Why You’ll Love these Crispy Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Who doesn’t love the irresistible combination of crispy, salty bacon and tender Brussels sprouts?
I’m convinced this dish converts even the most dedicated sprout-haters into fans. The magic happens when the bacon renders its smoky fat, coating each sprout with flavor while creating that perfect textural contrast.
What I adore most is how simple yet impressive this recipe is. The shallots add a mild sweetness, while the chicken broth creates steam that helps the sprouts become tender without getting mushy.
It’s my go-to side dish for holidays, Sunday dinners, or anytime I need a veggie win.
What Ingredients are in Crispy Bacon Brussels Sprouts?
The beauty of this Brussels sprouts recipe lies in its simplicity—just a handful of quality ingredients that work together to create a dish that’s greater than the sum of its parts.
I’m always amazed at how bacon transforms these little green gems from something many people avoid to something they actively crave. The combination of smoky, salty bacon with the slightly bitter, cabbage-like flavor of Brussels sprouts creates perfect harmony on your plate.
- 3 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 shallot, chopped
- 1½ pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed (small ones left whole, larger ones halved)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth
When shopping for these ingredients, quality really matters. Look for Brussels sprouts that are bright green and tightly closed—the looser and yellower they are, the more bitter they’ll taste.
And for the bacon? I prefer thick-cut for this recipe, though any type works well. You could even substitute pancetta if you’re feeling fancy. The chicken broth can be store-bought or homemade, but low-sodium versions give you more control over the final seasoning.
Isn’t it wonderful how such a short ingredient list can create something so memorable?
How to Make these Crispy Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Making this delicious side dish couldn’t be more straightforward, and the results are absolutely worth the minimal effort. I start by placing a skillet over medium-high heat and adding 3 slices of chopped bacon. The key here is patience—let that bacon cook until it’s properly browned and crispy, rendering all that wonderful fat that will flavor our Brussels sprouts.
Once the bacon bits are beautifully crisped, I remove them with a slotted spoon and set them aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Those crispy morsels will make the perfect topping later.
Next, I add 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil to the same pan, embracing all those bacon drippings rather than discarding them. This is where the magic happens! Then I toss in 1 chopped shallot and sauté it for just 1 to 2 minutes until it becomes fragrant and slightly translucent.
Now for the stars of the show—1½ pounds of trimmed Brussels sprouts go into the pan. Remember, smaller sprouts can stay whole, but larger ones should be halved for even cooking. I stir them around to coat them thoroughly in the bacon-infused oil, season with salt and pepper to taste, and let them cook for about 2 to 3 minutes. This initial cooking helps them begin to soften and take on that gorgeous caramelized edge.
Once they’ve started to soften, I pour in 1 cup of chicken broth, bring it to a bubble, then cover the pan and reduce the heat to medium-low. A gentle simmer for about 10 minutes is all it takes to render these Brussels sprouts perfectly tender while still maintaining a bit of structure.
The final step brings everything together. Using a slotted spoon—which allows excess liquid to drain away—I transfer the tender Brussels sprouts to a serving dish. Then comes the crowning glory: sprinkling those crispy bacon bits we set aside earlier all over the top.
The contrast between the soft, flavorful sprouts and the crunchy, salty bacon is simply divine. Can you imagine a more perfect vegetable side dish? The beauty of this method is how the Brussels sprouts become infused with bacon flavor throughout the cooking process, yet still maintain their own character.
And those little charred edges that develop during the initial sauté? That’s where all the best flavor lives.
Crispy Bacon Brussels Sprouts Substitutions and Variations
While this classic bacon Brussels sprouts recipe is already delicious, why not explore some creative substitutions and variations to keep things interesting?
Try pancetta or prosciutto instead of bacon for an Italian twist. Not feeling pork? Turkey bacon works too.
I sometimes swap the shallot for red onion or leeks when my pantry demands flexibility.
For extra flavor depth, add a splash of balsamic vinegar or maple syrup during the final minutes of cooking. Dried cranberries and toasted walnuts transform this side into something dinner-party worthy.
Vegetarians in your life? Skip the bacon and increase the olive oil, then finish with smoked paprika for that smoky flavor everyone craves.
What to Serve with Crispy Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Pairing options for these crispy bacon Brussels sprouts make all the difference between a good meal and an unforgettable dining experience.
I love serving these alongside a perfectly roasted chicken or juicy steak—the rich, meaty flavors complement the slightly bitter sprouts and salty bacon beautifully.
For something lighter, try them with baked salmon or a simple pasta dish.
Mashed potatoes? Always a winner with these sprouts, trust me.
On busy weeknights, I sometimes make a double batch and serve them as the star, with just a crusty bread for sopping up those bacon-infused juices.
Divine, and who needs more?
Final Thoughts
After enjoying these crispy bacon Brussels sprouts countless times, I’ve come to believe they represent comfort food at its finest—simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary.
What started as a side dish in my kitchen has become a regular star at family gatherings, where even the veggie-averse reach for seconds. The magic lies in that perfect balance: the salty bacon, caramelized sprouts, and that hint of sweetness from the shallots.
Don’t overthink this recipe. Sometimes the most memorable dishes are the least complicated.
Trust me, these sprouts might just convert any remaining Brussels skeptics in your life.
