Fogo De Chao Bacon Recipe

I love making this sweet, spicy, and crispy Fogo De Chao–style bacon at home. It tastes glossy, caramelized, and smoky—just like the famous steakhouse version—but super easy to make in my own kitchen.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 40

Total Time 55

Servings: 4 People

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: Brazilian-American

Calories: 310

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

1 lb Thick-cut bacon Do not overlap slices
1 cup Light brown sugar Packed
1 tbsp Crushed red pepper Adds heat
2 tsp Cayenne pepper Optional but spicy
1 tbsp Fresh ground black pepper For bold flavor
1 tsp Garlic powder Adds savory balance

Equipment

1 Baking sheet Line with foil for easy cleanup
1 Wire rack Helps the bacon cook evenly
1 Mixing bowl For mixing sugar and spices
1 Spoon For mixing
1 Oven Preheated to 350°F
1 Tongs or spatula To lift caramelized bacon

Method

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 350°F so the bacon cooks slowly and the sugar caramelizes.

Step 2

Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top for even cooking.

Step 3

Lay the bacon strips flat on the rack, making sure they don’t touch each other.

Step 4

In a small mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, crushed red pepper, cayenne, black pepper, and garlic powder.

Step 5

Sprinkle the mixture over each strip of bacon and press gently so the sugar sticks.

Step 6

Bake for 35–45 minutes, checking around 30 minutes to avoid burning.

Step 7

Remove the tray from the oven and let the bacon cool for 10–15 minutes so the sugar coating hardens.

Step 8

Use tongs or a spatula to lift each strip from the rack and serve.

Notes

I always use thick-cut bacon because it caramelizes better without burning. Letting the bacon cool fully helps the sugar coating become crispy and glossy. Adjust the spice level by adding more or less cayenne or red pepper flakes.