Bacon Brussels Sprouts are the ultimate side dish for holiday tables or weeknight dinners. The magic of this recipe is in its simplicity—smoky bacon and tender Brussels sprouts fuse into one irresistible, crispy bite. You’ll love how easy it is to make, and the flavor payoff will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Why You’ll Love Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Start with the promise of bold flavor and simple prep. Bacon Brussels Sprouts bring together salty richness and vegetable sweetness in one skillet, making them a memorable dish for any gathering.
- The combination of crispy bacon and caramelized Brussels sprouts means every forkful is packed with flavor.
- This one-pan recipe is ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or easy entertaining.
- Pairs beautifully with countless main dishes and works as a stand-alone appetizer.
- Recipe is endlessly customizable—swap in pancetta, add fresh herbs, or toss with grated Parmesan for variety.
- Leftovers reheat beautifully for next-day lunches.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (optional, for finishing)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the chopped bacon. Cook until crispy, then transfer to a paper towel–lined plate.
- Drain some bacon fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the skillet. Add olive oil.
- Place Brussels sprouts cut side down in the skillet. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using).
- Sauté for 6–8 minutes without stirring. Flip the sprouts and cook an additional 3–4 minutes, until golden.
- Return bacon to the skillet and stir to combine. Warm through for 1–2 minutes.
- Finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze if desired. Serve hot.
Bacon Brussels Sprouts
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Bacon Brussels Sprouts are a savory side dish with crispy bacon and caramelized sprouts cooked in one pan for bold flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (optional)
Instructions
1. Heat skillet on medium, cook bacon until crispy. Transfer to plate.
2. Drain some fat, leave 1 tbsp. Add olive oil.
3. Arrange Brussels sprouts cut side down, season. Sauté 6–8 min.
4. Flip, cook 3–4 min more.
5. Return bacon, stir and warm through.
6. Drizzle balsamic glaze if desired.
7. Serve hot, garnished as desired.
Notes
Refrigerate leftovers up to 4 days, reheat in skillet for best texture.
Sheet pan method: Roast at 425°F for 20 min for extra crispiness.
Try adding Parmesan, nuts, or cranberries for variety.
Keep heat medium to prevent burning.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: One Pan
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 28mg
How to Serve Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Bacon Brussels Sprouts shine as a side dish for everything from roast chicken and turkey to steak, pork chops, or vegetarian mains. For parties, they work beautifully on a grazing board alongside dips like Best Spinach Artichoke Dip.
- Serve piping hot straight from the skillet for maximum crispiness.
- Garnish with a light dusting of grated Parmesan or chopped parsley for freshness.
- Elevate your brunch spread by pairing them with Million Dollar Bacon Crostini.
- Present as a holiday side; they hold up well next to richer dishes such as creamy mushroom-based entrées.
- For appetizers, thread sprouts and bacon onto skewers for finger-friendly bites.
This vegetable-forward dish bridges comfort and elegance. Whether it’s family dinner or festive gatherings, Bacon Brussels Sprouts adapt to any table setting and keep guests coming back for more.
How to Store Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Proper storage keeps your Bacon Brussels Sprouts tasting fresh:
- Cool leftovers quickly. Transfer to an airtight container within two hours of cooking.
- Refrigerate for up to 4 days. Brief reheating in a skillet revives their crispy texture.
- Reheat on medium heat, adding a splash of water or stock to prevent sticking and restore moisture.
- For longer shelf life, freeze cooled sprouts and bacon for up to 1 month. Reheat from frozen in a skillet or oven at 350°F for 10–12 minutes.
- Avoid microwaving, as it can make bacon chewy and sprouts mushy.
Plan ahead by prepping Brussels sprouts or pre-cooking bacon. Store components separately, then combine and finish right before serving to ensure vibrant texture and taste.
Tips to Make Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Get better results every time with these tips:
- Use fresh, firm Brussels sprouts for the best caramelization.
- Keep bacon pieces small for even crisping and balanced bites.
- Sear sprouts cut side down, undisturbed, to create a golden crust.
- Deglaze the pan with a splash of broth or balsamic vinegar for added depth.
- Want a lighter option? Use turkey bacon or pancetta.
- Flavor boosters: try tossing in chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or roasted garlic.
- For a Korean-inspired twist, drizzle with spicy mayo like the one served on Korean BBQ Meatballs.
Variations of Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Personalize your recipe with creative spins:
- Cheesy: Add shredded aged cheddar or Parmesan when tossing bacon back in.
- Herbaceous: Finish with fresh thyme or rosemary for a fragrant note.
- Sweet: Scatter pomegranate seeds or dried cranberries for a burst of color and flavor.
- Nutty: Toasted almonds or walnuts bring crunch.
- Spicy: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot sauce before serving.
- Vegetarian: Substitute bacon with smoked tempeh or plant-based bacon.
- Sheet Pan Version: Spread ingredients on a baking sheet, roast at 425°F for 20 minutes—hands-off and extra crispy.
FAQs
1. Can frozen Brussels sprouts be used?
Yes, but fresh sprouts caramelize better and hold texture. Thaw and drain frozen sprouts before cooking for best results.
2. How do I prevent mushy sprouts?
Sauté cut-side down without stirring for several minutes to crisp and caramelize properly.
3. Can Bacon Brussels Sprouts be made in advance?
Yes, cook sprouts and bacon separately, then reheat and combine just before serving to maintain crispiness.
4. Are there gluten-free options?
Brussels sprouts and bacon are naturally gluten-free—just verify your bacon isn’t processed with gluten-containing flavors.
Final Thoughts
Bacon Brussels Sprouts are proof that classic flavors never go out of style. This versatile dish elevates meals with its balanced richness and irresistible texture. Perfect for holiday feasts or everyday dinners, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.
Follow me on Pinterest where I share cozy, easy-to-make baking recipes just like this one.