Crispy Bacon Brussels Sprouts

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with flavor and crunch, these Crispy Bacon Brussels Sprouts recipes are absolutely your new best friend in the kitchen. Combining the slight bitterness of Brussels sprouts with the smoky, savory punch of bacon creates an unforgettable taste experience. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish or a snack, these recipes bring bold flavor and satisfying texture that will have everyone asking for more. Let’s dive into these seven irresistible ways to enjoy Crispy Bacon Brussels Sprouts that will elevate your veggie game to the next level.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Combination: The perfect balance between salty bacon and roasted Brussels sprouts creates a mouthwatering bite every time.
• Crisp Texture: Achieving that golden, crispy exterior on both the bacon and sprouts makes each bite delightfully crunchy.
• Simple Ingredients: You only need a few pantry staples to make a show-stopping side dish.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.
• Adaptable to Taste: Easy to customize for sweeter, spicier, or tangier flavor profiles.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in your Crispy Bacon Brussels Sprouts plays a key role in delivering texture, flavor, and visual appeal. From smoky bacon to fresh sprouts, the simplicity is what makes this dish shine.

• Brussels Sprouts: Fresh and firm sprouts offer a nutty base packed with nutrients.
• Bacon: Thick-cut or regular bacon adds smoky saltiness and crispiness to the dish.
• Olive Oil: Helps achieve a golden-brown finish and enhances the natural flavors.
• Garlic: Adds an aromatic touch that complements both bacon and sprouts beautifully.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing the bold flavors.
• Optional Red Pepper Flakes: For a subtle spicy kick that livens up the dish.

Variations for Crispy Bacon Brussels Sprouts

Feel free to mix up this Crispy Bacon Brussels Sprouts recipe to tailor it to your taste, dietary preferences, or ingredient availability. It’s surprisingly versatile and always delicious.

• Maple-Glazed: Add a drizzle of pure maple syrup before serving for a sweet and smoky contrast.
• Lemon Zest and Juice: Brighten the dish with fresh lemon to add a refreshing zing.
• Spicy Sriracha: Incorporate sriracha or hot sauce for those who love a spicy edge.
• Vegetarian Twist: Swap out bacon for smoked paprika and roasted chickpeas to mimic the crispy, smoky flavor.
• Nutty Crunch: Toss with toasted walnuts or pecans to add an extra layer of texture.

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How to Make Crispy Bacon Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Prep the Brussels Sprouts

Start by washing the sprouts thoroughly, trimming the stems, and cutting them in half lengthwise. This helps them cook evenly while maximizing the crispy surface area.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until it’s nicely crisp. Remove the bacon pieces and set them aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease, leaving the bacon fat in the skillet for the sprouts.

Step 3: Sauté the Brussels Sprouts

Place the halved Brussels sprouts cut side down in the hot bacon fat. Let them cook undisturbed for about 5-7 minutes until they develop a deep golden crust. Then stir and cook for another 5 minutes until tender.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Seasoning

Add minced garlic to the skillet, stirring for about a minute until fragrant. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste.

Step 5: Mix in the Bacon

Finally, crumble the cooked bacon back into the pan, tossing everything together so each Brussels sprout is coated with flavor and bacon bits.

Pro Tips for Making Crispy Bacon Brussels Sprouts

• Dry Thoroughly: Always pat Brussels sprouts dry after washing since moisture hinders crisping.
• High Heat Cooking: Use medium-high heat to achieve that coveted crispy, browned exterior.
• Don’t Crowd the Pan: Overcrowding traps steam and prevents crispiness, so cook in batches if needed.
• Choose Thick-Cut Bacon: Provides better texture and flavor when cooked until crispy.
• Finish with Acid: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or vinegar brightens the dish after cooking.

How to Serve Crispy Bacon Brussels Sprouts

Garnishes

Top with freshly grated Parmesan, a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs, or chopped fresh herbs like parsley for extra flavor and an inviting presentation.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even as part of a vegetarian meal with quinoa or brown rice for a balanced plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Crispy Bacon Brussels Sprouts in rustic bowls for casual meals, or arrange them on a large platter sprinkled with bacon crumbles and pomegranate seeds for festive occasions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Crispy Bacon Brussels Sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They retain their texture best when reheated properly.

Freezing

While freezing is possible, the texture may soften upon thawing. If freezing, flash-freeze the sprouts and bacon separately on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a hot skillet over medium heat to restore crispiness, rather than using a microwave which can make them soggy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?

Frozen Brussels sprouts can work, but fresh are preferred for the best texture and flavor since frozen ones tend to be softer and less crispy.

How do I make Crispy Bacon Brussels Sprouts vegan?

Replace bacon with smoked coconut bacon or roasted smoked chickpeas for a plant-based smoky crunch and use olive oil for cooking.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free bacon and seasonings.

Can I bake these instead of pan-frying?

Absolutely! Roast halved Brussels sprouts and chopped bacon on a baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes until crispy, tossing halfway through.

What’s the best way to avoid soggy Brussels sprouts?

Make sure to dry the sprouts completely, cook them in a hot pan with enough fat, and avoid overcrowding to maintain their crispiness.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite as satisfying as perfectly cooked Crispy Bacon Brussels Sprouts that combine bold flavors with amazing crunch. Whether you stick to the classic or try some of the variations, these recipes are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Give one of these seven recipes a try and watch how quickly they disappear from the plate!

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