Welcome to the sizzling world of bacon, where every crispy bite is a moment of pure bliss! Whether you’re a bacon connoisseur or just looking for the perfect slice, the brand you choose can make all the difference.
From smoky aromas to mouthwatering crunch, some brands deliver perfection—while others fall flat. Let’s dive into the best and worst bacon brands so you know exactly which ones to savor and which to skip!
1. Wright Brand Hickory Smoked Bacon
Wright Brand’s Hickory Smoked Bacon offers a savory experience like no other. With its thick-cut slices and rich, smoky flavor, it stands as a favorite for many bacon lovers. The hickory smoking process infuses each slice with a profound aroma, making it perfect for breakfast or adding a touch of flavor to any dish.
Savor the exceptional taste as the bacon crisps up beautifully, providing a satisfying crunch with every bite. Whether you prefer it on its own or in a delicious sandwich, Wright Brand delivers quality you can taste.
2. Oscar Mayer Naturally Hardwood Smoked Bacon
Oscar Mayer’s Naturally Hardwood Smoked Bacon is a classic choice that many turn to for its consistent quality. This bacon has a well-balanced flavor profile, combining smoky undertones with a hint of sweetness. The natural hardwood smoking technique imparts a delightful aroma, enhancing any meal.
Enjoy its even cooking and perfect texture that complements eggs, pancakes, or simply on its own. Oscar Mayer promises a dependable bacon experience that elevates your culinary creations, making it a staple in kitchens across the country.
3. Applegate Naturals Uncured Sunday Bacon
Applegate Naturals Uncured Sunday Bacon is a crowd favorite for those seeking a more natural option. It boasts a flavorful profile free of nitrates and preservatives, making it a healthier choice without compromising on taste. The bacon is tender, with a subtle smokiness that isn’t overpowering.
Perfect for a leisurely Sunday brunch, it pairs wonderfully with eggs and toast. If you’re looking for a bacon that aligns with a cleaner eating lifestyle, Applegate Naturals offers a delicious and responsible alternative.
4. Trader Joe’s Uncured Turkey Bacon
Trader Joe’s Uncured Turkey Bacon is a delightful addition to any breakfast table. Known for its sweet and smoky flavor, it’s smoked over applewood, which imparts a unique taste. The uncured nature means it’s free from added nitrates, appealing to health-conscious consumers.
As it cooks, the bacon releases a mouthwatering aroma that fills the kitchen. This bacon is perfect for those who enjoy a hint of sweetness in their savory bites, proving that Trader Joe’s knows how to craft a memorable bacon.
5. D’Artagnan Uncured Applewood Smoked Bacon
D’Artagnan Uncured Applewood Smoked Bacon offers a gourmet experience, perfect for those who appreciate fine quality. Its applewood smoking process ensures a subtle sweetness, balanced with a rich savory taste. The uncured approach means no artificial additives, preserving its natural flavor.
Ideal for exquisite breakfast dishes or enhancing a gourmet recipe, this bacon provides a luxurious touch. Enjoy the quality and craftsmanship that D’Artagnan brings to the table, making it a favorite among bacon enthusiasts who demand the best.
6. Peter Luger Extra Thick Cut Bacon
Peter Luger’s Extra Thick Cut Bacon is a premium choice for those who crave a substantial, meaty bite. Known for its exceptional thickness, it offers a hearty and satisfying experience. The flavor is robust, with a perfect balance of smokiness and saltiness.
This bacon is perfect for those who appreciate a more substantial piece of meat on their plate. Whether served as a main attraction or a luxurious side, Peter Luger ensures every slice is a gourmet delight.
7. Aldi Never Any! Hickory Smoked Uncured Bacon
Aldi’s Never Any! Hickory Smoked Uncured Bacon is a revelation for those seeking quality without compromise. Free from artificial additives, it boasts a natural hickory smoke flavor that enhances its taste. The uncured nature ensures a clean label, appealing to the health-conscious.
With its satisfying thickness, this bacon cooks evenly, providing a delightful crunch. Aldi has managed to offer a bacon that combines affordability with quality, making it a go-to choice for many families looking for an exceptional breakfast experience.
8. North Country Smokehouse Smoked Uncured Bacon
North Country Smokehouse Sugar-Free Applewood Smoked Uncured Bacon is a standout for those watching their sugar intake. With no added sugars, it retains a rich applewood smoke flavor that is both savory and sweet. The uncured process means no artificial nitrates are included.
This bacon is ideal for those on specific dietary plans or anyone who prefers a less sweet option. North Country Smokehouse delivers a bacon that satisfies without sacrificing taste, proving that sugar-free doesn’t mean flavor-free.
9. Sugardale Thick Sliced Bacon
Sugardale Thick Sliced Bacon is beloved for its hearty cut, promising a satisfying chew with every bite. The thickness ensures that each piece crisps up nicely, maintaining a balance between tenderness and crunch. Its rich flavor profile makes it a versatile choice for various dishes.
Whether paired with eggs or layered on a burger, Sugardale provides a delightful experience. Bacon enthusiasts will appreciate the attention to detail and quality that this brand consistently delivers, making it a reliable favorite.
