Many picky eaters avoid certain vegetables, and Brussels sprouts often get an unfair reputation. This Garlic Brussels Sprouts with Crispy Bacon recipe changes that — combining savory garlic and crisp bacon to turn Brussels sprouts into a side dish everyone will enjoy.
The recipe balances bold, garlicky flavor with smoky, crunchy bacon, while the sprouts add a satisfying, nutritious bite. Simple techniques produce tender sprouts and perfectly crisped bacon, making this an easy, crowd-pleasing side for weeknight dinners or special meals.
Quick to prepare and full of texture, this dish pairs well with roasted or grilled proteins. The garlic and bacon meld into the sprouts during cooking, creating a well-rounded taste without needing complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients.
FAQ:
Q: What is the most important step in making this recipe? A: The key is cooking the bacon and Brussels sprouts over moderate heat and allowing enough time for the bacon to brown and the sprouts to soften. Keeping an eye on the pan during this roughly 10–14 minute period ensures the right balance of crisp bacon and tender vegetables.
Q: How can the recipe be altered for dietary needs? A: To make this vegetarian or vegan, omit the bacon and use a flavorful oil or vegan butter. You can add smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a smoky note. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Q: How should the garlic and bacon be cooked? A: Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium-high heat until evenly browned and crisp, about 8–10 minutes. For the garlic, sauté in butter and oil over medium heat until golden, about 3–5 minutes, taking care not to burn it so it remains fragrant and sweet.
Q: Can I add other vegetables? A: Yes. Sliced onions, mushrooms, or halved cherry tomatoes complement the sprouts and bacon. Add vegetables that have a similar cooking time or start heartier vegetables earlier so everything finishes together.
Garlic Brussels Sprouts with Crispy Bacon
A simple, flavorful side that turns Brussels sprouts into a savory favorite. Garlic and bacon complement the sprouts, producing crisp, golden bacon and tender, well-seasoned vegetables every time.
4
servings
15
minutes
15
minutes
30
minutes
Ingredients
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1 1/2 pounds fresh Brussels sprouts
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8 slices bacon
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1 teaspoon butter
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2 teaspoons olive oil
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4 cloves garlic, chopped
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1/2 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
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2 teaspoons butter
Directions
- Trim the stem end of each Brussels sprout and cut a small “X” into the core to help them cook evenly. Set aside.
- Place the bacon in a large skillet and cook over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until evenly browned and crisp, about 8–10 minutes. Remove bacon to paper towels to drain and cool, then crumble.
- Wipe the skillet if desired and return to medium heat. Add 1 teaspoon butter and the olive oil. Sauté the chopped garlic, stirring, until fragrant and golden, 3–5 minutes—avoid burning the garlic.
- Add the Brussels sprouts to the pan and toss to coat in the garlic butter and oil. Stir in the chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Cover and cook until sprouts are tender when pierced with a fork, about 12–14 minutes. Drain any remaining liquid.
- Stir in the remaining 2 teaspoons butter until melted, mix in the crumbled bacon, and serve immediately.