Name: Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Brussels sprouts; 0.5 lb Bacon (diced); 2 tbsp Olive oil; 1 tsp Salt; 0.5 tsp Black pepper

Okay, friends, gather ’round because I’m about to share a recipe that’s a game-changer. It’s my go-to for making Brussels Sprouts—something that’s notorious for being… well, not everyone’s favorite—totally irresistible. Forget everything you think you know about boring, bitter Brussels sprouts. This Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Recipe is like the cooler, edgier cousin of classic roasted vegetables, amped up with crispy bacon and a hint of sweetness. It’s a flavor explosion that will have even the pickiest eaters begging for seconds. This dish easily rivals even the best sweet potato casserole in terms of deliciousness and it’s simpler to make! The crispy sprouts, smoky bacon, and savory seasonings create a combination you just can’t beat!

What is Brussels sprouts and Bacon?

Brussels Sprouts and Bacon is, at its heart, a celebration of simple flavors done right. Think of it as a love story between humble Brussels sprouts and smoky, crispy bacon. It’s essentially taking a vegetable that often gets a bad rap and transforming it into something extraordinary. The bacon adds saltiness and richness, while the sprouts get beautifully caramelized and tender. It’s a classic pairing elevated with just the right seasoning and a little bit of my personal touch. It’s a side dish, a main course addition, or even a fantastic salad topping when you’re feeling adventurous!

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Oh, where do I even begin? What I love most about this Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Recipe is how it manages to convert even the staunchest Brussels sprouts haters. The flavor combination is just phenomenal. You’ve got the slight bitterness of the sprouts mellowed out by the salty, smoky bacon.

Flavor:The Brussels sprouts get beautifully caramelized and slightly sweet, which pairs perfectly with the salty, savory bacon. It’s a symphony of flavors that just works.
Simplicity:Seriously, this recipe is incredibly easy. It requires minimal prep time and uses ingredients you probably already have on hand. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight or a holiday gathering.
Cost-Brussels sprouts are generally pretty affordable, and a little bacon goes a long way. You can easily feed a crowd without breaking the bank.
Versatility:This dish can be served as a side, a topping for salads, or even mixed into pasta. It’s incredibly versatile and can be adapted to your preferences. You could even add a sprinkle of parmesan cheese at the end!

This Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Recipe is a total winner. It’s the kind of dish that becomes a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try, and I promise you won’t be disappointed! It’s even easier than making my Grandma’s famous green bean casserole, and that’s saying something!

How do I make Brussels sprouts and bacon?

Quick Overview

Making this Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Recipe is seriously a breeze. You’ll start by prepping your sprouts and bacon. Next, you’ll toss everything together with some simple seasonings, roast them until they’re perfectly caramelized and crispy, and that’s it! The best part is that the high heat really brings out the natural sweetness of the Brussels sprouts while rendering the bacon to crispy perfection. It’s a simple method that yields restaurant-quality results every single time.

Ingredients

For the Main Dish:

1.5 lbs Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
6 slices bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces.
2 tablespoons olive oil. 1 tablespoon lemon juice.
What is garlic powder? 1 teaspoon.
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste): 1 teaspoon.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

When selecting Brussels sprouts, try to find ones that are relatively uniform in size, so they don’t split. Also, be sure to keep the seeds clean. Why is bacon so smoky?

What are the steps to

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating up, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. How do I clean Brussels sprouts? If you don’t have parchment paper, you can grease the baking sheet with olive oil.

Step 2: Prep the Brussels Sprouts

Wash Brussels sprouts thoroughly and trim off the ends. If you have wilted Brussels sprouts, remove the outer leaves. Then, cut them in half lengthwise. If some of the sprouts are larger, you can quarter them to ensure they cook evenly. Sometimes I even slice them into thin shreds if I’m feeling fancy – it changes the texture a bit. Is it still good?

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine Brussels sprouts, bacon pieces, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and black pepper. Serve immediately or serve immediately. Toss everything together until the Brussels sprouts are evenly coated. How do you spread bacon evenly throughout your sandwich? What is the magic of garlic powder?

Step 4: Spread on Baking Sheet

Spread the Brussels sprouts and bacon mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure the sprouts aren’t overcrowded, as this can cause them to steam instead of roast. If necessary, use two baking sheets to ensure even cooking. The single layer is really key here.

