16 Bacon Brands That Are Absolutely Worth Savoring Every Bite

If the sizzle of bacon makes you stop mid‑scroll, this list is your breakfast blueprint. We tested smoky profiles, crisp factors, and real‑world cookability to find slices that deliver bite after bite. Whether you crave clean labels, heritage pork, or bold smoke, these brands bring serious flavor to the skillet. Ready to upgrade your BLT, brunch, and everything in between?

1. Niman Ranch Applewood Smoked Bacon

Niman Ranch Applewood Smoked Bacon delivers a deeply satisfying bite rooted in responsible farming. Raised by independent family farms, the pork boasts genuine richness and a meaty texture that crisps beautifully without drying out. The applewood smoke feels balanced, complementing savory sweetness rather than overwhelming it. Slices render cleanly, producing just enough fat to baste eggs or toast. It’s exceptional for BLTs, carbonara, or simple weekend breakfasts where flavor matters. The consistent cut helps even cooking whether baked or pan‑fried. Expect an elevated aroma that perfumes the kitchen instantly. A premium staple worth savoring slowly, from first sizzle to last crumble.

2. Applegate Naturals No Sugar Bacon

Applegate Naturals No Sugar Bacon shines when you want clean, simple, and satisfying. The ingredient list is refreshingly minimal, and the flavor leans savory with a gentle smoke that doesn’t rely on sweetness to impress. It crisps evenly, rendering just enough fat for luscious texture without greasiness. This makes it ideal for breakfast bowls, salads, or pairing with maple on the plate instead of in the cure. The aroma is light yet enticing, and the salt level feels measured. It’s a dependable choice for paleo or keto cooks, delivering delicious bacon purity in every thoughtfully curated strip.

3. Wright Brand Thick‑Cut Hickory Smoked Bacon

Wright Brand Thick‑Cut Hickory Smoked Bacon is a chef favorite for good reason. The slabs are satisfyingly substantial, building an impressive crust while staying tender inside. Hickory smoke comes through confidently, adding a hearty campfire note that plays well in burgers, breakfast spreads, or wedge salads. Because slices are thicker, they bake and pan‑sear magnificently without curling too much. Expect consistent performance and a crowd‑pleasing profile that stands up to bold ingredients like blue cheese or bourbon glaze. It’s also superb for candied bacon, where heft prevents over‑crisping. This pick brings steak‑like presence to your skillet, delivering rich, smoky satisfaction.

4. Smithfield Applewood Smoked Bacon

Smithfield Applewood Smoked Bacon nails that classic umami comfort with a dependable crisp‑chew balance. In blind tastings, it frequently rises to the top for approachable sweetness and rounded smoke. Slices cook evenly whether you’re baking for a crowd or frying a few pieces for brunch. The aroma is inviting without being overpowering, and the texture supports sandwiches, hash, or quiche beautifully. It’s easy to find, fairly priced, and consistently tasty. Expect a golden finish and appetizing sheen as the fat renders. For everyday versatility with a slight applewood lift, Smithfield proves a strong, familiar performer that satisfies repeat cravings.

5. Coleman Natural Uncured Bacon

Coleman Natural Uncured Bacon focuses on transparency and balance. With no antibiotics and a naturally derived cure, it offers a wholesome profile that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. The cut is nicely calibrated—thick enough for a satisfying bite, yet thin enough to crisp attractively around edges. Smoke is measured, letting pork character lead the experience. It’s versatile across breakfast tacos, Brussels sprouts, or baked potato toppers. The fat renders cleanly, leaving a light, savory finish that invites another piece. For those seeking less processed bacon without compromising enjoyment, Coleman presents a reliable, everyday option that feels thoughtfully made and pleasantly homey.

6. Wellshire Thick‑Sliced Dry‑Rubbed Uncured Bacon

Wellshire Thick‑Sliced Dry‑Rubbed Uncured Bacon brings a gourmet edge with its aromatic spice crust. The dry rub creates a savory, slightly sweet bark that caramelizes beautifully as fat renders. Expect a meaty chew with crisp, rugged edges, ideal for hearty breakfast plates or decadent grilled cheeses. The natural cure keeps flavors clean while the rub layers complexity—peppery warmth, a touch of brown-sugar depth, and pronounced porkiness. It’s excellent for baked preparation on racks, helping the exterior achieve that craveable crunch. A premium pick for bacon lovers who want more than smoke alone, this strip delivers nuanced flavor in every bite.

7. Beeler’s Uncured Hickory Smoked Bacon

Beeler’s Uncured Hickory Smoked Bacon offers a leaner profile without skimping on taste. The hickory smoke is assertive yet clean, reinforcing savory depth across breakfast scrambles and club sandwiches. Its family-farmed pork yields a distinctly meaty bite that holds together well, even when crisp. Because it’s less fatty, timing is key—bake or pan‑fry to just-crisp for a satisfying texture. The result is a refined, flavorful slice suited to lighter plates where bacon still shines. It pairs beautifully with greens, eggs, and grain bowls. For those wanting a higher‑end feel with balanced richness, Beeler’s hits a thoughtful, flavorful middle ground.

8. Tender Belly Heritage Breed No Sugar Dry Rub Bacon

Tender Belly’s Heritage Breed No Sugar Dry Rub Bacon is a statement slice for serious bacon fans. Heritage pork brings deeper flavor, while the no-sugar dry rub intensifies savory complexity without sticky sweetness. The smoke is robust and layered, ideal for plating alongside artisanal pancakes or upgrading Brussels with a gourmet edge. It fries up with superb browning and a gratifying chew. Naturally occurring nitrates keep labels clean‑leaning, making it a premium yet conscientious choice. The aroma is bold, filling the kitchen with steak‑house energy. For special brunches and chef‑y home cooking, Tender Belly delivers unforgettable, top‑shelf bacon character.

