Hey there, bacon lovers! If you’ve ever stood in the grocery aisle, eyeballin’ a big ol’ kilo pack of bacon, and wondered, “Just how many strips am I gettin’ here?”—well, you’re in the right place. I’ve been there, droolin’ over that salty, crispy goodness, and I’ve done the math for ya Straight up, a kilo of regular cut bacon usually gives you 32 to 40 strips. But hold up, it ain’t that simple—thickness, cut, and type can mess with that number big time So, let’s dive into the juicy details and figure out what’s really goin’ on with your bacon stash.
Here at our little corner of foodie heaven, we’re all about keepin’ it real and helpin’ you get the most outta your kitchen adventures. Whether you’re cookin’ for a crowd or just treatin’ yourself to a breakfast feast, knowin’ how many strips you got in a kilo can make or break your plans. Stick with me, and I’ll walk ya through everything from the nitty-gritty of slice counts to some pro tips on makin’ that bacon last. Let’s get sizzlin’!
Why the Number of Bacon Strips Varies Like Crazy
First things first, let’s talk about why there ain’t no one-size-fits-all answer to how many strips you get in a kilo Bacon ain’t just bacon—it comes in all kinda shapes, sizes, and cuts Here’s the breakdown of what messes with the count
- Thickness of the Slice: This is the biggie. Thin-cut bacon means more strips per kilo, while thick-cut means less. Regular cut, the kinda stuff most of us grab, sits in the middle.
- Type of Bacon: You got streaky (that fatty, American-style stuff), back bacon (lean and meaty, often Canadian or English style), and specialty cuts. Each type packs a different number of slices ‘cause of how they’re prepared.
- Weight per Slice: A single strip can weigh anywhere from 12 grams for super thin cuts to a hefty 40 grams for thick ones. A kilo is 1000 grams, so do the math—lighter slices equal more strips.
- Moisture and Shrinkage: Raw bacon weighs more than cooked ‘cause it loses water when you fry it up. That don’t change the strip count, but it’s somethin’ to keep in mind if you’re weighin’ after cookin’.
I remember the first time I bought a kilo of thick-cut bacon thinkin’ I’d have enough for a whole party, only to realize I barely had 30 strips. Lesson learned—always check the cut before you commit!
How Many Strips in a Kilo? Let’s Crunch the Numbers
Alright, let’s get down to brass tacks. Here’s the general range of strips you can expect in a kilo based on the cut. I’ve thrown together a little table to keep things crystal clear
Bacon Type/Cut | Strips per Kilo | Weight per Slice (Raw) |
---|---|---|
Thin Cut | 40 – 45 | 12 – 14 grams |
Regular Cut | 32 – 40 | 23 – 26 grams |
Thick Cut | 30 – 35 | 36 – 40 grams |
Specialty (like KR Bacon) | Around 10 | Thicker, varies widely |
Middle Rasher Bacon | 12 – 14 | Heavier, meatier slices |
So, if you’re pickin’ up a standard pack of regular cut bacon at the store, you’re lookin’ at about 32 to 40 strips per kilo. Go for thin cut if you want more bang for your buck in terms of quantity, but if you’re all about that hearty bite, thick cut is your jam—just expect fewer pieces. And hey, if you’re grabbin’ somethin’ fancy like a specialty Australian-style bacon, don’t be shocked if you only get about 10 slices. Them bad boys are thick!
Diggin’ Deeper: Types of Bacon and Their Impact
Now that we got the numbers outta the way, let’s chat about the different types of bacon you might come across. Trust me, knowin’ this stuff can change how you shop and cook. Here’s the lowdown on the main players:
- Streaky Bacon (American Style): This is the classic, fatty kinda bacon most of us picture. It’s cut from the pig’s belly, got a lotta fat mixed with meat, and usually comes in long, narrow strips. ‘Cause it’s often sliced thinner, you get more strips per kilo—think closer to 40 if it’s regular or thin cut. It fries up crispy real nice, which is why I’m obsessed with it on my mornin’ eggs.
