Finding the best bacon comes down to three things: cut thickness, smoke flavor, and how the pork was cured. After comparing 15 popular options, Niman Ranch Applewood Smoked Uncured Bacon stands out as the best overall pick for its balanced flavor, responsible sourcing, and consistent slices that cook evenly every time. If budget drives your decision, Amazon Grocery Naturally Hickory Smoked Bacon delivers solid smoky flavor at a lower cost, while Tender Belly’s Signature Dry Rub is the premium choice for anyone who wants restaurant-quality bacon at home. The main tradeoff in this category is convenience versus quality — thin center-cut strips cook fast but shrink and can taste mild, while thick-cut and dry-rubbed options cost more and take longer but reward you with real depth of flavor. Keep reading for the full breakdown, including reduced-sodium, no-sugar, and beef options for specialized diets.
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Key Takeaways
- Uncured bacon (no synthetic nitrates) dominated the top of this ranking — amazon.com/dp/B074ZG1DKF?tag=trucktasting-20&ascsubtag=dc-1085795″ target=”_blank” rel=”nofollow sponsored noopener”>Niman Ranch, North Country Smokehouse, and both Tender Belly options — because the flavor is cleaner and the ingredient list is shorter.
- Center-cut bacon (Oscar Mayer Center Cut, both 365 by Whole Foods options) trades fat and flavor for leanness and faster cooking; it ranked lower for taste but fills a real niche for lighter eaters.
- Thick-cut bacon from Tender Belly and Smithfield held up better in the pan and delivered more smoke flavor per slice, making it the better pick for BLTs and breakfast platters.
- Fully cooked and shelf-stable options like Applegate Naturals Sunday Bacon sacrifice texture for convenience — they’re for travel and quick meals, not Sunday breakfast.
- The two non-standard picks — Godshall’s Beef Bacon and Broadbent’s Peppered Country Bacon — earned spots for specific diets and bold flavor chasers rather than all-around appeal.
| bacon | Brand |
|---|---|
| Oscar Mayer Original Center Cu | Oscar Mayer |
| Smithfield Premium Thick Slice | Smithfield |
| 365 by Whole Foods Market Redu | 365 by Whole Foods Market |
| Oscar Mayer Naturally Hardwood | Oscar Mayer |
| Applegate Organic No Sugar Unc | — |
| Naturally Applewood Smoked Thi | — |
| Applegate Naturals Fully Cooke | Applegate Naturals |
| Niman Ranch Pork Bacon | Niman Ranch |
| Amazon Grocery Naturally Hicko | Amazon Grocery |
| Tender Belly Thick Cut Bacon | — |
| Tender Belly Thick Cut Uncured | Tender Belly |
| 365 by Whole Foods Market | 365 by Whole Foods Market |
| Godshall’s Beef Bacon | Godshall’s |
| Broadbent’s Hickory Smoked Pep | Broadbent’s |
| North Country Smokehouse Organ | North Country Smokehouse |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Oscar Mayer Original Center Cut Bacon, 12 oz
When the goal is reliable, crowd-pleasing bacon without overthinking the purchase, this option makes the most sense. The center cut delivers leaner, more uniform slices than standard-cut options like the Oscar Mayer Naturally Hardwood Smoked Bacon, which means less shriveling in the pan and more consistent results across all 18 slices. Slow-smoking with real wood gives it a familiar smoky-sweet profile that works equally well beside eggs or crumbled into a sandwich. Compared with the Smithfield Premium Thick Slice, the thinner cut here cooks faster and crisps more predictably, though buyers who want a meaty, steak-like bite will find it less satisfying. The tradeoff for that leanness is flavor: less fat means less of the rendered richness thick-cut fans chase.
Pros:- Center cut yields leaner, more uniform slices
- Real wood slow-smoking gives dependable classic flavor
- Cooks fast and crisps evenly for busy mornings
- Versatile enough for breakfast, sandwiches, and recipes
Cons:- Leaner cut sacrifices some of the rich, fatty flavor of full-cut bacon
- Must be used within seven days of opening
Best for: Weekday breakfast cooks who want lean, consistent slices that cook quickly and please the whole household
Not ideal for: Bacon enthusiasts chasing maximum smoky depth or a hearty chew — the center cut trims away too much fat for that experience
- Brand:Oscar Mayer
- Cut:Center cut
- Flavor:Original
- Weight:12 oz
- Slices:About 18
- Smoking method:Slow-smoked with real wood
- Gluten-free:Yes
- Storage:Refrigerate; use within seven days after opening
Our verdict“This is the dependable default for households that want classic lean bacon every week without paying specialty prices.”
