How many calories are in two rashers of fried bacon?

November 13, 2025 •

4 min read

According to USDA data, two average slices of pan-fried bacon contain approximately 108 calories. Understanding precisely how many calories are in two rashers of fried bacon depends on thickness, cooking method, and type of bacon, information crucial for effective dietary tracking.

Quick Summary

Two pan-fried bacon rashers typically contain around 100-115 calories, though the exact amount varies based on slice thickness, specific cut, and how much fat is drained during cooking.

Key Points

Calorie Count: Two average, pan-fried rashers contain approximately 100-120 calories, but the exact number can vary.
Key Factors: Bacon's calorie content is significantly influenced by its cut (streaky vs. back), thickness, and cooking method.
Cooking Method Matters: Methods that allow fat to drain, like baking on a wire rack or microwaving, can result in a lower calorie count compared to traditional pan-frying.
Drain the Fat: A simple trick to reduce calories is to pat fried bacon rashers with a paper towel to absorb excess rendered fat.
Leaner Alternatives: For a healthier option, consider turkey or Canadian bacon, which have fewer calories and less fat.
Moderation is Key: Enjoy bacon mindfully and in moderation as part of a balanced diet to manage calorie and saturated fat intake effectively.

The Calorie Breakdown of Two Rashers of Fried Bacon

When it comes to enjoying a classic breakfast, bacon is a fan-favorite for its smoky, savory flavor. For those monitoring their dietary intake, a key question often arises: exactly how many calories are in two rashers of fried bacon? While a definitive answer can vary slightly, a general consensus places the calorie count for two average, pan-fried rashers between 100 and 120 calories. This estimate is a good starting point, but understanding the factors that influence the final number is essential for accurate tracking.

The most significant factor in the calorie count is the bacon itself. The cut of meat, its thickness, and the amount of fat present all play a role. A streaky rasher, which has more fat, will naturally have a higher calorie count than a leaner back bacon rasher. Furthermore, the method of cooking dramatically affects the end result. Frying bacon in its own rendered fat allows it to reabsorb some of that fat, whereas other methods like baking can allow more fat to drip away. A final consideration is whether the cooked rashers are blotted with a paper towel, a simple step that can remove a significant amount of surface fat and, therefore, calories.

Factors Influencing Bacon Calories

Cut of Bacon

Different cuts of bacon have different calorie profiles. The two most common types are:

Streaky Bacon: Cut from the pork belly, streaky bacon is known for its alternating layers of fat and meat. This higher fat content means it will have more calories per rasher compared to back bacon, especially when fried.
Back Bacon: This cut comes from the loin, similar to Canadian bacon, and has a leaner, meatier consistency. With less fat to begin with, back bacon typically results in a lower-calorie final product.

Cooking Method

How you cook your bacon has a direct impact on its calorie content. The primary difference lies in how much fat is retained or rendered away during the cooking process.

Comparison Table: Cooking Methods and Calories


Cooking Method	Fat Retention	Estimated Calories (per 2 rashers)	Notes
Pan-Fried	Moderate to High	~100-120 kcal	Fat is retained in the pan and can be reabsorbed by the bacon, especially if not drained.
Baked (on a rack)	Low	~90-105 kcal	Excess fat drips away from the bacon, resulting in a crispier and less fatty product.
Microwaved	Low	~80-100 kcal	Cooking on paper towels helps to absorb a significant amount of rendered fat.
Air-Fried	Low	~90-105 kcal	A cooking method similar to baking on a rack, which promotes fat drainage for a crisp finish.

Draining the Fat

After frying, patting down your bacon rashers with a paper towel is a simple and effective technique to reduce their calorie count. The paper towel absorbs excess grease from the surface, which is a quick way to shed extra fat and calories without sacrificing the flavor. While this step may seem minor, it can make a noticeable difference for those who are meticulously tracking their intake.

Incorporating Bacon into a Healthy Diet

While bacon is a calorie-dense and processed meat, it doesn't have to be completely off-limits. The key, as with most indulgences, is moderation. Bacon can provide a satisfying flavor boost and some protein, which can promote feelings of fullness. However, it's important to balance its intake with other nutrient-rich foods.

Here are some tips for enjoying bacon healthily:

Pair with Fiber: Pair bacon with high-fiber foods like avocado, spinach, or whole-grain toast to create a more balanced and filling meal.
Consider Leaner Alternatives: For those seeking a similar flavor profile with fewer calories, alternatives like turkey bacon or Canadian bacon are excellent choices. Two slices of turkey bacon have approximately half the calories of pork bacon.
Use as a Garnish: Instead of making it the star of the plate, use small, chopped-up pieces of bacon as a garnish for salads, soups, or baked potatoes to get the flavor without the caloric commitment.
Limit Portions: Stick to a small serving size and enjoy it occasionally rather than as a daily staple.

Nutrient Profile of Fried Bacon

Beyond the calories, it's worth noting the other nutrients present in bacon. Two rashers of fried bacon are a decent source of protein, with about 5-8 grams depending on the cut and size. It also contains several micronutrients, including B vitamins (B1, B3, B12), choline, selenium, and zinc. While these are beneficial, it's also important to acknowledge that bacon is high in sodium and saturated fat, which are health factors to be mindful of.

The Conclusion

So, how many calories are in two rashers of fried bacon? On average, you can expect somewhere between 100 and 120 calories for a pan-fried serving, but this is a variable number. Factors such as the type of bacon (streaky vs. back), cooking method, and the simple act of draining the fat can all shift the final tally. By understanding these nuances, you can make more informed choices about including this popular breakfast item in your diet. Enjoying bacon in moderation, alongside a balanced meal, is a great way to incorporate its satisfying flavor without derailing your nutritional goals.

For more detailed nutritional information on various foods, the USDA FoodData Central is an excellent authoritative resource.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, the cooking method significantly impacts the final calorie count. Methods like baking on a rack or microwaving typically result in fewer calories than pan-frying because more fat is rendered and drained away.

Yes, turkey bacon is generally a leaner, lower-calorie option than traditional pork bacon. Two slices of turkey bacon can have roughly half the calories of a comparable serving of pork bacon.

Thick-cut bacon will have a higher calorie count per slice than regular bacon due to its greater weight and mass. The thicker the slice, the more fat and meat it contains, which increases the total calories.

Draining the fat is recommended if you want to reduce the calorie and fat content of your meal. Patting the cooked bacon rashers with a paper towel will also help absorb excess surface grease.

Yes, bacon is a type of processed meat. It is cured, smoked, or salted to preserve it, and these processes are what classify it as such.

Since bacon contains virtually no carbohydrates, it is a popular choice for low-carb and ketogenic diets. The key is to manage the overall calorie and fat intake, as bacon is calorie-dense.

Besides calories, bacon provides protein and several micronutrients. These include various B vitamins (B1, B3, B12), choline, selenium, and zinc.

Streaky bacon is cut from the pork belly and has a higher fat content, while back bacon is from the loin and is a leaner, meatier cut. This difference in composition means streaky bacon generally has more calories per rasher.