Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C)
Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper
Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet (optional but helps crisp)
Lay bacon strips in a single layer on the rack or directly on the lined sheet
Bake for 12–20 minutes, depending on thickness and desired crispness
Flip bacon halfway through if baking directly on the sheet (optional if using a rack)
Remove when bacon is browned and reaches your preferred crispness
Transfer bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain
Let bacon sit 2–3 minutes to finish crisping before serving