How To Clean Bacon Grease From Pan?

Last Updated on April 28, 2023 by Lauren Beck

Bacon is a breakfast staple loved by many, but cleaning up the grease left in the pan can be a daunting task.

In this article, we’ll share some tips and tricks on how to clean bacon grease from a pan.

Table of Contents

Ways to Clean Bacon Grease From Pan

Here are a few methods to clean bacon grease from a pan:

Pour off excess grease: Carefully pour off as much grease as possible into a heat-proof container. This will make cleaning the pan easier.
Use hot water: Rinse the pan with hot water to loosen any remaining grease.
Use dish soap: Apply a small amount of dish soap to the pan and scrub with a sponge or brush.
Baking soda and vinegar: Apply a paste of baking soda and vinegar to the pan. Let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing and rinsing.

Tips for Cleaning Bacon Grease From Pan

Clean the pan while it’s still warm to make cleaning easier.
Avoid using steel wool or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the surface of the pan.
Use a non-scratch sponge or brush to avoid scratching the surface of the pan.
Rinse the pan with hot water before applying soap to remove any excess grease.

How to Remove Deep Burnt Bacon Grease From Pans?

If the bacon grease has burnt onto the pan, here are a few methods to remove it:

Baking soda and vinegar: Apply a paste with baking soda and vinegar to the burnt area. Let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing and rinsing.
Boiling water: Fill the pan with water and bring it to a boil. Let it simmer for a few minutes before scrubbing with a non-scratch sponge or brush.
Oven cleaner: Apply oven cleaner to the burnt area and let it sit for a few hours before scrubbing and rinsing.

How to Clean Pans With Salt and Vinegar?

Salt and vinegar can be used to clean pans and remove grease. Here’s how:

Sprinkle salt over the greasy area.
Pour vinegar over the salt.
Let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing with a non-scratch sponge or brush.
Rinse the pan with hot water.

Tips for Avoiding Burnt Grease Stains on Pans

Use a non-stick pan or a well-seasoned cast iron skillet to prevent sticking and burning.
Cook bacon over low to medium heat to prevent burning.
Flip the bacon frequently to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
Remove the bacon from the pan as soon as it’s cooked to prevent it from sitting in the hot grease.

How Many Times Can You Reuse Bacon Grease?

Bacon grease can be reused [1] several times, but it’s important to keep it clean to prevent bacteria growth.

It’s recommended to strain the grease through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove any food particles before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. Bacon grease should be discarded if it smells rancid or has a cloudy appearance.

Is It Ok to Leave Bacon Grease in a Cast Iron Skillet?

Leaving bacon grease in a cast iron skillet can lead to a buildup of grease and food particles, which can become rancid and lead to a foul odor. It’s recommended to clean the skillet after each use and store it in a dry place to prevent rusting.

What Can I Do With Bacon Grease?

Bacon grease can be used in a variety of ways, such as:

Cooking: Use it as a cooking oil in place of butter or vegetable oil.
Flavoring: Add a small amount to dishes for added flavor.
Baking: Use it in place of butter or oil in baking recipes for a subtle bacon flavor.
Popcorn: Use it to pop popcorn for a savory snack.
Salad dressing: Use it in salad dressings for added flavor.

How to Dispose of Bacon Grease?

Bacon grease should never be poured down the drain as it can solidify and cause clogs. Here are a few methods for disposing of bacon grease:

Let it solidify: Let the grease cool and solidify before scraping it into the trash.
Use a container: Pour the grease into a heat-proof container and let it solidify before throwing it away.
Recycling: Some areas offer recycling programs for used cooking oil and grease.

Conclusion

Cleaning bacon grease from a pan can be a hassle, but with the right techniques, it can be a quick and easy task. Use hot water, dish soap, or baking soda, and vinegar paste to clean the pan. Avoid using abrasive cleaners and steel wool. Salt and vinegar can be used to clean pans and remove grease. Remember to clean your cast iron skillet after each use and store it in a dry place to prevent rusting. Bacon grease can be reused several times, but keeping it clean and storing it properly is important. Use it in cooking, baking, or salad dressings for added flavor. Finally, never pour bacon grease down the drain and dispose of it properly.

Reference:

https://www.southernliving.com/food/meat/bacon/how-to-store-bacon-grease

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Lauren Beck

Lauren Beck is a Food Science & Technology graduate, born and raised in NYC, but lived in Japan for more than eight years. Her love forAmerican food and Japanese culture led her to create Kitsune Restaurant. She loves taking walks with her dog - an American Akita she aptly named Hachiko. Learn more about us here or you can email us contact@kitsunerestaurant.com.

How to Clean Bacon Grease From Pan?