Bacon Brussels Sprouts (Perfect Christmas Side Dish)

Bacon Brussels Sprouts bring crispy, smoky bites and tender, golden sprouts together in one skillet. Quick to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any Christmas table, this recipe will win over even picky eaters.

Why this Bacon Brussels Sprouts recipe is perfect for Christmas dinner

A simple yet festive holiday side

Christmas dinner always calls for dishes that feel special but don’t keep you stuck in the kitchen all day. Bacon Brussels Sprouts fit that need perfectly. They cook quickly in one pan, which means less stress when the oven is already busy with roasts and pies. With just a handful of ingredients, you get a side dish that tastes far fancier than it looks. The mix of crispy bacon and golden sprouts instantly brings comfort, making it a cozy, festive match for the season.

Flavor balance of crispy bacon and tender sprouts

The beauty of this recipe is how well the flavors complement each other. The salty, crunchy bacon balances the slight sweetness of caramelized Brussels sprouts. The sprouts turn tender with just the right bite, while the bacon adds smoky depth. Together, they create a dish that feels indulgent but still wholesome. Guests will notice the flavor harmony, and it pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, ham, or prime rib.

Ingredients you’ll need

Fresh Brussels sprouts

You’ll want about two dozen sprouts, trimmed and halved. Fresh sprouts deliver the best texture and flavor, staying tender but never mushy. If you can, choose smaller sprouts since they cook more evenly and brown quickly.

Bacon and seasoning essentials

Half a pound of bacon, cut into small pieces, creates the smoky base. Cooking the sprouts in the bacon fat infuses them with rich flavor. A simple sprinkle of salt and pepper is all you need to finish. If you’re craving variety, you can add extra seasonings or glazes later.

Step-by-step instructions to make Bacon Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Cook the bacon until crispy

Place the bacon pieces in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Stir often until the fat renders and the pieces turn golden brown and crisp. Then, transfer them to a paper towel–lined plate. Leave the grease in the pan — that’s your flavor base.

Step 2: Sauté Brussels sprouts in bacon fat

Add the halved Brussels sprouts directly into the skillet. Stir to coat each piece in the bacon fat so they absorb that smoky richness. This step helps build the caramelization that makes them irresistible.

Step 3: Cover and cook until tender

Lower the heat to medium-low, then cover the skillet with a lid. Let the sprouts steam gently for about five minutes. This softens them while still keeping a slight bite.

Step 4: Return bacon and finish cooking

Remove the lid, stir in the crispy bacon pieces, and continue cooking uncovered. Let the sprouts brown on the cut side, stirring occasionally, until golden and fork-tender.

Step 5: Season and serve immediately

Taste, then season with salt and pepper as needed. Transfer to a serving dish and bring it right to the table while still warm.

Recipe tips for best results

Choosing the right Brussels sprouts

Smaller, bright green sprouts are your best bet. They cook faster and caramelize beautifully. Avoid yellow or wilted sprouts, which can turn bitter.

Adjusting cooking time for larger sprouts

If your sprouts are big, they may need a few extra minutes under the lid. Keep an eye on them so they soften without burning. Cutting them into quarters can also help them cook more evenly.

How to prevent mushy sprouts

Frozen sprouts often release excess water and lose their bite. If you must use them, thaw first and cook for less time. For fresh sprouts, avoid overcooking — a tender center with crispy edges is ideal.

Variations and flavor twists

Sweet touch with maple syrup or balsamic glaze

A drizzle of maple syrup or balsamic glaze near the end of cooking adds a sweet contrast to the salty bacon. It’s a simple upgrade that feels festive.

Extra crunch with toasted nuts

Stir in a handful of toasted pecans or walnuts before serving. The nuts add crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with Brussels sprouts.

Using frozen Brussels sprouts

If fresh isn’t available, you can use frozen. Thaw them, pat dry, and halve before cooking. Reduce cooking time slightly to prevent sogginess.

Leftovers and storage

Refrigerating and reheating

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep for two to three days. Reheat on the stove for the best texture, or warm in the oven to revive the crispness.

Freezing considerations

You can freeze this dish, though the bacon may lose some of its crispiness. If freezing, spread sprouts in a single layer to avoid clumps. Reheat in a hot skillet to bring back some crunch.

Conclusion

Bacon Brussels Sprouts are the kind of side dish that makes Christmas dinner both easier and tastier. The recipe is quick, reliable, and crowd-pleasing, with smoky bacon and tender sprouts that everyone loves. Try adding a sweet glaze or crunchy nuts to make it your own. Pair it with other holiday favorites, and don’t forget to check out more Christmas Dessert Recipes for the perfect finish to your meal. For more kitchen inspiration, browse recent posts or follow along on Pinterest.

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