Description
These crispy Bacon Brussels Sprouts combine the earthy, slightly bitter flavor of roasted Brussels sprouts with smoky, salty bacon for a savory, crunchy side dish. Easy to prepare in under 30 minutes, this recipe offers a perfect texture with tender interiors and caramelized exteriors. Versatile and healthy, it’s perfect as a side, appetizer, or snack that will impress at any meal or gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh Brussels sprouts, washed, trimmed, and halved
- 6 oz thick-cut or sliced bacon
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: Wash and trim the Brussels sprouts, then cut each in half lengthwise to ensure even cooking and maximum crispiness. Pat them dry thoroughly to prevent sogginess.
- Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it becomes crispy. Remove the cooked bacon pieces and set aside on paper towels to drain, reserving the bacon fat in the skillet.
- Sauté Brussels Sprouts: Add the halved Brussels sprouts to the bacon fat in the skillet. Place them cut-side down for a few minutes to develop a rich golden-brown crust, stirring occasionally for even roasting.
- Add Garlic and Seasonings: Mix in the fresh minced garlic, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant but not burnt.
- Combine and Finish: Return the crispy bacon to the skillet and toss everything together to marry the flavors. Cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes to meld the taste, then serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Choose small to medium-sized Brussels sprouts for better roasting and tenderness.
- Dry sprouts completely before cooking to ensure maximum crispiness.
- Use bacon fat to cook the Brussels sprouts for enhanced smoky flavor.
- Do not overcrowd the pan to avoid steaming; give sprouts room to crisp.
- Cook over medium heat to crisp bacon without burning and to caramelize sprouts perfectly.
- Brussels sprouts can be cooked ahead and re-crisped in the pan just before serving.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat in a skillet or under the broiler for best texture.
- Raw trimmed Brussels sprouts can be frozen for up to 3 months, then cooked fresh with bacon when ready.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
Keywords: Bacon Brussels Sprouts, crispy Brussels sprouts, roasted Brussels sprouts, bacon side dish, easy vegetable recipe, savory side, healthy side dish