9. Hempler’s Original Center‑Cut Bacon

Hempler’s Original Center‑Cut Bacon trims excess fat for more meat per bite, delivering value and flavor in equal measure. The leaner profile makes it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or breakfast bakes where you want bacon presence without heaviness. Smoke is balanced, letting the pork taste clean and slightly sweet. It crisps dependably in the oven, staying substantial in sandwiches and wraps. Center cut reduces shrinkage, meaning better yield and consistent texture. It’s a smart pick for salads, frittatas, and appetizers. If you want a meatier, less greasy experience without losing satisfaction, Hempler’s checks all the right boxes.

10. Oscar Mayer Naturally Hardwood Smoked Bacon

Oscar Mayer Naturally Hardwood Smoked Bacon remains a reliable everyday staple. It cooks evenly, crisps predictably, and brings a familiar smoky aroma that works across countless recipes. Whether layered in BLTs, crumbled onto baked potatoes, or served alongside pancakes, it performs consistently without fuss. The slices separate easily from the pack, helping avoid tearing during cooking. Flavor skews classic and comforting, not overly sweet or salty. Budget-friendly and widely available, it’s a go-to for busy households. When you need bacon that simply works every time you reach for the skillet, Oscar Mayer continues to deliver dependable, tasty results.

11. Jones Dairy Farm Hickory Smoked Canadian Style Bacon

Jones Dairy Farm Hickory Smoked Canadian Style Bacon leans lean and ham‑like, offering a different yet delicious bacon experience. Its round slices sear quickly, developing caramelized edges that shine in breakfast sandwiches and Eggs Benedict. The hickory smoke provides savory backbone without excess fat, making it a smart option for lighter plates. It reheats well, perfect for meal prep or brunch service. The texture is tender and cohesive, preventing crumble in sandwiches. If you prefer less grease but still want smoky satisfaction, this Canadian style is a standout. It’s the brunch hero your English muffins have been waiting for.

12. Trader Joe’s Uncured Apple Smoked Bacon

Trader Joe’s Uncured Apple Smoked Bacon consistently overdelivers for the price. The moderate thickness allows for crisp edges with a juicy center, while apple smoke adds a mellow sweetness that supports savory dishes. It’s excellent for oven-baking, yielding uniform browning and minimal curling. The flavor is balanced—never too salty—and it pairs beautifully with brunch spreads or quick weeknight pastas. For shoppers seeking value without sacrificing quality, it’s a reliable cart add. The aroma is inviting and not overly intense, making it versatile across recipes. A true grocery‑store favorite that proves great bacon doesn’t require a splurge.

13. Sugardale Premium Cut Bacon

Sugardale Premium Cut Bacon offers strong value for families feeding a crowd. When cooked properly—especially baked on a rack—it achieves pleasing crispness with a savory finish. The slices separate cleanly, and the smoke profile sits comfortably in the middle, supporting eggs, casseroles, and sandwiches. It’s an accessible choice for batch cooking or big brunches where quantity matters. While not the most artisanal, it delivers dependable flavor that satisfies bacon cravings without straining budgets. Expect good rendering and a classic aroma. For week-to-week shopping lists, Sugardale proves that affordability and solid performance can happily share the same skillet.

14. Good & Gather No Sugar Uncured Bacon

Good & Gather No Sugar Uncured Bacon is a standout store-brand option, especially if you prefer minimal additives. The flavor skews savory and clean, with balanced salt and a gentle smoke that performs well in everyday cooking. Oven baking yields crisp edges and a satisfying center, great for sandwiches and salads. It’s reliable for weeknight meals and weekend brunch alike. The no‑sugar cure lets you control sweetness elsewhere—think maple syrup on the plate or fruit compotes. Consistency and value are the headline strengths here. For shoppers at Target, this bacon is a smart, tasty pick that punches above its price.

15. Whole Foods 365 Uncured Center Cut Smokehouse Bacon

Whole Foods 365 Uncured Center Cut Smokehouse Bacon brings clean-label appeal with reliable performance. The center-cut style keeps slices meaty and less greasy, ideal for salads, omelets, and breakfast sandwiches. When baked, it browns evenly and maintains a satisfying chew without excessive shrinkage. Smokehouse flavor is present yet restrained, allowing pork character to shine. Ingredient transparency suits shoppers seeking simpler products that still taste great. It’s also a dependable option for recipes where you don’t want bacon fat to overwhelm. For everyday cooking with a conscientious angle, this 365 pick handles business with honest flavor and consistent texture.

16. Hormel Black Label Pecanwood Thick‑Cut Bacon

Hormel Black Label Pecanwood Thick‑Cut Bacon stands out with a distinctive nutty smoke. The pecanwood imparts a round, slightly sweet aroma that complements everything from pancakes to bourbon-glazed wings. Thick slices deliver a substantial chew and beautiful caramelization when roasted or pan-seared. It’s a bold choice for bacon-forward dishes where you want the smoke to speak up. The fat renders slowly, creating that craveable crisp-meets-juicy texture. Flavor stays balanced rather than acrid, even when cooked to deep bronze. For adventurous bacon fans ready to explore beyond hickory or applewood, this pecanwood profile is memorably delicious and satisfying.