Do you love the smoky, salty crunch of bacon but worry about the fat? If so, you’re not alone! Turkey bacon has become a popular choice for people who want a leaner breakfast meat. But with so many brands lining the grocery store shelves, how do you pick the best one?
It can be frustrating to try different turkey bacons and find they’re either too dry, too bland, or just not satisfying. You want that delicious bacon experience without all the guilt. This guide is here to help you navigate the world of turkey bacon.
By the end of this post, you’ll know what to look for when buying turkey bacon. We’ll cover things like ingredients, cooking tips, and even taste tests. Get ready to discover your new favorite breakfast staple!
Our Top 5 Turkey Bacon Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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Butterball | 8.6/10 | Check Price |
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Oscar Mayer Fully Cooked & Gluten Free Turkey Bacon with 58% Less Fat & 57% Less Sodium | 8.7/10 | Check Price |
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Butterball | 9.1/10 | Check Price |
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Applegate | 8.9/10 | Check Price |
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Wellshire Farms | 9.0/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Turkey Bacon Detailed Reviews
1. Butterball
Rating: 8.8/10
Looking for a tasty and healthier way to enjoy bacon? Butterball, Lower Sodium Turkey Bacon, 12 oz offers a delicious alternative that fits right into your meal plans. This package gives you a full 12 ounces of flavorful turkey bacon, perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It’s a smart choice for those watching their sodium and fat intake, without sacrificing that classic bacon taste you love. Plus, it’s super easy to cook!
What We Like:
- Significantly lower in sodium: It has 70% less sodium than regular pork bacon.
- Lower in fat: You get 60% less fat compared to cooked pork bacon.
- Healthier ingredients: It’s gluten-free and has no MSG or fillers.
- Quick to prepare: You can cook it in minutes on the stove, in the microwave, or in the oven.
- Ethically sourced: Butterball turkeys are American Humane Certified, meaning they are treated humanely.
What Could Be Improved:
- Texture may differ: Some people might notice a slightly different texture compared to pork bacon.
- Sodium is still present: While lower, it still contains sodium, so moderation is key for very strict diets.
Overall, Butterball Lower Sodium Turkey Bacon is a fantastic option for those seeking a lighter, yet still satisfying, bacon experience. It’s a convenient and conscious choice for meals.
2. Oscar Mayer Fully Cooked & Gluten Free Turkey Bacon with 58% Less Fat & 57% Less Sodium
Rating: 9.0/10
Craving that classic bacon flavor without the guilt? Oscar Mayer Fully Cooked & Gluten Free Turkey Bacon is here to satisfy your breakfast (or any meal!) needs. This 12 oz pack gives you about 21-23 slices of delicious, smoked turkey bacon that’s been carefully prepared for your enjoyment.
What We Like:
- Significantly less fat and sodium compared to pork bacon. It has 58% less fat and 57% less sodium than USDA data for cooked pork bacon.
- Super convenient cooking options! You can cook it on the stove, in the oven, or even in the microwave. This saves you time in the kitchen.
- It’s made from quality turkey that is raised without hormones. The natural hardwood smoking gives it a great taste.
- It’s gluten-free, making it a good choice for many dietary needs.
- Versatile! Use it as a side for breakfast, add it to sandwiches, or incorporate it into your favorite recipes.
- The resealable package keeps it fresh for up to seven days after opening.
- It’s a SNAP & EBT eligible food item, making it accessible for more families.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s a healthier option, some might miss the exact texture and richness of pork bacon.
- The “chopped & formed” nature means it’s not traditional whole strips of bacon.
This Oscar Mayer Turkey Bacon offers a tasty and healthier alternative to traditional bacon. It’s a convenient and flexible choice for busy households looking for flavor and nutrition.
3. Butterball
Rating: 8.9/10
Get ready to enjoy a delicious and healthier breakfast with Butterball, Turkey Bacon, 12 oz. This pack brings you the classic taste of bacon without all the guilt. It’s a smart choice for your morning meals or anytime you crave a savory treat.
