Brussels Sprouts with Crispy Bacon and Garlic
Ingredients
- 1½ poundsbrussels sprouts
- 4 slicesbacon
- 4 clovesgarlic
- 2 tablespoonsolive oil
- ·salt
- ·black pepper
- 1 tablespoonbalsamic vinegar
Prep
- 01
Trim the stem ends from brussels sprouts and halve them lengthwise.
- 02
Mince 4 cloves garlic.
Method
- 01
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add bacon and cook until crispy, about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and chop into bite-sized pieces.
- 02
Pour off all but 2 tablespoons of bacon fat from the skillet. Add olive oil if needed. Return the pan to medium-high heat.
- 03
Add brussels sprouts to the pan in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Season with salt and pepper. Cook undisturbed for 4–5 minutes until the bottoms brown, then stir and cook another 4–5 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally, until tender and caramelized.
- 04
Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring, until fragrant.
- 05
Stir in the crispy bacon and balsamic vinegar. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot.
Spice Tips
For warmth and depth, add 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne with the garlic. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens the dish. Red pepper flakes work well too if you like gentle heat.
You can prep and halve the brussels sprouts up to 4 hours ahead; store them in the refrigeridge in a sealed container.