Norpro Pig-Shaped Bacon Press

A pig-shaped weight for cooking bacon is not subtle, and that is part of the appeal. The Norpro Bacon Press uses heavy cast iron to hold strips flat against the cooking surface instead of letting them curl up. That means more even cooking and crispier results, with a wooden handle giving you something to grip. It suits the breakfast cook who takes bacon seriously but sees no reason for the equipment to look serious, too.

The useful bit goes beyond the pig joke. You can put it to work on grilled cheese, quesadillas, hash browns, steaks, or chops, on the stovetop or grill. At 8.25 by 5 inches, it gives you a defined pressing surface rather than another sprawling kitchen gadget. It does ask for cast-iron upkeep: seasoning, cleaning, and proper storage are part of owning it, with care instructions included. For someone happy to do that maintenance, this is a practical gift with a very literal sense of humor.