Crispy Bacon Brussels Sprouts

Golden, Savory, and Simply Addictive
These Crispy Bacon Brussels Sprouts are the ultimate side dish for any meal. Perfectly roasted until golden and caramelized, they’re tossed with smoky beef bacon and a touch of seasoning for that irresistible crunch and flavor. This easy healthy recipe doubles as a fall dinner idea or a quick holiday favorite that turns simple Brussels sprouts into something special. With crispy edges, savory bites, and a burst of flavor in every forkful, this is a dish that even Brussels sprout skeptics will love.

Time Breakdown

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients List

• 1 ½ pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 4 slices beef bacon, chopped (or use turkey bacon for a lighter version)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup (optional for a hint of sweetness)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a kick)

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things simple with basic kitchen essentials:

• Large baking sheet
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Tongs or spatula
• Paper towels

Step-by-Step Beginner-Friendly Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: Trim the ends, remove any wilted leaves, and cut them in half.
3. Cook the Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook chopped beef bacon until it starts to crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, reserving about 1 tablespoon of the rendered fat.
4. Toss and Season: In a large bowl, combine Brussels sprouts, olive oil, reserved bacon fat, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Toss well to coat.
5. Roast to Perfection: Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on the baking sheet, cut side down. Roast for 20 to 25 minutes until tender inside and crispy on the edges.
6. Finish and Serve: Sprinkle the cooked bacon over the roasted sprouts, drizzle lightly with maple syrup if using, and toss gently before serving warm.

Pro Tips

• Crispy Perfection: Place Brussels sprouts cut-side down for maximum caramelization.
• Bacon Alternatives: Swap beef bacon for smoked chicken or turkey bacon for a leaner version.
• Add Extra Flavor: Toss in a handful of toasted pecans or drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Reheat leftovers in a skillet or air fryer to bring back the crispiness.

Nutrition Table

Conclusion

These Crispy Bacon Brussels Sprouts are a quick and flavorful side that fits perfectly with everything from roasted chicken to holiday turkey. The combination of caramelized sprouts and smoky beef bacon creates a savory-sweet balance that keeps you coming back for more. Easy to prepare, crowd-pleasing, and full of texture, this dish proves that Brussels sprouts can be the highlight of your meal.

Crispy Bacon Brussels Sprouts

Golden, savory, and simply addictive, these crispy bacon Brussels sprouts are the ultimate side dish, featuring roasted Brussels sprouts tossed with smoky beef bacon and a touch of seasoning for irresistible crunch.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 190 kcal

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 4 slices beef bacon, chopped (or use turkey bacon for a lighter version)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup (optional for a hint of sweetness)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a kick)

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts, remove any wilted leaves, and cut them in half.
• In a skillet over medium heat, cook chopped beef bacon until it starts to crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, reserving about 1 tablespoon of the rendered fat.
• In a large bowl, combine Brussels sprouts, olive oil, reserved bacon fat, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Toss well to coat.
• Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on the baking sheet, cut side down. Roast for 20 to 25 minutes until tender inside and crispy on the edges.
• Sprinkle the cooked bacon over the roasted sprouts, drizzle lightly with maple syrup if using, and toss gently before serving warm.

Notes

For maximum caramelization, place Brussels sprouts cut-side down. You can swap beef bacon for smoked chicken or turkey bacon for a leaner version. Consider adding toasted pecans or a balsamic glaze for extra flavor. Reheat leftovers in a skillet or air fryer to restore crispiness.

Keyword Bacon, Brussels sprouts, Healthy sides, Holiday Recipes, Roasted Vegetables