Preheat the oven to 400°F and place the oven rack in the middle position. A fully heated oven helps the bacon cook evenly.
Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This keeps cleanup quick and prevents grease spills.
Place the bacon slices in a single layer on the baking sheet or wire rack. Avoid overlapping so the bacon crisps properly.
Bake the bacon for 10 to 20 minutes depending on thickness and desired crispiness. Thin bacon cooks faster than thick-cut bacon.
Rotate the baking sheet halfway through cooking for even browning. The bacon should look deep golden with bubbling fat near the edges.
Remove the bacon when it reaches your preferred texture. Remember that it crisps slightly more after leaving the oven.
Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate using tongs. Let it rest for 1 to 2 minutes before serving.
Carefully pour the warm bacon grease into a heatproof container if saving for later cooking. Refrigerate after cooling completely.