Kickstart your culinary adventure with these 33 irresistible pepper bacon recipes! Whether you’re craving quick weeknight dinners or indulgent comfort food, we’ve got smoky, savory delights that will transform your meals. Get ready to sizzle up some flavor and discover new family favorites—let’s dive into these mouthwatering creations!
Pepper Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus Spears
Unwrapping the perfect appetizer doesn’t have to be complicated, especially when you combine the smoky richness of bacon with the crisp freshness of asparagus. This pepper bacon-wrapped asparagus recipe delivers impressive flavor with minimal effort, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and entertaining guests. Let’s walk through each step together to ensure your spears come out perfectly cooked every time.
Ingredients
– Asparagus – 1 lb
– Bacon – 8 slices
– Black pepper – 1 tsp
– Olive oil – 1 tbsp
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
2. Trim the tough, woody ends from the asparagus spears by snapping them off where they naturally break.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the asparagus and toss gently to coat evenly, which helps prevent sticking and promotes browning.
4. Divide the asparagus into 8 equal bundles, each containing 3-4 spears depending on thickness.
5. Wrap one slice of bacon tightly around each asparagus bundle, starting at the bottom and spiraling upward to cover most of the spears.
6. Sprinkle the black pepper evenly over all bacon-wrapped bundles, focusing on the bacon for maximum flavor penetration.
7. Arrange the bundles seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch for even cooking and crispiness.
8. Bake for 18-22 minutes until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender when pierced with a fork.
9. Remove from oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow the bacon to crisp further and the flavors to meld.
Resulting in a delightful contrast of textures, the asparagus remains crisp-tender while the bacon becomes wonderfully crispy. The black pepper adds a subtle heat that complements the smoky saltiness perfectly, making these spears irresistible straight from the oven. For an elegant presentation, serve them alongside a creamy dip or as a sophisticated side to grilled meats.
Maple-Glazed Pepper Bacon Pancakes
Here’s a simple way to create these sweet and savory pancakes that will become your new weekend favorite. Let’s walk through each step carefully to ensure perfect results every time.
Ingredients
– All-purpose flour – 1 cup
– Baking powder – 2 tsp
– Salt – ½ tsp
– Milk – ¾ cup
– Egg – 1
– Maple syrup – ¼ cup
– Black pepper – 1 tsp
– Bacon – 6 slices
Instructions
1. Preheat your griddle or large skillet to 375°F.
2. Whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 2 tsp baking powder, and ½ tsp salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a separate bowl, beat 1 egg, then add ¾ cup milk and ¼ cup maple syrup, whisking until combined.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (tip: lumps are okay—overmixing makes tough pancakes).
5. Cook 6 slices of bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
6. Remove bacon from skillet, drain on paper towels, and crumble into small pieces.
7. Stir 1 tsp black pepper and the crumbled bacon into the pancake batter.
8. Lightly grease the preheated griddle with butter or cooking spray.
9. Pour ¼ cup portions of batter onto the griddle, spacing them 2 inches apart.
10. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and edges look set, about 3-4 minutes.
11. Flip pancakes and cook until golden brown on the second side, about 2-3 minutes.
12. Transfer cooked pancakes to a warm plate and repeat with remaining batter.
Maple syrup caramelizes beautifully against the crispy bacon bits, creating a delightful sweet-salty balance. The pepper adds a subtle warmth that complements the richness, making these pancakes perfect for drizzling with extra syrup or serving alongside scrambled eggs for a hearty breakfast.
Spicy Pepper Bacon Mac and Cheese
You’re about to make the ultimate comfort food with a spicy kick that will become your new weeknight favorite. This recipe breaks down each step so even beginners can create a restaurant-quality dish at home.
Ingredients
– Elbow macaroni – 1 lb
– Bacon – 8 slices
– Jalapeño pepper – 1, minced
– Shredded cheddar cheese – 2 cups
– Milk – 2 cups
– Butter – ¼ cup
– All-purpose flour – ¼ cup
– Salt – 1 tsp
– Black pepper – ½ tsp
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F to ensure even baking later.