Smithfield Premium Thick Slice Bacon, 12 oz
For buyers who treat bacon as the centerpiece rather than a side, thick cut changes everything. Smithfield’s hand-trimmed slices hold their structure through frying or baking, producing a hearty, meaty texture that thinner options like the Oscar Mayer Center Cut simply cannot match. The natural hickory smoke comes through boldly — a step up in intensity from the Oscar Mayer Original’s milder profile — which is why this pick shines on burgers, BLTs, and pasta where bacon needs to announce itself. The flip side of that thickness is patience: slices take noticeably longer to cook and can cook unevenly if the pan isn’t watched. The single 12 oz package also runs out fast for bigger households, unlike the 16 oz Oscar Mayer hardwood-smoked pack.
Pros:- Thick cut delivers hearty, satisfying texture
- Naturally hickory smoked for bold, robust flavor
- Hand-selected and hand-trimmed for consistent quality
- No MSG or artificial colors
Cons:- Thicker slices take longer to cook and can render unevenly
- Single 12 oz package may not stretch far for larger families
Best for: BLT builders, burger toppers, and anyone who wants bacon with a substantial chew and assertive smoky flavor
Not ideal for: Quick weekday cooks — the thick slices demand more time and attention than thin-cut alternatives
- Brand:Smithfield
- Cut:Thick slice
- Smoke flavor:Naturally hickory smoked
- Net weight:12 oz
- Packaging:Vacuum-packed
- Special features:No MSG, no artificial colors
- Storage:Keep frozen or refrigerated until ready to use
Our verdict“The pick for eaters who want bacon that tastes like the main event, provided they have the time to cook it properly.”
365 by Whole Foods Market Reduced Sodium Uncured Uncured Center Cut Bacon, 12 oz
Most bacon loads on sodium, and this option stands out for cutting it by 37% versus the standard 365 uncured smokehouse bacon — a meaningful difference for anyone watching salt intake. The sourcing story also runs ahead of mainstream picks: vegetarian-fed pork raised without antibiotics, something neither the Oscar Mayer Original nor the Smithfield Thick Slice can claim. The center cut keeps slices lean, similar in build to the Oscar Mayer center cut but with cleaner ingredient credentials. What buyers give up is intensity — reduced-sodium bacon reads mellower on the plate, and those who love the salty punch of traditional hickory-smoked bacon may find it understated. Compared with the Applegate Organic No Sugar, it skips the organic certification but offers more bacon per dollar in the same 12 oz format.
Pros:- 37% less sodium than the regular uncured smokehouse version
- Pork is vegetarian-fed and raised without antibiotics
- Uncured with no synthetic nitrites
- Center cut keeps slices lean and consistent
Cons:- Milder, less salty flavor than traditional cured bacon
- Only available where Whole Foods lines are stocked
Best for: Sodium-conscious shoppers and clean-label buyers who still want a lean center-cut slice
Not ideal for: Flavor maximalists who want a salty, assertive smokehouse punch — the reduced sodium noticeably softens the profile
- Brand:365 by Whole Foods Market
- Type:Reduced sodium uncured center cut bacon
- Package size:12 oz
- Pork sourcing:Vegetarian-fed; raised without antibiotics
- Sodium:37% less than regular uncured smokehouse bacon
- Cut:Center cut
Our verdict“A smart middle path for buyers prioritizing lower sodium and better sourcing without going fully organic.”
Oscar Mayer Naturally Hardwood Smoked Bacon, 16 oz
Measured by price per slice, this 16 oz pack beats everything else in this lineup’s standard-cut tier — the same 18-slice count as the Oscar Mayer Center Cut but in a bigger 16 oz format, meaning each slice carries more of the full-cut fat that center trimming removes. That makes it a better fit for batch cooking and big breakfasts than its leaner sibling, and the natural hardwood smoke gives it a slightly deeper character. Compared with the Smithfield Thick Slice, the standard cut here cooks faster but lacks that hefty chew. Buyers used to specialty brands like Niman Ranch will notice a simpler smoke profile — this is dependable, not artisanal. The seven-day use window after opening is the main practical constraint, so smaller households may want to freeze half the pack.
Pros:- 16 oz package offers more bacon per purchase than 12 oz rivals
- Full-cut slices deliver richer flavor than trimmed center cut
- Naturally hardwood smoked with real wood
- Works across breakfast, sandwiches, and recipes
Cons:- Must be consumed within seven days of opening or frozen
- Standard cut lacks the texture appeal of thick-slice options
Best for: Large families and meal preppers who need more bacon per package at mainstream prices
Not ideal for: Small households or solo cooks — 16 oz goes past the seven-day freshness window unless half gets frozen
- Brand:Oscar Mayer
- Weight:16 oz
- Slices:About 18
- Smoking method:Naturally hardwood smoked with real wood
- Meat:Pork
- Packaging:Vacuum-sealed
- Use after opening:Within 7 days
Our verdict“The volume play: more full-cut bacon per pack for anyone feeding a crowd or stocking the freezer.”