Step 5: Bake

In the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the Brussels sprouts are tender. What makes bacon crispy? Halfway through, give Brussels sprouts a toss to ensure they cook evenly on all sides. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes to prevent burning. A little char is good, but burnt is a no-go!

Step 6: Serve Immediately

Once the Brussels Sprouts and Bacon are cooked to perfection, remove them from the oven and serve immediately. The crispy bacon and caramelized sprouts are best enjoyed hot. Trust me, the aroma alone will have everyone rushing to the table!

What should I serve it with?

The beauty of this Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Recipe is that it pairs well with so many different dishes. It’s truly a versatile side!
What’s a good weeknight dinner?Serve it with grilled chicken or Pork Chops for a satisfying meal. What’s a good salad with crusty bread? My kids love it with mashed potatoes!For a Holiday Feast:What is a great holiday dish to serve? What is the best way to serve ham or turkey? I always make a double batch for Thanksgiving!As a Salad Topping:Let the Brussels sprouts and Bacon cool slightly, then sprinkle them over a bed of mixed greens with some sage. What is vinaigrette What are some good ways to add crunch to a salad?What is a quick lunch?Toss Brussels Sprouts and Bacon with some cooked pasta and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately. What is a good lunch? Add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness.

What are some tips for perfecting Brussels sprouts and bacon?

Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to make this Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Recipe even better. Here are my top tips:
How do you choose the right bacon?I prefer using thick-cut bacon for this recipe. It holds its shape better during cooking and provides more of that delicious smoky flavor. Can you use any type of bacon you like, but I find that hickory smoked or applewood-smoked bacon is better. What are some of the best ways toDon’t overcrowd the pan: DoAs I mentioned earlier, it’s important to spread Brussels sprouts and bacon in a single layer on top of each other. What is a baking sheet? Overcrowding the pan will cause the sprouts to steam instead of roasting, resulting in a less crispy crust. If necessary, use two baking sheets.Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and garlic powder to your liking. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat or a drizzle of maple syrup for a touch of sweetness. Experiment and find what works best for you!
Use High Heat: Roasting the Brussels sprouts at a high temperature (400°F or 200°C) is key to achieving that caramelized, crispy texture. Don’t be afraid to let them get a little browned. That’s where all the flavor is!
Toss Halfway Through: Tossing the Brussels sprouts halfway through cooking ensures they cook evenly on all sides. This will help them develop that beautiful caramelized color and crispy texture all over.
Add a Touch of Acid: A squeeze of lemon juice or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar at the end can really brighten up the flavors of this dish. The acidity helps to balance the richness of the bacon and the slight bitterness of the sprouts.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), here’s how to store and reheat them properly:
Room Temperature: I wouldn’t recommend leaving these out at room temperature for more than two hours.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the cooked Brussels Sprouts and Bacon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before refrigerating to prevent them from getting soggy.
Freezer Instructions: While you can technically freeze cooked Brussels Sprouts and Bacon, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. If you do freeze them, spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating Instructions: To reheat, spread the Brussels Sprouts and Bacon on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can replace the bacon with smoked tempeh or vegetarian bacon. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, as vegetarian bacon may cook faster than regular bacon.

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

I generally prefer fresh Brussels sprouts for this recipe, but you can use frozen in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before roasting to prevent them from getting soggy.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! This recipe is very versatile. You can add other vegetables like onions, carrots, or bell peppers to the roasting pan along with the Brussels sprouts and bacon. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

How can I make this spicier?

If you like a little heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Brussels sprouts and bacon mixture before roasting. You can also drizzle a little sriracha or hot sauce over the cooked dish for an extra kick.

Can I add a glaze?

Absolutely! A balsamic glaze or a maple-mustard glaze would be delicious with this dish. Just drizzle it over the cooked Brussels sprouts and bacon before serving.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it, my friends! My fail-proof Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Recipe that’s guaranteed to be a hit. It’s simple, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. If you love the smoky, salty, and slightly sweet flavor combination, you should definitely try my bacon wrapped dates. They’re another crowd-pleaser! I truly believe that even if you’re not a huge fan of Brussels sprouts, this recipe will change your mind. The crispy bacon and caramelized sprouts create a flavor explosion that you won’t be able to resist. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Don’t forget to rate the recipe and leave a comment below with your own variations. I love hearing from you all!