Sautéed Brussel sprouts with bacon are proof that even the most underestimated vegetables can shine when prepared with care. I didn’t grow up eating Brussels sprouts, but I had always heard they didn’t taste good. It wasn’t until culinary school that I discovered how delicious they could be. One of our first lessons in vegetable preparation focused on proper cooking techniques, and Brussels sprouts were on the menu. With one bite of crispy, caramelized sprouts cooked in savory bacon fat, my opinion shifted forever.
Now, sautéed Brussels sprouts with bacon are a staple in my kitchen. They’re the kind of dish that wins over even the pickiest eaters (trust me, my kids and I can’t get enough of them). They’re simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight and special enough to serve at a holiday table.
This recipe takes all the guesswork out of cooking Brussels sprouts and shows you how to transform them into a side dish everyone will crave. With just a few basic ingredients and some simple techniques, you can create a dish that’s flavorful, versatile, and undeniably delicious. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Ingredients Needed
Here’s what you’ll need for this mouthwatering recipe:
- 2 lbs Brussels sprouts – Fresh is best for a vibrant flavor and crisp texture.
- ½ lb bacon – Opt for thick-cut, high-quality bacon for the richest flavor.
- Salt and pepper – To taste.
- Optional additions:
- A drizzle of maple syrup for sweetness.
- A handful of toasted nuts (like pecans or walnuts) for crunch.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a savory finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparing the Ingredients
Start by trimming the ends of the Brussels sprouts and removing any outer leaves that look wilted or damaged. For even cooking, cut each sprout in half. For the bacon, slice it into bite-sized pieces before cooking.
2. Cooking the Bacon
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the bacon. For extra crispiness, try adding a splash of water to the pan as it cooks. The water will evaporate, allowing the bacon to render its fat slowly before turning golden brown and crisp. Once done, transfer the bacon pieces to a paper towel-lined plate, reserving the bacon grease in the pan. This flavorful fat is the secret to perfectly caramelized Brussels sprouts.
3. Boiling the Brussels Sprouts
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the Brussels sprouts and cook until they are just tender, about 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to overcook them—they should still be bright green and firm. Drain them well and pat dry to remove excess moisture, as this will help them brown beautifully later.
4. Sautéing the Brussels Sprouts
Heat the reserved bacon fat over medium-high heat. Add the Brussels sprouts, cut side down, in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for a few minutes until golden brown, then stir them occasionally to ensure even caramelization. If needed, cover the pan briefly to steam the sprouts and speed up the cooking process, but don’t skip the browning step—it’s where the magic happens.
5. Combining Everything
Once the sprouts are golden and tender, add the cooked bacon back to the skillet. Toss everything together, allowing the flavors to meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste, keeping in mind that the bacon adds its own saltiness.
Sauteed Brussel Sprouts with Bacon
Transform Brussels sprouts into a crowd-pleasing side dish with this Sautéed Brussels Sprouts with Bacon recipe. Tender sprouts caramelized in savory bacon fat and tossed with crispy bacon pieces make for a flavorful, easy-to-make addition to any meal. Perfect for weeknights or special occasions!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs Brussels sprouts – Trimmed and halved.
- ½ lb bacon – Chopped into bite-sized pieces.
- Salt and pepper – To taste.
Optional additions:
- Drizzle of maple syrup.
- Handful of toasted nuts (pecans or walnuts).
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:
- Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and remove any wilted outer leaves.
- Cut each sprout in half for even cooking.
2. Cook the Bacon:
- In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat. For extra crispiness, add a small splash of water to the skillet while cooking.
- Once the bacon is crispy, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate and reserve the bacon fat in the skillet.
3. Boil the Brussels Sprouts:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the Brussels sprouts and cook for 3-5 minutes, until just tender.
- Drain the sprouts well and pat dry.
4. Sauté the Brussels Sprouts:
- Heat the reserved bacon fat in the skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the Brussels sprouts, cut side down, and cook until golden brown, about 3-5 minutes. Stir occasionally for even caramelization.
5. Combine and Serve:
- Return the cooked bacon to the skillet and toss with the Brussels sprouts.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add any optional ingredients like maple syrup, nuts, or Parmesan if desired.
6. Serve Warm:
- Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy immediately.
Nutrition Information
Yield 6 Serving Size 7 ozAmount Per ServingCalories 301Total Fat 19gSaturated Fat 6gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 13gCholesterol 38mgSodium 759mgCarbohydrates 16gFiber 5gSugar 5gProtein 19g
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Sautéed Brussels Sprouts
- Avoid Overcooking: Brussels sprouts develop a bitter taste when overcooked. Aim for tender but still slightly firm.
- Customize to Your Taste: Add minced garlic, onions, or a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra depth of flavor.
- For Dietary Preferences: Swap bacon for turkey bacon or plant-based alternatives, adjusting the cooking fat as needed.
Serving Suggestions
Sautéed Brussels sprouts with bacon make an excellent side dish for roasted chicken, steak, or pork chops. They’re also a fantastic addition to holiday tables, complementing hearty mains like turkey or ham. If you’re meal prepping, they reheat well in a skillet or oven, making them a practical choice for busy weeks.
Final Thoughts
Sautéed Brussels sprouts with bacon are a wonderful reminder that simple, thoughtful cooking techniques can transform even the most underestimated ingredients into something extraordinary. Whether you’re introducing Brussels sprouts to hesitant eaters for the first time or looking for a new favorite side dish, this recipe delivers every time.
Remember, cooking is about progress and joy, not perfection. Don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors—try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of Parmesan to make this recipe your own.
Give it a try, and see how this dish fits into your family’s meals. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Share your thoughts or your favorite Brussels sprouts variations in the comments below. Don’t forget to subscribe to the newsletter for more family-friendly recipes and tips for creating a simple, nurturing home.
