Bacon Brussels Sprouts is a simple and tasty side dish that combines crispy, salty bacon with tender Brussels sprouts. The smoky flavor of the bacon pairs perfectly with the slight bitterness of the sprouts, making each bite full of rich, comforting flavors. It’s an easy way to enjoy your veggies with a little something extra.
I love making this dish when I want to add a bit of crunch and heartiness to my meal. Cooking the bacon first and then using some of the bacon fat to sauté the Brussels sprouts gives the dish so much flavor without needing too many extra ingredients. It’s one of those recipes that feels special but is actually really straightforward to put together.
Whenever I serve Bacon Brussels Sprouts, I like to keep it simple—a sprinkle of black pepper or a dash of balsamic vinegar can give it a nice little twist. It’s great alongside roasted chicken or even just with a cozy dinner of mashed potatoes. This dish never fails to get compliments and has become a favorite in our house for holiday dinners and weeknight meals alike.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brussels Sprouts: Fresh and firm sprouts work best. Trim the ends and slice them in half for even cooking. If you can’t find fresh, frozen sprouts work too—just thaw and pat dry before cooking.
Bacon: Bacon adds smokiness and crunch. I like using thick-cut for extra texture. For a lighter option, turkey bacon or smoked ham can be swapped in.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a nice punch. If you don’t have fresh, garlic powder can do in a pinch—add it toward the end for best flavor.
Cooking Fat: Using bacon fat to sauté the sprouts gives great flavor, but olive oil is a good substitute if you want a milder taste or less fat.
How Do You Get Crispy Bacon and Perfectly Caramelized Brussels Sprouts?
Crispy bacon and caramelized Brussels sprouts are key here. Start by cooking the bacon until it’s nice and crisp, then drain on paper towels. Save the bacon fat in the pan to cook the sprouts for deep flavor.
- Place the sprouts cut-side down in the hot fat to get a caramelized golden crust. Don’t move them around too much.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes on one side before flipping — this develops the crisp edges and rich flavor.
- Add garlic after flipping to avoid burning it, and cook until sprouts are tender but still hold their shape.
- Finally, mix bacon back in for that salty crunch in every bite.
This method keeps the sprouts crispy on the outside and tender inside, making the dish full of texture and flavor.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – I recommend a good-sized one to brown the Brussels sprouts evenly and cook the bacon without crowding the pan.
- Slotted spoon – lets you remove crispy bacon easily without excess grease.
- Chef’s knife – for trimming and halving the Brussels sprouts and chopping the bacon.
- Cutting board – provides a stable surface for prep work.
- Paper towels – for draining the cooked bacon and keeping everything crispy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap bacon for pancetta or chorizo to change up the smoky flavor.
- Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice at the end for a bright, tangy twist.
- Mix in toasted pine nuts or chopped almonds for extra crunch.
- Stir in a handful of grated Parmesan or crumbled feta just before serving for a cheesy touch.
Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or bacon fat (from cooking the bacon)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for some heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, so you’ll have a delicious side ready in just around 25 minutes. It’s quick, simple, and full of flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook it until it becomes crispy and golden. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon pieces onto a paper towel-lined plate, allowing the excess grease to drain. Keep the bacon fat in the skillet as it will help cook the Brussels sprouts with extra flavor.
2. Sauté the Brussels Sprouts:
If your skillet doesn’t have enough bacon fat, add a touch of olive oil and heat it up over medium-high heat. Place the trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts cut-side down in the hot fat. Let them cook without stirring for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the cut sides turn a beautiful golden brown and caramelize nicely.
3. Add Garlic and Finish Cooking:
Flip the Brussels sprouts over to cook on the other side. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and stir everything together. Cook for another 4 to 5 minutes, until the sprouts are tender when poked with a fork.
4. Combine Bacon and Season:
Return the crispy bacon you cooked earlier back to the skillet, stirring everything to mix well. Season the dish with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and if you like a little heat, sprinkle on some red pepper flakes. Remove from heat and serve right away for a tasty, satisfying side dish that pairs wonderfully with many meals.
Can I Use Frozen Brussels Sprouts Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture. This helps the sprouts caramelize nicely instead of steaming.
What Can I Substitute for Bacon?
If you want a vegetarian option, try smoky tempeh or mushrooms sautéed with smoked paprika. For a different meat flavor, pancetta or sausage works great too.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to keep the Brussels sprouts crisp.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Chopped onions or sliced mushrooms added when cooking the sprouts add extra flavor and texture. Just sauté them alongside the sprouts until tender.