Crispy Bacon Brussels Sprouts: A Delicious Solution for Busy Nights
If you’re anything like me, you’ve experienced those evenings when dinner seems like climbing Mount Everest—full of challenges, potential meltdowns, and maybe even a bit of chaos. Enter Crispy Bacon Brussels Sprouts, the warm hug for your dinner table. These little green wonders are not only delicious, they’re a quick and easy way to elevate your meal game. Let’s dive into why this recipe is your new best friend!
Why You’ll Love These Crispy Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts often get a bad rap as being the “vegetable of doom,” but I promise you, with the right cooking method and a little love (and bacon!), they shine like the stars they are. This recipe combines crispy, savory bacon with perfectly roasted Brussels sprouts to create a sublime dish that even your picky eaters will adore. So whether you’re gearing up for a casual weeknight dinner or need a crowd-pleaser for your next gathering, these bacon-infused sprouts will have everyone doing a happy dance around the kitchen.
Ingredients
Let’s keep this simple. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch of Crispy Bacon Brussels Sprouts:
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 4 strips of bacon, chopped (because bacon makes everything better, am I right?)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (because fancy!)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional, but highly recommended)
Steps to Culinary Bliss
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s warming up, grab those Brussels sprouts and give them a good wash. Trim off the ends and cut them in half, because who wants a sprout that doesn’t fit in one bite?
Step 2: Bacon, Baby!
In a large, oven-safe skillet (cast iron works beautifully here), cook the chopped bacon over medium heat. Let that sizzle and pop until it’s nice and crispy—about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon and set aside, but don’t you dare throw away that glorious bacon fat. We’re going to use it to add extra flavor to our Brussels sprouts!
Step 3: Season and Sauté
In the same skillet, toss in the Brussels sprouts. Drizzle with the olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Stir to coat those babies nicely in the bacon fat (we’re basically creating magic here!). Cook for about 3-4 minutes until they start to get a hint of color—no one likes a pale sprout!
Step 4: Roast to Perfection
After those sprouts have had a little love on the stovetop, transfer them to the oven. Roast for around 20 minutes, giving them a little toss halfway through. This is where they get that caramelized goodness!
Step 5: Final Touches
Once they’re tender and have a lovely golden-brown color, take them out and drizzle with balsamic vinegar. Top with the crispy bacon and sprinkle Parmesan cheese on if you’re feeling extra fancy. Give it a good toss, and voilà, you’re ready to serve!
Cooking Tips for Your Bacon Brussels Sprouts
- Don’t Skip the Bake: While you can sauté the Brussels sprouts, roasting them in the oven will give them that perfect crispy texture that makes this dish so irresistible.
- Add Some Color: Feeling adventurous? Toss in some sliced almonds or chopped walnuts for added crunch!
- More Flavor Awaits: A pinch of garlic powder, a squeeze of lemon juice, or even a dash of red pepper flakes can add great flavors if you want to mix it up.
Personal Anecdote
I stumbled upon this recipe during a particularly chaotic week, and I had a fridge full of ingredients that needed using. My kids were so skeptical about Brussels sprouts until I introduced them to the crispy-bacon-from-the-skillet version. They literally gobbled them up! Now, my daughter constantly asks for “those yummy green things.”
FAQs About Crispy Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Can I use turkey bacon instead?
Absolutely! If you want a leaner option, turkey bacon will work, but just remember it might not get as crispy.
How can I store leftovers?
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember—they’re best fresh, so add a quick reheat in the oven before serving.
What should I serve with these Brussels sprouts?
Oh, the options are endless! Pair them with your favorite protein, like grilled chicken or salmon, or serve alongside a hearty pasta dish. They’re like the perfect little sidekick!
So there you have it! Crispy Bacon Brussels Sprouts are a fantastic way to jazz up your dinner routine while keeping everything deliciously simple. If you decide to give this recipe a whirl, I’d love to hear how it goes! And remember, cooking is all about having fun and creating memories around the table. Now, go forth and make some kitchen magic!
Meta Description: Crispy Bacon Brussels Sprouts is the perfect recipe for quick dinners. Easy, delicious, and sure to impress, try it today!
For more scrumptious ideas, check out some of my other favorite recipes for busy nights here!
Crispy Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash the Brussels sprouts, trim off the ends, and cut them in half.
- In a large, oven-safe skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until crispy. Remove bacon and set aside, keeping the bacon fat in the skillet.
- Add the Brussels sprouts to the skillet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Stir to coat and cook for about 3-4 minutes.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast the Brussels sprouts for around 20 minutes, tossing halfway through.
- Once golden brown and tender, remove from the oven and drizzle with balsamic vinegar, adding back the crispy bacon and sprinkling with Parmesan cheese.