What We Like:
- Butterball turkey bacon offers a healthier option with 40% less sodium compared to pork bacon.
- It’s significantly leaner, boasting 60% less fat than cooked pork bacon.
- This turkey bacon is completely gluten-free, making it suitable for many dietary needs.
- It cooks up quickly and easily in just minutes, whether you use a skillet, microwave, or oven.
- Butterball is committed to animal welfare, as they are American Humane Certified.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the texture slightly different from traditional pork bacon.
- The 12 oz package might be gone too quickly for larger families or frequent bacon eaters.
This Butterball Turkey Bacon is a fantastic way to enjoy a bacon-like experience with fewer health drawbacks. It’s a convenient and tasty option that aligns with mindful eating and animal welfare.
4. Applegate
Rating: 8.8/10
Craving that smoky, savory breakfast flavor without the guilt? Applegate’s Organic Hickory Smoked Uncured Turkey Bacon is here to deliver! This 8oz package brings you delicious turkey bacon made with simple, wholesome ingredients. You can feel good about what you’re eating because it’s made from turkey raised with care, without any antibiotics or added hormones. Plus, it’s free from chemical nitrites and nitrates, giving you a cleaner bacon experience.
What We Like:
- Made with organic, humanely raised turkey.
- No antibiotics or added hormones – just pure goodness.
- Free from chemical nitrites and nitrates for a cleaner choice.
- Non-GMO Project Verified, so you know it’s good.
- Whole30 approved, fitting perfectly into your healthy lifestyle.
- Gluten-free, dairy-free, and casein-free, making it great for many diets.
- The hickory smoke flavor is delicious and satisfying.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 8oz package might be a bit small for larger families.
- Some reviewers mentioned it could be a little crispier when cooked.
Overall, Applegate’s Organic Hickory Smoked Uncured Turkey Bacon is a fantastic option for a healthier, tastier breakfast. It offers great flavor and peace of mind with its clean ingredients.
5. Wellshire Farms
Rating: 8.7/10
Start your morning right with Wellshire Farms Organic Uncured Turkey Bacon. This 8 oz package offers a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional bacon. It’s made with high-quality organic turkey and is uncured, meaning it’s processed without added nitrates or nitrites. Enjoy the savory taste without the guilt!
What We Like:
- It’s organic, so you know it’s made with good stuff.
- Being uncured is a big plus for health-conscious eaters.
- The turkey bacon cooks up nicely and has a great flavor.
- It’s a good source of protein to start your day.
- The 8 oz size is just right for a few meals.
What Could Be Improved:
- It can be a little pricier than regular bacon.
- Sometimes it’s hard to find in local stores.
- The strips can sometimes break apart easily when cooking.
Overall, Wellshire Farms Organic Uncured Turkey Bacon is a tasty and healthier choice for your breakfast. It’s a product that delivers on its promise of organic goodness and great taste.
Turkey Bacon: Your Crispy, Leaner Choice
Turkey bacon offers a delicious alternative to traditional pork bacon. It’s a popular choice for those seeking a leaner option without sacrificing that satisfying smoky flavor and crispy texture. This guide will help you pick the best turkey bacon for your meals.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re at the grocery store, keep an eye out for these important features:
- Leaner Protein: Turkey bacon is generally lower in fat and calories than pork bacon. Look for labels that highlight “lean” or “extra lean.”
- Flavor Profile: Good turkey bacon has a smoky, salty taste that mimics pork bacon. Some brands add extra seasonings like black pepper or paprika.
- Texture: The ideal turkey bacon cooks up crispy and slightly chewy. Avoid options that are too mushy or overly dry.
- Sodium Content: Like all processed meats, turkey bacon can be high in sodium. If you’re watching your salt intake, compare the sodium levels on different packages.
- Ingredients: Simple ingredients are usually better. Look for turkey, salt, and natural smoke flavoring.