- Back Bacon (Canadian or English Style): This one’s leaner, cut from the loin with just a lil’ bit of belly fat. It’s meatier and often thicker, so you’re lookin’ at fewer slices per kilo—maybe 32 to 36 for a standard cut. It don’t shrink as much when cooked, which is a plus if you’re watchin’ portions.
- Middle Rasher Bacon: A hybrid of sorts, this cut got both loin and belly in one slice. It’s often from free-range pigs and feels a bit more “gourmet.” You might only get 12 to 14 slices per kilo ‘cause the slices are bigger and heavier. Perfect if you want somethin’ substantial for a fancy brunch.
- Specialty Cuts (like KR Bacon): Some brands or butchers got their own style, often thicker and packed with flavor. I’ve seen some that only give ya 10 strips per kilo, but man, each slice is a meal in itself. Great for when you wanna impress at a cookout.
Pickin’ the right type depends on what you’re cookin’. If I’m makin’ a big batch of BLTs for the crew, I go streaky for max strips. But if it’s just me and a special breakfast, I might splurge on a thicker, meatier cut.
Thickness and Weight: Why It Matters More Than You Think
I know we already touched on thickness, but let’s get nerdy for a sec ‘cause this really tweaks the numbers. The weight of each slice is straight-up tied to how thick it’s cut, and that weight decides how many strips fit into a kilo. Here’s the deal:
- Thin Cut Bacon: Weighs about 12 to 14 grams per slice raw. That means you can squeeze in 40 or even 45 strips in a kilo. Great for stretchin’ your supply, but it cooks fast so don’t let it burn!
- Regular Cut Bacon: Sits at 23 to 26 grams per strip. That’s why the count lands around 32 to 40 per kilo. It’s the Goldilocks of bacon—not too thick, not too thin.
- Thick Cut Bacon: These hefty slices tip the scale at 36 to 40 grams each. You’re lucky to get 30 to 35 strips in a kilo, but dang, they got some serious chew to ‘em.
And don’t forget, these weights are for raw bacon. Once you cook it, it loses about 10% of its weight from moisture droppin’ off. So if you’re measurin’ for a recipe, keep that in mind and maybe grab a lil’ extra to be safe. I learned that the hard way when I was short on bacon for a pasta dish—never again!
What Happens When You Cook It? Shrinkage, Baby!
Speakin’ of cookin’, let’s talk shrinkage. Bacon don’t stay the same weight after you throw it in the pan. As it sizzles, water and some fat drip out, and you end up with less than you started with. On average, a kilo of raw bacon shrinks down to about 900 grams once it’s cooked. That don’t change how many strips you got, but it does mess with recipes if you’re countin’ on a full kilo of cooked weight.
My tip? If you’re plannin’ a big dish—like a bacon-wrapped meatloaf or somethin’ wild—buy a tad more than a kilo to cover the loss. Nothin’ worse than runnin’ short mid-cook. Been there, done that, and it ain’t fun.
Shoppin’ Smart: Buyin’ Bacon in Bulk
If you’re like me and bacon is basically a food group in your house, buyin’ in bulk can save ya some cash. A kilo is a solid start, but there’s a few things to watch for when you’re stockin’ up:
- Check the Cut: Like I been sayin’, thin cut gets you more strips, thick cut gets you less. Peek through the pack if you can to see the fat-to-meat ratio and decide what vibe you’re goin’ for.
- Look for Deals: Some places give discounts if you buy a buncha stuff at once. You don’t always gotta grab 20 packs of bacon—mix it with other meats if the store lets ya hit that bulk rate.
- Know Your Storage: A kilo is a lotta bacon. If you ain’t cookin’ it all right away, you gotta store it proper. More on that in a sec.
I usually grab a kilo or two when I’m plannin’ a family BBQ. Splittin’ it into smaller portions before freezin’ saves me a headache later. Trust me, you don’t wanna defrost a whole kilo just for a couple strips!
