Bacon Brussels Sprouts are a simple, tasty side dish that brings together crispy, salty bacon and tender, caramelized Brussels sprouts. The smoky flavor from the bacon really makes the sprouts shine, turning a vegetable some people might shy away from into something everyone goes back for seconds of.
I love making these any time I want something quick but feel special. The bacon adds such a great crunch and savory kick that even the pickiest eaters usually can’t resist. One tip I have is to cook the bacon first and use the leftover fat to sauté the sprouts — it adds so much flavor and saves a step!
These Bacon Brussels Sprouts are perfect served alongside a weeknight dinner or brought to a holiday meal where they always disappear fast. I find they’re an easy way to get some greens on the table without making a big fuss, and I’m always happy when I can get my family excited about veggies this way.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brussels Sprouts: Fresh and firm sprouts work best. Trim the stems and halve larger sprouts so they cook evenly. If you can’t find fresh, frozen sprouts can be used but skip raw searing—steam or roast them first.
Bacon: Regular sliced bacon adds great flavor and crispiness. For a leaner option, try turkey bacon or pancetta. For veggie lovers, smoked tempeh or mushrooms with smoked paprika can mimic that smoky taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a lovely aroma and flavor. Minced or pressed garlic works well here. If you prefer less sharpness, use garlic powder sparingly or roast garlic beforehand.
How Can I Get Crispy Brussels Sprouts Without Them Turning Soggy?
Cooking Brussels sprouts so they’re crispy on the outside but tender inside is key. Here’s how:
- Pat the sprouts dry well after washing to remove excess moisture.
- Place sprouts cut side down in a hot pan without stirring for 5-7 minutes; this helps caramelize and crisp.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—give them room to brown nicely.
- Add bacon fat or a little oil for extra crispness and flavor.
- Once browned, stir gently and cook until tender but not mushy.
With patience and the right heat, you get deliciously crisp edges and soft centers every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet or frying pan – I like this because it cooks the bacon evenly and gives those crispy edges.
- Slotted spoon – makes it easy to transfer cooked bacon and drain excess fat.
- Cutting board and knife – for trimming and halving the Brussels sprouts cleanly.
- Measuring spoons – to add garlic and optional seasonings accurately.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap bacon for pancetta or smoked turkey bacon for different smoky flavors.
- Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice at the end for tanginess.
- Mix in roasted nuts or dried cranberries for extra texture and sweetness.
- Use garlic powder or shallots instead of fresh garlic for a different aroma.
How to Make Bacon Brussels Sprouts?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes in total — around 5 minutes to prep the Brussels sprouts and chop the bacon, then about 10 minutes to cook everything until golden and crispy. It’s a quick and tasty side dish you can whip up any night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:
First, rinse the Brussels sprouts well. Trim off the stem ends and cut the larger ones in half to help them cook evenly.
2. Cook the Bacon:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat, then add the chopped bacon. Let it cook until crispy and nicely browned, about 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside on a paper towel to drain, leaving about 1-2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet. If there’s not enough fat, add a tablespoon of olive oil.
3. Sear the Brussels Sprouts:
Place the Brussels sprouts cut side down in the hot skillet. Let them cook without stirring for about 5-7 minutes so they develop a lovely golden-brown crust.
4. Add Garlic and Finish Cooking:
Stir the sprouts, then add the minced garlic to the pan. Keep cooking, stirring often, until the garlic is fragrant and the sprouts are tender, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Combine and Season:
Return the cooked bacon to the skillet and mix everything well. Season with salt and fresh pepper to taste. If you like, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright touch.
6. Serve:
Serve your delicious bacon Brussels sprouts hot as a flavorful side dish that pairs beautifully with many meals. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Brussels Sprouts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! If using frozen sprouts, thaw them completely and pat dry to remove extra moisture before cooking. This helps achieve a nice sear and prevents sogginess.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover bacon Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to keep them crispy.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the bacon for smoked tempeh, sautéed mushrooms with smoked paprika, or a plant-based bacon alternative to keep that smoky flavor without meat.
How Can I Add More Flavor or Spice?
Try adding red pepper flakes for heat, a splash of balsamic vinegar for tanginess, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end to brighten the dish.