Applegate Organic No Sugar Uncured Bacon, 8 oz
This is the lineup’s most ingredient-transparent option: USDA Organic, no sugar, no chemical nitrites or nitrates, no antibiotics, no added hormones, and pork from family farms. For buyers on Whole30, keto, or sugar-free diets, nothing else here competes — even the 365 Reduced Sodium doesn’t carry organic certification, and mainstream picks like Smithfield or Oscar Mayer don’t come close on the label front. The hickory smoke does the flavor heavy lifting since there’s no sugar to aid browning, producing a savory, less caramelized result than sweet-cured bacons. That restraint is exactly the point for this audience. The 8 oz package is the smallest in the batch, which stings given the premium positioning — this is bacon bought on principles, not volume.
Pros:- USDA Organic with no chemical nitrites or nitrates
- Completely sugar free, Whole30 approved
- Pork raised without antibiotics or added hormones
- Hickory smoked for real flavor without additives
Cons:- Smallest package in the roundup at 8 oz
- No sugar means less caramelization and a less sweet, familiar flavor
Best for: Whole30, keto, and organic-focused buyers who read labels first and want zero sugar and no synthetic nitrates
Not ideal for: Budget shoppers or families feeding several people — the small 8 oz package goes fast and costs accordingly
- Net weight:8 oz
- Type:Uncured bacon
- Flavor:Hickory smoked
- Sugar:Sugar free
- Organic:USDA Organic
- Antibiotics:None
- Added hormones:None
- Chemical nitrites or nitrates:None
- Dietary claims:Gluten free, dairy free, Whole30 approved
Our verdict“The clear choice for clean-eating buyers who refuse sugar and synthetic curing agents, provided they accept the small package.”
Naturally Applewood Smoked Thick Cut Bacon, 16 Oz
Amazon Grocery’s applewood thick cut is the standout budget play for shoppers who refuse to sacrifice slice thickness. Compared with Oscar Mayer Naturally Hardwood Smoked Bacon, which offers more bacon per dollar but a thinner, standard cut, this one holds its own at the stove — the extra thickness means slices that curl less and deliver a meatier chew. The natural applewood smoke lands sweeter and softer than the hickory profile of its sibling, Amazon Grocery’s own hickory smoked bacon, making it friendlier for families who find hickory aggressive. Tradeoffs are real, though: the packaging has shifted from the Fresh Brand label, so repeat buyers may hesitate at the shelf, and availability is tied to Amazon’s grocery channels rather than universal retail.
Pros:- Thick cut at a store-brand price point
- Natural applewood smoke gives a sweeter, gentler flavor than hickory
- Gluten free with no added MSG
- More bacon per package (16 oz) than most premium options
Cons:- Packaging has changed from Fresh Brand, which can confuse repeat buyers
- Availability limited to Amazon Grocery channels
- Smoke flavor is milder than artisanal smoked bacons
Best for: Budget-conscious families who want thick cut, subtly sweet bacon for everyday breakfasts
Not ideal for: Shoppers who buy bacon at physical stores — availability is largely limited to Amazon Grocery channels
- Package Size:16 oz
- Cut:Thick Cut
- Smoking:Naturally Applewood Smoked
- Gluten Free:Yes
- MSG Added:No
- Brand Line:Amazon Grocery (formerly Fresh Brand)
Our verdict“The smart pick for buyers who want thick-cut quality without the specialty-bacon markup.”
Applegate Naturals Fully Cooked Uncured Sunday Bacon, 2.52 Oz
This is the fastest path to bacon in the entire lineup: ten fully cooked slices that go from package to plate in minutes via microwave. Where every other option here — including Niman Ranch’s uncured bacon — demands a skillet, splatter, and cleanup, Applegate’s version eliminates the mess entirely. The ingredient story is strong too: humanely raised, 100% natural pork with no chemical nitrites, nitrates, artificial ingredients, or GMOs. The tradeoffs come down to quantity and texture. At 2.52 ounces, you get a fraction of the bacon found in a 16-ounce package like Amazon Grocery’s applewood cut, and microwaved slices simply cannot match freshly fried ones for crispness edges. You are paying a natural-brand premium for speed and clean sourcing.
