Brussels sprouts with bacon are a mouthwatering side dish that can elevate any family meal, offering a perfect blend of savory flavors and nutrition. It's a must-try for home chefs seeking a tasty mealtime adventure, and it'll quickly become a household favorite.
Read on to discover three different ways to prepare Brussels sprouts, along with top tips and tricks for achieving mouthwatering results every time.
A nutritious and delicious side for the whole family
Crispy bacon Brussels sprouts are the perfect side dish that brings both nutrition and flavor to your table. Loaded with vitamins C and K, fiber and antioxidants, per the USDA, they're a healthy powerhouse in every bite. Plus, they're easy to prepare, whether you choose to roast, sauté or steam them — so they're ideal for even the most hectic weeknights. And let's be honest: add bacon or a sprinkle of cheese, and even the pickiest eaters won't be able to resist. It's a tasty, wholesome side for the whole family, rounding out any meal with ease.
Making bacon Brussels sprouts in the oven, stove and air fryer
Serves: 3-4
Prep time: 10 min
Ingredients
- 1 pack Hatfield® Applewood Smoked Bacon, diced.
- 2 lbs Brussels sprouts, washed and dried.
- 3 Tbsp. olive oil.
- 4 cloves garlic, crushed or finely chopped.
- 4 Tbsp. parmesan cheese.
- 1 tsp. salt.
- ½ tsp. cracked pepper.
- 2 Tbsp. balsamic glaze (more to serve).
Using the oven
Cook time: 25-30 min
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F. While it heats, cut the Brussels sprouts in half and toss them in a large bowl with olive oil, garlic, salt and pepper.
- Step 2: Dice the bacon and arrange it with the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Step 3: Roast for 25-30 minutes, tossing halfway through, until the oven roasted Brussels sprouts are crispy and the bacon is fully cooked.
- Step 4: Remove the baking sheet from the oven, sprinkle with Parmesan and drizzle with balsamic glaze.
- Step 5: Serve immediately, with extra glaze on the side if desired.
On the stove
Cook time: 15-20 min
- Step 1: Cut the Brussels sprouts in half and set aside.
- Step 2: In a large skillet, cook your Bacon over medium heat until crisp — about 5-7 minutes. Remove the crispy bacon with a slotted spoon and leave the fat in the pan.
- Step 3: Add olive oil and Brussels sprouts (cut side down) to the skillet. Cook on medium-high heat for 5-6 minutes until golden and crispy on the edges.
- Step 4: Reduce heat to medium, stir in garlic, salt, and pepper and sauté for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and tender.
- Step 5: Add the cooked bacon back to the skillet and toss everything together.
- Step 6: Remove from heat, sprinkle with parmesan cheese, drizzle with balsamic glaze and serve.
In the air fryer
Cook time: 15 min
- Step 1: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F.
- Step 2: Cut the Brussels sprouts in half and toss with your olive oil, salt and cracked pepper.
- Step 3: Add diced bacon to the air fryer basket and cook for 3-4 minutes to render the fat.
- Step 4: Add the Brussels sprouts to the air fryer basket with the bacon and shake to distribute everything evenly.
- Step 5: Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through, until the Brussels sprouts are crispy and the bacon is fully cooked.
- Step 6: Transfer to a serving dish, then sprinkle with Parmesan, drizzle with balsamic glaze and serve immediately.
Ready to jump in? Head to your local grocery store to pick up your favorite Hatfield® pork products today!
Essential tips for mastering bacon Brussels sprouts
Consider a few essential tips to achieve delicious bacon Brussels sprouts every time:
- Choose fresh Brussels sprouts: Make sure you pick bright green, firm sprouts for the best flavor and texture. You want to avoid any that are yellowing or have soft spots.
- Trim and cut properly: Cut the Brussels sprouts in half and trim the stems to make sure they cook evenly. Uniform pieces will help avoid some being undercooked while others overcook.
- Season generously: Don't hold back on seasoning. Generous salt, pepper and garlic bring out the best flavors, while herbs like rosemary can add an exciting twist.
- Consider cooking bacon separately: Consider frying up your bacon beforehand for a crispier texture. Then, you can toss it in with the Brussels sprouts just before serving. This prevents the bacon from becoming soggy while the sprouts roast.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you're using the oven, be sure to spread the Brussels sprouts out in a single layer on your sheet pan. Crowded pans lead to steaming instead of that crispy roast you're looking for.
- Experiment with flavors: Take your dish to the next level with a splash of balsamic, a sprinkle of Parmesan or even a drizzle of honey. You can also add your family's favorites, from dried cranberries to mushrooms and more. Sometimes, it's these simple extras that make all the difference.
- Serve immediately: Brussels sprouts taste best fresh from the oven or skillet. Serve right away for the crispiest texture and boldest flavor.
Brussels sprouts 101: Answers to your FAQs
Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions, so you can make the most of your Brussels sprouts experience:
What main dishes pair well with Brussels sprouts?
Roasted Brussels sprouts make a versatile side that pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes, from roasted chicken and grilled steak to pan-seared salmon and more. You might also serve them alongside hearty pasta dishes, risottos or even as part of a festive holiday meal — adding a delightful crunch and flavor.
What's the best cooking method for Brussels sprouts: roasting, sautéing or air frying?
Each cooking method has its perks, so feel free to choose the one that best fits your taste preferences and time constraints. Oven-roasted Brussels sprouts deliver a rich, caramelized flavor and crispy texture. Sautéing, on the other hand, is a quicker option that allows for flavor infusions from garlic or spices. Finally, air frying is a fantastic choice when you're short on time but still want that crispy finish with less oil.
Can I use different types of bacon for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use any bacon you prefer, whether you want a flavorful thick-cut option like Hatfield® Maple Brown Sugar Bacon or an uncured alternative such as Hatfield® Uncured Hardwood Smoked Bacon. Each type offers a unique flavor profile and texture, enhancing your Brussels sprouts with a deliciously crispy touch. Feel free to experiment and find your favorite combination.
Can I prepare Brussels sprouts ahead of time?
Yes! Simply trim and halve the Brussels sprouts, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. For best results, cook them just before serving.
How can I achieve crispy Brussels sprouts?
For crispy results, make sure your sprouts are dry before cooking. Use enough oil to coat them evenly, and space them out on the baking sheet or in the air fryer to allow for airflow. Cooking at a higher temperature and tossing halfway through also helps achieve the right texture.
How should I store leftovers, and how long do they last?
You can store leftover Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three to four days. To reheat, it's recommended to use the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness and avoid microwaving which can make them soggy.
Prepare the ultimate side dish with quality bacon from Hatfield
Whether you roast, sauté or air-fry them, bacon Brussels sprouts are the ultimate side dish — packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor. And when you use Hatfield bacon, you're not just boosting the taste; you're serving up expertly pre-seasoned, high-quality pork from a brand you can trust. Serve it alongside your favorite meals for a satisfying and flavorful upgrade.
