Bacon Brussels Sprouts

If you’re craving a side dish that’s crispy, flavorful, and absolutely irresistible, this Easy Bacon Brussels Sprouts recipe is your new best friend. Crispy bacon Brussels sprouts packed with flavor in a simple, quick recipe perfect for any meal. Whether you’re a longtime Brussels sprouts fan or just starting to appreciate these little green gems, this recipe balances the savory crunch of bacon with tender, caramelized Brussels sprouts for a dish everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Simple Preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Perfect Flavor Balance: The smoky, salty bacon pairs beautifully with the slightly sweet Brussels sprouts for an unforgettable taste.
• Versatile Side Dish: Complements everything from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts with ease.
• Texture Delight: Crispy bacon meets tender Brussels sprouts, offering a satisfying bite every time.
• Healthy Twist: Loads of green vegetables combined with the indulgence of bacon without overwhelming calories.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each simple ingredient in this Bacon Brussels Sprouts recipe plays a key role—from the crispy bacon that adds crunch and flavor to the fresh Brussels sprouts that bring vibrant color and nutrition. Together, they create a dish that’s both wholesome and exciting.

• Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Choose firm, bright green sprouts for the best taste and texture.
• Bacon Strips: Opt for thick-cut bacon to ensure maximum crispiness and flavor.
• Olive Oil: Adds a light, healthy fat that helps with roasting and caramelization.
• Garlic Cloves: Minced garlic infuses a subtle, aromatic punch to the dish.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance natural flavors without overpowering.
• Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): Adds a gentle heat for those who like a bit of spice in their side dishes.

Variations for Bacon Brussels Sprouts

This bacon Brussels sprouts recipe is incredibly flexible, allowing you to tailor it to your taste buds or dietary preferences while keeping the core deliciousness intact.

• Maple Glaze: Add a drizzle of pure maple syrup before serving to bring a sweet contrast to the smoky bacon.
• Vegan Swap: Replace bacon with smoked tempeh or coconut bacon to make it plant-based without losing that smoky edge.
• Cheesy Boost: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan or crumbled feta over the finished dish for an added savory punch.
• Lemon Zest: Brighten the dish with a sprinkle of lemon zest for a fresh, citrusy note.
• Nutty Crunch: Toss in toasted pecans or walnuts for added texture and a nutty flavor.

How to Make Bacon Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Start by trimming the stem ends and removing any yellow or damaged outer leaves from the Brussels sprouts. Cut them in half lengthwise to ensure even cooking and more surface area for crispiness.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon strips until they’re crispy and golden. Remove from the pan, leaving the flavorful bacon drippings behind, and chop the bacon into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Sauté the Brussels Sprouts

Add olive oil and minced garlic to the bacon drippings in the skillet, then toss in the Brussels sprouts cut side down. Let them cook undisturbed for about 5-7 minutes to develop a beautiful golden sear.

Step 4: Combine and Season

Flip the Brussels sprouts to finish cooking on the other side, then stir in the chopped bacon. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook another 3-4 minutes until everything is tender and perfectly caramelized.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Transfer the bacon Brussels sprouts to a serving dish and enjoy immediately for the optimal crispness and flavor punch.

Pro Tips for Making Bacon Brussels Sprouts

• Dry the Brussels Sprouts Thoroughly: Moisture can cause steaming instead of crisping, so pat them dry before cooking.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: Give sprouts space to brown evenly by cooking in batches if needed.
• Cut Uniformly: Halve Brussels sprouts so they cook evenly and look beautiful on the plate.
• Low and Slow for Bacon: Cooking bacon slowly prevents burning and ensures even crispiness.
• Finish with Freshness: Adding a squeeze of lemon juice or fresh herbs just before serving brightens the dish.

How to Serve Bacon Brussels Sprouts

Garnishes

Top your bacon Brussels sprouts with freshly chopped parsley, toasted nuts, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese to add vibrant color and extra depth.

Side Dishes

This bacon Brussels sprouts side pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or a hearty pasta dish, making it a versatile addition to your meals.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Brussels sprouts in a rustic cast-iron skillet or on a vibrant platter topped with crispy bacon bits to impress your guests visually and gastronomically.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover bacon Brussels sprouts in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days to keep the flavors fresh.

Freezing

Because crispy textures can suffer, it’s best to freeze bacon and Brussels sprouts separately if needed, then combine and reheat later.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers on the stovetop in a skillet over medium heat to bring back their crispiness, avoiding the microwave for best results.

FAQs

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?

Fresh Brussels sprouts are ideal because they maintain texture better when cooked, but if using frozen, make sure to thaw and pat them dry thoroughly before cooking.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute bacon with smoked tempeh or a plant-based bacon alternative to keep that smoky flavor while making the dish vegetarian-friendly.

How do I avoid bitter Brussels sprouts?

Remove outer leaves, cut them evenly, and cook until golden brown to bring out their natural sweetness and reduce bitterness.

Can I roast the Brussels sprouts instead of pan-frying?

Yes! Toss Brussels sprouts and bacon with olive oil and roast in a preheated oven at 400°F (205°C) for about 20-25 minutes for a hands-off approach.

What other seasonings pair well with bacon Brussels sprouts?

Nutmeg, smoked paprika, or a touch of balsamic vinegar add wonderful complementary notes that enhance the overall flavor.

Final Thoughts

This easy Bacon Brussels Sprouts recipe truly brings out the best in this underrated vegetable with the crunch and savory goodness of bacon. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser you’ll reach for again and again. Get those ingredients ready, and embrace this delicious side that’s as simple as it is satisfying!

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