Pros:- Ready in minutes with zero skillet mess
- Humanely raised, 100% natural pork
- No chemical nitrites, nitrates, artificial, or GMO ingredients
- Great for single servings and portion control
Cons:- Small package size means a high cost per slice
- Requires a microwave for reheating
- Texture falls short of freshly cooked bacon
Best for: Busy professionals, office lunches, and dorm dwellers who want bacon without a stove or cleanup
Not ideal for: Families feeding several people — a 2.52 oz package is a snack, not a breakfast spread
- Brand:Applegate Naturals
- Weight:2.52 oz
- Slices:10
- Cooking State:Fully Cooked
- Curing:Uncured
- Pork Source:100% natural, humanely raised
Niman Ranch Pork Bacon, Applewood Smoked Uncured, 12 Ounce
Niman Ranch has built its reputation on sourcing, and this bacon reflects it: pork raised with no added antibiotics or hormones under humane treatment standards, applewood smoked and uncured. Compared with Broadbent’s Hickory Smoked Peppered Country Bacon, which delivers bolder old-fashioned flavor but a conventional curing approach, Niman Ranch appeals to buyers whose first question is how the pig was raised. The applewood smoke is balanced rather than overpowering, closer in character to Amazon Grocery’s applewood option but with cleaner labeling and a stronger welfare story. The compromises are straightforward — a premium price per pound, and allergen details live only on the physical package, which is awkward for online shoppers with dietary restrictions.
Pros:- Humanely raised pork with strict welfare standards
- No added antibiotics or hormones
- Balanced applewood smoke that suits most palates
- Gluten-free and all natural
Cons:- Premium pricing compared with conventional brands
- Allergen information only available on the package
- Flavor, while clean, is less distinctive than specialty dry-rubbed bacons
Best for: Conscious consumers who prioritize animal welfare and clean labels over price
Not ideal for: Value-driven shoppers — conventional bacon delivers comparable smoke flavor for noticeably less money
- Brand:Niman Ranch
- Product Type:Pork Bacon
- Flavor:Applewood Smoked
- Curing:Uncured
- Package Size:12 ounces
- Dietary:Gluten-free
- Added Antibiotics:None
- Added Hormones:None
Our verdict“The right choice when how your bacon was raised matters as much as how it tastes.”
Amazon Grocery Naturally Hickory Smoked Bacon, 16 Oz
If the applewood version above is the value thick-cut pick, this is the pure workhorse: a full 16 ounces of naturally hickory smoked bacon at the lowest tier of pricing in this roundup. Hickory delivers a sharper, more traditional smoke than applewood — think classic diner bacon rather than subtly sweet — which makes it a natural fit for burgers, green beans, and breakfast plates where bacon plays a supporting role. Compared with Smithfield Premium Thick Slice Bacon, another mainstream option, the Amazon Grocery version competes on straightforward affordability and a one-stop shopping experience. The downside is that it is a standard cut with a standard flavor ceiling; nothing here will wow a bacon enthusiast, and the shifting Fresh Brand-to-Amazon Grocery packaging has confused some repeat buyers.
Pros:- Aggressive hickory smoke that stands up in cooked dishes
- Lowest cost per ounce among mainstream picks in this lineup
- Full 16 oz package suits recipe use
- Simple natural smoking with no frills
Cons:- Standard cut lacks the meaty bite of thick cut options
- Flavor is one-dimensional compared with premium smoked bacons
- Packaging changes may confuse repeat buyers
Best for: Households that cook with bacon often and want the lowest cost per pound for recipes
Not ideal for: Bacon enthusiasts seeking distinctive smoke character or thick, meaty slices — this is deliberately ordinary
- Weight:16 oz
- Brand:Amazon Grocery
- Formerly:Fresh Brand
- Smoking Method:Naturally hickory smoked
- Package Count:1 pack
Our verdict“The sensible default for cooking-heavy households that need reliable bacon flavor by the pound.”
Tender Belly Thick Cut Bacon, Uncured, Signature Dry Rub, 10 oz
Tender Belly is the bacon you serve when bacon is the dish. Its signature dry rub of freshly ground spices and cherrywood smoke create a sweet-savory complexity nothing else in this lineup attempts — Niman Ranch is cleaner and more restrained by comparison, while Amazon Grocery’s options simply operate in a different class. The details add up on the plate: marbled heritage breed pork in a thick cut, and no added water, which means slices barely shrink and you keep nearly every ounce you paid for. Sourcing is equally strong, with crate-free, vegetarian-fed, antibiotic- and hormone-free pork. The catch is twofold: no nitrates or nitrites shortens shelf life noticeably, so you must cook it soon, and at 10 ounces with specialty pricing, it costs far more per slice than anything else here.