2. Cook the elbow macaroni in boiling salted water for 8 minutes until al dente, then drain completely.
3. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat for 6-8 minutes until crispy, then crumble it into small pieces.
4. Sauté the minced jalapeño in the bacon grease for 2 minutes until softened.
5. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then whisk in the flour to create a roux.
6. Cook the roux for 2 minutes until golden brown to eliminate the raw flour taste.
7. Gradually whisk in the milk until the sauce is smooth and thickened, about 5 minutes.
8. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted.
9. Season the cheese sauce with salt and black pepper, stirring to combine.
10. Combine the cooked macaroni, cheese sauce, crumbled bacon, and sautéed jalapeño in a large bowl.
11. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
12. Bake at 375°F for 20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
13. Let the mac and cheese rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.
Outstandingly creamy with a perfect cheese pull, this mac and cheese delivers a smoky bacon flavor that contrasts beautifully with the spicy jalapeño heat. The crispy bacon topping provides wonderful texture against the smooth cheese sauce. Serve it straight from the baking dish with a simple green salad to cut through the richness.
Pepper Bacon and Avocado Salad
Crafting a vibrant salad with bold flavors and fresh ingredients is simpler than you might think. Let’s walk through each step together to create a satisfying dish that balances smoky, creamy, and crisp textures. Follow along carefully for the best results.
Ingredients
– Bacon – 6 slices
– Black pepper – 1 tbsp
– Avocado – 1 large
– Mixed greens – 4 cups
– Lemon juice – 2 tbsp
– Olive oil – 3 tbsp
– Salt – 1 tsp
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. Lay the bacon slices in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. Sprinkle the black pepper evenly over the bacon.
4. Bake the bacon for 15–18 minutes, or until it is crispy and browned.
5. Remove the bacon from the oven and place it on a paper towel to drain excess grease.
6. Let the bacon cool for 5 minutes, then crumble it into small pieces.
7. Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a medium bowl.
8. Mash the avocado with a fork until it reaches a slightly chunky consistency.
9. Add the lemon juice, olive oil, and salt to the mashed avocado.
10. Stir the mixture until all ingredients are fully combined.
11. Place the mixed greens in a large serving bowl.
12. Pour the avocado dressing over the greens.
13. Toss the salad gently to coat the greens evenly with the dressing.
14. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the top of the salad.
15. Serve the salad immediately to enjoy the crisp textures.
Great for a quick lunch or light dinner, this salad offers a delightful contrast between the creamy avocado dressing and the crunchy bacon. The peppery kick from the bacon pairs wonderfully with the freshness of the greens, making it a versatile dish you can customize with extras like cherry tomatoes or croutons if desired.
Crispy Pepper Bacon and Egg Breakfast Cups
These crispy pepper bacon and egg breakfast cups transform simple ingredients into a handheld morning masterpiece. They’re perfect for busy weekdays or lazy weekend brunches, offering a satisfying crunch with every bite.
Ingredients
– Bacon – 6 slices
– Eggs – 6 large
– Black pepper – ½ tsp
– Cooking spray – as needed
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. Lightly coat a 6-cup muffin tin with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
3. Press one slice of bacon into each muffin cup, forming a cup shape along the bottom and sides.
4. Crack one egg into each bacon-lined cup.
5. Sprinkle 1/12 tsp of black pepper evenly over each egg.
6. Bake for 18–20 minutes, until the egg whites are fully set and the bacon is crispy.
7. Let the cups cool in the tin for 2 minutes before removing.
8. Use a butter knife to gently loosen the edges if needed for easy removal.
For a golden, crispy finish, ensure the bacon edges aren’t overlapping too much in the cup. Freshly cracked pepper adds the best flavor, so grind it yourself if possible. Letting them cool slightly makes them easier to handle without falling apart.
Flaky, savory bacon cradles a perfectly cooked egg with a hint of peppery warmth in these delightful cups. Serve them alongside fresh fruit or atop a bed of arugula for a balanced breakfast, or enjoy them straight from the tin for a quick, satisfying start to your day.
Pepper Bacon-Infused Baked Potatoes
Ready to elevate your baked potato game with a smoky, savory twist? This pepper bacon-infused version delivers crispy skins and fluffy interiors with minimal effort. Let’s walk through each step together for perfect results every time.
