microwave Bacon Tray with Lid both feature this design element – the presence of a lid is paramount for minimizing microwave splatter and promoting more even cooking. Without one, as seen with the PrepSolutions Microwavable Bacon Grill or the Glass Microwave Bacon Cooker, users are left to manage grease explosions and potential hot spots, a significant drawback for busy mornings.
The lid effectively traps steam and heat, creating a more controlled environment.
Beyond mere containment, the lid contributes to a superior texture. Bacon cooked under a lid, like that achieved with the Nordic Ware Bacon Rack with Lid, benefits from a gentler, more integrated heat. This contrasts with open-air designs where the top surface of the bacon can dry out faster than the bottom, leading to uneven crispness.
The Joie Piggy Microwave Bacon Tray, for instance, is designed for very small batches and relies on user vigilance to avoid overcooking parts of the bacon. While some might argue for the simplicity of an open tray for quick checks, this overlooks the passive advantage a lid provides in achieving that perfect, consistent crispness without constant intervention.
Consider the differentiation between ceramic and silicone materials. The ONEMORE Microwave Bacon Tray with Lid is a ceramic offering, whereas the Microwave Bacon Tray -10 Inch Large Silicone Food Grade Bacon is silicone. Ceramic tends to retain heat more effectively, contributing to that even cooking, while silicone offers flexibility and often a lower profile.
However, neither material achieves its full potential without the crucial lid. An open silicone tray, like the Microwave Bacon Cooker, 11 x 10 Inch Silicone Bacon Tray, still struggles with splatter and inconsistent heat distribution compared to its lidded counterparts.
The ONEMORE’s ceramic construction, combined with its lid, presents a compelling case for those prioritizing a uniformly crispy finish.
Ultimately, the choice hinges on prioritizing a clean microwave and consistently cooked bacon over a marginally simpler, open design. While materials and capacity vary, the presence of a lid is the most significant differentiator among microwave bacon trays. For those who value minimizing mess and maximizing crisp, the Nordic Ware Bacon Rack with Lid is the standout option.
What to Look For in a Best Bacon in Microwave Tray
Material and durability
When selecting your microwave bacon tray, prioritize heat-resistant, food-safe materials. BPA-free plastics offer good flexibility and safety. For superior heat distribution and minimal metallic taste, choose trays with ceramic or porcelain bases.
Stainless steel racks are essential for effective grease drainage, ensuring crisper bacon. Look for materials rated to withstand your microwave’s highest wattage to guarantee longevity.
The ideal choice is a combination tray with a ceramic base and a stainless steel rack, providing both safety and optimal cooking performance.
Size and capacity
Consider the tray’s size and capacity to match your needs and microwave. A tray holding four to six strips is standard for individual servings or small households. Ensure the overall dimensions fit comfortably within your microwave cavity, leaving room for air circulation.
A deeper tray design, at least an inch and a half, is crucial for containing grease and preventing messy splatters. For most users, a medium-sized tray that accommodates at least four strips and has ample depth will serve perfectly.
Ease of cleaning
Cleaning ease is paramount for regular use. Opt for trays with dishwasher-safe components, making post-meal cleanup effortless. Nonstick surfaces are a significant advantage, allowing bacon grease and residue to wipe away easily.
Trays with removable parts, such as separate racks and drip trays, enable thorough cleaning of all nooks and crannies. A fully dishwasher-safe tray with a nonstick coating and detachable components is your best bet for hassle-free maintenance.
Splatter control features
Effective splatter control is non-negotiable for a clean microwave. Look for trays with integrated lids or covers that minimize steam and grease dispersion. Raised edges and deep tray designs work in tandem to contain any runaway oils.
An efficient grease collection system, often a well-designed trough or channel, funnels grease away from the bacon, promoting crispiness. A tray featuring a snug-fitting lid and a substantial grease-catching channel will deliver the cleanest microwave experience.
Which Should You Choose?
- If you want to cook a larger batch of bacon at once, choose a tray explicitly labeled as “large” or capable of holding 7-9 pieces.
- If minimizing microwave messes is your top priority, look for a tray with a lid to contain spatters, or one that encourages draining fat to reduce splattering.
- If you prefer not to have plastic touching your food, opt for a glass or ceramic microwave bacon cooker.
- If you want bacon that’s cooked above the grease, seek out designs with ribbed or raised surfaces to allow fat to drain away.
Quick Best Bacon In Microwave Tray Buying Checklist
- Confirm Material Safety Ensure the tray is made from BPA-free, food-grade materials.
- Check Size Compatibility Measure your microwave and compare it to the tray’s dimensions.
- Evaluate Grease Drainage Look for effective channels or racks to collect rendered fat.
- Consider Splatter Containment Opt for designs with raised edges or lids.
- Assess Ease of Cleaning Verify if components are dishwasher safe or have non-stick surfaces.
- Review User Ratings Consult real-world feedback for performance and durability insights.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Makes A Bacon In Microwave Tray Effective?
An effective bacon in microwave tray uses a raised rack to suspend bacon, allowing fat to drip away for crispier results. It also features a deep base to catch grease and often a lid to minimize microwave splatter, ensuring a cleaner cooking process.
Can Any Bacon Tray Be Used In The Microwave?
Not all bacon trays are microwave-safe; only those specifically designed and labeled for microwave use should be chosen. Materials like certain plastics or ceramics are typically used, while metals or untreated wood can be hazardous in a microwave.
How Do Microwave Bacon Trays Prevent Messy Splatters?
Microwave bacon trays prevent splatters through their design, which often includes a lid that covers the bacon while cooking. The elevated rack also helps keep the bacon from sitting in its own grease, further reducing the likelihood of popping and splashing.
Are Bacon In Microwave Trays Easy To Clean?
Many bacon in microwave trays are designed for easy cleaning, with some featuring non-stick surfaces or being dishwasher safe. The grease collection tray can usually be wiped clean or placed in the dishwasher along with other removable parts.
What Is The Typical Capacity Of A Microwave Bacon Tray?
The capacity of a microwave bacon tray varies by model, but they generally hold between 4 to 12 strips of bacon. Larger families or those cooking for guests might prefer a tray that can accommodate more strips at once for efficiency.
Final Words
Investing in the best bacon in microwave tray offers a remarkably fast and convenient way to achieve perfectly crisp bacon without the mess. These specialized trays elevate your breakfast routine by simplifying preparation and cleanup. Get ready to enjoy delicious, evenly cooked bacon with minimal effort.
