Sautéed Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Onions: A Flavorful and Easy Recipe

Brussels sprouts often get a bad rap, but when cooked right, they can be incredibly delicious. This sautéed Brussels sprouts recipe with bacon and onions transforms these mini cabbages into a savory, smoky, and slightly sweet side dish that even Brussels sprouts skeptics will love. The bacon adds a salty, crispy element, while the onions provide sweetness and depth. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings.

## Why You’ll Love This Recipe

* **Flavorful:** The combination of bacon, onions, and Brussels sprouts creates a complex and satisfying flavor profile.
* **Easy to make:** This recipe requires minimal effort and simple ingredients.
* **Quick:** Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
* **Versatile:** Pairs well with a variety of main courses, from roasted chicken to grilled steak.
* **Nutritious:** Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

* **Brussels Sprouts:** 1.5 pounds, trimmed and halved or quartered (depending on size)
* **Bacon:** 6-8 slices, cut into lardons or small pieces
* **Onion:** 1 medium, thinly sliced
* **Garlic:** 2 cloves, minced (optional)
* **Olive Oil:** 1-2 tablespoons
* **Balsamic Vinegar:** 1-2 tablespoons (optional, for a touch of sweetness and acidity)
* **Salt and Black Pepper:** To taste
* **Red Pepper Flakes:** Pinch (optional, for a touch of heat)
* **Fresh Parsley:** Chopped, for garnish (optional)

## Equipment Needed

* Large skillet or sauté pan
* Cutting board
* Knife
* Spatula or wooden spoon

## Step-by-Step Instructions

### Preparation (5 minutes)

1. **Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:** Wash the Brussels sprouts thoroughly. Trim the ends and remove any yellow or damaged outer leaves. Depending on their size, halve or quarter them. Smaller sprouts can be halved, while larger ones should be quartered to ensure even cooking. The goal is to have relatively uniform pieces. Some people prefer to shred their brussel sprouts. This changes the texture considerably but some people find it easier to eat. If you choose to shred, make sure that you don’t overcook them.
2. **Prepare the Bacon:** Cut the bacon into lardons or small pieces. Lardons are small, rectangular strips of bacon. You can use kitchen shears or a sharp knife to cut the bacon. Pre-cooked bacon can also be used to reduce cooking time and decrease the grease used.
3. **Prepare the Onion and Garlic:** Peel and thinly slice the onion. Mince the garlic (if using). Thinly sliced onions will caramelize nicely and add sweetness to the dish. Mincing the garlic ensures that its flavor is evenly distributed.

### Cooking (20 minutes)

1. **Cook the Bacon:** Place the bacon in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the fat has rendered, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan, as this will steam the bacon instead of allowing it to crisp up. If you are using pre-cooked bacon add it towards the end of the cooking process to avoid burning it.
2. **Sauté the Onions:** Remove the bacon from the pan with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pan. Add the sliced onion to the pan and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until softened and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. The onions should become translucent and develop a golden-brown color. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning.
3. **Add Garlic (Optional):** If using garlic, add it to the pan during the last minute of cooking the onions. Cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds, being careful not to burn it. Burnt garlic can taste bitter.
4. **Add Brussels Sprouts:** Add the Brussels sprouts to the pan with the onions and bacon fat. Increase the heat to medium-high. Sauté, stirring frequently, until the Brussels sprouts are tender-crisp and slightly browned, about 8-10 minutes. Stirring frequently ensures that the Brussels sprouts cook evenly and don’t burn. If the pan becomes too dry, add a tablespoon or two of olive oil or water.
5. **Season and Deglaze (Optional):** Season the Brussels sprouts with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). If using balsamic vinegar, now is the time to add it. Pour the balsamic vinegar into the pan and stir to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. The balsamic vinegar will add a touch of sweetness and acidity to the dish.
6. **Combine and Serve:** Return the cooked bacon to the pan and stir to combine. Cook for another minute or two to heat through. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

### Serving (2 minutes)

1. **Garnish:** Garnish with fresh chopped parsley (if using).
2. **Serve Immediately:** Serve the sautéed Brussels sprouts with bacon and onions immediately as a side dish. They pair well with roasted chicken, pork chops, steak, or salmon.

