Crispy Bacon & Brussels Sprouts Skillet with Garlic
Ingredients
- 6 slicesbacon
- 1½ poundbrussels sprouts
- 4 clovesgarlic
- 1 tablespoonolive oil
- ½ teaspoonkosher salt
- ¼ teaspoonblack pepper
- 1 tablespoonbalsamic vinegar
Prep
- 01
Trim brussels sprouts and halve them lengthwise, or leave small ones whole.
- 02
Mince 4 cloves garlic.
Method
- 01
Cook bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat until crispy, about 8–10 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel and crumble into bite-sized pieces; set aside. Leave 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pan.
- 02
Add brussels sprouts (cut-side down if halved, or whole and small) and minced garlic to the skillet with the bacon fat. Season with 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
- 03
Cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until the brussels sprouts are golden and tender, 12–15 minutes. (They should caramelize on the cut sides and develop deep brown spots.)
- 04
Drizzle with 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar, toss to coat, then fold in the crumbled bacon. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve warm.
Spice Tips
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne for subtle heat, or finish with fresh thyme or rosemary for an herbal edge. A small splash of maple syrup drizzled in the final minute adds subtle sweetness that plays well with the bacon and vinegar.