Skip to main content

Diner-Style Bacon for a Crowd

This diner-style bacon for a crowd is a game-changer for weekend brunches or hosting large groups. By partially cooking the rashers submerged in oil under the grill, you ensure the fat renders evenly without the typical mess of a splattering frying pan. It is a reliable, dairy-free technique that results in a uniform, professional finish that is difficult to achieve when cooking multiple batches from scratch.

Preparing your breakfast protein this way also offers fantastic flexibility for busy mornings. You can complete the initial grilling stage up to five days in advance, storing the bacon in the fridge until you are ready to serve. A quick flash in a hot pan is all it takes to achieve that signature crunch, making it the perfect stress-free addition to a full English or a stack of maple-drizzled pancakes.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Diner-Style Bacon for a Crowd

  • 900g bacon

  • 725ml vegetable oil

How to make Diner-Style Bacon for a Crowd

If using a top-down grill, arrange rack on second-to-top rung. Heat grill on high.

Arrange bacon, fat side up, in 2 layers in a 13x9" metal baking dish. Pour oil over; bacon should be mostly submerged. Grill, checking often and watching carefully, until fat is partially rendered and edges start to crisp on top layer, 15–20 minutes. Transfer dish to a wire rack.

Heat a griddle or large skillet over medium. Working in batches, remove bacon from oil, letting oil drip back into dish, and cook until crisp, about 2 minutes on each side.

Bacon can be grilled 5 days ahead. Cool submerged bacon completely in dish, then cover and chill.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.