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Ingredient substitute

What can you use instead of bacon?

Pancetta, Prosciutto and Turkey bacon are the easiest swaps. Below: 5 options with the right amount to use, what changes in the dish and which diets they suit.

The quick answer

Pancetta. Use the same amount. Italian cured pork belly. Less smoky.

Adjust: Direct swap. Crispy or soft both work.

  1. Pancetta

    Drop-in swap

    Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

    Italian cured pork belly. Less smoky.

    Flavor
    Rich pork, less smoke.
    Texture
    Fattier.
    Moisture
    More fat.
    Adjust
    Direct swap. Crispy or soft both work.
    Best for
    Carbonara, Wrapped meats

  2. Prosciutto

    Drop-in swap

    Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

    Thinner. Can cook crispy or not.

    Flavor
    Salty, delicate.
    Texture
    Silky.
    Moisture
    Less.
    Adjust
    Cook less — can burn.
    Best for
    Garnish, Wrapped items

  3. Turkey bacon

    Small adjustment

    Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

    Less fat, denser. Won't crisp exactly same.

    Flavor
    Smoky, less pork.
    Texture
    Chewier.
    Moisture
    Less fat.
    Adjust
    Don't overcook — becomes tough.
    Best for
    Any recipe

  4. Vegetarian bacon bits

    Changes flavor or texture

    Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

    Textured vegetable protein.

    Flavor
    Smoky.
    Texture
    Crunchy.
    Moisture
    None.
    Adjust
    No cooking needed for topping.
    Best for
    Salads, Toppings

    vegan

  5. Coconut bacon (coconut flakes)

    Changes flavor or texture

    Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

    Toasted coconut + soy sauce + smoke.

    Flavor
    Smoky-sweet.
    Texture
    Crunchy.
    Moisture
    None.
    Adjust
    Toast flakes with sauce.
    Best for
    Salads, Vegan BLTs

    vegan

Common questions

What is the best substitute for bacon?

Pancetta is the closest swap. Use the same amount. Italian cured pork belly. Less smoky.

What is a vegan substitute for bacon?

Good vegan options are Vegetarian bacon bits and Coconut bacon (coconut flakes).

How much should I use instead of bacon?

It depends on the swap. Pancetta: Use the same amount. Prosciutto: Use the same amount. Turkey bacon: Use the same amount.

Recipes that use bacon

Scale it to your recipe

Enter the amount you need and the substitution tool works out the exact quantity. Or ask the chef how the swap will change your dish.

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