Pros:- Signature dry rub delivers layered spice flavor unmatched in this lineup
- No water added means minimal shrinkage and more bacon per slice
- Heritage breed, crate-free, vegetarian-fed pork
- Cherrywood smoke adds subtle sweetness beyond standard applewood or hickory
Cons:- Uncured with no nitrates/nitrites shortens shelf life considerably
- Premium price per ounce far above mainstream brands
- Only 10 oz per package, so it goes fast at gatherings
Best for: Bacon lovers and weekend hosts who want a conversation-starting centerpiece and will cook it fresh
Not ideal for: Casual everyday buyers — the premium price and short shelf life waste money if it sits unopened
- Cut:Thick cut
- Curing:Uncured
- Seasoning:Signature dry rub with freshly ground spices
- Smoking:Cherrywood smoked
- Pork Source:Heritage breed, humanely raised, vegetarian fed, crate-free
- Weight:10 oz
- Dietary Notes:Gluten free; no antibiotics, hormones, nitrates or nitrites added
- Water Added:None (less shrinkage)
Our verdict“A splurge for people who treat bacon as the main event, not an ingredient.”
Tender Belly Thick Cut Uncured Bacon, No Sugar, Freshly Ground Spices, 10 oz
This option stands out for buyers who want thick-cut indulgence without the sugar. The signature dry rub of freshly ground spices gives it a more layered flavor than the standard Tender Belly Signature Dry Rub version, and the absence of added water means slices stay plump instead of shrinking into ribbons in the pan. Compared with Applegate Organic No Sugar Uncured Bacon, the heritage breed pork delivers noticeably more marbling and richness, though you pay a specialty price for it. The Paleo certification and no added nitrates or nitrites make it a clean-label choice. This pick makes the most sense for low-carb and Paleo households that treat bacon as a centerpiece rather than a side.
Pros:- Thick cut with no added water means less shrinkage when cooking
- No added sugar, nitrates, or nitrites
- Heritage breed, crate-free, vegetarian-fed pork sourcing
- Gluten free and Paleo certified with a distinctive spice dry rub
Cons:- Premium specialty pricing well above mainstream brands like Smithfield
- The bold spice rub may compete with delicate dishes like quiches or carbonara
Best for: Keto, Paleo, and sugar-avoidant eaters who want a premium thick-cut bacon for weekend breakfasts
Not ideal for: Budget shoppers or anyone buying bacon in bulk for big families — the 10 oz package at specialty pricing adds up fast
- Brand:Tender Belly
- Cut:Thick Cut
- Weight:10 oz
- Curing:Uncured
- Sugar:No added sugar
- Nitrates/Nitrites:None added
- Dietary:Gluten Free, Paleo Certified
- Pork Source:Heritage breed, vegetarian fed, crate-free
- Water Added:None
Our verdict“If you eat low-sugar and want bacon that stays thick and juicy in the pan, this is the splurge worth making.”
365 by Whole Foods Market, Uncured Center Cut Smokehouse Bacon, 12 oz
For a grocery-run staple, this is the option that balances clean sourcing with an accessible price. The center cut trims away the fattiest edges, so compared with Smithfield Premium Thick Slice Bacon, you get leaner slices that cook faster and render less grease — a real advantage for weekday breakfasts and BLTs. The smokehouse flavor is straightforward and crowd-pleasing rather than artisanal, which is exactly what most households want. Sibling product 365 Reduced Sodium Uncured Center Cut Bacon suits sodium-limited diets, but this original delivers more smoky depth. The tradeoff: bacon enthusiasts who crave heavy marbling and thick slabs will find this a little polite.
Pros:- Pork raised without antibiotics and vegetarian fed
- Center cut provides a leaner, faster-cooking strip
- Uncured with no added nitrates or nitrites
- Consistent smokehouse flavor at an accessible price point
Cons:- Center cut sacrifices the rich fatty edges many bacon lovers want
- Limited nutritional detail available compared with more premium brands
Best for: Families and everyday cooks who want reliably lean, uncured bacon without specialty pricing
Not ideal for: Bacon traditionalists who love fatty, thick-cut strips — the center cut is noticeably leaner
- Brand:365 by Whole Foods Market
- Size:12 oz
- Cut:Center Cut
- Type:Uncured Bacon
- Flavor:Smokehouse
- Pork Source:Vegetarian fed
- Antibiotics:Raised without antibiotics
Our verdict“This is the dependable weekly bacon for lean-strip households that want clean sourcing without the markup.”
Godshall’s Beef Bacon, 10 oz (6 Pack)
This pick makes the most sense for anyone whose household avoids pork but refuses to give up crispy, smoky bacon. Sliced from the beef plate, it crisps up with a satisfying crunch and delivers a savory depth that rivals pork — though it renders differently, so expect to adjust heat and drain timing compared with Oscar Mayer Naturally Hardwood Smoked Bacon. With 4 grams of protein per serving and zero carbs, it slots neatly into carnivore and keto routines. The 6-pack format is a smart move for freezer storage, but it’s a bigger commitment than a single package, and beef bacon can be harder to find locally if you run out.