Storin’ Your Bacon Like a Pro
Alright, let’s get into keepin’ that bacon fresh. Whether you got a kilo or just a lil’ pack, how you store it makes a huge difference in how long it lasts and how good it tastes. Here’s my go-to advice:
- In the Fridge: Once you open that pack, wrap it tight in foil or plastic wrap. Keep it on a lower shelf in the fridge where it’s coldest. It’ll stay good for about a week. Don’t just leave it floppin’ around in the original pack—air is the enemy!
- In the Freezer: Got a kilo and don’t wanna cook it all? Split it into small batches—maybe 4 to 6 strips per bag. Or, stack individual slices with parchment paper between ‘em so you can grab just what ya need. It’s like a bacon accordion, super handy.
- Don’t Cover Hot Bacon: If you just cooked a batch, don’t slap a lid or bowl over it while it’s warm. That traps steam and kills the crunch. Let it cool uncovered or toss a breathable towel over it if you must.
I’ve messed this up before by chuckin’ a whole kilo in the freezer without dividin’ it. Had to thaw the whole dang thing for one sandwich. Don’t be like past me—plan ahead!
Cookin’ Bacon for Max Flavor and Crunch
While we’re at it, let’s talk cookin’ tips ‘cause ain’t nobody want soggy bacon. Over the years, I’ve picked up a few tricks to get that perfect sizzle every time:
- Bake, Don’t Fry: I know, fryin’ is classic, but bakin’ in the oven at about 200°F lets the grease drip off better. Lay the strips on a rack over a bakin’ sheet, and you got leaner, crispier bacon with less mess. Plus, it’s easier to cook a whole kilo this way.
- Pick the Right Thickness: Want extra crispy? Go thin cut. It cooks quicker and gets that snap before it burns. Thicker cuts are chewier, which is awesome for some dishes but takes longer.
- Flavor It Up: If you’re near a butcher, ask ‘em for flavored bacon—think maple, applewood, or even somethin’ spicy like chipotle. Tell ‘em what you’re makin’, and they’ll hook you up with the best match.
Last weekend, I baked a batch of thin-cut bacon for brunch, and it was gone in like five minutes. My crew couldn’t get enough, so I’m stickin’ to that method from now on.
Keepin’ It Healthy: Bacon in Moderation
Look, I know bacon ain’t exactly a superfood, but you can still enjoy it without wreckin’ your diet. It’s high in saturated fat and sodium, so here’s how me and mine keep it balanced:
- Portion Control: Stick to 2 or 3 small servings a week. A couple strips with eggs or in a salad ain’t gonna kill ya if you don’t overdo it.
- Pair with Good Stuff: Throw it into meals with veggies—think bacon bits in a spinach salad or wrapped around asparagus. Makes ya feel less guilty.
- Watch the Salt: Bacon’s salty as heck, so keep an eye on your overall sodium for the day. Maybe skip the extra salty snacks if you’re indulgin’.
- Go Low-Sodium: Some brands got lower-sodium options. They still taste dope, just less of a salt bomb.
I love me some bacon, but I try not to go overboard. Mixin’ it with healthier eats helps me keep the love alive without the regret.
Fun Ways to Use a Kilo of Bacon
Since a kilo gives ya a decent stash of strips, why not get creative? Here’s some ideas I’ve tried or been dyin’ to test out:
- Bacon-Wrapped Everything: Wrap chicken breasts, jalapeños for poppers, or even dates for a sweet-salty snack. A kilo means you got plenty to experiment with.
- Bacon Bits Galore: Cook up a batch, crumble it, and sprinkle on soups, salads, or baked potatoes. Store the bits in the fridge for quick flavor boosts.
- Breakfast for Days: With 32 to 40 strips, you can feed a small army for brunch. Make a huge skillet of bacon and eggs, or stack ‘em on pancakes with syrup.
