Bacon Brussel Sprout Recipe: If you think Brussels sprouts are boring, bland, or bitter… this recipe is about to change your mind.
Imagine this: golden-brown edges, crispy bacon pieces, caramelized sweetness, and that irresistible savory aroma filling your kitchen. That’s what happens when Brussels sprouts meet bacon.
Let’s break it down step by step.
Why You’ll Love This Bacon Brussels Sprouts Recipe
The Perfect Sweet and Savory Balance
Brussels sprouts have a natural nuttiness. When roasted, they caramelize beautifully. Add smoky bacon, and suddenly you’ve got contrast — salty meets slightly sweet. It’s like a perfect duet.
Crispy Texture That Wins Everyone Over
Nobody likes mushy vegetables. The goal here? Crispy outside, tender inside. Think of it like a perfectly toasted marshmallow — crisp shell, soft center.
What Are Brussels Sprouts?
Brussels sprouts are small, cabbage-like vegetables packed with nutrients.
Nutritional Benefits
They’re rich in:
- Fiber
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin K
- Antioxidants
They support digestion and immune health — basically, they’re small but mighty.
Why Roasting Changes Everything
Raw sprouts can taste bitter. Roasting transforms them. Heat breaks down bitterness and brings out sweetness. It’s like turning a rough stone into a polished gem.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1½ pounds fresh Brussels sprouts
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- Salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor
Sweet Variations
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon honey
Spicy Variations
- Red pepper flakes
- Cayenne pepper
Kitchen Tools Required
- Large baking sheet
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Oven
That’s it. No fancy gadgets needed.
How to Choose the Best Brussels Sprouts
Fresh vs Frozen
Fresh is best for crispiness. Frozen sprouts contain extra moisture, which can make them soggy.
What to Avoid
Avoid:
- Yellow leaves
- Soft texture
- Strong odor
Choose firm, bright green sprouts.
Preparing the Brussels Sprouts
Cleaning
Rinse under cold water. Remove loose outer leaves.
Trimming
Cut off the tough stem end — just a small slice.
Cutting for Maximum Crispiness
Slice each sprout in half. More surface area = more caramelization.
Preparing the Bacon
Cut bacon into small bite-sized pieces.
You can:
- Cook slightly before roasting for extra crisp
OR - Roast raw alongside sprouts
For best results, partially cook it first.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Bacon Brussels sprouts are crispy, savory, and packed with flavor—the perfect side dish for weeknights or holidays.
Step 1 – Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven ensures caramelization and crispy edges.
Step 2 – Prep the Ingredients
Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and remove any damaged outer leaves. Cut them in half for even roasting. Chop the bacon into small pieces.
Step 3 – Season Generously
Place the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper. Toss well to coat evenly.
Step 4 – Roast to Perfection
Spread the sprouts cut-side down in a single layer. Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and tender.
Step 5 – Add Bacon and Finish
While the sprouts roast, cook the chopped bacon in a skillet until crispy. Drain excess fat. In the final 5 minutes of roasting, sprinkle the cooked bacon over the Brussels sprouts and return to the oven to combine flavors.
Step 6 – Final Flavor Boost
Remove from the oven and add a splash of balsamic glaze or fresh lemon juice for brightness. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve hot for maximum crispiness. These bacon Brussels sprouts are savory, caramelized, and irresistibly delicious. 🥓✨
Pro Tips for Extra Crispy Brussels Sprouts
- Don’t overcrowd the pan
- Use high heat
- Cut sprouts evenly
- Flip halfway through
Crispiness loves space and heat.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using too much oil
- Skipping the flip
- Overcrowding the pan
- Roasting at low temperature
These mistakes turn crispy dreams into soggy reality.
Variations of Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Add maple syrup in the last 5 minutes.
Sweet and smoky magic.
Garlic Parmesan Version
Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan before serving.
Balsamic Glazed Style
Drizzle balsamic reduction at the end.
Tangy elegance.
How to Store and Reheat
Store in airtight container up to 4 days.
Reheat in oven at 375°F for 8–10 minutes.
Avoid microwave if possible — it softens crispiness.
What to Serve With Bacon Brussels Sprouts
- Grilled chicken
- Steak
- Roast turkey
- Pasta
It pairs with almost anything savory.
FAQs about Bacon Brussel Sprout Recipe
1. Can I make this recipe in an air fryer?
Yes. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15–18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. This method produces crispy edges with less cooking time.
2. Can I use turkey bacon?
Absolutely. Turkey bacon works well, though it contains less fat than traditional bacon. The flavor will be slightly lighter but still delicious.
3. Why are my Brussels sprouts soggy?
Sogginess usually happens when the pan is overcrowded or the oven temperature is too low. Make sure the sprouts are spread in a single layer and roast at a high temperature for proper caramelization.
4. Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes. You can trim and halve the Brussels sprouts and chop the bacon in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator, then roast just before serving for best texture.
5. Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes. Bacon Brussels sprouts are naturally low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats, making them suitable for keto and low-carb diets.
These tips will help you achieve crispy, flavorful bacon Brussels sprouts every time. 🥓✨
Conclusion
Bacon Brussels sprouts are the perfect example of how simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavor. Crispy, savory, slightly sweet, and deeply satisfying — this dish converts even the toughest vegetable skeptics.
Once you try it, it won’t just be a side dish. It’ll be the star.
