Description
Crispy Bacon Brussels Sprouts combine the slight bitterness of fresh Brussels sprouts with the smoky, savory crunch of crispy bacon. This easy-to-make side dish features a golden-brown exterior and bold flavors that are perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, you can enjoy a nutritious, flavorful, and crunchy vegetable dish that captivates the taste buds and pairs well with a variety of mains.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh Brussels sprouts, washed, stems trimmed, and halved
- 6 slices thick-cut or regular bacon
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes, to taste
Optional Variations
- Drizzle of pure maple syrup (for maple-glazed variant)
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Sriracha or hot sauce (for a spicy kick)
- Smoked paprika and roasted chickpeas (vegetarian alternative to bacon)
- Toasted walnuts or pecans (for added nutty crunch)
Instructions
- Prep the Brussels Sprouts: Wash the sprouts thoroughly, trim the stems, and cut them in half lengthwise to ensure even cooking and maximize crispy surface area.
- Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until nicely crisp. Remove the bacon pieces and set them aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease, leaving the rendered bacon fat in the skillet.
- Sauté the Brussels Sprouts: Place the halved Brussels sprouts cut side down in the hot bacon fat. Cook undisturbed for 5–7 minutes until a deep golden crust forms. Stir and cook for an additional 5 minutes until tender.
- Add Garlic and Seasoning: Add minced garlic and stir for about one minute until fragrant. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to your liking.
- Mix in the Bacon: Crumble the cooked bacon back into the pan. Toss everything together so the Brussels sprouts are evenly coated with flavorful bacon bits.
- Optional Extras: For variations, drizzle maple syrup, add lemon zest and juice, sriracha, or toasted nuts just before serving to customize the flavor.
Notes
- Always pat Brussels sprouts dry after washing to prevent sogginess and ensure crispiness.
- Cook over medium-high heat to get a browned, crispy exterior.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming and maintain crisp texture; cook in batches if necessary.
- Using thick-cut bacon improves texture and flavor when cooked to crisp.
- Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or vinegar to brighten the dish.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in a skillet to maintain crispiness.
- Freezing is possible but may soften the texture; flash-freeze bacon and sprouts separately before storing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Pan-Frying (also adaptable to Baking)
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 190 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: 25 mg