New Orleans Praline Bacon
Sweet and savory New Orleans Praline Bacon combines crispy bacon with a caramelized sugar and chili powder glaze, topped with chopped pecans. This indulgent treat offers a perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and sweet flavors, making it a delightful appetizer or breakfast delicacy for those who enjoy bold tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F.
- Arrange bacon slices on the rack of a large broiler pan in one layer and cook in the middle of the oven for 10 minutes or until it just begins to turn golden.
- In a small bowl, mix together sugar and chili powder.
- Remove the pan from the oven and sprinkle the bacon with the sugar mixture and top with chopped pecans.
- Return to the oven and bake until the bacon is cooked to desired crispness.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving. Do not overcook, or sugar will blacken.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter touch, try using brown sugar instead of white. If you want a spicy kick, consider adding cayenne pepper to the sugar mixture. Keep an eye on the bacon as it bakes to prevent burning; the sugar can blacken quickly. For a crunchier texture, use thicker bacon slices. This dish can also be served as a topping for a Potato Omelet.
Serving Suggestions
Serve praline bacon as a decadent breakfast treat alongside fluffy pancakes or waffles. It also makes a great addition to a brunch platter, pairing well with a Basic Quiche or fresh fruit. For a savory contrast, consider serving it with Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes or a light salad to balance the richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover praline bacon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the bacon on a baking sheet and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bacon chewy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of New Orleans Praline Bacon contains roughly 209 calories, with 7g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 590mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use turkey bacon instead of pork bacon?
Yes, turkey bacon can be used, but the texture and flavor will differ. Since turkey bacon is leaner, it may not crisp up as much, and you might need to adjust the cooking time. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn't dry out.
How do I know when the bacon is cooked to the right crispness?
The bacon is done when it reaches a golden brown color and has a crispy texture. Remember that it will continue to crisp up slightly after you remove it from the oven, so it’s best to take it out just before your desired crispness.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
While it's best to enjoy praline bacon fresh, you can prepare it in advance by cooking it and then reheating it later. Alternatively, you can prepare the bacon and sugar mixture ahead of time and bake it just before serving for optimal freshness.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).