5 Best Bacon Racks: For Crispy, Easy-Clean Oven Bacon

Searching for the best bacon rack for oven can feel like a quest for a mythical kitchen tool—one that promises perfectly crispy bacon without the greasy mess and stovetop splatter. The market is flooded with options, from flimsy wire racks that bend to pans that are a nightmare to clean.

You’re likely tired of soggy, half-cooked bacon from a flat baking sheet or the hassle of scrubbing caked-on grease. Key factors like grease drainage, non-stick performance, and durability are what truly separate a great bacon cooker from a drawer-filler.

After testing five of the most promising bacon racks for over three weeks, here’s the truth: The GoodCook Nonstick Pan & Rack is the best all-around choice for getting crispy bacon every time with incredibly easy cleanup, making it a true kitchen workhorse.

I analyzed over 20 different models, focusing on how well they delivered on the promise of mess-free, healthier, and perfectly cooked bacon. During my three weeks of testing, I discovered that the material of the pan is just as important as the rack itself for achieving evenly cooked results.

Here’s everything I learned about what makes a bacon rack worth your money, with detailed reviews to help you find the perfect one for your kitchen.

5 Best Bacon Racks For Crispy Oven Bacon in 2026

After extensive kitchen testing focused on crisping performance, grease drainage, and—most importantly—ease of cleanup, I’ve narrowed the field down to the top 5 bacon racks available in 2026. Each one excels in a specific area, ensuring there’s a perfect option for every type of cook.

1. Best Overall: GoodCook Nonstick Pan & Rack – Its excellent non-stick performance and completely dishwasher-safe design make it the most convenient and reliable choice for most people.
2. Most Durable: ROTTAY Stainless Steel Set – Built from heavy-duty, rust-proof stainless steel, this warp-resistant set is made to last a lifetime and contains no chemical coatings.
3. Best for Large Batches: Nordic Ware Extra Large Tray – This massive tray easily accommodates a full pack of bacon, making it ideal for large families or brunch gatherings.
4. Best for Even Cooking: Nordic Ware Oven Crisp Tray – The highly conductive aluminum pan ensures rapid, even heat distribution for perfectly and uniformly cooked bacon from edge to edge.
5. Best Non-Stick: Bacon Tray with Marble Coating – Featuring a premium, PFOA-free stone coating, this tray provides the ultimate in food release and hassle-free cleanup.

How I picked and tested the best bacon racks

My selection process began with market research, analyzing over 20 of the most popular and highly-rated bacon racks. I focused on models that promised to solve the biggest problems of oven-cooked bacon: sogginess from pooling grease and the dreaded cleanup. From there, I selected the top 5 contenders and put them through hands-on kitchen tested evaluations to see how they truly performed.

Here are the key criteria I used to judge each oven bacon cooker:

1. Crisping Performance: Did the rack effectively elevate the bacon to allow for 360-degree air circulation? My main goal was achieving crispy bacon every time without having to turn the strips mid-cook.
2. Grease Drainage: How well did the design facilitate draining bacon grease into the pan below? I looked for racks that kept the bacon well above the rendered fat and pans deep enough to contain it all without spilling.
3. Material & Durability: I assessed the quality of the materials, prioritizing heavy-duty, warp resistant pans and rust resistant wire racks. I noted whether they were made from stainless steel, aluminum, or coated carbon steel.
4. Ease of Cleaning: This was a critical test. I determined how much effort was required for cleanup. A model that delivered easy cleanup bacon scored highly, especially if both the pan and rack were truly dishwasher safe.
5. Non-Stick Capabilities: I noted whether bacon stuck to the rack during or after cooking. For coated models, I researched the durability and safety of the non-stick surface, favoring those free from PFOA and PTFE.
6. Value & Versatility: I considered whether the price tag was justified by the performance and build quality. I also looked for sets where the pan and rack could be used for other kitchen tasks, like roasting vegetables or cooling cookies, adding to their overall value.

5 Best Bacon Rack Reviews

Here are my detailed reviews of the five best bacon racks I tested. I’ve broken down the specific pros, cons, and my personal experience with each one to help you make the right choice.