- Bacon in Pasta: Toss some cooked, chopped bacon into a creamy pasta dish. It’s a game-changer, trust me. Just a few strips can elevate the whole meal.
I once made bacon-wrapped scallops with part of a kilo pack, and it was straight-up fancy. Felt like a chef for a hot minute there!
Wrappin’ It Up: Know Your Bacon Game
So, to circle back to where we started—how many strips of bacon in a kilo? For the regular cut stuff, you’re lookin’ at 32 to 40 strips, give or take. Thin cut bumps that up to 40 or 45, thick cut drops it to 30 or 35, and some specialty types might only net ya 10 hefty slices. It all depends on the thickness, the style, and how it’s sliced up.
We’ve covered a heckuva lot here at our bacon-lovin’ hub—from the different types and weights to cookin’ tricks and storage hacks. My advice? Next time you’re grabbin’ a kilo, check the cut and think about what you’re usin’ it for. Want quantity? Go thin. Want a meaty bite? Go thick. And always store it right so you don’t waste a single strip.
Got any bacon stories or recipes of your own? Drop ‘em in the comments—I’m always down to chat about this crispy gold. Keep sizzlin’, fam, and I’ll catch ya in the next post with more foodie goodness!
Bacon Equivalents
Recipe Measurement | Equivalent or Substitute |
1 serving | 2 strips fried, baked, or broiled |
1 rasher bacon | 1 strip |
1 slice bacon | 1 tablespoon fried and chopped bacon pieces |
1 slice bacon | 2 to 3 teaspoons real bacon bits |
1 slice bacon | 2 to 3 teaspoons imitation bacon bits |
1 slice bacon | 1 thin slice pancetta (about 3/4 ounce) |
1 slice bacon | 3/4 ounce salt pork (in soups, stews, sauces) |
1 pound bacon | 35 thin strips |
1 pound bacon | 16 to 20 regular strips |
1 pound bacon | 12 to 16 thick strips |
1 pound bacon | 1 can cooked bacon (18 to 20 slices) |
1 pound bacon | 1 cup bacon fat |
1 pound bacon | 1 1/2 cup fried and chopped bacon pieces |
1 pound bacon | 3/4 cup bacon bits |
1 1/2 pounds bacon | 3 ounces bacon bits |
1/4 cup crumbled cooked bacon | 4 slices |
1/3 cup crumbled cooked bacon | 5 slices |
1/2 cup crumbled cooked bacon | 8 slices |
2/3 cup crumbled cooked bacon | 10 slices |
3/4 cup crumbled cooked bacon | 12 slices |
1 cup crumbled cooked bacon | 16 slices (about 1 pound) |
1/4 pound back bacon | 1 cup cracklings |
Diced, raw bacon is roughly the same weight for cup measure as liquids. One cup would be approximately 8 ounces and 225 grams; 1/2 cup is about 4 ounces or 115 grams; 1/4 cup is about 2 ounces or 55 grams, etc.
Substituting Turkey or Vegetarian Bacon
You can substitute turkey bacon and vegetarian bacon measure for measure with pork bacon. Any of the equivalent measures work for these alternatives, so use one strip for one strip and one pound for one pound. However, you may need to make adjustments for other cousins of bacon.
Cooking and storing 36 lbs of bacon
FAQ
How many slices of bacon are in 1 kilo?
1kg Pack Sliced Back Bacon (approx 30 slices) | bruce-brymer-butcher.
How many strips is 1 pound of bacon?
Recipe Measurement | Equivalent or Substitute |
---|---|
1 pound bacon | 16 to 20 regular strips |
1 pound bacon | 12 to 16 thick strips |
1 pound bacon | 1 can cooked bacon (18 to 20 slices) |
1 pound bacon | 1 cup bacon fat |
How many slices of bacon are in 500g?
Approximately 12 – 14 slices per 500g.
How many slices of bacon are in 2kg?
Over 35 rashers of rindless back bacon.