How Many Slices of Bacon Equal 4 Ounces? A Helpful Guide

Bacon is a breakfast staple loved by many for its smoky, salty, umami flavor. It can transform simple dishes like eggs or pancakes into a hearty, satisfying meal. Bacon is also used to add a punch of flavor to sandwiches, burgers, soups, salads and more.

But when a recipe calls for a specific weight of bacon, like 4 ounces, how do you know how many raw slices to use? The number of slices in 4 ounces of bacon depends on the thickness and can vary quite a bit

In this article we’ll provide a helpful guide on how many slices typically make up 4 ounces of bacon. We’ll also explain why the slice count can change based on cut, share tips for measuring bacon accurately and how to substitute diced bacon. Let’s dive in!

How Many Slices Are in 4 Ounces of Bacon?

As a general rule of thumb, 4 slices of average cut bacon is approximately 4 ounces. Most standard sliced bacon packages contain 16-20 slices per pound. So if you divide a 1 pound package into 4 quarter-pound portions, each will contain about 4 slices.

However. bacon slice counts can range quite a bit

• Thin or regular cut bacon – 4 to 5 slices per 4 ounces
• Thick cut bacon – 2 to 3 slices per 4 ounces
• Extra thick bacon – 2 slices per 4 ounces

The thicker the cut, the fewer slices make up 4 ounces. Thinner bacon contains less meat per slice and more fat that renders out. So more slices are needed to equal a certain weight.

When in doubt, it’s best to weigh bacon slices on a food scale rather than go by slice counts alone. The scale doesn’t lie!

Why Bacon Slice Counts Vary

There are a few reasons why bacon slice counts can vary for a given weight:

• Cut Thickness – Thicker cut bacon has more meat and less fat per slice. Thin bacon is the opposite – more fat and less meat per slice.

• Meat to Fat Ratio – Some bacon contains more fat marbling vs. meat. Fatty bacon will have a lower slice count per ounce.

• Brand and Package Size – Each brand slices and packages their bacon differently, leading to varying slice counts per pound.

• Cooking Method – Frying can render out more fat than baking, potentially altering the ounce weight.

• Inconsistencies – No two packages of bacon are exactly alike. Differences in slice sizes happen, even within the same brand.

For the most accuracy, choose a reputable brand and weigh the bacon rather than depend solely on slice counts per pound listed on the package.

Tips for Measuring Bacon Accurately

When a recipe calls for a certain weight of bacon, use these tips to measure it out correctly:

• Invest in a food scale for the most precision. Weigh whole slices rather than trying to convert slice counts.

• When weighing, make sure the bacon is raw. Cooking renders out fat and reduces the total weight.

• If using diced bacon, weigh it rather than trying to estimate cup amounts.

• For accuracy, make sure to weigh bacon slices individually or in small batches instead of all at once.

• Refer to the nutrition label on your package for weights and slice counts per serving. Brands vary.

• Note the approximate slice count per ounce for future reference. This varies based on thickness.

• When in doubt, it’s better to have extra than not enough. You can always save leftovers!

Following these simple tips will remove the guesswork and help you use just the right amount of bacon for your recipes.

Converting Diced Bacon Measurements

Many recipes call for diced bacon by volume, like 1/4 cup. But most bacon packages list serving sizes by weight. Here are some handy conversions for substituting diced bacon:

• 1/4 cup diced raw bacon = approx. 1 ounce
• 1/2 cup diced raw bacon = approx. 2 ounces
• 3/4 cup diced raw bacon = approx. 3 ounces
• 1 cup diced raw bacon = approx. 4 ounces

These conversions are based on bacon diced to 1/4 inch pieces. Just remember that 4 ounces of diced bacon is roughly equivalent to 4 slices of standard cut bacon. Adjust amounts as needed based on thickness.

When cooking, bacon will decrease in volume as the fat renders out. So you’ll need more diced cooked bacon than the raw amount called for in a recipe.

The Best Way to Measure Bacon Fat

When cooking with bacon fat, the best way to measure it is by weight rather than volume. Using a food scale, just weigh out however many ounces or grams you need.

This is much more accurate than trying to measure bacon grease in cups or tablespoons, which can be tricky. The fat is liquid when hot but becomes more solid when cooled.

If you don’t have a scale, make your best guess based on volume measurements of the rendered bacon fat. Just note that a cup of liquid fat weighs much less than a cup of cooled, semi-solid fat.

Cooking Tips for 4 Ounces of Bacon

When your recipe calls for 4 ounces of bacon, keep these tips in mind:

• Cook the bacon until crispy to render out the most fat for other cooking uses.

• Bake bacon in the oven at 400°F for even cooking without the need to flip.

• If frying, use a nonstick pan and cook over medium heat to prevent sticking.

• Drain bacon on paper towels before crumbling or chopping to absorb excess grease.

• Reserve bacon fat in the pan for cooking eggs, vegetables, or other ingredients.

• Let bacon cool before adding to salads or soups so it doesn’t wilt the other ingredients.

No matter what you’re cooking, weighing out bacon ensures you use just the right amount for the recipe. With these simple tips for measurement and cooking, you can use those 4 ounces of bacon to their full flavor potential. Let us know your favorite tips and tricks!

Frequently Asked Questions

How many slices are in 8 ounces of bacon?

For average cut bacon, 8 ounces is roughly equivalent to about 8 slices. Thinner bacon may require 9-10 slices for 8 ounces, while thick cut would be around 5-6 slices.

What should I do if my bacon slices seem larger or smaller than average?

It’s best to weigh the slices individually or in small batches for accuracy, rather than depend on a standard slice count per pound. All bacon packages vary slightly.

Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular pork bacon?

Yes, you can substitute turkey bacon for regular bacon in a 1:1 ratio by weight. 4 ounces of turkey bacon slices can replace 4 ounces of pork bacon. Just know the flavor and fat content will differ.

How can I make bacon crust on meat or vegetables?

Lay raw bacon slices evenly over the food and bake at 375°F until the bacon becomes crispy, about 15-25 minutes. The bacon fat will drizzle down and create a nice crust around the edges.

How long does raw uncooked bacon last in the fridge?

Raw bacon will keep for 5-7 days in the fridge when stored properly in a sealed container. For longer storage, bacon can be frozen for up to 1-2 months.