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Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: A Flavorful and Easy Recipe

This Brussels sprouts with bacon recipe transforms humble Brussels sprouts into a culinary delight. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness, while crispy bacon adds a smoky, savory depth that makes them irresistible. This dish is quick to prepare, perfect as a side for any meal, and a great way to get even picky eaters to enjoy their greens. The combination of textures and flavors – the tender sprouts, the salty bacon, and a hint of optional sweetness – creates a truly memorable dish. From prepping your ingredients to achieving that perfect crispy bacon, this article guides you through each step. You’ll find detailed instructions, nutritional information, and answers to frequently asked questions, ensuring you have all the tools you need for a successful and delicious Brussels sprouts with bacon experience. This recipe is designed to be accessible and adaptable, making it easy to customize to your liking.

Ingredients: The Foundation of Flavor

The quality of your ingredients significantly impacts the final taste of your Brussels sprouts with bacon. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

• Brussels Sprouts: 1 pound, fresh, trimmed and halved (or quartered if large). Choose sprouts that are firm, bright green, and tightly packed. Avoid those that are yellowing or have loose leaves.
• Bacon: 6-8 slices, thick-cut is preferred. The bacon provides the salty, smoky flavor that makes this dish so addictive. You can use regular bacon, maple bacon, or even turkey bacon depending on your preference.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons. Olive oil helps the Brussels sprouts roast evenly and adds a touch of richness. You can substitute with avocado oil or another high-heat oil.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste. Seasoning is crucial. Don’t be afraid to be generous with the salt, as it helps to balance the bitterness of the Brussels sprouts and enhance the other flavors. Freshly ground black pepper adds a nice depth.
• Optional: Balsamic Glaze, Maple Syrup, or Red Pepper Flakes. These additions are entirely optional but can add a delightful twist. A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and acidity, maple syrup provides a subtle caramelization, and red pepper flakes offer a hint of spice.

Preparing Your Ingredients: A Step-by-Step Guide

Proper preparation is key to achieving the best results. Follow these steps to get your ingredients ready:

• Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: Wash the Brussels sprouts thoroughly and trim the ends. Remove any yellow or damaged outer leaves. Halve or quarter the sprouts depending on their size. Smaller sprouts can be halved, while larger ones should be quartered to ensure they cook evenly.
• Cook the Bacon: There are several ways to cook the bacon. You can cook it in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Alternatively, you can bake the bacon in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until crispy. This method is less messy and allows the bacon to cook more evenly. Once the bacon is cooked, remove it from the pan and drain it on paper towels. Once cooled, crumble or chop the bacon into bite-sized pieces. Reserve the bacon fat!
• Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for roasting the Brussels sprouts and achieving a nice caramelized exterior.

Step-by-Step Instructions: From Prep to Plate

Now, let’s put it all together. Follow these simple instructions for perfect Brussels sprouts with bacon every time:

1. Toss Brussels Sprouts: In a large bowl, toss the prepared Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Ensure that the sprouts are evenly coated with oil and seasoning. For extra flavor, add a tablespoon of the reserved bacon fat to the bowl.
2. Roast the Brussels Sprouts: Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will steam the sprouts instead of roasting them. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the sprouts are tender and slightly browned, flipping halfway through.
3. Add Bacon: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and add the crumbled or chopped bacon to the Brussels sprouts. Toss to combine and return to the oven for another 5 minutes, or until the bacon is heated through and the Brussels sprouts are nicely caramelized.
4. Serve: Remove from the oven and transfer to a serving dish. If desired, drizzle with balsamic glaze or maple syrup, or sprinkle with red pepper flakes. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips and Variations: Elevating Your Dish

Here are a few tips and variations to customize your Brussels sprouts with bacon:

• Add Nuts: Toasted pecans, walnuts, or almonds add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. Add them to the Brussels sprouts during the last 5 minutes of roasting.
• Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds a savory, umami flavor. Add it to the Brussels sprouts during the last few minutes of roasting.
• Balsamic Vinegar: Instead of balsamic glaze, you can toss the roasted Brussels sprouts with a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar for a tangy flavor.
• Spicy Brussels Sprouts: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the Brussels sprouts for a spicy kick.
• Sweet and Savory: A drizzle of maple syrup or honey adds a touch of sweetness that complements the saltiness of the bacon.
• Make it a Meal: Add cooked chicken sausage or diced ham to the Brussels sprouts for a heartier meal.
• Use an Air Fryer: For a quicker cooking time, you can air fry the Brussels sprouts. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through. Add the bacon during the last few minutes of cooking.

Serving Suggestions: Complementing Your Meal

Brussels sprouts with bacon make a fantastic side dish for a variety of meals. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Main Courses: Serve alongside roasted chicken, pork tenderloin, steak, or salmon.
• Holiday Meals: This dish is a perfect addition to Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner.
• Vegetarian Options: Pair with a hearty vegetarian main course like lentil loaf or a vegetable Wellington.
• Salads: Add roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon to salads for a flavorful and nutritious boost.

Recipe Card: Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Here’s a quick reference recipe card for your convenience:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition Card: A Healthy and Delicious Choice

Here’s a general nutritional breakdown of this recipe. Keep in mind that these values can vary depending on the specific ingredients used:

• Calories: Approximately 250 kcal
• Sugar: Approximately 3g
• Fat: Approximately 18g
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 12g
• Fiber: Approximately 5g
• Protein: Approximately 10g
• Yields: 4 servings

FAQs: Addressing Your Burning Questions

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

While fresh Brussels sprouts are preferred, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts in a pinch. Thaw them completely and pat them dry before roasting. Keep in mind that frozen Brussels sprouts may not get as crispy as fresh ones.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the Brussels sprouts and cook the bacon ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, toss the Brussels sprouts with the bacon and roast for a few minutes to warm through.

What if I don’t have bacon?

If you don’t have bacon, you can substitute with pancetta, prosciutto, or even vegetarian bacon alternatives. You can also add smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.

How do I prevent Brussels sprouts from being bitter?

Proper roasting and seasoning can help to reduce the bitterness of Brussels sprouts. Make sure to use enough olive oil and salt, and roast them until they are nicely caramelized. Choosing smaller, younger Brussels sprouts can also help, as they tend to be less bitter.

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, you can add other vegetables to this recipe. Consider adding diced sweet potatoes, butternut squash, or red onions. Adjust the roasting time accordingly.

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