10. Hormel Black Label Oven-Ready Bacon
Hormel Black Label Oven-Ready Bacon is perfect for those who value convenience without sacrificing quality. This bacon comes pre-cooked, offering a no-fuss solution for busy mornings. Its flavor is rich and smoky, retaining the essence of traditional bacon.
Ideal for quick sandwiches or a swift addition to any meal, Hormel Black Label ensures a satisfying bite every time. Enjoy the ease and taste this brand offers, making it a staple for those who need both speed and flavor in their cooking routine.
11. Plumrose Hardwood Smoked Bacon
Plumrose Hardwood Smoked Bacon tends to disappoint those looking for a quality breakfast slice. Often criticized for its overly greasy texture, it fails to deliver the crispiness many bacon lovers seek. The flavor, while smoky, lacks depth and can leave a greasy aftertaste.
Cooking can be inconsistent, leading to burnt edges or undercooked centers. If you’re particular about texture and taste, Plumrose might not meet your expectations, making it a brand some prefer to skip in their quest for the perfect bacon.
12. Farmland Bacon
Farmland Bacon often falls short of expectations. Its texture can be rubbery, lacking the crisp finish that many desire. Despite its hickory smoking, the flavor is often muted, failing to stand out in dishes.
Many find the cooking inconsistent, with pieces that don’t brown evenly. For those seeking a robust bacon experience, Farmland’s offering might not satisfy, as it struggles to deliver the full-bodied taste and texture that bacon enthusiasts crave.
13. Hormel Black Label Bacon
Hormel Black Label Bacon can be hit or miss. Despite the promise of a unique hardwood smoke, the flavor often falls flat, overshadowed by its greasy texture. The thick cut is sometimes too much, preventing it from achieving the ideal crispness.
Consistency in cooking is another issue, with some slices remaining chewy rather than crisp. If you’re in search of a bacon with a standout flavor and texture, you might find Hormel lacking, making it a brand that doesn’t always deliver on its promises.
14. Jimmy Dean Hickory Smoked Premium Bacon
Jimmy Dean Hickory Smoked Premium Bacon often leaves much to be desired. While known for its brand, the bacon itself can be inconsistent in quality. Greasiness is a common complaint, with slices often cooking unevenly.
The flavor, though smoky, sometimes comes across as artificial or overly processed. For those who value a consistent and crisp bacon experience, Jimmy Dean’s offering might not hit the mark, leading to a less than satisfactory breakfast.
15. Jones Dairy Farm Bacon
Jones Dairy Farm Bacon can be a hit or miss for many. Its texture often feels overly processed, lacking the natural juiciness people enjoy in bacon. The smoky flavor is present but not profound, leaving some wanting more.
The overall appearance is not as appetizing, with a pale color that doesn’t entice. For those seeking a traditional bacon experience, Jones Dairy Farm might not be the best fit, as it doesn’t quite capture the essence of what many love about bacon.
16. Smithfield Hometown Original Bacon
Smithfield Hometown Original Bacon frequently disappoints with its lackluster performance. The texture can be inconsistent, often greasy and lacking the desired crunch. Its flavor, while mildly smoky, doesn’t stand out, making it blend into the background of dishes.
Cooking can be a challenge, with slices not browning evenly. For bacon aficionados looking for a memorable taste and texture, Smithfield might not be the brand that delivers the satisfying bacon experience they’re after, often leaving them searching for better options.
17. Great Value Bacon
Great Value Bacon is often a hit or miss and can leave consumers wanting more. Despite its budget-friendly appeal, the quality often reflects its price point. The texture is typically thin and greasy, leading to uneven cooking.
The flavor is minimal, lacking the savory depth expected from bacon. For those seeking a reliable bacon for their breakfast, Great Value might not satisfy the craving for a crisp and flavorful slice, making it a choice many might bypass.
18. Kirkland Signature Regular Sliced Bacon
Kirkland Signature Regular Sliced Bacon leaves much to be desired in terms of quality and taste. While it offers a budget-friendly option, the trade-off is often in its texture and flavor. The bacon can be overly greasy, with an uneven cook that doesn’t achieve the ideal crispness.
The smoky flavor is minimal, making it less impactful in various dishes. For those who prioritize taste and texture, Kirkland’s offering might fall short, leading to a less than satisfying bacon experience.
19. Bar-S Sliced Bacon
Bar-S Sliced Bacon often disappoints those seeking a high-quality slice for their meals. Known for its affordability, the quality matches the price, often resulting in an overly fatty and greasy texture. The strips can be unevenly cooked, lacking the crispiness many desire.
The flavor is not particularly robust, leaving dishes without the expected bacon punch. When it comes to selecting a bacon that satisfies both taste and texture, Bar-S might not be at the top of the list for many bacon enthusiasts.
20. Hillandale Farms Bacon
Hillandale Bacon struggles to impress with its overall quality and taste. The bacon often presents as overly processed, with a texture that can be greasy and unappealing. Uneven cooking is a common issue, leading to a lack of consistency in each bite.
Flavor-wise, it tends to be subdued, lacking the smoky richness that many seek in bacon. For those looking for a dependable and flavorful bacon option, Hillandale may not meet expectations, often leaving room for improvement in texture and taste.