Pros:- Rich, smoky, savory flavor that rivals pork bacon
- Crisps up well for a satisfying crunch
- 4 grams of protein per serving with zero carbs
- Convenient 6-pack for freezer storage
Cons:- Beef bacon renders differently than pork and takes practice to cook well
- Harder to find in regular grocery stores than mainstream pork options
Best for: Pork-avoiding households, keto and carnivore dieters, and anyone stocking a freezer with protein-rich breakfast meat
Not ideal for: Casual buyers who just want one pack — the 6-pack commitment is overkill, and pork bacon is easier to restock
- Brand:Godshall’s
- Package Size:10 oz
- Pack Quantity:6
- Protein:4 grams per serving
- Carbs:0
- Sourced From:Beef plate (belly)
Our verdict“If pork is off the table but bacon isn’t, this beef alternative is the most convincing swap you can buy.”
Broadbent’s Hickory Smoked Peppered Country Bacon, 14 oz, 4-Pack
When you want bacon with genuine country character, this salt-cured, hickory-smoked, pepper-crusted option plays in a different league than Amazon Grocery Naturally Hickory Smoked Bacon. The traditional salt cure produces a firmer, denser, intensely savory slice that holds its own in sandwiches, salads, and Southern-style breakfasts. The 4-pack of 14 oz packages is generous — ideal for feeding a crowd or stocking a cabin freezer. The pepper seasoning adds a zesty kick that plain hickory options lack. The tradeoffs are real, though: it is naturally salty, so blanch or soak slices if you’re sodium-conscious, and it cannot ship to California or Massachusetts.
Pros:- Authentic salt-cured country bacon with hickory smoke and cracked pepper
- No added nitrites
- Four individually sealed 14 oz packages for freshness
- Versatile for breakfast, sandwiches, and salads
Cons:- Naturally very salty — not suited to sodium-restricted diets
- Unavailable in California and Massachusetts
Best for: Fans of traditional Southern-style country bacon and cooks who want bold, salty, smoky flavor in bulk
Not ideal for: Low-sodium diets and shoppers in California or Massachusetts, where this product cannot ship
- Brand:Broadbent’s
- Product Type:Peppered country bacon
- Flavor:Hickory smoked pepper
- Curing:Salt cured
- Added Nitrites:None
- Package Quantity:4 packages
- Package Weight:14 oz each
- Availability:Unavailable in California and Massachusetts
Our verdict“This is the pick for buyers chasing old-school country-cure flavor in serious quantity — just mind the salt.”
North Country Smokehouse Organic Bacon, 8 Ounce
This model is better suited to buyers who want the highest welfare and organic credentials on the shelf. Compared with Niman Ranch Applewood Smoked Uncured Bacon, which also emphasizes humane sourcing, North Country goes a step further with USDA Organic certification, Certified Humane pork, and fully vertically integrated sourcing from feed to processing. The local maple syrup cure gives it a gentle sweetness that plays beautifully against the smoke — closer to a Vermont breakfast than a diner platter. There are no nitrates, nitrites, antibiotics, or added hormones anywhere in the chain. The tradeoff is a small 8 oz package at premium pricing, so it’s a weekend-treat bacon rather than an everyday one.
Pros:- USDA Organic and Certified Humane with no antibiotics or added hormones
- Sweetened with authentic local maple syrup rather than refined sugar blends
- No nitrates, nitrites, or artificial flavors
- Fully vertically integrated sourcing from feed to processing
Cons:- Premium organic pricing with only 8 oz per package
- The maple sweetness may not suit fans of purely salty, savory bacon
Best for: Conscientious shoppers and gift-givers who prioritize organic certification and animal welfare over quantity
Not ideal for: Large families or big-batch meal preppers — the 8 oz package disappears fast for the price
- Brand:North Country Smokehouse
- Size:8 Ounce
- Certification:USDA Organic, Certified Humane
- Sweetener:Authentic local maple syrup
- Nitrates/Nitrites:None
- Antibiotics:None
- Added Hormones:None
- Sourcing:Fully vertically integrated
Our verdict“If ethics and organic certification drive your grocery decisions, this maple-kissed bacon is the splurge that backs up its price.”
