This classic side dish of Bacon Brussels Sprouts is a guaranteed way to convert even the most skeptical vegetable eaters. The salty, smoky flavor of crispy bacon perfectly complements the earthy, slightly sweet notes of caramelized Brussels sprouts, creating a side dish that is both simple and incredibly flavorful.
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This recipe is a must-try for its simplicity and crowd-pleasing taste. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a side dish that is perfect for everything from a weeknight dinner to a holiday feast. The combination of crispy bacon and tender-crisp Brussels sprouts is a texture and flavor pairing that is hard to resist.
How to Make Bacon Brussels Sprouts
There are two common methods for making this dish: pan-frying for a quick, stovetop version or oven-roasting for a more hands-off approach that yields deep caramelization. Both methods start by rendering bacon to create a flavorful fat for cooking the sprouts.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 6-8 slices of bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (if roasting)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Directions:
- In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium-high heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it on a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
- Add the Brussels sprouts to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the bacon fat.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the sprouts are slightly tender.
- Uncover the skillet, add the crispy bacon back in, and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the sprouts are tender and nicely browned. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve immediately.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- On a large baking sheet, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add the chopped bacon to the baking sheet and spread everything in a single layer. For best results, place the Brussels sprouts cut-side down.
- Roast for 20-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the Brussels sprouts are tender and caramelized and the bacon is crispy.
How to Serve Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Serve this dish hot as a side for roasted chicken, steak, or pork. It’s also a classic and beloved addition to any Thanksgiving or Christmas holiday table.
How to Store Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or in the oven to help crisp them up again.
Tips to Make Bacon Brussels Sprouts
- For evenly cooked sprouts, try to use ones that are similar in size.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan or baking sheet, as this will cause the sprouts to steam instead of roast and caramelize. Use a second pan if needed.
- For extra crispy results when roasting, place the Brussels sprouts cut-side down on the baking sheet.
Variation
- Sweet & Savory: Drizzle the roasted Brussels sprouts with a tablespoon of maple syrup or honey during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a sweet and savory glaze.
- Tangy Twist: Toss the finished dish with a splash of balsamic vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten up the flavors.
- Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese during the last few minutes of roasting for a cheesy, savory crust.
FAQs
Should I use thick-cut or regular bacon?
Thick-cut bacon is often preferred as it yields more rendered fat and provides a meatier bite, but regular bacon works perfectly well too.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can trim and halve the Brussels sprouts a day or two in advance. While the dish is best served fresh, you can reheat it in a skillet or oven.
What’s the best way to get crispy Brussels sprouts?
High heat is key. Whether you’re pan-frying or roasting, make sure your pan or oven is hot enough to achieve a good sear and caramelization on the outside of the sprouts. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan.
Bacon Brussels Sprouts
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This classic side dish of Bacon Brussels Sprouts combines the smoky, salty flavor of crispy bacon with the earthy sweetness of caramelized Brussels sprouts. Perfect for both weeknight dinners and festive holiday meals.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 6–8 slices of bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (if roasting)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Pan-Fried Method:
- Cook chopped bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat until crispy. Remove bacon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
- Add Brussels sprouts, stirring to coat in bacon fat. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for about 5 minutes until slightly tender.
- Uncover, return bacon to skillet, and continue cooking until sprouts are tender and browned. Season with salt and pepper and serve immediately.
- Oven-Roasted Method:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Add chopped bacon and spread in a single layer, cut-side down.
- Roast for 20–30 minutes, stirring halfway, until sprouts are caramelized and bacon is crispy.
Notes
For best results, use Brussels sprouts of similar size and avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure crispiness. Variations: drizzle with maple syrup for sweetness, toss with balsamic vinegar for tang, or top with Parmesan for a cheesy twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Pan-Fried or Oven-Roasted
- Cuisine: American