Crispy Bacon & Charred Brussels Sprouts Skillet
Ingredients
- 1½ poundsbrussels sprouts
- 6 slicesbacon
- 3 clovesgarlic
- 2 tablespoonsbalsamic vinegar
- ½ teaspoonkosher salt
- ¼ teaspoonblack pepper
- ¼ teaspoonred pepper flakes (optional)
Prep
- 01
Trim brussels sprouts and halve them lengthwise.
- 02
Mince 3 cloves garlic.
Method
- 01
Cook bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 8–10 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel, then crumble when cool enough to handle.
- 02
Pour off all but 2 tablespoons bacon fat from the skillet. Raise heat to medium-high.
- 03
Add brussels sprouts in a single layer, cut-side down. Don't stir; let them char for 4–5 minutes.
- 04
Stir the brussels sprouts, add minced garlic, and cook for another 3–4 minutes until tender and browned.
- 05
Drizzle with balsamic vinegar, season with salt and pepper, then toss to coat. Stir in crumbled bacon.
- 06
Taste and adjust seasoning. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes if you like a hint of heat, then serve hot.
Spice Tips
Red pepper flakes add gentle warmth. For deeper flavor, try a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire in place of some of the vinegar. A pinch of smoked paprika echoes the bacon nicely.