## Tips for the Best Sautéed Brussels Sprouts

* **Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:** Overcrowding the pan will steam the Brussels sprouts instead of allowing them to brown properly. Cook in batches if necessary.
* **Use High Heat:** Sautéing at medium-high heat helps to caramelize the Brussels sprouts and create a crispy exterior.
* **Don’t Overcook:** Overcooked Brussels sprouts can become mushy and bitter. Cook them until they are tender-crisp.
* **Adjust Seasoning:** Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Brussels sprouts can benefit from a good amount of salt and pepper.
* **Add a Touch of Sweetness:** A touch of sweetness, such as balsamic vinegar or a drizzle of maple syrup, can help to balance the bitterness of the Brussels sprouts.
* **Use Fresh Ingredients:** Fresh Brussels sprouts and bacon will result in the best flavor.
* **Consider Different Types of Bacon**: While standard bacon works great, experiment with different flavors like peppered bacon or maple bacon for added complexity.
* **Preheating the Pan is Key**: Ensure the skillet is properly preheated before adding ingredients for even cooking and better browning.
* **Don’t Be Afraid of Browning**: A good sear on the Brussels sprouts is what brings out their nutty flavor and pleasant texture. Let them get a nice color on at least one side.
* **Consider Adding Nuts**: Toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts make a great addition for added texture and flavor.
* **Experiment with Herbs**: Fresh thyme or rosemary can add a wonderful aromatic element to the dish.
* **A Little Acid Makes a Difference**: If not using balsamic vinegar, a squeeze of lemon juice at the end can brighten the flavors.
* **Quality of Bacon Matters**: Opt for thick-cut bacon for a richer flavor and better texture.
* **Adjust Cooking Time Based on Size**: Smaller Brussels sprouts will cook faster than larger ones, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
* **Storage**: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.
* **Don’t Throw Away the Bacon Fat**: Bacon fat is liquid gold. Save it for other cooking endeavors, such as roasting vegetables or making cornbread.

## Variations

* **Add Maple Syrup:** Drizzle a tablespoon of maple syrup over the Brussels sprouts during the last minute of cooking for a touch of sweetness.
* **Add Nuts:** Add toasted pecans, walnuts, or almonds for added crunch and flavor.
* **Add Dried Cranberries:** Stir in dried cranberries for a sweet and tart flavor.
* **Add Parmesan Cheese:** Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the Brussels sprouts before serving.
* **Spicy Brussels Sprouts:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
* **Brussels Sprouts with Apples:** Add diced apples to the pan along with the onions for a sweet and savory combination.
* **Brussels Sprouts with Sausage**: Swap out the bacon for Italian sausage or chorizo for a heartier dish with a different flavor profile.
* **Brussels Sprouts with Mushrooms**: Add sliced mushrooms to the pan along with the onions for an earthy flavor.
* **Creamy Brussels Sprouts**: Add a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche during the last minute of cooking for a richer, more decadent dish.
* **Bacon and Brussels Sprouts Salad**: Allow the Brussels sprouts to cool slightly and toss with a vinaigrette dressing for a delicious salad.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving)

* Calories: 250-350
* Fat: 15-25g
* Saturated Fat: 5-10g
* Cholesterol: 30-50mg
* Sodium: 300-500mg
* Carbohydrates: 15-25g
* Fiber: 5-8g
* Sugar: 5-10g
* Protein: 10-15g

(Note: Nutritional information can vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

## Pairing Suggestions

This sautéed Brussels sprouts dish pairs exceptionally well with a variety of main courses.

* **Protein:**
* Roasted Chicken: The crispy skin and juicy meat of roasted chicken complement the savory Brussels sprouts perfectly.
* Grilled Steak: A grilled steak, such as ribeye or New York strip, offers a rich and flavorful contrast to the Brussels sprouts.
* Pork Chops: Pan-fried or baked pork chops are a classic pairing that’s always a hit.
* Salmon: Baked or pan-seared salmon provides a healthy and flavorful option.
* Tofu or Tempeh: For a vegetarian option, try pairing the Brussels sprouts with grilled or pan-fried tofu or tempeh.
* **Other Side Dishes:**
* Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting and complementary side.
* Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes balances the savory Brussels sprouts.
* Quinoa or Rice: These grains provide a healthy and satisfying base for the meal.
* Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can add a refreshing element to the meal.
* **Wine Pairing:**
* Dry Rosé: A dry rosé wine complements the bacon and Brussels sprouts without overpowering the flavors.
* Pinot Noir: A light-bodied Pinot Noir can also be a good pairing, especially if the dish includes balsamic vinegar.
* Sauvignon Blanc: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.

## Conclusion

Sautéed Brussels sprouts with bacon and onions is a simple yet satisfying side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its combination of savory, smoky, and slightly sweet flavors, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. So, give it a try and discover the delicious potential of Brussels sprouts!