I’m Grace, the cook, the writer, and the soul behind Homely Tasty. Bacon Brussels sprouts take me right back to my Nonna’s kitchen, where the sound of sizzling bacon filled the air and the scent of roasted vegetables wrapped around you like a hug. She never wrote recipes down; she just knew. I learned by watching, by tasting, by feeling. This recipe carries that same spirit; humble, simple, and comforting. Every bite bursts with smoky bacon flavor, tender sprouts, and golden caramelized edges. It’s a dish that’s as nostalgic as it is delicious, perfect for everyday dinners or festive tables.
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Why You’ll Love This Bacon Brussels Sprouts Recipe
There’s something magical about how crispy bacon transforms Brussels sprouts from bitter to beautiful. The smoky fat coats the sprouts perfectly, giving them that irresistible crunch outside and soft tenderness inside. This side dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to for both weeknights and holidays.
It’s hearty, wholesome, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or as part of your Christmas dinner spread, it brings balance to rich, savory plates. Plus, it’s naturally low-carb and gluten-free, proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated.
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Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Crispy, smoky, and golden brown; these Bacon Brussels Sprouts are the perfect quick side dish. Ready in under 30 minutes, they’re full of flavor and comfort, ideal for holidays or cozy dinners.
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
1 tsp lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
1. Rinse and halve Brussels sprouts. Pat dry completely.
2. Cook chopped bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove and reserve drippings.
3. Add olive oil to the same pan, then add Brussels sprouts cut side down. Cook 6–8 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and stir for another minute.
5. Return bacon to the pan, season with salt and pepper, and toss well.
6. Drizzle lemon juice or balsamic glaze before serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, drizzle maple syrup or sprinkle Parmesan during the last few minutes of cooking.
You can roast them at 400°F for 25 minutes instead of pan-frying.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Pan-Fried
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 215
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Ingredients
To make the best bacon Brussels sprouts, you need just a handful of pantry staples. Simple ingredients. Incredible flavor.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Thick-cut bacon | 6 slices, chopped |
| Brussels sprouts | 1 lb, trimmed and halved |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Garlic cloves | 2, minced |
| Salt | ½ tsp |
| Black pepper | ¼ tsp |
| Lemon juice (optional) | 1 tsp |
Pro tip: use fresh sprouts for the best caramelization. If you’re craving a full dinner idea, pair this dish with Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas, they balance each other beautifully.
How to Make Bacon Brussels Sprouts
- Prep: Rinse and halve the Brussels sprouts. Pat dry completely, moisture prevents crisping.
- Cook bacon: In a large skillet, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon and reserve the drippings.
- Sauté sprouts: Add olive oil to the pan, then place the sprouts cut side down. Cook for 6–8 minutes until golden brown.
- Add garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook another minute.
- Combine: Toss bacon back in, season with salt and pepper, and cook 1–2 more minutes.
- Finish: Drizzle with lemon juice or balsamic glaze before serving.
This easy process guarantees crispy, flavorful results every time. It’s the same principle behind cozy comfort food like Sweet Potato Souffle Casserole, a little patience and heat go a long way.
Tips and Variations
- Oven roasted version: Spread everything on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F for 25 minutes. Toss halfway for even crispiness.
- Sweet and savory: Add maple syrup or honey near the end for a glossy, flavorful twist.
- Add crunch: Toss in pecans or almonds before serving.
- Spicy kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes for gentle heat.
These small changes can turn a simple side into something new every time. If you love veggie-forward dishes, try your hand at this Roasted Autumn Vegetable Pot Pie, another delicious comfort classic from Homely Tasty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make bacon Brussels sprouts ahead of time?
Yes! Cook them as directed, cool completely, and reheat in a skillet to keep that crispy texture.
Can I use turkey bacon instead?
Absolutely. Just add a teaspoon of olive oil since turkey bacon has less fat.
Are frozen Brussels sprouts okay?
They work if thawed and dried, but fresh always gives the best caramelization.
What goes well with bacon Brussels sprouts?
They pair beautifully with Garlic Butter Turkey Tenderloin or roasted chicken for a balanced dinner.
Final Thoughts
These bacon Brussels sprouts are comfort in a skillet; smoky, crispy, and full of soul. Each bite reminds me of why I started Homely Tasty: to share recipes that mean something. They’re easy enough for a weeknight but special enough for holidays. Serve them alongside your favorite entrée, or pair them with Cranberry Sauce for a full holiday meal that tastes like home.
And when the table is full, laughter is loud, and the plates are scraped clean, that’s when you know you’ve cooked with love.
Loved this recipe? Follow me on Pinterest for more comforting dishes and easy weeknight favorites you’ll want to save.
