This Fourth of July weekend, you can bet on the fact that grills will be sparking up from sea to shining sea. At least twice you’ll look down the street and ask, “is that a fire?” only to realize it’s just your industrious neighbor’s offset smoker. (Again.) You might even see me out there this weekend, setting up a chimney at one of the charcoal grills at the public park, gearing up to cook my favorite grill food: skewers.
Lately I’ve been experimenting with ingredient combinations from the classic to the adventurous (and a few not worth repeating). Here are my top three favorites so far. And electric grill users, you’re included too: Electric grills are a huge boon for apartment dwellers (like me), and even folks who grill outdoors but prefer less smoke and a cleaner taste. All of these skewers work wonderfully on an indoor grill too. (Read here for electric grill options if you’ve been looking.)
Hey there, bacon lovers! If you’ve ever wondered, “Can you cook bacon on a Pizzazz?”—that funky rotating oven thingy—I’ve got the answer for ya right off the bat: hell yeah, you can! This little kitchen gizmo ain’t just for pizzas; it can crisp up your bacon like a dream, with less mess and a whole lotta ease. I’ve been tinkering with this bad boy in my kitchen, and let me tell ya, it’s a game-changer for breakfast or any damn time you’re craving that salty, crispy goodness.
In this post, we’re diving deep into everything you need to know about cooking bacon on a Pizzazz. We’ll cover what this contraption even is, how to get that bacon sizzling just right, the perks of using it over a greasy skillet, some handy-dandy tips, and even how to clean up after Plus, I’ll throw in a few extra ideas to make the most of this rotating wonder So, grab a coffee (or a slice of bacon if you’ve got some handy), and let’s get into it!
What’s a Pizzazz, Anyway?
If you’re scratching your head wondering what the heck a Pizzazz is, don’t worry—I gotchu Picture this a compact, open-faced oven with a spinning tray in the middle and heating elements on the top and bottom It’s like a lazy Susan met a toaster oven and decided to make magic. Originally, this thing was made for cooking pizzas—frozen, homemade, whatever—without preheating or fuss. But, turns out, it’s a multi-tasking beast that can handle all sorts of grub, including our beloved bacon.
Here’s the deal with how it works
- Rotating Tray: That spinning platter makes sure your food cooks evenly. No hot spots, no undercooked bits—just pure, uniform heat.
- Dual Heating: Heat comes from above and below, so you can control whether you want a crispy bottom or a golden top (or both).
- Timer Magic: Set the time, walk away, and it’ll ding when it’s done. Ain’t no babysitting needed.
I first got my hands on a Pizzazz thinking it’d just be a pizza night helper, but man, was I wrong. This thing’s versatility is off the charts, and when I figured out it could handle bacon, my mornings got a whole lot brighter.
Can You Really Cook Bacon on a Pizzazz? Let’s Break It Down
Alright, let’s get to the meat of the matter (pun totally intended). Yes, you can cook bacon on a Pizzazz, and it turns out pretty darn tasty. The rotating action and dual heat mean your strips get crispy all over without you flipping ‘em every two seconds. But, there’s a lil’ caveat—some folks, including the makers of the Pizzazz, say you shouldn’t cook raw meats directly on it ‘cause the high heat and spinning might mess up the unit with grease splatter. I’ve done it anyway, and it’s worked fine for me, but I’ll give ya both the straight-up method and a safer twist to keep your gadget happy.
Method 1: Straight-Up Bacon Strips
This is how I usually roll when I’m in a hurry and just want my bacon fix:
- Set Up Your Pizzazz: Plug it in on a heat-safe spot on your counter. Make sure there’s space around it—no crowding with other kitchen junk.
- Lay Out the Bacon: Grab your bacon—regular or thick-cut, whatever you fancy—and place the strips on the rotating tray. Try not to overlap too much; side by side is best for even cooking. If they’re long, cut ‘em in half to fit better.
- Set the Timer: Crank it to about 10-15 minutes, depending on how crispy you like it. Thick-cut might need a couple extra minutes. Keep an eye on it the first time to nail your sweet spot.
- Watch the Magic: The tray spins, the heat hits from top and bottom, and you don’t gotta flip unless you see some uneven spots toward the end. Most times, it’s good as is.
