How to Cook Bacon on a Pellet Smoker: Tips & Tricks?

By Avi Green October 20, 2023

Cooking bacon may seem simple, but how to cook bacon on a pellet smoker opens up a whole new world of flavor. For kitchen professionals who are constantly looking to elevate their cooking techniques, using a pellet smoker offers a controlled, smoky environment perfect for achieving that crispy and delectable bacon.

Pellet smokers are designed for convenience and efficiency, allowing you to set the temperature and forget ita perfect equation for busy kitchen settings. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about cooking bacon on a pellet smoker, from preparation to cooking advice, ensuring that the crispiness and flavor are unrivaled.

Understanding Pellet Smokers

Before we dive into the specifics of cooking bacon, let's take a moment to understand what a pellet smoker is. A pellet smoker utilizes compressed wood pellets as fuel, maintaining a consistent temperature for cooking. It employs an electronic control panel, which automates the smoking process, making it an ideal tool for professional kitchens.

There are many advantages to using a pellet smoker:

Flavor: The natural wood from the pellets enhances the flavor of the bacon in a way that traditional frying cannot.
Temperature Control: The precise temperature control helps in cooking bacon evenly.
Versatility: Besides bacon, you can cook a variety of meats and vegetables in a pellet smoker.

Choosing the Right Bacon

Different types of bacon can yield different results when smoking. Here's a brief overview of what to consider:

Thickness: Thick-cut bacon will take longer to cook but can result in a satisfying texture.
Flavors: Consider trying flavored or artisanal bacons.
Quality: Always opt for high-quality bacon from a reputable source.

Preparation Steps for Cooking Bacon on a Pellet Smoker

Now that you have your pellet smoker ready and your bacon selected, it's time to prepare. Follow these steps to ensure a successful cooking experience:

Preheat Your Pellet Smoker: Set your pellet smoker to around 225F. Preheating allows the smoker to maintain a stable temperature.
Lay Out the Bacon: Using a grilling mat or a bacon rack can enhance the cooking experience by allowing the grease to drip away and ensuring even cooking.
Seasoning (Optional): If you wish to add any seasoning to your baconsuch as black pepper, maple syrup, or brown sugarapply it at this stage.

Cooking Process

The cooking process is straightforward:

Place the Bacon in the Smoker: Once the smoker reaches the desired temperature, carefully place the bacon on the grill grates.
Cook Time: The cooking time can vary, but you are looking at around 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on how crispy you want it.
Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the bacon reaches an internal temperature of around 160F.

Expert Tips for Perfect Bacon

Here are a few expert tips for ensuring your bacon turns out just right:

Check the Pellets: Make sure you are using high-quality wood pellets. Hickory and apple wood are popular choices for bacon.
Monitor the Temperature: Keeping a consistent temperature is vital; a meat probe can help with this.
Rest the Bacon: Allow the bacon to rest for a couple of minutes after cooking to let the juices redistribute.

Cleanup After Cooking

Cleaning up after cooking on a pellet smoker is relatively easy, but its essential to do it right:

Cool Down: Allow the grill to cool completely.
Dispose of Grease: Carefully dispose of the grease collected in the tray. This can be done by pouring it into a disposable container.
Clean the Grates: Use a grill brush to clean off any residue from the grates.