Get ready to elevate your bacon game with the mouthwatering Southern Rebel Smokehouse Bacon! This recipe combines the irresistible flavors of sweet brown sugar, spicy cayenne pepper, and rich maple syrup to create a bacon experience that will have your taste buds dancing. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a savory snack, this dish is not just bacon; it's a flavor explosion that will leave your guests begging for more. With just 40 minutes of your time, you can turn ordinary bacon into a culinary masterpiece that embodies the spirit of Southern cooking. Are you ready to indulge in this crispy, caramelized delight? Let's dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb thick-cut bacon
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your bacon cooks evenly and gets nice and crispy.
- Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet. This will allow the fat to drip off the bacon as it cooks.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Lay the thick-cut bacon strips out on the wire rack in a single layer. Make sure the strips do not overlap to ensure even cooking.
- Drizzle the maple syrup evenly over the bacon strips. Use a brush or the back of a spoon to spread it out if necessary.
- Sprinkle the brown sugar mixture generously over the bacon strips, ensuring that each piece is well-coated. You can adjust the amount based on your preference for sweetness and spice.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and caramelized. Keep an eye on it towards the end to prevent burning.
- Once the bacon is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool on the wire rack for a few minutes. This will allow it to crisp up even more as it cools.
- After cooling, carefully transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess grease.
- Serve your Southern Rebel Smokehouse Bacon warm as a delicious side dish, or use it as a flavorful addition to sandwiches, salads, or breakfast dishes. Enjoy!
Tips
- Choose Quality Bacon: For the best results, opt for thick-cut bacon. It holds up better during cooking and provides a satisfying texture that pairs beautifully with the sweet and spicy toppings.
- Watch the Oven: Bacon can go from perfectly crispy to burnt in a matter of minutes. Keep a close eye on it during the last few minutes of cooking to achieve that perfect caramelized finish.
- Customize Your Spice Level: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper based on your heat preference. If you like it spicier, add a pinch more; if you prefer it milder, reduce the amount.
- Let It Cool: Allow the bacon to cool on the wire rack after baking. This helps it crisp up even more and prevents it from becoming soggy.
- Versatile Serving Options: Use this delicious bacon not only as a side dish but also as a topping for burgers, salads, or even in a decadent breakfast sandwich. The possibilities are endless!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 30mg