Ingredients
Russet potatoes – 4 large
Pepper bacon – 8 slices
Unsalted butter – ¼ cup
Sour cream – ½ cup
Chives – 2 tbsp
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and position a rack in the center.
2. Scrub the potatoes thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt.
3. Pat the potatoes completely dry with paper towels to ensure crisp skins.
4. Poke each potato 8-10 times with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.
5. Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for 60-75 minutes until skins are crisp and a knife inserts easily.
6. While potatoes bake, arrange bacon slices in a single layer on a baking sheet.
7. Cook bacon in the oven for 15-18 minutes until crispy, checking at 15 minutes.
8. Transfer cooked bacon to paper towels to drain excess grease, then crumble into small pieces.
9. Remove potatoes from oven and let cool for 5 minutes until handleable.
10. Slice each potato lengthwise about three-quarters through, being careful not to cut all the way through.
11. Gently squeeze the ends toward the center to open the potato slightly.
12. Fluff the insides with a fork to create texture for holding toppings.
13. Divide butter evenly among potatoes, placing it inside to melt from residual heat.
14. Top each potato with 2 tablespoons of sour cream, spreading it gently.
15. Sprinkle crumbled bacon evenly over all potatoes.
16. Garnish with fresh chives for color and fresh flavor.
You’ll love the contrast between the creamy potato interior and the crunchy bacon bits. The pepper seasoning from the bacon infuses every bite without overpowering. Try serving these alongside grilled steak or as a hearty standalone meal with a simple green salad.
Savory Pepper Bacon Jam Crostini
Venture into the world of sweet and savory with this simple yet impressive appetizer that transforms basic ingredients into a gourmet treat. Perfect for beginners, this recipe guides you through each precise step to ensure success.
Ingredients
– Bacon – 8 slices
– Onion – 1 cup, finely diced
– Brown sugar – ¼ cup
– Balsamic vinegar – 2 tbsp
– Baguette – 1, sliced into ½-inch pieces
– Olive oil – 2 tbsp
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. Arrange the baguette slices in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. Brush each slice lightly with olive oil using a pastry brush.
4. Bake the baguette slices for 8–10 minutes until golden brown and crisp, then set aside to cool. (Tip: Rotate the baking sheet halfway through for even browning.)
5. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat for 8–10 minutes until crispy, flipping occasionally.
6. Transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, reserving 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the skillet.
7. Crumble the cooled bacon into small pieces.
8. Add the diced onion to the skillet with the reserved bacon fat and cook over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until softened and translucent.
9. Stir in the brown sugar and balsamic vinegar, cooking for 2–3 minutes until the sugar dissolves.
10. Add the crumbled bacon to the skillet and reduce the heat to low.
11. Simmer the mixture for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to a jam-like consistency. (Tip: If it starts to stick, add a splash of water.)
12. Spoon the warm bacon jam onto the cooled crostini, spreading it evenly. (Tip: For best flavor, let the jam cool slightly before assembling to prevent sogginess.)
The crostini offers a delightful contrast of crispy bread and rich, sticky jam, with a balance of smoky bacon, sweet onions, and tangy vinegar. Serve immediately as an appetizer, or try it topped with a dollop of cream cheese for extra creaminess that complements the savory notes.
Smoky Pepper Bacon Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Crafting the perfect grilled cheese sandwich requires attention to detail and quality ingredients. Let’s build this smoky, savory masterpiece together, step by step, ensuring crispy bread and perfectly melted cheese every time.
Ingredients
– Bread – 4 slices
– Cheddar cheese – 4 oz, shredded
– Bacon – 4 slices, cooked
– Roasted red peppers – ¼ cup, chopped
– Butter – 2 tbsp, softened
– Smoked paprika – ½ tsp
Instructions
1. Spread ½ tablespoon of softened butter evenly on one side of each bread slice.
2. Sprinkle ¼ teaspoon of smoked paprika directly onto the buttered sides of two bread slices for even distribution.
3. Flip the two paprika-dusted slices over so the unbuttered side faces up.
4. Divide half of the shredded cheddar cheese evenly between these two unbuttered sides.
5. Arrange two cooked bacon slices on top of the cheese on each bread slice.
6. Distribute the chopped roasted red peppers evenly over the bacon.
7. Top with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese.
8. Place the remaining two bread slices on top, buttered side facing outward.
9. Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium-low heat (300°F) for 3 minutes to ensure even cooking without burning.