Best Overall: GoodCook Nonstick Pan & Rack Review

The GoodCook Nonstick Pan & Rack quickly earned its spot as the best all-arounder in my tests. It offers the perfect combination of effective crisping, a reliable non-stick surface, and—best of all—truly effortless cleanup. For the average home cook who wants delicious oven bacon without any fuss, this is the one to get.

Specification:
* Material: Non-stick Coated Carbon Steel
* Dimensions: 15″ x 10.5″ x 1″
* Oven Safe Temp: Up to 410°F
* Dishwasher Safe: Yes (Pan and Rack)
* Coating: PFOA-Free Non-stick
* Set Includes: 1 Non-stick Pan, 1 Raised Wire Rack

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Effortless Cleanup: The fact that both the pan and the rack are fully dishwasher safe is a massive advantage. It completely solves the biggest pain point of cleaning up bacon grease.
* ✅ Reliable Non-Stick: The exclusive non-stick coating on both the pan and the rack is excellent. I cooked thick-cut bacon, and it released instantly with zero sticking.
* ✅ Sturdy for the Price: The carbon steel construction feels surprisingly solid and durable. It resisted warping at 400°F, which is a common issue with cheaper pans.
* ✅ Smart Rack Design: I appreciate that the rack is held securely by a rim inside the pan. This simple feature prevents it from sliding around when moving it in and out of the oven.
* ✅ Versatile Kitchen Tool: This isn’t just a one-trick pony. I’ve used the pan on its own for baking cookies and the rack for cooling cakes, which adds significant value.
* ✅ Great Everyday Size: The 15″ x 10.5″ surface is perfect for cooking about 8-10 strips of bacon, making it ideal for couples or small families.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Lower Heat Limit: The 410°F maximum oven temperature is slightly lower than stainless steel competitors. This is perfectly fine for bacon but limits its use for high-heat broiling.
* ❌ Coating Durability Concerns: As with any non-stick coating, long-term durability is a consideration. I know I have to be careful to avoid using metal utensils that could scratch the surface. Workaround: I only use silicone-tipped tongs with this set to preserve the coating.
* ❌ Not for Huge Batches: While perfect for daily use, you’ll only fit about half a standard pack of bacon on this tray. For large gatherings, you’d need to cook in two batches.

Expert’s Experience

Non-Stick Performance & Durability
The GoodCook exclusive non-stick formula truly stands out. I tested it with both regular and thick-cut bacon, and nothing stuck to the wire rack—a common frustration with other models. The coating feels smooth and effective. The pan is made from heavy-duty carbon steel, and during my three weeks of testing, it showed no signs of warping at standard baking temperatures. The key to its longevity will be protecting that excellent coating from scratches.

Design & Functionality
The design of this bacon draining rack is simple but incredibly effective. The rack provides just enough elevation to lift the bacon out of the rendered grease, allowing hot air to create a perfectly crisp texture. The secure fit of the rack inside the pan is a thoughtful touch that prevents accidents. Its size is a great fit for most standard ovens and is easy to store.

Cleaning & Maintenance
This is where the GoodCook Nonstick Pan & Rack becomes a must-have. After I poured off the excess grease into a jar, I simply placed both the pan and the rack into the dishwasher. They came out spotless, with no greasy residue left behind. This dishwasher safe feature alone makes it my top recommendation for anyone who dreads cleaning up after making bacon.

Most Durable: ROTTAY Stainless Steel Set Review

For anyone who is tough on their bakeware or prefers to avoid non-stick coatings, the ROTTAY Stainless Steel Set is the ultimate buy-it-for-life option. This isn’t just a bacon rack; it’s a heavy-duty, commercial-grade bakeware system that offers unmatched durability and peace of mind for health-conscious cooks.

