Bacon Brussels sprouts are one of those magical side dishes that manage to steal the show at any dinner table. Crispy bacon bits meet tender roasted sprouts, with just the right hint of garlic and a splash of balsamic vinegar for brightness. Every bite is a delightful dance of textures and flavors: the sprouts caramelize on the edges, becoming slightly sweet, while the bacon adds savory crunch. This dish elevates humble vegetables into something worthy of celebration. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or simply craving a quick, healthy side, these Bacon Brussels Sprouts deliver a satisfying experience without demanding hours in the kitchen.
I first tried this recipe on a chilly weeknight when I was craving comfort food without the guilt. Armed with only a pound of fresh Brussels sprouts and a few slices of bacon, I was amazed at how quickly the kitchen filled with mouthwatering sizzles and savory notes. In just 10 minutes of prep and about 30 minutes of roasting, I had a vibrant, 300-calorie side dish that felt indulgent yet wholesome. Perfect for beginner cooks, this recipe requires no fancy skills—just a skillet, an oven, and a willingness to let simple ingredients shine. Whether you’re aiming for healthy cooking, a quick recipe, or a standout roasted vegetable side, these sprouts have got you covered. So grab your apron and get ready to transform Brussels sprouts from “meh” to marvelous!
KEY INGREDIENTS IN BACON BRUSSELS SPROUTS
Before diving into the cooking steps, let’s highlight the star players in this recipe. Each ingredient brings its own charm—some add crisp and crunch, others lend depth and a touch of zing. Understanding the role of each helps you appreciate how they work together to create a truly memorable side dish.
- Brussels sprouts
These mini cabbages are the heart of the recipe, providing a slightly nutty and earthy flavor. When halved and roasted, their natural sugars caramelize, creating tender insides and crispy edges.
- Bacon
Diced and cooked until crisp, bacon contributes smoky, savory indulgence. The resulting fat also becomes the flavorful cooking medium for the sprouts, infusing every morsel.
- Olive oil
A drizzle of good-quality olive oil helps the Brussels sprouts develop beautiful browning and lends a subtle fruity note. It also ensures a non-stick surface in the skillet and on the sheet pan.
- Salt
A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors, from the sprouts’ inherent sweetness to the bacon’s smokiness. It’s a simple yet essential seasoning step.
- Black pepper
Freshly ground black pepper adds mild heat and complexity, balancing the dish’s richness without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Garlic
Minced garlic infuses the sprouts with a fragrant aroma and savory depth. Cooking it briefly with the sprouts ensures it doesn’t burn and turn bitter.
- Balsamic vinegar (optional)
A splash of balsamic vinegar at the end delivers a sweet-tangy finish. It brightens the dish and adds a layer of refined acidity that ties everything together.
HOW TO MAKE BACON BRUSSELS SPROUTS
Here’s a step-by-step guide to transform these simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing side. You’ll go from raw veggies to golden-brown sprouts bursting with flavor, all while infusing the pan with the irresistible scent of cooking bacon and garlic.
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature ensures that the Brussels sprouts will roast quickly, developing crispy edges without overcooking inside.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy. This should take about 5–7 minutes. As the bacon renders its fat, it will start to crackle and brown.
3. Once the bacon is golden and crisp, remove it from the skillet and place it on a paper towel to drain off excess grease. This keeps the bacon crunchy.
4. Reserve 1 tablespoon of the bacon fat in the skillet and discard the rest or save it for another recipe. That reserved fat is liquid gold—it carries smoky flavor into the sprouts.
5. Add the halved Brussels sprouts to the skillet with the reserved bacon fat and drizzle with olive oil. Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste. The oil and fat will coat the sprouts, promoting even browning.
6. Sauté the Brussels sprouts for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to develop golden color and crisp up around the edges.
7. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the garlic becomes fragrant but not brown. This quick step prevents bitterness.
8. Transfer the Brussels sprouts and garlic mixture onto a baking sheet in a single layer. Spreading them out ensures each piece can roast properly.
9. Roast in the preheated oven for about 15–20 minutes, or until the sprouts are tender on the inside and crispy on the outside. Shake the pan or stir halfway through for even cooking.
10. Once done, remove the baking sheet from the oven and, if using, drizzle the Brussels sprouts with balsamic vinegar. The residual heat will help it coat every crevice.
