Brussels sprouts with bacon are a perfect match! The crispy bacon adds a tasty crunch to the tender sprouts, making veggies so much more fun to eat.
I love how easy this dish is to whip up. Just sauté the sprouts until golden, toss in the bacon, and you’re ready to enjoy a side dish everyone will love!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brussels Sprouts: Look for firm and vibrant green Brussels sprouts. If you’re in a pinch, you could substitute with green beans or broccoli, but the flavor won’t be the same.
Bacon: I love using thick-cut bacon for added chewiness and flavor. Turkey bacon or a vegetarian alternative like smoked tempeh can also work if you’re looking for lighter options.
Olive Oil: This adds great depth. If you want a stronger bacon flavor, stick with the rendered bacon fat. You could use avocado oil as a neutral substitute, too.
Garlic: While optional, garlic elevates the dish. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder is a fine substitute—just use less.
How Do You Get Perfectly Caramelized Brussels Sprouts?
Caramelizing Brussels sprouts is all about getting that nice golden crust and tender inside. Here are my tips:
- Start with a hot pan: Preheat the skillet to medium heat before adding the sprouts. This helps them sear instead of steam.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if necessary. Sprouts need space to brown properly.
- Cut side down: Placing them cut side down first ensures that they caramelize beautifully.
- Be patient: Resist stirring too much! Let them sit for the initial 5-7 minutes to develop that crust before flipping.
Brussels Sprouts With Bacon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or bacon fat
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to cook, so you can enjoy delicious Brussels Sprouts with Bacon in about 30-35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Brussels Sprouts:
Start by rinsing the Brussels sprouts under cold water. Trim the ends to remove any tough parts, then cut each Brussels sprout in half. This will help them cook evenly and get that nice brown color.
2. Cooking the Bacon:
In a large skillet or frying pan, place the chopped bacon and turn the heat to medium. Cook the bacon for about 5-7 minutes until it’s crispy and golden. Once it’s done, carefully remove it from the pan using a slotted spoon and set it aside, but leave the rendered bacon fat in the pan because it’s full of flavor!
3. Searing the Brussels Sprouts:
If you want a richer flavor, add some olive oil to the bacon fat now. Then, place the halved Brussels sprouts in the skillet with the cut side facing down. Let them cook undisturbed for about 5-7 minutes. This will help them develop a beautiful golden brown crust.
4. Continuing the Cooking Process:
After 5-7 minutes, give the Brussels sprouts a good stir and cook them for another 5-7 minutes until they are tender and caramelized. If you’re using garlic, add it in the last 2 minutes of cooking and stir it in until it becomes fragrant.
5. Combining with Bacon:
Once the Brussels sprouts are done, return the crispy bacon to the pan and mix it well with the sprouts. This will incorporate all those wonderful flavors together!
6. Seasoning and Serving:
Now it’s time to season the dish! Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste. If you’d like, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy your incredible Brussels Sprouts with Bacon!
Can I Use Frozen Brussels Sprouts for This Recipe?
While fresh Brussels sprouts yield the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen ones in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry to avoid extra moisture, which can prevent caramelization.
How Can I Make This Dish Healthier?
To cut down on fat, you can use turkey bacon or even omit the bacon altogether. Instead, try adding a dash of smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a hint of that bacon flavor without the calories!
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a pan over low heat or in the microwave. You may want to splash a little olive oil to regain some moisture.
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in some nuts for crunch, like almonds or walnuts, or add grated parmesan cheese for an extra flavor boost. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly if adding more ingredients!