10. Carefully place both sandwiches in the preheated skillet.
11. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the bottom bread is golden brown and crispy.
12. Flip the sandwiches using a spatula.
13. Cook for another 4-5 minutes until the second side is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
14. Remove from heat and let rest for 1 minute before slicing to allow the cheese to set slightly.
Resting the sandwich briefly before cutting ensures the fillings hold together beautifully. The combination of smoky paprika, crispy bacon, and sweet roasted peppers creates a complex flavor profile that elevates this classic comfort food. Serve with a side of tomato soup for dipping or slice into quarters for easy sharing at gatherings.
Creamy Pepper Bacon Carbonara Pasta
When you crave comfort food with a kick, this creamy pepper bacon carbonara delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. We’ll build layers of flavor through careful timing and technique, ensuring a silky sauce that clings perfectly to every strand of pasta. Follow each step precisely for a dish that balances richness, saltiness, and a gentle heat from cracked pepper.
Ingredients
Pasta – 12 oz
Bacon – 6 slices
Eggs – 3 large
Parmesan cheese – ¾ cup grated
Black pepper – 2 tsp freshly cracked
Salt – 1 tsp
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2. Add pasta and cook for 9-11 minutes until al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. While pasta cooks, dice bacon into ½-inch pieces.
4. Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat for 8-10 minutes until crispy and browned, stirring frequently.
5. Use a slotted spoon to transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, reserving 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet.
6. Whisk eggs, grated Parmesan, and cracked black pepper in a medium bowl until fully combined.
7. Drain cooked pasta, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
8. Immediately add hot pasta to the skillet with reserved bacon fat, tossing to coat evenly.
9. Remove skillet from heat and let cool for 1 minute to prevent eggs from scrambling.
10. Pour egg mixture over pasta, stirring constantly with tongs for 2-3 minutes until sauce thickens and coats pasta.
11. If sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water 1 tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.
12. Fold in crispy bacon and serve immediately.
Rich and velvety, the sauce clings to each noodle with a perfect balance of salty bacon and sharp pepper heat. For a restaurant-style presentation, twirl portions into nests using a fork and spoon, topping with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and a final crack of black pepper.
Gourmet Pepper Bacon Pizza with Arugula
Creating a gourmet pepper bacon pizza with arugula at home is simpler than you might think, and the results are absolutely restaurant-worthy. Carefully follow each step to achieve a crispy crust, perfectly melted cheese, and fresh, peppery toppings. Let’s get started with the ingredients you’ll need for this delicious recipe.
Ingredients
– Pizza dough – 1 lb
– Olive oil – 2 tbsp
– Tomato sauce – ½ cup
– Shredded mozzarella cheese – 1 ½ cups
– Cooked bacon – 4 slices
– Black pepper – 1 tsp
– Arugula – 2 cups
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 475°F and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat for 20 minutes.
2. Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface into a 12-inch circle, about ¼ inch thick.
3. Brush the dough with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sogginess and enhance crispiness.
4. Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese uniformly over the sauce.
6. Crumble the cooked bacon and distribute it evenly over the cheese.
7. Sprinkle black pepper over the top for added flavor.
8. Carefully transfer the pizza to the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet using a peel or inverted baking sheet.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
10. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for 2 minutes to set the crust.
11. Toss the arugula with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and scatter it over the hot pizza just before serving.
Heavenly in every bite, this pizza boasts a crisp, chewy crust contrasted by the creamy melted cheese and smoky bacon, while the fresh arugula adds a peppery crunch. Serve it sliced with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra touch of sweetness, or pair it with a light salad for a complete meal that’s sure to impress.
Pepper Bacon and Cheddar Stuffed Mushrooms
Very few appetizers deliver such satisfying flavor with minimal effort as these stuffed mushrooms. Perfect for beginners, this recipe walks you through each simple step to create impressive results. Let’s start with gathering our ingredients and preheating the oven.
