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    Home » Recipes » Side Dishes

    Published: Nov 7, 2021 · Modified: Jan 14, 2023 by Rachel

    Bacon Brussels Sprouts

    This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure.
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    Easy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon are the quintessential winter side dish that is perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas and a comforting weeknight meal. Fast, flavorful and less than five ingredients that roasts the edges to crispy perfection! Ready in about 20 minutes and low-carb friendly as well.

    Bacon Brussel Sprouts in a cast iron pan.

    Raise your hand if Brussels Sprouts traumatized you as a child? If your hand is up, this is the recipe that will forever change your opinion of the small cabbage-like greens with an unwarranted bad reputation. In fact, it is the only way my husband will eat them!

    When prepared correctly, their nutty, smoky flavor comes through for a sensational side dish. Four simple ingredients, one pan and approximately 20 minutes are the only components needed to create this savory side dish. Of course, the paring of bacon makes everything delicious and creates delightfully crispy edges while the insides remain fork tender.

    If you are looking for more delicious fall and winter side dishes – we have our 30 favorites here!

    What You Will Need

    Below is an overview of what you will need to make caramelized Brussel sprouts with bacon and any notes on how to pick brussel sprouts.

    Bacon Brussel Sprouts Skillet Ingredients with text labels.

    I use fresh brussel sprouts for this recipe. While frozen can be used, I find that it is a bit harder to get the edges to crisp up right. Look for bright green heads that are firm with tightly packed leaves. Avoid Brussels sprouts with yellowing leaves, bruising, or black spots. Smaller Brussels sprouts are usually more tender than larger ones.

    While the bacon is the flavor star, I sometimes add diced yellow onion as well because it balances and brings out the flavors even more! I cook the onions at the same time as the bacon and remove to a paper lined plate as well.

    Tips for Cooking Brussel Sprouts with Bacon

    • I cook the Brussels sprouts in the bacon fat for extra flavor.
    • I like my edges with a heavy amount of browning/crispness. I find it really brings out the smoky flavor when combined with the bacon. For me, when the outer edge leaves start turning black, they are done.
    • Brussels sprouts can be a bit tough, so the first part of the cooking process is done with the pan’s lid on. This traps the steam to make them tender.
    Horizontal view of Brussel sprouts with bacon and onions in a cast iron pan.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What meat pairs well with bacon brussel sprouts?

    This side dish is the perfect accompaniment to any winter roast including chicken, beef, or pork tenderloin. Some of my favorites includes our Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops, Oven Baked Chicken and Rice, and Beef Stroganoff.

    What takes the bitterness out of brussel sprouts?

    Smaller brussel sprouts tend to be sweeter and more tender than larger ones. They are also faster to cook. Cutting them in half and pan searing adds more flavor.

    Cookbook cover of Chicken and Rice casserole. The cookbook is titled Weeknight Supper Solutions

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    PS. If you make this recipe, leave a COMMENT AND A STAR RATING in the comments section at the bottom and be sure to take a photo and tag it #cravingcreative on Instagram! I appreciate you for taking the time to read about me and my family recipes. 

    Pan roasted bacon Brussel sprouts in a pan.

    Bacon Brussel Sprouts

    Easy Bacon Brussels Sprouts are the quintessential winter side dish that is perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas and a comforting weeknight meal. Fast, flavorful and less than five ingredients that roasts the edges to crispy perfection!
    5 from 1 vote
    Print Pin Rate
    Course: Side Dish
    Cuisine: American
    Prep Time: 2 minutes
    Cook Time: 20 minutes
    Total Time: 22 minutes
    Servings: 4 cups
    Calories: 182kcal
    Author: Rachel

    Ingredients

    • 1 lb Brussel Sprouts
    • 6 slices Bacon Diced
    • 1 tablespoon Butter Unsalted or Salted is fine
    • dash Salt and Pepper To taste

    Instructions

    • Cut the brussel sprouts in half length-wise and cut off any excess stem. If the sprouts are particularly large, cut them into quarters to make them all somewhat even in size.
    • In a skillet over medium heat, sauté diced bacon until crispy, about 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally. Move the bacon to a paper towel lined plate.
    • Reserve 2 Tablespoons of bacon grease in the skillet and throw away the rest.
    • To the skillet, add butter and allow to melt. Add Brussel sprouts with the cut side facing down. With the lid on, sauté over medium heat for 6 to 8 minutes, or they start to brown.
    • Toss and continue to sauté, tossing occasionally, until edges are brown and fork easily. This step takes about 3 to 10 more minutes depending on how crispy you like the edges.
    • Add bacon pieces back into pan. Salt and Pepper to taste. Serve immediately.

    Notes

    Personal note: I like my edges with a heavy amount of browning/crispness. I find it really brings out the smoky flavor when combined with the bacon. For me, when the outer edge leaves start turning black, they are done.

    Nutrition

    Serving: 0.75cup | Calories: 182kcal | Carbohydrates: 7.1g | Protein: 9.6g | Fat: 10.1g | Saturated Fat: 3.9g | Cholesterol: 26mg | Sodium: 321mg | Potassium: 402mg | Fiber: 2.8g | Sugar: 1.6g | Calcium: 28mg | Iron: 1mg
    Tried this Recipe? Tag me Today!Mention @CravingCreative or tag #CravingSomeCreativity!
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    Creativity makes me energized and fearless. My husband and I have been renovating homes for over a decade and love to share our passion for all things home. Follow along for remodeling tutorials, recipes, and entertaining ideas sure to inspire!

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