Delicious BBQ Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe – Perfect for Every Occasion

I never thought I’d be excited about Brussels sprouts until I tried them with a smoky BBQ twist and crispy bacon. There’s something magical about bringing out their natural sweetness while adding that savory, smoky flavor we all crave.

Mixing roasted Brussels sprouts with sizzling bacon creates a dish that’s both hearty and irresistible. Whether you’re prepping for a family dinner or looking to impress at a BBQ, this recipe never fails to satisfy.

Join me as I share my favorite way to elevate this classic veggie. Trust me, once you try BBQ Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, they’ll quickly become a staple in your kitchen too.

Overview of BBQ Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

BBQ Brussels sprouts with bacon feature roasted Brussels sprouts paired with crispy bacon and a savory BBQ glaze. This dish includes fresh Brussels sprouts, halved for even cooking, crispy bacon pieces, and a tangy BBQ sauce that binds the ingredients together.

Key Components:

• Brussels Sprouts: Fresh, halved for uniform roasting.
• Bacon: Cooked until crispy to add texture and flavor.
• BBQ Sauce: Provides a balanced sweetness and tanginess.

Preparation involves roasting the Brussels sprouts until tender, ensuring they absorb the flavors of the BBQ sauce. Bacon is cooked separately to achieve optimal crispiness before being mixed with the sprouts and sauce. This method preserves the distinct textures and enhances the overall taste of the dish.

BBQ Brussels sprouts with bacon offer a nutritious side rich in vitamins C and K from the vegetables and protein from the bacon. Suitable for family dinners and BBQ gatherings, this dish serves as a hearty and flavorful accompaniment to various main courses.

Ingredients

For this BBQ Brussels sprouts with bacon recipe, gather the following fresh and flavorful ingredients.

Fresh Brussels Sprouts

• 1 pound of fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Smoky Bacon

• 6 slices of smoky bacon, chopped
• 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika

Preparation Method

I follow these steps to create delicious BBQ Brussels sprouts with crispy bacon.

Cooking the Brussels Sprouts

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Sprouts: Trim the stems and halve the Brussels sprouts.
3. Season: Toss the sprouts with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Roast: Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, until tender and caramelized.
5. Add the Glaze: In the last 5 minutes, drizzle 2 tablespoons of BBQ sauce over the sprouts and stir to coat evenly.

Preparing the Bacon

1. Cook the Bacon: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook 6 slices of smoky bacon until crispy.
2. Drain: Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess grease.
3. Chop: Once cooled, crumble the bacon into bite-sized pieces.
4. Combine: Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the roasted Brussels sprouts and gently mix to incorporate.

Flavor and Texture

BBQ Brussels sprouts with bacon deliver a balanced mix of smoky, savory, and sweet flavors. The tangy BBQ glaze coats each sprout, enhancing their natural earthiness. Crispy bacon bits add a rich, savory depth and a satisfying crunch, creating a delightful contrast with the tender, caramelized sprouts.

The roasting process ensures the Brussels sprouts develop a slight crispiness on the edges while remaining soft inside. This texture variation enhances each bite, combining the crisp bacon with the succulent sprouts. The interplay of smoky BBQ, savory bacon, and the sprouts’ inherent flavors makes this dish both flavorful and texturally interesting.

Serving Suggestions

• Main Dishes: I serve BBQ Brussels sprouts with bacon alongside grilled steak, roasted chicken, or BBQ pork.
• Side Dishes: I include traditional sides like coleslaw, cornbread, and baked beans for a balanced meal.
• Salads: I add a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette to complement the flavors.
• Toppings: I enhance the dish with grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
• Beverages: I pair it with iced tea, cold beer, or crisp white wine.
• Occasions: I enjoy this side dish during family dinners, BBQs, brunches, or holiday feasts.

Nutrition Information

BBQ Brussels sprouts with bacon provide a well-rounded nutritional profile. Each serving delivers approximately 300 calories, 18 grams of fat, 20 grams of carbohydrates, and 12 grams of protein.

Brussels sprouts contribute essential vitamins and minerals, including:

• Vitamin C: 80 mg per serving
• Vitamin K: 200 mcg per serving
• Dietary Fiber: 6 grams per serving

Bacon adds protein and healthy fats, offering:

• Protein: 8 grams per serving
• Total Fat: 10 grams per serving

These values ensure that BBQ Brussels sprouts with bacon serve as a nutritious and satisfying side dish.

Conclusion

Trying BBQ Brussels Sprouts with Bacon has truly changed the way I view this veggie. The smoky BBQ glaze pairs perfectly with the crispy bacon, making each bite a delight. It’s become my go-to side dish for family dinners and BBQs because it’s both tasty and satisfying. I love seeing how quickly it disappears from the table, proving that healthy can also be delicious. Give it a try and watch it become a favorite in your kitchen too.