Easy Brussels Sprouts and Bacon
Crispy Delight: Easy Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Recipe
Introduction
Hey there! I’m beyond thrilled to dive into the heartwarming world of easy cooking with you today, especially since we’re tackling one of those dishes that just scream comfort and delight – a Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon recipe. Now, before you think “just another side dish,” let me tell you, this is no ordinary recipe. When the earthy tones of Brussels sprouts meet the rich, crispness of bacon, something magical happens. It’s a quick side dish that embodies the essence of healthy eating while not skimping on flavor.
Imagine the sweet, slightly bitter taste of Brussels sprouts, enhanced by the savory goodness of bacon. It’s a combo that elevates any meal, turning it from mundane to mouthwatering. Whether you’re aiming for a low-carb side dish, a gluten-free option, or something to satisfy your keto guidelines, this recipe checks all the boxes, making it a perfect addition to your easy dinner ideas or a festive holiday cooking plan. So let’s get ready to bring warmth, texture, and a taste of comfort to our tables with this delicious side dish. And remember, it’s all about making cooking fun and effortless, with a dash of creativity and a sprinkle of love.
Key Takeaways:
- Brussels sprouts with bacon is a simple, yet flavorful dish that transforms an ordinary meal into something extraordinary.
- Emphasizes healthy eating through low carb and gluten-free options that don’t compromise on taste.
- Perfect for any occasion, be it a cozy family meal or holiday cooking, making it a versatile side dish.
Ingredients List
Welcome to the heart of our cozy kitchen—where comfort food meets healthy eating with a sprinkle of love in every dish. Today, I’m thrilled to share with you a simple yet delightful recipe that embodies all of these wonderful elements: Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon. It’s not just any side dish; it’s a perfect blend of savory goodness and nutritious greens that promises to be a hit at any family meal, a festive addition to holiday cooking, or a comforting pick-me-up during the colder winter months. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need to create this magic on your plate.
- Ingredients:
- 1/2 pound bacon, cut into small pieces to bring that irresistible crispy texture and rich flavor to the dish.
- 2 dozen Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved, ready to soak up the savory goodness and become delightfully crispy.
- Salt & pepper to taste, because sometimes, simplicity is the ultimate sophistication in cooking.
Whether you’re following a low carb diet, eyeing keto side dishes, or simply in search of gluten-free options that don’t skimp on flavor, this recipe checks all the boxes while being both paleo-friendly and a comfort food classic. Let’s get our cast iron cooking on and make some culinary magic happen!
Preparing the Bacon
Starting with the bacon is like laying the foundation for a house of flavor in this recipe. You want each piece to reach that perfect level of crispiness without crossing into the burnt territory. I always cut the bacon into small pieces before tossing them into the skillet over medium-high heat. This not only ensures even cooking but also turns them into these irresistible bits of joy that make the Brussels sprouts sing. Now, managing the bacon grease is another important step. It’s like a secret sauce, rich with flavor, waiting to embrace the Brussels sprouts. However, it’s crucial to handle it with care for safety and to achieve the ideal taste balance. Once the bacon reaches that golden, crispy stage, I transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels, making sure to leave behind the liquid gold in the pan for the next step.
Preparing the Brussels Sprouts
Ever tried your hand at making Brussels sprouts only to end up with a dish that was, well, less than delightful? I hear you. But stick with me, and let’s turn those little green orbs into a crispy, savory side that’ll make even the pickiest eaters at your table ask for seconds. First off, trimming and prepping these veggies is key. You want to cut off the tough ends and then slice each sprout in half.
This not only helps them cook more evenly, but it also gives that beautiful golden edge that’s absolutely mouthwatering when paired with the richness of bacon. Now, cleanliness – we’re talking about a veggie that’s notorious for hiding dirt and debris in its layers. So, give them a good rinse under cold water and let them drain a bit. That way, you’re not adding extra moisture to the pan. Because let’s face it, we’re going for crispy, not soggy Brussels sprouts here.
Combining Ingredients
Now, let’s bring flavor and texture together in a dance that’ll have your taste buds singing. After you’ve crisped up that bacon to perfection and it’s resting on a paper towel, you’re left with a pan full of liquid gold – that’s right, bacon grease. It’s time for those Brussels sprouts to take a dive into flavor town. Give them a good stir in the pan, making sure each one is coated in that savory grease. This isn’t just cooking; it’s an act of love, transforming the humble Brussels sprout with bacon’s rich depth.