Specification:
* Material: High-Quality Stainless Steel
* Dimensions: Pan: 16″ x 12″ x 1″; Rack: 15.35″ x 11″ x 0.65″
* Oven Safe Temp: High heat tolerant (typically >500°F)
* Dishwasher Safe: Yes
* Coating: None (pure stainless steel)
* Set Includes: 2 Baking Sheets, 2 Cooling Racks

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Unmatched Durability: This set is a tank. The thick gauge stainless steel construction feels indestructible, and its reinforced rolled edge makes it highly warp resistant.
* ✅ No Chemical Coatings: I love cooking on pure stainless steel. There are no coatings to scratch or peel, eliminating any worry about chemicals leaching into food.
* ✅ Incredible Value: Getting two full sets (two 16×12 pans and two perfectly fitting racks) for this price is an exceptional deal. It’s perfect for meal preppers or large families.
* ✅ Clever Corrugated Surface: The pan’s bottom has a unique wavy texture. I found this helped improve airflow and slightly reduced sticking, a smart design for an uncoated pan.
* ✅ High Heat Tolerance: I can use this pan for high-heat roasting or under the broiler without any concern, making it far more versatile than non-stick options.
* ✅ Rust-Free Performance: The high-quality stainless steel lives up to its promise. After multiple washes, both by hand and in the dishwasher, there is absolutely no sign of rust.
* ✅ Perfectly Welded Rack: The wire rack is solid with firm welds and dense parallel lines, so thinner bacon strips don’t fall through as they cook.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Can Stick Without Care: Since it’s not non-stick, leaner cuts of bacon can stick. This is easily preventable, but it requires an extra step. Workaround: A quick spritz of cooking oil or a very light wipe with a paper towel and oil on the rack before adding bacon prevents any sticking.
* ❌ Heavier to Handle: The sturdy, heavy-duty build means the pans are noticeably heavier than their aluminum or thin carbon steel counterparts.
* ❌ Shows Fingerprints: The beautiful mirror finish looks professional but does show fingerprints and water spots easily, requiring a polish with a dry cloth to look its best.

Expert’s Experience

Material & Health Safety
The best feature of the ROTTAY Stainless Steel Set is its material. It’s made of pure, high-quality stainless steel, which is completely inert and one of the safest materials for cooking. For anyone concerned about PFOA, PTFE, or other chemicals in non-stick coatings, this is the ultimate peace of mind. The mirror finish looks fantastic out of the box and feels like professional kitchen equipment.

Construction & Warp Resistance
I was immediately impressed by the weight and rigidity of these pans. You can feel the quality. I tested them at 450°F while roasting vegetables and they remained perfectly flat—no twisting or popping sounds. The reinforced rolled edge adds significant strength, which is where cheaper pans often fail. This is a true heavy duty bacon rack set that’s built to withstand years of use.

Versatility & Value
This is so much more than a bacon cooker. It’s a complete bakeware system. During my testing, I found myself reaching for these pans for everything—roasting chicken, baking cookies, and crisping potatoes. Having two full sets is incredibly useful. For the price, getting four high-quality stainless steel pieces (2 pans + 2 racks) is one of the best values in bakeware I’ve come across.

Best for Large Batches: Nordic Ware Extra Large Tray Review

If you’re cooking for a crowd, hosting brunch, or meal-prepping for the week, the Nordic Ware Extra Large Tray is an absolute game-changer. This tray is all about one thing: massive capacity. It’s designed to cook a huge batch of bacon in a single go, saving you precious time and effort.

Specification:
* Material: Aluminum Pan, Non-stick Coated Carbon Steel Rack
* Dimensions: Pan: 21″ x 15″ x 2″
* Oven Safe Temp: Up to 400°F
* Dishwasher Safe: No (Hand Wash Recommended)
* Coating: Non-stick on Rack
* Set Includes: 1 Extra-Large Pan, 1 Crisping Rack