Ingredients
– Cremini mushrooms – 16
– Bacon – 4 slices
– Black pepper – ½ tsp
– Cheddar cheese – ½ cup
– Olive oil – 1 tbsp
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F to ensure even cooking throughout the baking process.
2. Wipe 16 cremini mushrooms clean with a damp paper towel to remove any dirt without making them soggy.
3. Carefully twist and remove the stems from all mushrooms, creating hollow caps for stuffing.
4. Chop the mushroom stems finely and set aside for later use in the filling.
5. Cook 4 slices of bacon in a skillet over medium heat for 8-10 minutes until crispy, then transfer to paper towels.
6. Crumble the cooled bacon into small pieces using your hands or a knife.
7. Grate ½ cup of cheddar cheese using the large holes of a box grater for optimal melting.
8. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in the same skillet over medium heat for 30 seconds.
9. Sauté the chopped mushroom stems for 5-7 minutes until they release moisture and become tender.
10. Transfer the cooked stems to a mixing bowl and let cool for 2 minutes.
11. Add the crumbled bacon, grated cheddar, and ½ tsp black pepper to the bowl with the mushroom stems.
12. Mix all filling ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
13. Stuff each mushroom cap generously with the filling mixture, pressing lightly to pack it in.
14. Arrange the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them 1 inch apart.
15. Bake at 375°F for 18-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the mushroom caps are tender.
16. Let the mushrooms rest for 3 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set.
Lusciously creamy cheese melds with smoky bacon in every bite, while the roasted mushrooms provide a tender contrast. The cracked black pepper adds a subtle heat that enhances the rich flavors without overpowering them. For an elegant presentation, garnish with fresh chives or serve alongside a crisp green salad for a complete appetizer experience.
Honey Bourbon Pepper Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Unbelievably simple yet packed with flavor, this dish transforms humble Brussels sprouts into a show-stopping side. Using just a handful of ingredients, you’ll create a sweet, smoky, and savory masterpiece that pairs perfectly with roasted meats or stands proudly on its own. Follow these precise steps for foolproof results every time.
Ingredients
– Brussels sprouts – 1 lb
– Bacon – 4 slices
– Bourbon – 2 tbsp
– Honey – 2 tbsp
– Black pepper – 1 tsp
– Olive oil – 1 tbsp
– Salt – ½ tsp
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Trim the stem ends from 1 lb of Brussels sprouts and cut each in half lengthwise.
3. Arrange the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle 1 tbsp of olive oil over the Brussels sprouts and toss to coat evenly.
5. Sprinkle ½ tsp of salt and 1 tsp of black pepper over the Brussels sprouts.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the edges begin to crisp and brown.
7. While the Brussels sprouts roast, cook 4 slices of bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 8-10 minutes.
8. Remove the bacon from the skillet and drain on paper towels, then crumble into small pieces.
9. Carefully pour 2 tbsp of bourbon into the hot bacon grease in the skillet (stand back as it may splatter).
10. Add 2 tbsp of honey to the skillet and whisk continuously for 1 minute until the mixture thickens slightly.
11. Remove the roasted Brussels sprouts from the oven and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
12. Pour the bourbon-honey glaze over the Brussels sprouts and toss to coat thoroughly.
13. Add the crumbled bacon to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
14. Return the mixture to the baking sheet and roast for an additional 5 minutes at 400°F.
15. Remove from the oven and let rest for 2 minutes before serving.
Yield a dish with crispy-edged sprouts that contrast beautifully with the sticky-sweet glaze, while the bacon adds smoky crunch and depth. Try serving these alongside grilled chicken or stirring them into a grain bowl for extra texture and flavor.
Conclusion
Packed with irresistible flavor, these 33 pepper bacon recipes offer endless inspiration for your kitchen. We hope you find new favorites to try—don’t forget to share which ones you love in the comments and pin this roundup to your Pinterest boards for easy access. Happy cooking!
I’m Louise Cutler, a food lover who enjoys creating simple, flavorful recipes that anyone can make and share at home.
