How to Make Brussels Sprouts and Bacon (Thanksgiving Side Dish)

Brussels sprouts are rich in vitamins K and C, supporting a healthy immune system and bones. Pound for pound, you'll get more vitamin C from them when eaten raw than from oranges. With that, this recipe for Brussels sprouts and bacon is great for a cozy family dinner, a holiday feast, or just when you want a tasty side dish. What I like about this dish is how easy it is to make. You only need a few simple ingredients, and the result is so delicious that your mouth will water. You'll love it if you haven't tried it yet!

So today, I'll show you how to make this dish easily, give you tips on how to make the Brussels sprouts taste even better, and talk about ways to make the recipe more fancy for any event. Now, let's start cooking!

Why Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Are the Perfect Pairing

Before we get to the recipe, let's take a moment to appreciate why Brussels sprouts and bacon go so well together. First of all, brussels sprouts are often thought of as a simple vegetable, but they have become famous recently for their delicious taste and many uses. If you cook these little cabbages the right way, they turn into sweet and salty caramelized bites.

On the other hand, no one needs to be told about Bacon. A lot of people love it because it tastes rich and smoky and is crispy. When put on top of Brussels sprouts, bacon brings out its natural sweetness while adding flavor and a satisfying crunch. Putting them together is nothing less than magical.

Ingredients

• • 1/2 pound bacon, cut into small pieces
  • 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
  • 5 garlic cloves, crushed with garlic press
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Brussels Sprouts and Bacon

Step 1: Prepare the Bacon 

Start by frying the bacon in a skillet over medium-high heat until it’s crispy. This usually takes about 4-5 minutes, depending on your stovetop. Once the bacon is perfectly crispy, remove it from the pan and set it aside. You’ll use the bacon fat to cook the Brussels sprouts, which gives them that irresistible smoky flavor. You can save the excess fat by storing it in a bacon grease container.

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts 

While the bacon is cooking, you can prep your Brussels sprouts. Get a knife to trim the ends of the sprouts and cut them in half. If you have larger Brussels sprouts, feel free to quarter them for more even cooking. After trimming, toss them into a bowl along with the crushed garlic and olive oil. Make sure each Brussels sprout is coated in the olive oil and garlic mixture.

Step 3: Sauté the Brussels Sprouts 

Now it’s time to get those sprouts sizzling! Add the Brussels sprouts to the skillet with the bacon fat. Stir them around to coat each sprout in the rendered bacon grease, which will infuse them with tons of flavor. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the Brussels sprouts cook for about 5 minutes. This steaming step helps soften the sprouts and jump-starts the cooking process.

Step 4: Add the Bacon Back In 

Once the Brussels sprouts have softened a bit, it’s time to add the bacon back into the skillet. Using a spatula, stir everything together and cook uncovered for another 5-7 minutes or until the sprouts are golden brown and crispy on the edges. The bacon will further crisp up, and the sprouts will develop a beautiful caramelization.

Step 5: Season and Serve 

Finally, season your Brussels sprouts and bacon with salt and pepper grinder to taste. Give everything one last toss to combine, and serve immediately. That’s it—your savory, crispy Brussels sprouts and bacon are ready to enjoy!

Zulay's Expert Tips for Perfect Brussels Sprouts Every Time

• If you're making a large batch, it's better to cook the Brussels sprouts in batches to ensure they cook evenly and get that lovely crispy texture. Overcrowding the pan can lead to steaming rather than sautéing, and nobody wants soggy Brussels sprouts!
• The key to delicious Brussels sprouts is in the caramelization. Let them cook long enough to get a nice, golden-brown color on the edges. This adds a depth of flavor that makes the dish irresistible.
• Fresh Brussels sprouts, when in season, will give you the best results. They’ll be more tender, flavorful, and less bitter than older, less fresh sprouts.
• If you prefer your bacon bits extra crispy, cook them until they're super crunchy, then sprinkle them on top just before serving. This will add a satisfying crunch to each bite!

Ways to Elevate Your Brussels Sprouts and Bacon

Add Balsamic Vinegar for a Sweet and Tangy Kick

For an extra layer of flavor, drizzle a bit of balsamic vinegar over the Brussels sprouts right before serving. The vinegar will add a sweet, tangy contrast to the savory bacon and caramelized sprouts.

Sprinkle with Parmesan Cheese

For cheese lovers, sprinkling some freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the Brussels sprouts just before serving can elevate the dish to a whole new level. The cheese melts into the warm sprouts, creating a creamy, salty finish.

Add Nuts for Extra Texture

To add a bit of crunch and flavor contrast, toss in some toasted nuts, like chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds. The nuts complement the Brussels sprouts perfectly and provide an extra satisfying crunch.

Spice It Up with Red Pepper Flakes

If you love a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Brussels sprouts while cooking. The heat from the pepper adds a subtle kick that balances the richness of the bacon and the sweetness of the Brussels sprouts.

Incorporate Honey or Maple Syrup

For a sweet-savory twist, drizzle a bit of honey or maple syrup over the Brussels sprouts before serving. The natural sweetness of the syrup pairs beautifully with the salty bacon and caramelized sprouts, making this side dish even more irresistible.

Pairing Suggestions for Brussels Sprouts and Bacon

• Roast Chicken: The smoky flavor of the bacon and the crispy Brussels sprouts complement the savory flavors of roasted chicken. Add some mashed potatoes or a simple salad, and you’ve got a complete meal.
• Steak: A perfectly seared steak with crispy Brussels sprouts and bacon is a match made in heaven. The richness of the steak pairs beautifully with the savory side dish.
• Turkey: For Thanksgiving or any holiday dinner, Brussels sprouts and bacon are the perfect complement to roast turkey. The smoky bacon brings out the flavor of the turkey, while the sprouts add a refreshing crunch.
• Pork: Bacon and Brussels sprouts also go wonderfully with pork dishes, such as pork chops or roast pork tenderloin. The combination of the salty bacon and the earthy sprouts pairs perfectly with the meat.

Zulay's Final Thoughts

This recipe for Brussels sprouts and bacon is sure to become a family favorite at holiday dinners, weeknight meals, and family dinners. You can make it in minutes, and it tastes so good that everyone will want more. If you're cooking for a big group or just having a cozy meal at home, this side dish is the perfect way to add some flavor.

It will not let you down, so go ahead and try it. Don't forget to use the different ideas and pairing suggestions to make it your own! Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite of this magnificently tasty, crispy, and savory Brussels sprouts and bacon dish.

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