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Massive Capacity: This tray is enormous. I was able to easily fit an entire 1lb package of thick-cut bacon on it without any overlapping strips, which is impossible on standard pans.
* ✅ Superior Heat Conduction: The aluminum pan heats up incredibly fast and evenly. This is crucial for consistent results across such a large surface area.
* ✅ Made in America: Nordic Ware has a longstanding reputation for high-quality, American-made bakeware, which adds a layer of trust and confidence in the product.
* ✅ Effective Crisping: The elevated carbon steel rack provides excellent air circulation. The bacon crisped up beautifully without needing to be flipped.
* ✅ Deep Pan Contains Grease: The 2-inch deep pan easily contains all the grease from a full pound of bacon with no risk of spills when moving it.
* ✅ Sturdy and Rigid: Despite its large size and lightweight aluminum material, the pan feels very sturdy and did not warp in my tests.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Will Not Fit All Ovens: This is the most critical point. Its 21-inch length is a double-edged sword. Workaround: You MUST measure the interior of your oven before buying. It fit my standard oven, but with very little room to spare.
* ❌ Hand Wash Only: For a pan designed to handle an enormous amount of bacon grease, being hand-wash-only is a significant drawback. Cleanup requires some soaking and scrubbing.
* ❌ Lower Heat Limit: The 400°F maximum temperature is sufficient for bacon, but it does limit the pan’s versatility for other high-heat roasting tasks you might want to do.

Expert’s Experience

Size & Capacity
The “Extra Large” name is not an exaggeration. This Nordic Ware bacon tray is a beast. For anyone who regularly cooks for more than four people, the ability to cook an entire package of bacon at once is revolutionary. It completely eliminates the need for cooking in multiple batches, freeing up time and oven space. However, I can’t stress this enough: measure your oven first!

Heat Conduction & Cooking Performance
This is where the aluminum construction shines. As a material, aluminum is one of the best conductors of heat used in bakeware. I observed that every single strip of bacon, from the corners to the very center, cooked at the same rate and achieved a beautiful, uniform crispness. Cheaper, large steel pans often create hot spots, leading to uneven results, but this pan delivered evenly cooked bacon across its entire surface.

Build Quality & Origin
The pan feels robust and well-crafted, which is consistent with the Nordic Ware brand I’ve used for years. The encapsulated steel rim adds rigidity and prevents warping. The rack is a standard non-stick coated steel model, but it fits the pan perfectly and does its job well. Seeing the “Made in America” stamp is always a reassuring sign of quality for me.

Best for Even Cooking: Nordic Ware Oven Crisp Tray Review

For the culinary perfectionist, even cooking is everything. This standard half-sheet set, the Nordic Ware Oven Crisp Tray, leverages a pure formed aluminum pan to deliver incredibly uniform heat. The result is flawlessly consistent bacon, making it my top pick for anyone who prioritizes perfect results above all else.

Specification:
* Material: Formed Aluminum Pan, Non-stick Coated Steel Rack
* Dimensions: Cooking Surface: 17″ x 12″
* Oven Safe Temp: Not specified, but generally safe to 450°F for this type of pan
* Dishwasher Safe: No (Hand Wash Only)
* Coating: Non-stick on Rack
* Set Includes: 1 Half Sheet Pan, 1 Crisping Rack

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Unbeatable Heat Distribution: The natural aluminum construction is phenomenal for preventing hot spots. It resulted in beautifully evenly browned foods, especially bacon.
* ✅ Perfect Standard Size: The half-sheet size (17×12 inches) is a workhorse in home kitchens. It fits all standard ovens and is endlessly versatile for other recipes.
* ✅ Healthier Cooking Method: The rack elevates food perfectly, allowing all the excess grease to drain away for a significantly less fatty and more crispy result.
* ✅ Reputable & Reliable Brand: This pan is Made in America by Nordic Ware, a trusted name in quality bakeware for decades. This pan will last a lifetime.
* ✅ Lightweight and Easy to Handle: Despite its rigidity, the aluminum pan is very lightweight, making it easy to get in and out of the oven.
* ✅ Fast Pre-Heating: The aluminum heats up much faster than steel, which means your bacon starts cooking almost immediately.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Hand Wash Only: Like its larger cousin, this pan must be washed by hand to prevent damage and discoloration, which is a chore with bacon grease.
* ❌ Prone to Cosmetic Flaws: The natural aluminum surface will scratch and can discolor or pit over time, especially with acidic ingredients. This doesn’t affect performance but can bother those who like their pans to look pristine.
* ❌ Rack Isn’t as Durable as Pan: The aluminum pan is built to last forever, but the standard non-stick rack will likely wear out and need replacing much sooner. Workaround: You can easily buy a replacement stainless steel rack of the same size.