- Drain and Devour: Once it’s done, use tongs to pull the bacon off and plop it on a paper towel-lined plate to soak up extra grease. Then, dig in!
I’ve cooked batches like this for a quick brekkie, and it’s been smooth sailing. The bacon comes out crispy, and I ain’t had no issues with the machine yet. Just don’t overpack the tray, or you’ll get soggy spots.
Method 2: The Fancy Appetizer Route (Safe for Your Pizzazz)
If you wanna play it safe and follow the “no raw meat” guideline—or just wanna impress some guests—try this neat trick I stumbled on. It’s a bit more work but worth it for a party snack:
- Prep the Bacon: Cut your bacon strips into thirds crosswise.
- Wrap It Up: Take each piece and wrap it around a water chestnut (yep, those lil’ crunchy things). Secure it with a wooden toothpick.
- Set It Up: Place these lil’ bundles on a rack in a baking pan that fits in the Pizzazz. Preheat the gizmo to about 350°F.
- Cook Slow: Let ‘em cook for 30-45 minutes until the bacon’s brown and crispy. It takes longer than the direct method, but the result is a killer appetizer.
- Serve or Store: Eat ‘em hot, or cool ‘em down, cover, and chill for up to a day. Reheat at 350°F for 25-30 minutes when you’re ready.
This way, you’re not cooking raw bacon straight on the tray, so less risk of grease gunking up your machine. Plus, bacon-wrapped water chestnuts? That’s some next-level snacking right there.
Why Cook Bacon on a Pizzazz? The Perks Are Real
Now you know you can do it, but why should ya? I’ve got a few reasons why I keep coming back to my Pizzazz for bacon instead of the ol’ frying pan. Check these out:
- Even Cooking, Every Time: That spinning tray means no more half-crispy, half-limp strips. The heat gets everywhere, so each piece is cooked just right.
- Less Mess to Stress: Bacon grease in a skillet splatters everywhere—counter, stove, even my shirt sometimes! With the Pizzazz, the fat drips off the tray, and cleanup ain’t no biggie.
- Quicker Than You Think: It’s faster than a pan most days. Ten to fifteen minutes and you’re done, no preheating nonsense like with an oven.
- Texture Control: Want it super crunchy? Cook it full time. Like it chewy? Pull it a tad early. You’ve got the power to dial in your perfect bacon vibe.
- Multi-Tasking Madness: While the bacon’s spinning, I can whip up eggs or toast on the side. It’s like having an extra set of hands in the kitchen.
I remember the first time I tried this—thought it’d be a flop, but dang, the bacon was spot-on crispy with zero babysitting. Now, it’s my go-to when I’m feeding a crowd or just too lazy for skillet drama.
Tips to Make Your Bacon Pizzazz Experience Pop
Alright, I’ve cooked enough bacon on this thing to pick up some tricks along the way. Here’s my insider scoop to get the best results and avoid any oopsies:
- Pick the Right Bacon: Go for regular or thick-cut—both work awesome. Just steer clear of super fatty stuff ‘cause it’ll make a greasy mess. A good meat-to-fat balance is key.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Lay those strips out with a lil’ breathing room. Too much overlap, and they won’t crisp up proper.
- Time It Right: First couple tries, watch it like a hawk. Every Pizzazz model’s a bit different, and so’s every bacon pack. Start with 10 minutes and tweak from there.
- Flavor It Up, Yo: Feeling wild? Brush some maple syrup or sprinkle pepper on the strips before cooking. The heat locks in that extra zing. I’ve even tried a dash of chili powder—spicy bacon for the win!
- Line It If You’re Lazy: Toss some aluminum foil or parchment on the tray for easier cleanup. Just make sure it don’t block the heat too much.
- Ventilation, Peeps: Bacon smoke can get real. Crack a window or turn on the fan if you’re cooking a big batch. Trust me, your kitchen’ll thank ya.
One time, I got cocky and piled on too many strips—ended up with half-soggy bacon. Lesson learned: patience and spacing are your buddies.
Cleaning Up Your Pizzazz After the Bacon Bash
Bacon’s greasy, no surprise there. After you’ve chowed down, you gotta give your Pizzazz some love to keep it in tip-top shape. Here’s how I tackle the cleanup without scratching up my precious machine:
- Cool It Down First: Don’t even think about cleaning till it’s completely cool. Hot surfaces and wet cloths don’t mix, and I ain’t burning my fingers for nobody.