How We Picked
I evaluated each bacon across five buyer-relevant criteria: flavor depth (smoke intensity, salt balance, and whether spices complement rather than mask the pork), slice quality and cook performance (does it crisp evenly or turn rubbery and shrink badly), ingredient transparency (uncured versus cured, organic certification, added sugar), and value per serving (package size relative to how much usable bacon you actually get after shrinkage). I also weighed sourcing standards, since several brands — Niman Ranch, North Country Smokehouse, and Applegate — distinguish themselves through antibiotic-free and pasture-raised pork that measurably affects fat quality.
The ranking reflects a simple philosophy: a great bacon should taste great straight out of the pan without doctoring. That’s why artisanal uncured options rank highest, mainstream grocery staples fill the value tier, and diet-specific products (reduced sodium, beef, no sugar) are placed by how well they serve their intended buyer rather than general taste alone.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Bacon
Choosing bacon off the shelf is harder than it should be, because packaging language like “natural,” “hardwood smoked,” and “uncured” is used loosely. These are the factors that actually change what lands on your plate.Cured vs. Uncured: What the Label Actually Means
“Uncured” bacon isn’t raw or nitrate-free — it’s cured with celery powder or sea salt instead of synthetic sodium nitrite. Chemically, the result is similar, but many brands using natural curing also source better pork, which is why uncured options dominate the top of this roundup. If ingredient lists matter to you, uncured products like Niman Ranch and North Country Smokehouse typically show five or six recognizable ingredients versus a dozen in conventional bacon. The mistake most buyers make is assuming uncured means healthier by default; the real difference is sourcing philosophy. What you should actually check is whether the pork is antibiotic-free and vegetarian-fed, which correlates more with flavor than the curing method itself.
Cut Thickness and What It Means in the Pan
Slice thickness changes everything about cooking. Thin and center-cut strips cook in under 10 minutes and crisp easily, but they shrink aggressively and can burn before the fat renders. Thick-cut bacon (Smithfield, Tender Belly, Broadbent’s) takes longer but holds its shape, renders fat more completely, and gives you a chewy-crisp texture that thin bacon can’t match. Restaurant-style and country bacon go even further — Broadbent’s is sliced from a cured slab and behaves more like ham until it’s crisped. My advice: match thickness to your cooking method. Thin for microwave and sandwiches, thick for cast iron, oven baking, and anyone who loves a meaty bite.
Smoke Source: Applewood, Hickory, or None
The wood used for smoking leaves a distinct fingerprint. Applewood smoke is mild and slightly sweet, which is why it pairs so well with dry rubs and higher-quality pork — Niman Ranch and Tender Belly both lean on it deliberately. Hickory is punchier and more traditional, giving Smithfield and Broadbent’s a bold, almost campfire intensity that stands up to pepper and heavy seasoning. Some budget options use liquid smoke flavoring instead of real smoking, which reads as artificial bitterness once you’ve tasted the real thing. If you eat bacon mostly alongside eggs and pancakes, hickory’s assertiveness can compete with other flavors; applewood plays nicer in mixed dishes like carbonara or wrapped dates.
Sugar, Sodium, and Special Diets
Most bacon contains added sugar for browning and caramelization — a problem for keto and paleo buyers who don’t expect it in a meat product. Options like Applegate Organic No Sugar and Tender Belly’s no-sugar variety exist precisely for this gap, using spice rubs to compensate for the missing sweetness. On the sodium side, 365 by Whole Foods Reduced Sodium cuts salt by roughly a third, though the tradeoff is blander meat that needs seasoning after cooking. Beef bacon (Godshall’s) rounds out the diet category for anyone avoiding pork entirely. The common mistake here is buying regular bacon and assuming a quick rinse reduces sodium — it doesn’t meaningfully. Choose the formula that matches your diet from the start.
Price Per Ounce vs. Value Per Slice
Bacon pricing is deceptive because cheap bacon shrinks more. A 16-ounce budget pack can lose a third of its weight in rendered fat and water pumped during curing, while a 10-ounce premium pack like Tender Belly yields nearly everything it promises. When comparing options, think in cost per cooked slice, not cost per package. Artisanal bacon also delivers more flavor per strip, which means two slices of Tender Belly satisfy where four slices of standard grocery bacon might not. That said, if you’re cooking bacon for a crowd, crumbling it into recipes, or feeding a big family, the premium stuff is wasted — bulk value options like Amazon Grocery and Smithfield make more sense for high-volume use.
Convenience Formats: Pre-Cooked and Multipacks
Not everyone wants to stand over a splattering pan. Fully cooked bacon like Applegate Sunday Bacon heats in seconds and is shelf-stable, making it genuinely useful for office lunches, camping, or BLT cravings at odd hours — but expect a drier, less luxurious texture. Multipacks (Godshall’s six-pack, Broadbent’s four-pack) suit freezer-stockers and households that go through bacon weekly, though they require upfront freezer space and commitment to one flavor. Raw, refrigerated 12–16 ounce packs remain the default for a reason: they offer the best texture and flexibility. Choose convenience formats only when fresh cooking is genuinely impractical, not as a default — the texture gap is real.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is uncured bacon actually better for you than regular bacon?
