How Many Slices Of Bacon Equal One Ounce? A Helpful Guide

Bacon is a breakfast staple loved for its savory, smoky flavor. Whether you’re frying it up for a BLT, adding it to a hearty potato soup, or crumbling it on top of a salad, it’s handy to know exactly how slices relate to ounces for recipes and meal planning.

So how many slices of bacon make up a one ounce serving? Let’s find out!

The Average Bacon Slice

First, it helps to understand what the average slice of bacon looks like

Most standard supermarket bacon is sold in 1 pound packages containing 16-20 slices. Each slice is around 1/16 inch thick and weighs approximately 06 ounces.

Of course, bacon slice size can vary slightly depending on the brand, cut of pork, smoking process, and other factors. But generally, an average slice of bacon is:

• 1/16 inch thick
• 3-4 inches long
• 2-3 inches wide
• 0.6 ounces

Thicker specialty bacon will weigh more per slice, while thin or extra wide bacon weighs less.

One Ounce Of Bacon Is Usually 2 Slices

According to the USDA, a typical serving size for bacon is around 2-3 slices. This portion works out to approximately 1 ounce of bacon.

So if the average slice of bacon is 0.6 ounces, then two regular slices make up one full ounce.

Three thinner slices may also equal an ounce depending on the brand and cut. But in most cases, two average slices of bacon provide a one ounce serving.

Verifying Bacon Ounces On Packages

When purchasing bacon, always verify the nutrition facts label for exact serving size and slice count information.

Bacon package weights are based on the raw, pre-cooked slices. Don’t go by appearances alone – 10 raw slices may look like 1 pound but actually contain less meat once cooked.

The label should tell you:

• Serving size (typically 2-3 slices per 1 oz)
• Slices per package
• Total ounces

This provides the data needed to determine how many slices equal one ounce in that particular package.

Cooking Tips For 1 Ounce Of Bacon

One ounce of raw bacon cooks down quite a bit. Follow these tips for cooking 2 slices:

• Pan fry: Cook on medium for 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.

• Bake: Place slices on a foil-lined baking sheet. Bake at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through.

• Microwave: Layer between paper towels and microwave in 30 second intervals until desired crispness.

• Grill: Grill over medium heat for about 1-2 minutes per side. Watch closely to avoid burning.

Adjust cook times depending on thickness. Cook 2 slices per person for breakfast sandwiches or BLTs.

Nutrition Information Per Ounce

The nutrition information for a 1 ounce serving of pan fried bacon is:

• Calories: 43
• Fat: 3.5g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Sodium: 158mg
• Protein: 3g

While tasty in moderation, bacon is high in saturated fat and sodium. Balance it out by eating it alongside vegetables and lean proteins.

Buying Bacon By The Ounce

Knowing that 2 average slices makes 1 ounce helps when shopping for just the right amount of bacon.

• 4 slices = 2 ounces (enough for 2 breakfast servings)
• 8 slices = 4 ounces (enough for a BLT lunch)
• 16 slices = 8 ounces (enough for a dinner salad)

For recipes needing just an ounce or two, look for thinner pre-packaged containers or grab bacon from the deli by the slice.

Bacon Slice Substitutes

If you want to limit pork or mimic bacon flavor in a dish, consider these substitutes:

• Turkey bacon
• Beef bacon
• Prosciutto
• Tempeh bacon (vegetarian)
• Coconut bacon (vegan)

Aim for around 1-2 slices of substitute per ounce needed in the recipe. Compare nutrition labels, as fat and sodium content varies.

Let’s Review

• 1 ounce of bacon is typically 2 average slices
• Always check the label for slice count and serving size
• Cook 2 slices per person for breakfast or sandwiches
• Store uncooked bacon for 1 week in the fridge or 6 months in the freezer

Knowing the slice-to-ounce ratio helps you cook and bake with bacon like a pro! Sizzle up the perfect portion for any recipe.