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Looking for a side dish that will steal the spotlight at your next meal? Look no further than this irresistible Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Recipe. The marriage of crispy bacon and tender Brussels sprouts creates a symphony of flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
In this Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Recipe, simplicity reigns supreme. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that is sure to impress even the pickiest eaters. The secret lies in allowing the bacon to work its magic, infusing the Brussels sprouts with its smoky richness as they caramelize to perfection.
So whether you’re looking to elevate a weeknight dinner or add a touch of flair to a special occasion, this Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Recipe is a must-try. With each bite, you’ll savor the delicious combination of flavors and textures, making this dish a standout star on your dining table.
Quick Benefits
- Rich and flavorful: The bacon adds a smoky and savory taste that enhances the Brussels sprouts.
- Easy and quick: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it a convenient side dish for any meal.
- Versatile: Perfect for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions, adding a delicious touch to any plate.
Why You’ll Love This Savory Bacon Brussels Sprouts: Easy Recipe Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Requires only three basic ingredients – Brussels sprouts, bacon, salt, and pepper, making it easy to whip up without a trip to the store.
- Delicious Flavor: The bacon adds a smoky richness to the dish while the Brussels sprouts caramelize, creating a mouthwatering combination of flavors and textures.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect side dish for busy weeknights or a last-minute addition to a dinner spread.
- Family-Friendly: Even kids love this dish, making it a great way to get picky eaters to enjoy their veggies.
- Versatile: Goes well with a variety of main dishes, making it a versatile side that can be enjoyed on any occasion.
- Crispy and Tender: Achieves the perfect balance of crispy edges and tender sprouts, satisfying both crunchy and soft texture preferences.
- Kitchen Magic: The bacon fat creates a flavorful base for the Brussels sprouts to cook in, elevating the dish to something truly special.
- Perfectly Seasoned: The bacon already adds saltiness, so you can easily adjust the seasoning at the end to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients for Savory Bacon Brussels Sprouts: Easy Recipe
- Salt and pepper to taste.
- 2 dozen Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved.
- 1/2 pound bacon, cut into small pieces.
Pro Tips for Savory Bacon Brussels Sprouts: Easy Recipe
For the perfect Brussels sprouts and bacon dish, remember not to overcrowd the pan. Giving the sprouts enough space allows them to caramelize and develop those crispy edges that everyone loves. Take your time with the bacon, allowing it to render all its flavorful fat, which will infuse the sprouts with a rich and smoky taste.
When preparing this recipe, consider the size of your Brussels sprouts for even cooking. Larger sprouts will need a bit more time in the pan than smaller ones to ensure they are cooked through and tender. Additionally, don’t forget that the bacon fat not only adds flavor but also helps the sprouts brown beautifully. Taste before adding extra salt, as the bacon already contributes saltiness to the dish. Lastly, covering the pan towards the end of cooking can help soften the sprouts, but keep an eye out to prevent scorching.
How to Make Savory Bacon Brussels Sprouts: Easy Recipe
Step 1: Step 01
Cook bacon over medium-high heat until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel, keeping the grease in the pan.
Step 2: Step 02
Toss Brussels sprouts in bacon grease until coated. Cover and cook over medium-low heat for 5 minutes.
Step 3: Step 03
Add the cooked bacon back to the pan and continue cooking the Brussels sprouts uncovered until they reach your desired level of tenderness. Cover the pan if you prefer softer sprouts.
Step 4: Step 04
Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve promptly.
Storage Tips
To store the finished Brussels sprouts and bacon dish, let it cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Place any leftovers in the refrigerator promptly to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. When properly stored, the dish can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat the leftovers either in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through, and consider adding a drizzle of olive oil or bacon fat to bring back some moisture and flavor.
If you have made a larger batch of Brussels sprouts and bacon or if you are meal prepping, you can also freeze the leftovers. To freeze, place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Properly stored, the Brussels sprouts and bacon can last in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw the dish overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a skillet or in the oven until thoroughly heated. Freezing may affect the texture slightly, but the flavors will remain delicious.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you want to make a slightly healthier version of this dish, you can consider using turkey bacon instead of regular bacon. Turkey bacon has less fat and calories compared to pork bacon but still provides a similar smoky flavor that complements the Brussels sprouts well.
For a vegetarian or vegan-friendly option, you can substitute the bacon with smoked paprika or liquid smoke to add that smoky element to the dish. You can also add a bit of olive oil to help with the caramelization and flavor.
To add some extra depth of flavor, you can experiment with different seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, or red pepper flakes. These additions can enhance the overall taste of the dish and create a more complex flavor profile. Remember to adjust the seasonings according to your preference and taste as you go along.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Brussels sprouts and bacon as a delicious topping for creamy mashed potatoes, adding a savory and crispy element to the dish. You can also mix them into a cheesy pasta bake for a comforting and flavorful twist on a classic dish. The possibilities are endless with this versatile recipe that is sure to become a family favorite.
FAQs for Savory Bacon Brussels Sprouts: Easy Recipe
Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute turkey bacon for regular bacon in this recipe. Keep in mind that turkey bacon may not render as much fat, so you may need to add a little oil to the pan to prevent the Brussels sprouts from sticking.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it later?
While Brussels sprouts are best enjoyed fresh, you can make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it later. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Can I add other seasonings or spices to this dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite seasonings or spices. Garlic powder, red pepper flakes, or balsamic vinegar can add extra flavor to the dish.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
To make this recipe vegetarian or vegan, you can substitute the bacon with smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a smoky flavor. You can also use plant-based bacon or tempeh as a bacon alternative.
Conclusion
I hope this Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Recipe becomes a staple in your kitchen, just like it has in mine. The simplicity of this dish truly shines, making it a go-to side that never fails to impress. The magic that happens when bacon and Brussels sprouts come together is undeniable, creating a symphony of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Remember, cooking is all about experimentation and making a dish your own. Feel free to customize this Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Recipe to suit your taste preferences. Whether you enjoy them crispy or tender, this dish is incredibly versatile and always a crowd-pleaser. So, roll up your sleeves, get cooking, and savor every delicious bite of this delightful combination of flavors.
Savory Bacon Brussels Sprouts: Easy Recipe
“Crispy bacon and tender Brussels sprouts combine in this flavorful and easy side dish that’s sure to impress even the pickiest eaters.”
Prep Time10 Minutes
Cook Time20 Minutes
Total Time30 Minutes
CuisineAmerican
Skill LevelEasy
Servings4 Servings (4 servings)
Ingredients
- Salt and pepper to taste.
- 2 dozen Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved.
- 1/2 pound bacon, cut into small pieces.
Instructions
-
Step 01: Cook bacon over medium-high heat until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel, keeping the grease in the pan.
-
Step 02: Toss Brussels sprouts in bacon grease until coated. Cover and cook over medium-low heat for 5 minutes.
-
Step 03: Add the cooked bacon back to the pan and continue cooking the Brussels sprouts uncovered until they reach your desired level of tenderness. Cover the pan if you prefer softer sprouts.
-
Step 04: Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve promptly.