- Wipe the Grease: Grab a damp cloth or sponge and wipe down the tray right away. That grease hardens fast if you wait, and then it’s a pain.
- Gentle Soap Action: For the tray, a bit of mild dish soap and warm water does the trick. Wash it by hand—no dishwasher, folks, it might wreck the non-stick coating.
- No Rough Stuff: Skip the steel wool or abrasive pads. They’ll scratch the heck outta the surface. A soft sponge is all ya need.
- Dry and Store: Dry it good with a soft towel and stash it somewhere dry. Moisture’s the enemy of kitchen gadgets.
I’ve had a few sticky situations (pun intended) where grease got caked on ‘cause I got lazy. Had to use a baking soda paste and let it sit for 10 minutes before wiping off. Worked like a charm, so keep that trick in your back pocket.
Beyond Bacon: What Else Can a Pizzazz Do?
While we’re obsessing over bacon, let’s not sleep on the other cool stuff this rotating wonder can whip up. I’ve messed around with mine for more than just breakfast, and it’s been a blast. Here’s some ideas to get ya started:
- Frozen Goodies: Chicken nuggets, potato wedges, mozzarella sticks—pop ‘em on and follow the package times. Comes out crispy without a deep fryer.
- Sweet Treats: Bake cookies or cinnamon rolls from refrigerated dough. Lay it out on the tray, set the timer, and you’ve got dessert in minutes.
- Grilled Sammies: Slap a sandwich on there for a quick melt. Few minutes per side, and the bread’s toasty, cheese all gooey. Lunch sorted.
- Homemade Pizza: Duh, it’s in the name. Roll out dough, add toppings, and cook. Crispy crust, melty cheese—better than delivery some nights.
- Veggie Sides: Small veggies like zucchini slices or mini peppers roast up nice if you toss ‘em with a bit of oil. Just don’t overcook; they shrink fast.
I’ve thrown together a quick pizza night with the kids using this thing, and it’s less hassle than firing up the big oven. Plus, they love watching the tray spin like it’s some kinda food carousel.
Troubleshooting: When Bacon on a Pizzazz Goes Wonky
Not every cook sesh is perfect, and I’ve had my share of “what the heck” moments with the Pizzazz. Here’s a quick rundown of common snags and how to dodge ‘em:
- Uneven Cooking: If some strips ain’t crisping right, you might’ve overlapped too much. Spread ‘em out next time, or flip halfway if needed.
- Too Much Grease: Big batches mean big grease. Cook less at once, or line the tray to catch drips. Wipe it down pronto after.
- Burnt Bacon: If it’s charring too quick, lower the heat setting if your model allows, or cut the time. Check early till you know your machine’s quirks.
- Smoke Everywhere: Bacon fat loves to smoke at high temps. Ventilate the kitchen, and don’t crank the heat too wild.
I burned a batch once ‘cause I got distracted by a phone call—smelled like a campfire in here! Now, I set a reminder to peek in halfway, just in case.
Why Every Bacon Fan Needs a Pizzazz in Their Life
If you’re a bacon nut like me, this little spinning oven might just become your new bestie. Think about it: no more standing over a hot stove, dodging grease pops, or scrubbing a pan for ages. You pop the bacon on, set it, and chill while it does the work. Plus, the even cooking means every strip is a winner—no sad, floppy pieces in the bunch.
I’ve saved so much time on busy mornings with this thing. Used to dread making bacon for the fam ‘cause of the cleanup, but now it’s a breeze. And when I’m feeling extra, I experiment with flavors—honey-drizzled bacon, anyone?—and the Pizzazz just handles it like a champ.
Wrapping Up the Bacon Pizzazz Party
So, can you cook bacon on a Pizzazz? Bet your boots you can! Whether you go the direct route for a quick fix or get fancy with bacon-wrapped bites, this gadget brings the sizzle with less hassle. We’ve walked through how it works, the best ways to cook your strips, why it’s a total win, and even how to keep it clean for the next round. Plus, with all the other stuff it can do, from pizzas to sammies, it’s a solid addition to any kitchen.
