Are you a bacon lover looking for a way to add some smoky, savory flavor to your meals without all the mess and hassle? Look no further than fully cooked real bacon bits! Just one tablespoon (8 g) of these crispy, flavorful bits contains only 35 calories and can add a punch of bacon-y goodness to any dish.

In addition to being low in calories, fully cooked real bacon bits are also a good source of protein, with 2 grams per serving. They also provide a satisfying crunch and salty smokiness that can elevate even the most basic meals.

In this article, we'll explore the nutritional benefits of fully cooked real bacon bits, how to use them in your cooking, and some creative ways to incorporate them into your favorite dishes.

The Nutritional Value of Fully Cooked Real Bacon Bits

Fully cooked real bacon bits are a surprisingly nutritious addition to your meals. In addition to being low in calories and high in protein, they also contain important vitamins and minerals. For example, just one serving of bacon bits provides 4% of your daily recommended intake of iron, an essential nutrient that helps your body create red blood cells. They also contain small amounts of calcium and vitamin A. Of course, bacon bits are not a health food, and should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. However, their nutritional profile may surprise you!

How to Use Fully Cooked Real Bacon Bits

One of the best things about fully cooked real bacon bits is how versatile they are. Whether you're adding them to a salad, sprinkling them on eggs, or stirring them into pasta, they add a delicious smoky flavor to any dish. Some of our favorite ways to use bacon bits include mixing them into mashed potatoes or mac and cheese, topping baked potatoes, and adding them to homemade soups and chilis. Experiment with different flavor combinations and see what works best for your palate!

The Benefits of Adding Bacon Bits to Your Meals

In addition to their nutritional value and versatility, there are many other benefits to adding bacon bits to your meals. For one thing, bacon bits can make even the most boring dishes more exciting. Adding a spoonful of bacon bits to a simple salad or sandwich can take it from ho-hum to delicious in seconds. Bacon bits can also be a time-saver in the kitchen. Since they're fully cooked, you don't have to worry about cooking and cleaning up a whole package of bacon every time you want some smoky flavor in your meals.

Popular Dishes That Use Bacon Bits

While bacon bits can be added to almost any dish, there are a few classic recipes that just wouldn't be the same without them. Some of the most popular dishes that feature bacon bits include loaded baked potatoes, Cobb salad, and pasta carbonara. Bacon bits can also add a smoky, salty flavor to burgers, wraps, and even grilled cheese sandwiches. Don't be afraid to get creative and add bacon bits to your own favorite recipes!

How to Store Fully Cooked Real Bacon Bits

One of the great things about fully cooked real bacon bits is how long they stay fresh in the fridge. As long as you keep them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator, they should last for several weeks. Just be sure to check the expiration date on the package and discard them if they start to smell or look off.

The Difference Between Fresh and Fully Cooked Bacon Bits

When it comes to bacon bits, there are two main types: fresh and fully cooked. Fresh bacon bits are simply small pieces of uncooked bacon, while fully cooked bacon bits are precooked and often come in a jar or bag. While both types of bacon bits can be used in cooking, fully cooked bacon bits are often more convenient since you don't have to cook them yourself. They're also crispier and more uniform in size and shape.

Bacon Bits vs. Crumbled Bacon: What's the Difference?

Another common question when it comes to bacon bits is how they differ from crumbled bacon. While both can be used to add smoky flavor to dishes, crumbled bacon is simply cooked and crumbled bacon that you can make yourself by cooking bacon and then breaking it up into small pieces. Bacon bits, on the other hand, are often precooked and more uniform in size and shape. They're also often crispier and have a different texture than crumbled bacon.

How to Make Your Own Bacon Bits at Home

While fully cooked bacon bits are a great shortcut, some bacon purists may prefer to make their own from scratch. To make bacon bits at home, simply cook a few strips of bacon in a skillet until crispy. Then, let the bacon cool and chop it into small pieces. You can store homemade bacon bits in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Just be sure to use them up quickly, since they won't last as long as their fully cooked counterparts.

Creative Ways to Use Fully Cooked Real Bacon Bits

While bacon bits are often used in classic dishes like baked potatoes and Cobb salad, there are many other creative ways to use them in your cooking. For example, you could sprinkle them on top of a pizza or flatbread, add them to a breakfast quiche or frittata, or even mix them into cookie dough for a sweet-and-salty treat. Don't be afraid to think outside the box and experiment with different flavor combinations!

Varieties of Bacon Bits and Their Uses

While most people are familiar with classic bacon bits, there are actually many different varieties available to suit different tastes and dietary needs. For example, you can find turkey bacon bits, soy bacon bits, and even vegan bacon bits made from coconut or soy. Consider trying different types of bacon bits to see which ones you like best and which work best in your favorite recipes.