These Brussels sprouts with bacon are a tasty treat! The crispy bacon adds a yummy crunch, while the sprouts become tender and slightly caramelized when cooked just right.
Honestly, who wouldn’t love veggies with bacon? I always feel a bit fancy serving these at dinner. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up, and they can win over even the pickiest eaters!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brussels Sprouts: Choose fresh, firm Brussels sprouts. If you can’t find them, you could use cauliflower florets or green beans as alternatives that still hold up well to sautéing.
Bacon: Bacon adds flavor, but if you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey bacon or even pancetta works great. For a vegetarian twist, try using smoked paprika to get a similar flavor without the meat.
Olive Oil: This is optional if you have a good amount of bacon fat. If you’re avoiding oils, you can skip it or use a bit of vegetable broth to help cook the Brussels sprouts without fat.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work too. Just use about 1/4 teaspoon for a hint of garlic without the fresh crunch.
Balsamic Vinegar: This adds a nice tang. If you don’t have any, try lemon juice or apple cider vinegar for a fresh twist!
How Do You Get a Nice Crispy Texture on Brussels Sprouts?
Getting that beautiful crispy texture is key. The trick is all about the heat and timing. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by preheating your skillet to medium-high. This ensures a good sizzle when you add the sprouts.
- Place the halved Brussels sprouts cut side down in the skillet. Don’t move them around too soon – let them sear for 5-7 minutes.
- Once they’re beautifully browned, stir them and keep cooking until tender. Make sure you leave enough room in the pan, or cook in batches if needed!
Remember, patience is key for that perfect sear. If the sprouts are crowded, they’ll steam rather than crisp up. Happy cooking!
How to Make Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 6-8 slices of bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, depending on bacon fat)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for a slight tang)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30-35 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and around 20-25 minutes cooking everything to crispy perfection. It’s a quick and tasty side dish that’s sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Brussels Sprouts:
Begin by rinsing the Brussels sprouts under cold water to remove any dirt. Trim the ends off and slice each sprout in half. This helps them cook evenly and become tender.
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet, place the chopped bacon over medium heat. Cook until it’s crispy, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the bacon pieces from the skillet and set them aside, but keep the delicious bacon fat in the pan.
3. Add Olive Oil (If Needed):
If the skillet doesn’t have enough bacon fat remaining to coat the Brussels sprouts, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil. This will help the sprouts cook nicely and add flavor.
4. Sear the Brussels Sprouts:
Next, add the halved Brussels sprouts to the skillet, cut side down. Let them cook without stirring for about 5-7 minutes, so they can develop a nice golden-brown sear. This step is key for the crispy texture!
5. Continue Cooking:
After they’ve seared, stir the Brussels sprouts and let them cook for another 5-7 minutes, until they are tender and cooked through. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
6. Add Garlic:
Once the sprouts are tender, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic; it can turn bitter.
7. Combine with Bacon:
Return the crispy bacon to the skillet and stir everything together until well combined. This way, the bacon’s flavor gets infused into the sprouts.
8. Season:
Now it’s time to season your dish! Sprinkle salt and black pepper to taste, giving it a good mix to make sure every bite is flavorful.
9. Optional Balsamic Drizzle:
If you’re looking for a little tang, drizzle 1 teaspoon of balsamic vinegar over the mixture and toss gently. This step is optional, but it adds a nice depth of flavor!
10. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your hot and delicious Brussels sprouts with bacon as a delightful side dish!
Can I Use Frozen Brussels Sprouts?
Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts, but for best results, thaw them first and drain any excess moisture. Roasting or sautéing them directly from frozen may lead to sogginess.
What Can I Substitute for Bacon?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try using smoked tofu or tempeh for a similar smoky flavor. Alternatively, turkey bacon or pancetta can also be used for a lower-fat option.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out if needed.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like sliced carrots, bell peppers, or even diced potatoes. Just make sure to adjust cooking times based on the vegetables you choose, as they may require different cooking times.
