Brussels sprouts with bacon make a tasty side dish! These little green veggies get crispy and golden when cooked with savory bacon. It’s a perfect combo of flavors that everyone loves!
Honestly, who can resist the smell of bacon? I could eat this dish every day! The best part is how easy it is to whip up—just roast them together and enjoy a warm plate of yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brussels Sprouts: Fresh Brussels sprouts are key for texture and flavor. You can substitute with green beans or broccoli if needed, but the cooking time will vary.
Bacon: I love smoky bacon for that extra flavor! Turkey bacon or pancetta are good alternatives if you’re looking for something lighter or want a different taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for the strongest flavor, but you might use garlic powder in a pinch—just remember to use less since it’s more concentrated.
Olive Oil: It’s optional since you may get enough fat from the bacon. Canola oil or avocado oil are suitable substitutes if you choose to use them.
How Do I Get the Brussels Sprouts Crispy?
Getting Brussels sprouts crispy is all about the right heat and technique. Start by cooking them in the bacon fat for great flavor and moisture. Here’s how:
- Make sure the skillet is hot when adding your Brussels sprouts. A good sizzle means they’ll brown well.
- Spread them out in a single layer for even cooking. Crowding the pan will steam them instead of crisping them up.
- Don’t stir too often; give them time to develop a nice brown crust. About 5 minutes before adding the garlic, let them sit.
Brussels Sprouts With Bacon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Main Dish:
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15-20 minutes of cooking time, totaling around 30-35 minutes. It’s a quick and easy dish to whip up for a delicious side!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:
Start by rinsing the Brussels sprouts under cold water to clean them. Next, trim off the rough ends and cut each sprout in half. This helps them cook evenly and get crispy!
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet, place the chopped bacon and turn the heat to medium. Cook until the bacon is crispy and golden. Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside in a bowl, leaving the yummy bacon fat in the skillet.
3. Sauté the Brussels Sprouts:
Add the halved Brussels sprouts to the skillet with the bacon fat. If you think they might stick, drizzle in 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Increase the heat to medium-high and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes until they are nicely browned and crispy on the cut sides.
4. Add Garlic and Bacon:
Once your Brussels sprouts are browned, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté everything together for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant. Then, return the crispy bacon to the skillet and gently stir to combine all the ingredients.
5. Season and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if you like. Serve these delicious Brussels sprouts warm as a tasty side dish!
Can I Use Frozen Brussels Sprouts for This Recipe?
While fresh Brussels sprouts provide the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen ones if needed. Just make sure to thaw them completely beforehand—ideally overnight in the fridge or for a couple of hours at room temperature. Pat dry before cooking to achieve a good crisp!
What If I Don’t Have Bacon?
No worries! You can substitute bacon with turkey bacon or even smoked sausage for a similar flavor. Alternatively, you could use olive oil and add some liquid smoke or smoked paprika to recreate that smoky taste without meat.
How to Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can either warm them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes or pop them in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like diced onions, bell peppers, or even some mushrooms. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly to ensure everything is cooked perfectly!