Description
A quick and simple side dish featuring crispy bacon and tender caramelized Brussels sprouts, perfectly seasoned and cooked to bring out a balanced, savory, and slightly sweet flavor. This recipe is ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- Fresh Brussels Sprouts – 1 lb (about 450g), trimmed and halved
- Bacon Strips – 6 thick-cut slices
- Olive Oil – 1 tablespoon
- Garlic Cloves – 2, minced
- Salt – to taste
- Black Pepper – to taste
- Red Pepper Flakes (Optional) – 1/4 teaspoon
Instructions
- Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: Trim the stem ends and remove 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.
- Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon strips until they’re crispy and golden. Remove the bacon from the pan, leaving the flavorful bacon drippings behind, then chop the bacon into bite-sized pieces.
- Sauté the Brussels Sprouts: Add olive oil and minced garlic to the bacon drippings in the skillet, then place the Brussels sprouts cut side down. Let them cook undisturbed for about 5-7 minutes to develop a beautiful golden sear.
- 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.
- Serve Warm: Transfer the bacon Brussels sprouts to a serving dish and enjoy immediately for the optimal crispness and flavor punch.
Notes
- Dry the Brussels sprouts thoroughly before cooking to avoid steaming and ensure crispiness.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if necessary to allow even browning.
- Cut Brussels sprouts uniformly for even cooking and appealing presentation.
- Cook bacon slowly over medium heat to prevent burning and ensure crispiness.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or sprinkle fresh herbs just before serving to brighten the dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
Keywords: Bacon Brussels Sprouts, crispy Brussels sprouts, easy side dish, quick vegetable recipe, savory bacon side, healthy Brussels sprouts