Not necessarily, and this is one of the most misunderstood labels in the meat aisle. “Uncured” means the bacon was preserved with celery powder or natural salt instead of synthetic sodium nitrite, but celery powder contains naturally occurring nitrates that function almost identically in the body. The real reason to buy uncured is usually ingredient transparency — brands like Niman Ranch and North Country Smokehouse pair natural curing with antibiotic-free pork and short ingredient lists. If your goal is genuinely reducing processed meat intake, portion size matters more than the label. Choose uncured for cleaner sourcing, not as a health hack.
Why did thick-cut bacon rank higher than center-cut if center-cut is leaner?
This roundup ranks on flavor and cook performance first, and fat is where bacon’s flavor lives. Center-cut strips like Oscar Mayer’s or 365 by Whole Foods’ come from leaner sections, so they shrink less and cook faster, but they deliver a milder, less satisfying bite. Thick-cut options render fat slowly, crisp evenly, and hold their structure — qualities that matter more for most bacon lovers than shaving a few grams of fat. If you’re specifically eating lean for dietary reasons, center-cut is still the right call, and it ranked accordingly within that niche. The ranking isn’t a health verdict; it’s a taste-versus-leanness tradeoff made explicit.
Which bacon should I buy if I’m eating keto or avoiding sugar?
Check labels carefully, because most commercial bacon contains brown sugar or dextrose that buyers never expect. In this lineup, Applegate Organic No Sugar Uncured Bacon and Tender Belly’s No Sugar Thick Cut are the two purpose-built options, and they take different approaches: Applegate is certified organic and cleaner-tasting, while Tender Belly compensates for missing sugar with a bold spice rub that keeps the caramelization effect. Both work well for keto, but Tender Belly is the better pick if you miss the browning that sugar provides. Avoid assuming “natural” or “uncured” means sugar-free — many premium bacons are actually sweeter than standard ones.
Is beef bacon a good substitute for pork bacon?
It depends entirely on why you’re asking. Godshall’s Beef Bacon exists mainly for people who avoid pork for religious, dietary, or personal reasons, and within that constraint it performs well — it crisps up, carries smoky flavor, and works in any recipe calling for bacon. But beef fat renders differently than pork fat, producing a slightly firmer, waxier texture and a more savory, less sweet flavor profile. If you eat pork and simply want variety, you’ll likely be somewhat disappointed paying premium prices for a substitute. Think of it as the best pork-free option available rather than a competing choice for pork eaters.
What’s the best way to cook thick-cut bacon without burning it?
Thick-cut bacon needs low, slow heat — start it in a cold pan over medium-low so the fat renders before the meat browns, and plan on 12–15 minutes versus 8 for thin slices. The oven method is even more forgiving: arrange strips on a rack over a sheet pan at 400°F for 15–20 minutes, which cooks evenly and eliminates stovetop splatter entirely. Thin and center-cut bacon, by contrast, does better with quicker medium heat or the microwave, since extended cooking makes it brittle. Whichever method you choose, drain on paper towels rather than a plate so the strips stay crisp instead of steaming. Thick options like Smithfield and Tender Belly also freeze well in rolled portions if you only cook a few strips at a time.
Conclusion
After comparing all 15 options, here’s how the field shakes out by buyer type. For best overall, Niman Ranch Applewood Smoked Uncured Bacon earns the top spot — it balances clean sourcing, balanced smoke, and dependable thickness better than anything else in the lineup. For best value, Amazon Grocery Naturally Hickory Smoked Bacon delivers respectable smoky flavor at bulk-friendly pricing, with Smithfield Thick Slice as the runner-up if you want more substance per slice. For the premium buyer, Tender Belly’s Signature Dry Rub is the splurge that justifies itself, especially for weekend breakfasts and entertaining.
If you’re a beginner or feeding a family, Oscar Mayer Naturally Hardwood Smoked in the 16-ounce pack is forgiving to cook, widely available, and pleases picky eaters. For specific needs: Applegate Organic No Sugar and Tender Belly No Sugar cover keto buyers, 365 Reduced Sodium serves low-salt diets, Godshall’s Beef Bacon handles pork-free households, and Applegate’s fully cooked Sunday Bacon fills the convenience niche. Whatever you choose, the lesson of this comparison is simple — match the bacon to how you actually cook and eat it, and the “best” one becomes obvious.
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