Are you a bacon lover who’s tired of feeling guilty about indulging in this savory delight? Look no further! We’ve got 20 delicious and healthy bacon recipes that will satisfy your cravings without compromising on nutrition. From sweet potato wraps to quinoa salads, and from breakfast muffins to stuffed peppers, these recipes showcase the versatility of bacon in a guilt-free way.
In this article, we’ll explore the world of healthy bacon recipes, featuring a mix of breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snack options that are all quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a tasty breakfast on-the-go or a satisfying weeknight dinner, our list of 20 recipes has got you covered.
Stay tuned to discover the perfect blend of crunch, smokiness, and nutrition in every bite!
Turkey Bacon and Avocado Wrap
A delicious and healthy twist on the classic wrap, this recipe combines the smoky flavor of turkey bacon with the creaminess of avocado.
Ingredients:
– 1 large flour tortilla
– 2 slices of turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1/4 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 tablespoon hummus
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Lay the tortilla flat on a clean surface.
2. Spread the hummus evenly across the center of the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Top with crumbled turkey bacon, mashed avocado, and mixed greens.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roll up the wrap tightly and slice in half.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Baked Sweet Potato with Crispy Turkey Bacon
Elevate your snack game with this simple yet satisfying recipe that combines the natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes with the crispy, savory goodness of turkey bacon.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 6 slices of turkey bacon
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the sweet potatoes clean and poke some holes in them with a fork.
3. Rub the sweet potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Bake the sweet potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Meanwhile, cook the turkey bacon slices in a pan over medium heat until crispy.
6. Once the sweet potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and top each one with a few pieces of crispy turkey bacon.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Healthy Bacon and Egg Breakfast Muffins
Start your day with a nutritious twist on traditional breakfast muffins! These bite-sized treats combine crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, and whole grain goodness for a protein-packed morning boost.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs
– 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
– 6 muffin cups
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together eggs and milk. Add crumbled bacon, honey, baking powder, and salt. Mix well.
3. In another bowl, combine oats and flour.
4. Divide the egg mixture among muffin cups.
5. Top each with a spoonful of the oat mixture.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Spinach and Bacon Stuffed Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this creamy, savory, and satisfying recipe that combines the flavors of spinach, bacon, and chicken. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, bacon, garlic, and cream cheese.
3. Lay the chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the spinach mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Close the incision and secure the filling with toothpicks if necessary.
6. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Quinoa Salad with Turkey Bacon and Lemon Vinaigrette
This refreshing quinoa salad combines the nutty flavor of cooked quinoa with the smoky taste of turkey bacon, all tied together with a zesty lemon vinaigrette.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 6 slices turkey bacon, diced
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth.
2. In a large skillet, cook turkey bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, turkey bacon, and cherry tomatoes.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil to make vinaigrette. Pour over the quinoa mixture and toss to coat.
6. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus Bundles
Elevate your asparagus game with this easy and impressive recipe that wraps the tender spears in crispy bacon. Perfect for a quick dinner or special occasion, these bundles are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wrap each asparagus spear with a slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed.
3. Place the bundles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each bundle.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
6. Serve hot with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cauliflower and Bacon Soup
This creamy soup is a perfect blend of flavors, with roasted cauliflower and crispy bacon adding depth and richness to this comforting dish. Serve as a starter or enjoy as a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 1/2 cup of heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large pot, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Add remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pot. Cook chopped onion until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add roasted cauliflower, chicken broth, and heavy cream to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
6. Blend soup until smooth, then stir in cooked bacon.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Healthy Bacon and Brussels Sprouts Stir-Fry
This recipe is a flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stir-fries, combining crispy bacon with tender Brussels sprouts and savory aromatics. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 6 slices of thick-cut applewood-smoked bacon
– 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the bacon for 4-5 minutes, or until crispy, flipping halfway through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the olive oil, garlic, and Brussels sprouts to the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sprouts are tender-crisp.
4. Add the cooked bacon back into the pan and stir in the soy sauce.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey Bacon and Kale Frittata
Elevate your morning routine with this flavorful frittata packed with turkey bacon, kale, and a hint of spices. Perfect for a quick breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 4 slices of turkey bacon, diced
– 2 cups of curly kale, chopped
– 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the turkey bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat.
3. Add chopped kale to the same skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the cooked kale and turkey bacon in the skillet.
6. Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese on top.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the edges start to set.
8. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the frittata is fully cooked and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon and Egg Stuffed Bell Peppers
A delicious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the savory flavors of crispy bacon and scrambled eggs with sweet bell peppers. Perfect for breakfast or brunch!
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, whisk together eggs and season with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the egg mixture, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheese (if using).
5. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Grilled Shrimp and Bacon Skewers
Add a touch of smoky flavor to your next outdoor gathering with these easy-to-make Grilled Shrimp and Bacon Skewers. A perfect combination of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into thirds
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Thread shrimp and bacon onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the mixture evenly over the shrimp and bacon.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes or until shrimp are pink and bacon is crispy.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Bacon and Mushroom Stuffed Zucchini Boats
This recipe combines the flavors of crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, and fresh zucchini for a delicious summer dish. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, these stuffed zucchinis are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized zucchinis
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 cup of mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell.
3. In a skillet, sauté the mushrooms and garlic until tender. Add the cooked bacon and stir to combine.
4. Stuff each zucchini boat with the mushroom-bacon mixture, followed by a sprinkle of cheese.
5. Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender and the filling is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Healthy Bacon and Sweet Corn Chowder
This creamy soup combines the smoky flavor of bacon with the sweetness of corn, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of sweet corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 1 medium-sized potato, peeled and diced
– 2 cups of chicken broth
– 1/2 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh chives or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy, then remove from heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the corn kernels, potato, chicken broth, and cooked bacon back into the pot.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the potato is tender.
5. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chives or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Bacon and Spinach Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Elevate your dinner game with these savory stuffed mushrooms that combine the rich flavors of bacon, spinach, and melted cheese. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Wipe mushrooms clean with a damp cloth and remove stems.
3. In a bowl, mix together crumbled bacon, spinach, and cheddar cheese.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the bacon-spinach mixture, dividing it evenly among the four caps.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed mushrooms and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey Bacon and Egg White Breakfast Burrito
Start your day with a protein-packed breakfast burrito that combines the savory flavors of turkey bacon, egg whites, and melted cheese wrapped in a warm tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked egg whites
– 2 slices of turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 large flour tortilla
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In the skillet, cook the turkey bacon for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until crispy. Remove from heat and crumble into small pieces.
3. In the same skillet, add the olive oil and pour in the cooked egg whites. Scramble the eggs until they’re fluffy and set.
4. Warm the tortilla by wrapping it in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the burrito by adding the scrambled egg whites, crumbled turkey bacon, and shredded cheese to one half of the tortilla. Fold the other half over to enclose.
6. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes on each side until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard
Elevate your snack game with this sweet and savory combination of crispy chicken tenders wrapped in bacon and tossed in a honey mustard glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenderloins
– 6 slices of bacon
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the chicken into strips and season with salt and pepper.
3. Wrap each chicken strip with a slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the wrapped chicken tenders.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the tenders and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and Dijon mustard.
7. Remove the tenders from the oven and brush with the honey mustard glaze.
8. Return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the glaze is caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Healthy Bacon and Lentil Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of protein-rich lentils, savory bacon, and aromatic vegetables, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal option. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
– 4 cups of vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the bacon from the pot, leaving behind any drippings.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot and cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Stir in the cooked bacon and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Bacon and Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates
Elevate your snack game with this sweet and savory treat! Bacon-wrapped goat cheese filling takes center stage inside plump dates, perfect for a quick appetizer or party favorite.
Ingredients:
– 12 pitted dates
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into thirds
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese (chèvre)
– Fresh thyme leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Stuff each date with a small amount of crumbled goat cheese.
3. Wrap a piece of bacon around the filled date, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
4. Place the stuffed dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Turkey Bacon and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
This recipe combines the flavors of turkey bacon, quinoa, and roasted peppers for a nutritious and delicious meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 6 slices turkey bacon, diced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut off the tops of the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook turkey bacon until crispy. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Stir in cooked quinoa, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Stuff each pepper with the quinoa mixture, filling to the top.
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
7. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until peppers are tender. Sprinkle with cheese (if using) during last 5 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Bacon and Broccoli Crustless Quiche
A delicious breakfast or brunch option that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. This crustless quiche is perfect for a quick morning meal or a weekend treat.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 4 slices of bacon, diced
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.
3. Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour the egg mixture into a greased 9-inch (23cm) pie plate or quiche dish.
6. Add the cooked bacon and broccoli to the egg mixture.
7. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the guilt-free pleasure of delicious and healthy bacon recipes! This collection of 20 mouth-watering dishes combines the smoky flavor of bacon with nutritious ingredients for a perfect blend of taste and nutrition. From sweet potato wraps to quinoa salads, stuffed chicken breasts to asparagus bundles, there’s something for everyone. Each recipe is carefully crafted to balance the savory goodness of bacon with wholesome ingredients like turkey, avocado, spinach, and more. Treat yourself to a healthier indulgence with these 20 scrumptious bacon recipes!