11. Mix the cooked bacon back in with the roasted Brussels sprouts, folding gently to incorporate those savory bits.
12. Serve immediately as a delicious side dish that’s crispy, tangy, and utterly addictive.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR BACON BRUSSELS SPROUTS
These Bacon Brussels Sprouts are versatile enough to complement a wide array of mains, making them an ideal choice for family dinners, holiday spreads, or casual weeknight meals. Their combination of crispy texture and savory-sweet notes pairs beautifully with proteins, grains, and even hearty salads. Whether you’re aiming to elevate a simple grilled chicken or to add an unexpected twist to a vegetarian feast, these serving suggestions will help you integrate this side dish seamlessly into your menu.
- Serve alongside roasted chicken or turkey for a cozy, protein-packed meal. The sprouts’ caramelized edges and bacon bits provide a satisfying contrast to tender white meat. Add a scoop of mashed potatoes dressed with a touch of gravy for a classic pairing.
- Top with crumbled Parmesan cheese and toasted pine nuts to turn the dish into a more decadent side or light entrée. The salty cheese and crunchy nuts layer additional textures and flavors that complement the bacon and sprouts.
- Transform these sprouts into a warm grain bowl by adding cooked quinoa or farro, roasted sweet potatoes, and a dollop of plain Greek yogurt. Drizzle with extra balsamic vinegar for a wholesome, balanced meal.
- Incorporate into a holiday buffet spread placed in a chafing dish to keep warm. Garnish with fresh parsley sprigs and extra bacon crumbles, inviting guests to dig in. The dish’s vibrant look and irresistible scent make it a standout addition.
HOW TO STORE BACON BRUSSELS SPROUTS
Leftovers of this savory side can be stored for easy reheating, meal prep, or even repurposing into new dishes. Proper storage techniques will help maintain both the flavor and texture of the sprouts, ensuring they remain just as delightful the next day. Keeping them fresh and crispy on the edges comes down to controlling moisture and air exposure.
- Refrigerator storage
Allow the dish to cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. When ready to serve, reheat in a skillet over medium heat rather than the microwave to preserve crispiness.
- Freezing
For longer storage, spread cooled sprouts on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
- Keeping crisp
Separate any extra bacon pieces and store them in a small sealed container to prevent sogginess. Recombine just before reheating.
- Reheating tips
Use a hot oven (350°F) or a quick skillet toss with a teaspoon of oil. Avoid the microwave when possible, as it can make the sprouts mushy.
CONCLUSION
This Bacon Brussels Sprouts recipe brings together succulent roasted vegetables, crispy bacon, and fragrant garlic into a side dish that never fails to impress. From trimming and halving the sprouts to carefully rendering the bacon and finishing with a splash of balsamic vinegar, each step contributes to a harmonious balance of textures and flavors. Whether you’re a beginner cook seeking a quick, healthy option or a seasoned home chef looking for a crowd-pleaser, this dish hits all the right notes. It’s a perfect example of how simple ingredients—when treated with a bit of care—can transform into something spectacular. With only 10 minutes of prep, 30 minutes of cooking, and just 300 calories per serving, you can confidently add this recipe to your regular rotation. Don’t forget that the flexibility of add-ins like Parmesan cheese or honey allows you to customize the final dish to suit your taste preferences.
Feel free to print out this article and save it for later use—keep it tucked in your recipe binder or clipped to your fridge as a go-to side for any occasion. You’ll also find a FAQ section below should you have any lingering questions on technique or ingredient swaps. And of course, I’d love to hear from you: if you try this recipe or need help troubleshooting any step, leave your comments, questions, or feedback. Sharing your experiences not only helps you perfect the dish but also inspires fellow home cooks to get creative in their own kitchens. Happy cooking!
Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Description
Roasted Brussels sprouts come alive with crispy bacon and a hint of garlic, making them the perfect savory side. Pair with your favorite main dish for a delightful taste sensation!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
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In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
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Once the bacon is done, remove it from the skillet and place it on a paper towel to drain.
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Reserve 1 tablespoon of the bacon fat in the skillet and discard the rest or save it for another recipe.
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Add the halved Brussels sprouts to the skillet with the reserved bacon fat and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
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Sauté the Brussels sprouts for about 5 minutes until they start to get some color.
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Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
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Transfer the Brussels sprouts and garlic mixture onto a baking sheet.
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Roast in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the Brussels sprouts are tender and crispy on the edges.
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Once done, remove the baking sheet from the oven and drizzle the Brussels sprouts with balsamic vinegar, if using.
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Mix the cooked bacon back in with the roasted Brussels sprouts.
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Serve immediately as a delicious side dish.
Note
- Brussels sprouts can also be cut into quarters for faster cooking.
- For a sweeter twist, consider adding a teaspoon of honey along with the balsamic vinegar.
- This dish pairs well with roasted chicken or grilled salmon.
- Consider adding Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.