Next, I cover the pan with a lid. This tiny, yet mighty step is the secret to achieving tender, perfectly cooked Brussels sprouts every single time. The lid traps the heat and steams these little guys to perfection, making them soft on the inside with a bite of crunch on the outside. It’s a simple method, but don’t underestimate its power. Just a few minutes under cover, and you’ve got a side dish that’ll steal the show at any dinner table.
Final Touches
Now, let’s talk about giving our dish that final magical touch! After your Brussels sprouts have been basking in that glorious bacon grease and have reached that perfectly tender stage with just the right amount of browning, it’s time to welcome the crispy bacon back into the mix. Gently fold in the bacon pieces, ensuring they’re evenly distributed for that divine bite every time. At this point, I often find myself hovering over the pan, inhaling the irresistible aroma that’s just pure comfort food bliss.
Before you declare it ready, take a moment to season with a bit more salt and pepper if you feel it’s needed. The beauty of cooking, especially with dishes like this savory side, is in the tasting and tweaking! Here’s a little cue for you: You’re aiming for Brussels sprouts that are beautifully caramelized on the outside yet remain succulent inside. Achieving that balance is when you know you’ve nailed it. Trust me, it’s a game-changer for your holiday cooking or any family meal, turning simple ingredients into a winter recipe wonder that’s not just healthy eating but downright indulgent.
Serving Suggestions
Imagine sitting down to a cozy family meal, and right there, on the table, is a dish that effortlessly ties everything together. That’s exactly what this crispy Brussels sprouts with bacon can do. It’s not just a side dish; it’s a conversation starter, an invitation to savor the comfort of home cooking. Think of pairing it with a succulent roast chicken for a classic Sunday dinner, or laying it beside a creamy risotto for a touch of decadence on a weekday night.

The savory sides of our Brussels sprouts dish are versatile enough to accompany your hearty winter recipes, making every bite a testament to simple, yet profoundly satisfying, healthy eating. So, go on, let this be the centerpiece of your next holiday cooking adventure or a spontaneous, easy dinner idea. The beauty of cooking is in the experimentation, and with these Brussels sprouts and bacon, you’re all set to cook up a storm.
A Toast to Taste
Wrapping up our journey through the kitchen today, I must say that this Crispy Brussels Sprouts and Bacon recipe has truly been a hearty embrace for our taste buds—a simple yet profoundly satisfying encounter with comfort food. It’s one of those easy cooking triumphs that marry the earthy flavors of Brussels sprouts with the sumptuous, savory crunch of bacon, ending up as a dish that speaks volumes on the dinner table.
This quick side dish marvel has not only introduced a healthy eating protocol into our winter recipes and family meals but also cemented its place as a staple for holiday cooking. What’s more exhilarating is how it easily dovetails with gluten free options, becomes a beloved paleo-friendly recipe, and sneaks into the realm of keto side dishes without skipping a beat! The versatility—it’s purely magical.
I’m all ears and eager to hear how you’ve tailored this dish to fit your table. Cast iron cooking or integrating it into your easy dinner ideas, savory sides, or even as part of your comfort food lineup—how did it turn out? Share your own variations or results with us. Let’s continue to expand our culinary horizons together, keeping it laid-back yet adventurous in the kitchen. Until next time, keep those Brussels sprouts crispy and that bacon even crispier!

Easy Brussels Sprouts and Bacon
Ingredients
- 2 lbs Brussels sprouts, halved
- 1/2 lb. bacon , cut slices in to small pieces
- salt, to taste
- black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium-high heat until it becomes crispy.
- Remove the bacon and place it on a plate lined with paper towels, leaving the bacon grease in the pan.
- Add the Brussels sprouts to the pan and stir until they are well-coated with the bacon grease. Cover the pan with a lid, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cook for 5 minutes.
- Return the bacon to the pan and cook uncovered for a few more minutes, or until the Brussels sprouts reach your desired level of tenderness and browning. You can cover the pan again if you prefer softer Brussels sprouts, but keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
- Season with salt and pepper if needed, and serve immediately.