Next time you’re hankering for that crispy, smoky goodness, give your Pizzazz a whirl. Play with some flavors, cook up a batch, and enjoy the ride. Got any wild bacon combos or Pizzazz hacks of your own? Drop ‘em in the comments—I’m all ears for new ideas to spice up my breakfast game. Happy cooking, y’all!
Pesto chicken and ravioli skewer
Clearly I have not grilled enough ravioli in my life, and Im guessing you havent either. Youll want to buy the “fresh” style pasta that you can find in the refrigerated section of the grocery store. The pasta wont be dry, but soft and pliable, so all you have to do is unpack and skewer it. Personally, I went on a Trader Joe’s bender and picked up some cacio e pepe ravioli. No regrets.
You can also purchase chicken breasts and cuts of meat that are packaged in a marinade to make your life easier. The chicken I used was slathered in a pesto sauce marinade. Rather than cube the meat, I prefer to slice it thinly and skewer it in a rippling ribbon. Among the chicken and ravioli, I nestled a thick wedge of portobello mushroom. You might say, “Allie, there is no sweet element here.” You’re correct. In this case, I made an executive decision to leave savory, herbal, and earthy alone.
This skewer smells particularly incredible while grilling. After enjoying the portobello perfume, I love the way the charred ravioli comes out. The pasta’s exterior is tender with delicate crispy sections, and the filling is warm, but you’ be in no danger of burning the roof of your mouth.
One of my favorite tacos is the al pastor. It’s filled with marinated, spit-roasted pork and paired with a slice of pineapple. The pork is deeply flavorful, with irresistible crispy edges, and the warm, sweet pineapple compliments the savory element while also providing a burst of acidity to brighten things up. A skewer with these components is like getting straight to the heart of the al pastor.
To make these al pastor skewers, I thinly sliced some garlic and herb marinated pork loin and ribboned it onto the skewer. (This is how my family makes grilled satay, so I prefer the meat sliced versus cubing it. But cube if you must.) Add the pork, a hunk of pineapple, and a wedge of shallot. Repeat until you’re out of room on your skewers.
The pork almost plays second fiddle to the sweetness of the fruit and the caramelized shallot. (You could swap out the pork for some firm marinated tofu and the results would be delightful.) This one is a definitely crowd favorite.
How to experiment with skewer flavor combinations
I’ve noticed some patterns in my skewer research. The best ones balance savory, sweet, and herbal or earthy elements. That’s all you really need for success. So if you have a main protein, like marinated chicken or tofu, you’ve already nailed the savory element. Think of adding a sliced peach or fig section for some sweetness. For an earthy element—an ingredient that borders on bitter but not overwhelmingly so—you can add a halved shallot or a hunk of jalepeño. For extra pizzazz, you can always drizzle on vinaigrettes after grilling, sprinkle on seasonings, or add crumbled cheeses.
If you’re using an electric grill, like I did today, you have the added benefit of being able to oil the grill plates if you’d like. All of these skewers were grilled for three to four minutes in a ChefMan Panini Press Grill, an appliance I’ve grown rather fond of. The hinged upper plate is key for evenly pressing taller items.
Without further ado, here are three excellent skewers that I keep coming back to.
Cooked bacon using Pizzazz Plus
FAQ
What else can you cook on a pizzazz?
A: A lot of things that can be made in the oven can be made on the Pizzaz. We use it for tator tots, mini corn dogs, fish sticks, mini pizzas, regular size pizzas, chicken nuggets, reheating leftover pizza, and something’s I am sure I am forgetting!
Can I put raw bacon on my pizza?
Raw bacon should not be put on a pizza as a topping because it will not cook fully and may be too chewy or undercooked. It’s recommended to precook the bacon and cut or crumble it into small pieces, then add it on top of the pizza before baking it.
Can you cook bacon in a pizza oven?
Preheat the Wood-Fired Oven: Prepare your wood-fired oven by lighting the fire and wait for 30-45 minutes for the oven to heat up to 700°F. Prepare the Toppings: Cook the bacon until crispy, drain on paper towels, then crumble into small pieces.
What’s the difference between pizzazz and pizzazz plus?
The term “Pizzazz” typically refers to the quality of being energetic, exciting, or attractive, while “Pizzazz Plus” is the name of a specific rotating pizza oven model, also known as the Presto Pizzazz Plus.