How Many Slices of Bacon are in 8 Ounces?

Bacon is a breakfast staple in many households The salty, savory flavor of crispy bacon pairs perfectly with eggs, pancakes, and more But when buying bacon at the store or deli counter, how many slices come in 8 ounces?

The number of bacon slices in 8 ounces can vary based on the thickness of the slices and brand. Below is a detailed breakdown of approximate slice counts in 8 ounces of bacon.

Typical Bacon Slice Sizes

Bacon is sold in a few common slice thicknesses

• Regular sliced – Typically 1/16 inch thick
• Thick sliced – Approximately 1/8 inch thick
• Extra thick sliced – Around 1/4 inch thick

Regular sliced bacon is the most common and provides thin, delicate slices perfect for folding in half on sandwiches or burgers.

Thick cut bacon has more heft if you prefer substantial slices for breakfast or BLTs. Extra thick cut bacon is ideal for baking or serving as a larger portion.

Bacon slice sizes also differ slightly between brands. So check the packaging for more details on thickness.

Slices Per 8 Ounces of Regular Bacon

For regular sliced bacon, you can expect approximately 18 to 22 slices in 8 ounces. This accounts for minor variations in thickness between brands.

As a general guideline for regular sliced bacon:

• Oscar Mayer original sliced = 20 slices per 8 oz package
• Hormel Black Label bacon = 22 slices per 8 oz pack
• Smithfield regular sliced = 18 slices per 8 ounces
• Private label or butcher shop bacon = 16-20 slices per 8 oz

The average is right around 20 slices for regular cut bacon. Thicker or thinner slices will change the counts.

Slices Per 8 Ounces of Thick Cut Bacon

With thick cut bacon around 1/8 inch thick, you’ll get 14 to 16 slices in 8 ounces on average.

Here are some estimates for popular thick cut bacon brands:

• Oscar Mayer thick cut = 14 slices per 8 oz pack
• Hormel thick cut = 15 slices per 8 oz
• Wright thick cut = 16 slices per 8 oz
• Private label thick cut = 12-14 slices per 8 oz

Since the slices are thicker, there are fewer per 8 ounce package compared to regular sliced.

Slices Per 8 Ounces of Extra Thick Bacon

Extra thick cut bacon can have even fewer slices in an 8 ounce pack given the larger 1/4 inch thickness. You’ll get approximately 8 to 12 slices in 8 ounces of extra thick cut bacon.

For specific extra thick bacon brands:

• Oscar Mayer extra thick = 10 slices per 8 oz
• Wright extra thick = 12 slices per 8 oz
• Private label extra thick = 8-10 slices per 8 oz

The substantial 1/4 inch slices mean less total slices in an 8 ounce pack.

Factors Affecting Bacon Slice Counts

There are a few reasons why bacon slice counts can vary between brands:

• Inconsistent slice thicknesses
• Differences in pork belly size and shape
• Type of equipment used for slicing
• Packaging process and desired weight per pack

When purchasing bacon, check the nutrition facts label for total slice information to get an exact count. Weighing slices can also provide precision.

Nutrition Info Per Slice

The nutrition information for a typical slice of pan-fried bacon is:

• Calories: 40
• Fat: 3g
• Carbs: 0g
• Protein: 3g
• Sodium: 180mg

Bacon is high in sodium, so those limiting salt intake may want smaller portion sizes.

Cooking and Storing Bacon

Here are some tips for cooking and storing bacon:

• Refrigerate unopened bacon 1 week past “sell by” date or freeze up to 1 month.

• Cook until crispy for best texture. Use a skillet or bake in the oven.

• Let cooked bacon drain on paper towels to absorb excess grease.

• Store cooked bacon in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for 1-2 months.

• Add cooked bacon crumbles to salads, baked potatoes, omelets, pasta, and more.