Important Materials (Ingredients)
The main ingredient in turkey bacon is, of course, turkey. The quality of the turkey used matters. Brands that use whole cuts of turkey tend to produce a better-tasting product.
Other common ingredients include:
- Salt: This is crucial for flavor and preservation.
- Sugar or Sweeteners: Some brands add a touch of sweetness.
- Spices and Seasonings: These add to the smoky and savory notes.
- Nitrites or Nitrates: These are preservatives that help maintain color and prevent spoilage. Some people prefer to avoid them.
- Water: This is often added to help with the curing process.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make turkey bacon taste great or not so great.
What Makes it Better:
- Quality of Turkey: Higher quality, leaner turkey cuts make for better bacon.
- Curing Process: A good curing process develops deep flavor.
- Natural Smoke Flavoring: This provides a more authentic smoky taste.
- Balanced Seasoning: The right mix of salt, pepper, and other spices makes a big difference.
What Can Make it Worse:
- Excessive Water Content: Too much water can make it cook up soggy.
- Artificial Ingredients: Some people prefer to avoid artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
- Over-processing: This can lead to a less desirable texture.
User Experience and Use Cases
Turkey bacon is incredibly versatile. It’s a fantastic addition to breakfast plates, adding a crispy, savory element alongside eggs and toast. Many people enjoy it in sandwiches, especially BLTs, where it offers a lighter alternative to pork bacon.
It’s also great crumbled over salads or incorporated into casseroles and other cooked dishes. The ease of cooking is another plus; it usually cooks up quickly in a pan or in the oven.
The experience of eating turkey bacon is often described as satisfyingly crispy and flavorful, with a less greasy feel than pork bacon. It’s a good option for families looking for healthier breakfast choices or for individuals who prefer not to eat pork for dietary or religious reasons.
Frequently Asked Questions About Turkey Bacon
Q: Is turkey bacon healthier than pork bacon?
A: Yes, turkey bacon is generally healthier because it has less fat and fewer calories than pork bacon. It’s a leaner protein choice.
Q: How do I cook turkey bacon to make it crispy?
A: You can cook turkey bacon in a skillet over medium heat, flipping it often. Baking it on a rack in the oven also helps it crisp up evenly.
Q: Does turkey bacon taste the same as pork bacon?
A: It has a similar smoky and savory flavor, but it’s usually not exactly the same. Some people find it slightly milder.
Q: Can I freeze turkey bacon?
A: Yes, you can freeze turkey bacon to keep it fresh for longer. Make sure it’s well-wrapped.
Q: What are the main ingredients in turkey bacon?
A: The main ingredients are turkey, salt, and often natural smoke flavoring. Some brands include sugar and other spices.
Q: Is all turkey bacon made from ground turkey?
A: Not always. Some higher-quality turkey bacon is made from whole cuts of turkey, which often results in a better texture.
Q: What does “uncured” turkey bacon mean?
A: “Uncured” turkey bacon uses natural sources like celery powder for preservation instead of synthetic nitrites or nitrates. It might have a slightly different color and texture.
Q: How long does cooked turkey bacon last in the refrigerator?
A: Cooked turkey bacon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days.
Q: Can I use turkey bacon in recipes that call for pork bacon?
A: Yes, you can often substitute turkey bacon in recipes. You might need to adjust cooking times or add a little extra fat if the recipe relies on the fat from pork bacon.
Q: What are some common uses for turkey bacon besides breakfast?
A: You can use turkey bacon crumbled on salads, in sandwiches like BLTs, or chopped into casseroles and pasta dishes.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Tom Scalisi, and welcome to The Saw Blog! I started this blog to share my hands-on experience and insights about woodworking tools—especially saws and saw blades. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work with a wide range of tools, and I’m here to help both professionals and hobbyists make informed decisions when it comes to selecting and using their equipment. Whether you’re looking for in-depth reviews, tips, or just advice on how to get the best performance out of your tools, you’ll find it here. I’m excited to be part of your woodworking journey!