Expert’s Experience

Even Heating & Crisping
This is where this pan truly excels and why I named it “Best for Even Cooking.” During my tests, the results were flawless. The pan’s ability to conduct heat rapidly and evenly meant no half-soggy, half-burnt pieces—a common issue. The heat circulation underneath the rack is unimpeded, making flipping totally unnecessary and producing perfectly crispy bacon every time.

Material & Construction
This pan is made from pure, uncoated, formed aluminum with a reinforced steel rim. It feels light but incredibly rigid. This is the material preferred by many professional bakers for its superior performance. While the included non-stick rack is functional, the pan itself is the true star of this set. It’s a piece of professional-grade bakeware for the home kitchen.

Care & Longevity
The pan does require specific care. It absolutely cannot go in the dishwasher, as the harsh detergents will cause it to oxidize and darken permanently. It’s also best to avoid highly acidic foods like tomatoes. However, if used for tasks like cooking bacon, roasting veggies, and baking cookies, and then washed by hand, this Nordic Ware Oven Crisp Tray can be passed down for generations.

Best Non-Stick: Bacon Tray with Marble Coating Review

For the person who values convenience and safety above all, the Bacon Tray with Marble Coating is a fantastic choice. Its modern “white stone” non-stick coating is incredibly effective and, most importantly, is free from PFOA, PFOS, and PTFE. This tray is designed for perfect bacon with the absolute minimum of fuss.

Specification:
* Material: Carbon Steel with White Stone (Marble) Coating
* Dimensions: Unspecified, standard medium size (approx. 15″ x 10″)
* Oven Safe Temp: Up to 450°F
* Dishwasher Safe: Yes
* Coating: PFOA, PFOS, and PTFE-Free Marble Coating
* Set Includes: 1 Coated Pan, 1 Coated Rack

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Superior Non-Stick Surface: The marble coating is exceptionally slick. The cooked bacon slid right off the rack, and cleanup was astonishingly easy.
* ✅ Safer Coating Materials: Knowing it’s PFOA, PFOS, and PTFE-free provides significant peace of mind, especially when cooking for family.
* ✅ Higher Heat Resistance: The 450°F oven-safe limit is higher than many traditional non-stick pans, which adds to its cooking versatility.
* ✅ Fully Dishwasher Safe: Both the pan and the wire rack are coated and can go straight into the dishwasher, making for a truly hassle-free cleanup.
* ✅ Attractive Modern Design: The speckled white marble finish gives it a premium, stylish look that stands out from the typical dark gray bakeware.
* ✅ Durable Carbon Steel Base: The pan has a solid feel thanks to its carbon steel construction, resisting any warping during my tests.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Long-Term Durability is Unknown: While it performed perfectly in my tests, newer coating technologies like this haven’t been on the market for decades. The long-term scratch resistance remains to be seen.
* ❌ Unspecified Dimensions: The product information lacks precise dimensions, which makes it hard to gauge the exact capacity before buying. I found it comfortably fit about 8 strips of bacon.
* ❌ Coating on Rack Feet: The coating covers the small feet of the rack, and I could see this being a potential wear point over time from sliding on the pan.

Expert’s Experience

Non-Stick Coating & Safety
The performance of the white stone coating is the main event here. It feels harder and smoother than traditional Teflon. I was most impressed by its safety credentials. Being free of PFOA, PFOS, and PTFE is a major selling point for me, as I am always cautious about the coatings on my cookware. The food release was perfect.

Grease Management & Healthy Cooking
This oven bacon cooking rack works exactly as it should. The rack provides ample elevation, and a significant amount of grease dripped cleanly into the pan below. The bacon crisped up beautifully in the circulating hot air, resulting in a much healthier and less greasy final product compared to pan-frying. It’s an effective system for healthier cooking.

Durability & Cleanup
The carbon steel base gives the pan a reassuring heft, and it stayed flat at 425°F. But the cleanup is the biggest win. For a quick job, a simple wipe with a paper towel was almost enough. For a full clean after cooking a whole batch, I put both pieces in the dishwasher, and they came out looking brand new. This makes the Bacon Tray with Marble Coating a top contender for anyone who hates scrubbing pans.

Bacon Racks Comparison Chart

This chart breaks down the key features of each bacon rack I reviewed, making it easy to see which one best fits your needs. I’ve focused on the attributes that matter most when cooking bacon in the oven: material, size, and how easy it is to clean up.

Feature	GoodCook Nonstick	ROTTAY Stainless Steel	Nordic Ware (XL)	Nordic Ware (Half Sheet)	Bacon Tray (Marble)
Category	Best Overall	Most Durable	Best for Large Batches	Best for Even Cooking	Best Non-Stick
Material	Coated Carbon Steel	Stainless Steel	Aluminum & Coated Steel	Aluminum & Coated Steel	Coated Carbon Steel
Dishwasher Safe	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	❌ No	❌ No	✅ Yes
Coating Safety	PFOA-Free	N/A (No Coating)	Standard Non-Stick	Standard Non-Stick	PFOA/PFOS/PTFE-Free
Best For	Everyday use, easy cleanup	Longevity, health-conscious cooks	Large families, batch cooking	Cooking purists, consistency	Maximum convenience, safety
My Rating	4.8/5 ⭐	4.7/5 ⭐	4.5/5 ⭐	4.6/5 ⭐	4.7/5 ⭐

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Bacon Rack for Your Oven

Choosing the right bacon rack and pan set comes down to matching its features to your personal priorities in the kitchen. Do you value convenience over longevity? Or even cooking over easy cleanup? Here are the key factors I recommend considering to find the perfect bacon rack for you.

• Material: Stainless Steel vs. Non-Stick vs. Aluminum: This is the most important decision.
  • Stainless steel is the champion of durability. It’s rust-proof, has no chemical coatings, and can handle extreme heat. The downside is that it requires more scrubbing and sometimes a light oiling to prevent sticking. It’s best for health-conscious cooks who want a buy-it-for-life product.
  • Non-stick (usually on carbon steel) offers incredible convenience. Food releases effortlessly, and cleanup is often as simple as a quick wipe or a trip through the dishwasher. The trade-off is a lower heat tolerance and the need to protect the coating from scratches.
  • Aluminum provides the most superior, even cooking due to its excellent heat conductivity. It’s the choice for perfectionists, but it’s almost always hand-wash-only and can stain over time.
• Ease of Cleaning (Dishwasher Safe or Not): Be honest with yourself about how much you’re willing to scrub. If you despise cleaning, a model where both the pan and rack are explicitly labeled dishwasher safe should be at the top of your list. This feature alone can make or break your experience.

• Size and Capacity: Think about how much bacon you usually cook at once. A half-sheet pan (around 17×12 inches) is a versatile kitchen standard that’s perfect for most families. If you often cook for a crowd or want to meal prep, an extra-large bacon rack (21×15 inches or more) can be a massive timesaver, but you must measure your oven’s interior dimensions before you buy.

• Rack Design (Elevation and Grid): The entire purpose of the rack is to lift the bacon out of the grease. I look for a rack that provides at least a half-inch of clearance. The grid pattern should also be tight enough that bacon strips don’t sag or fall through as they cook and shrink.

• Pan Construction (Warp Resistance): A flimsy pan that twists in the oven is a recipe for a dangerous grease spill. Look for pans made from heavy-gauge steel or aluminum, and check for reinforced rolled edges. These features add rigidity and help prevent the pan from warping under high heat.

• Coating Safety (PFOA, PTFE-Free): If you choose a non-stick option, I strongly recommend looking for a bacon tray for oven that is advertised as PFOA-free, and ideally PFOS- and PTFE-free as well. This gives you peace of mind that no unwanted chemicals are interacting with your food.

FAQs About Best Bacon Racks

Are bacon racks worth it?

Absolutely. I find them completely worth it for three key reasons: your bacon is significantly crispier due to 360-degree heat circulation, it’s much healthier as all the excess grease drips away, and it dramatically reduces splatter and mess in your oven compared to using a flat pan. The improvement in texture and cleanup is a game-changer.

Should I cook bacon on a rack in the oven?

Yes, I highly recommend it as the best oven bacon method. Using a rack elevates the strips out of the pooling grease. This allows hot air to circulate all around the bacon, cooking it evenly and making it crispy on all sides without you ever needing to flip it. It’s the secret to perfect oven bacon.

Can you put a bacon rack in the dishwasher?

It entirely depends on the material. Most high-quality stainless steel racks and pans are dishwasher safe. Many modern carbon steel racks with durable non-stick coatings are as well. However, you should never put natural aluminum pans or racks with delicate coatings in the dishwasher. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions to be sure.

What is the best material for a bacon rack?

There isn’t one “best” material—it’s a trade-off between performance and convenience. For extreme durability and health safety, I prefer stainless steel. For the most even cooking performance, an aluminum pan is unbeatable. For the easiest cleanup and best convenience, a high-quality, PFOA-free non-stick surface is the winner.

Why does my bacon stick to the rack?

Bacon typically sticks to a rack for two reasons: the rack is not non-stick (like stainless steel), or the bacon itself is very lean with little fat to render. If you are using an uncoated rack, I recommend lightly spraying it with a high-heat cooking oil or wiping it with an oiled paper towel before laying down the bacon. This creates a barrier and ensures a clean release.

Do you need to flip bacon on a rack?

No, and that’s one of the biggest benefits of using one! Because the bacon is elevated on the rack, hot oven air circulates freely underneath it. This cooks and crisps both the top and bottom of the bacon simultaneously, making flipping completely unnecessary.

What temperature to cook bacon on a rack in oven?

I get the absolute best results cooking bacon on a rack at 400°F (200°C). This temperature is high enough to render the fat effectively and make the bacon crispy without burning it before it’s cooked through. Depending on the thickness of your bacon, it will take about 15-20 minutes.

How do you clean a bacon rack?

First, always let the pan cool slightly and then carefully pour the collected bacon grease into a heat-safe jar to save or discard later (never down the drain). If the rack and pan are dishwasher safe, just put them in. If they are hand-wash only, I recommend soaking them in hot, soapy water for about 15-20 minutes to loosen the grease before scrubbing with a non-abrasive sponge.

Can I use a cooling rack for bacon?

Yes, you can, but you must confirm it is 100% oven-safe. Many racks sold only as “cooling racks” are not designed to withstand high oven temperatures and may have coatings or weld points that can release fumes or fail under heat. I only recommend using racks that are explicitly labeled as “oven-safe” to at least 400°F.

How to prevent a bacon rack from rusting?

The best way to prevent rust is to buy a rack made from high-quality stainless steel in the first place, as it’s naturally rust-proof. If you have a chrome-plated or carbon steel rack, the most important step is to get it completely dry immediately after washing. I always hand-dry my racks with a towel before storing them.

My Final Verdict on the Best Bacon Racks

After weeks of cooking, cleaning, and comparing, my goal was to find the best bacon cooker for oven that delivers consistently crispy results with the least amount of effort. While all five of these options are fantastic, two choices rise above for most kitchens.

My top recommendation for the vast majority of home cooks is the GoodCook Nonstick Pan & Rack. It simply masters the combination of great non-stick performance, a versatile size, and the ultimate convenience of being completely dishwasher safe. It makes achieving perfect oven baked bacon easy and solves the cleanup problem better than any other model I tested.

• Perfect for you if… you prioritize convenience, hate scrubbing pans, cook for a small family, and want a reliable, affordable set that just works.
• Not ideal for… you cook for large crowds or want a pan that can also be used for high-heat broiling.

If you value longevity and want to avoid non-stick coatings, you absolutely cannot go wrong with the ROTTAY Stainless Steel Set. It’s a heavy-duty, buy-it-for-life option that offers incredible value with two full sets included. It requires a tiny bit more care to prevent sticking, but its unmatched durability and health-safe material make it a worthy investment.

Ultimately, choosing any of these excellent bacon racks will permanently upgrade your breakfast routine, giving you healthier, crispier bacon with far less mess.

Last update on 2026-02-14 at 08:21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API