Michael Symon Brussels Sprouts Bacon Recipe

When it comes to a hearty side dish, nothing beats Brussels sprouts, especially when paired with crispy bacon.

We’re talkin’ major yum here!

Following my tips will ensure your Brussels sprouts are always the first dish to disappear from the table.

Cook them just right, so they are tender with a bit of char to enhance their natural sweetness.

Be sure to reserve some bacon fat for cooking the sprouts; it adds rich flavor that can’t be beaten.

Incorporating a splash of acidity, like a squeeze of lemon, can brighten the dish and balance the richness perfectly.

How to Make Michael Symon Brussels Sprouts Bacon

Ingredients

• 1/2 lb Bacon (cut into small pieces)
• 24 Brussels Sprouts (trimmed and halved)
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
• 1 tbsp Balsamic Vinegar

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 400°F.

Step 2:

Place the bacon pieces in a skillet over medium heat and cook until crispy.

Remove and drain on paper towels.

Step 3:

In the same skillet, add olive oil, Brussels sprouts, salt, and pepper.

Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the sprouts start to brown.

Step 4:

Transfer the sautéed Brussels sprouts to a baking sheet.

Roast in the oven for 20 minutes until tender and slightly charred.

Step 5:

Remove from the oven, toss with balsamic vinegar, and top with the crispy bacon.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Choosing Brussels Sprouts

Use fresh Brussels sprouts to ensure that they roast well and develop a nice char in the oven.

If possible, look for small to medium-sized sprouts for even cooking.

Cooking Bacon Evenly

Cook the bacon over medium heat so it crisps up evenly without burning.

Keeping the heat moderate ensures the fat renders properly.

Roasting Right

Place the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on the baking sheet.

This allows them to roast evenly and ensures caramelization on the edges.

Experimenting with Flavors

Feel free to add a sprinkle of parmesan cheese or red pepper flakes at the end.

This can offer a delightful twist to the traditional recipe.

Enhancing with Vinegar

Add more balsamic vinegar if you enjoy tangy flavors.

The acidity complements the savory taste of bacon beautifully!

What to Serve with Michael Symon Brussel Sprouts Bacon

Mashed Potatoes

You can’t go wrong with serving mashed potatoes alongside Brussels sprouts and bacon.

Their creamy texture complements the rich flavors of bacon perfectly.

Add a touch of garlic to the potatoes for an extra layer of flavor that goes well with the sprouts!

Honey Garlic Pork Chops

These honey garlic pork chops are another excellent choice.

The sweet and savory marinade on the pork chops makes a delicious contrast to the savory Brussels sprouts and bacon.

It’s a combination that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Skillet Chicken Thighs

For a hearty and comforting meal, try skillet chicken thighs.

Crisp and flavorful, these chicken thighs pair wonderfully with the Brussels sprouts and bacon.

Sauté them with some rosemary and lemon to really make the meal pop!

Butternut Squash Risotto

If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try butternut squash risotto?

The creamy risotto with sweet, nutty squash complements the crispy bacon and Brussels sprouts well.

The textures and flavors meld beautifully, creating a memorable dish.

Pomegranate and Kale Salad

Add some freshness to the table with a pomegranate and kale salad.

The sweet pomegranate seeds provide a refreshing burst of flavor, balancing the savory Brussels sprouts and bacon.

A light vinaigrette dressing ties everything together in a delicious way!

Variations and Substitutions

You can try swapping the bacon for turkey bacon or pancetta if you’re looking for a different flavor or health-conscious alternative.

Don’t hesitate to toss in some nuts like walnuts or almonds for an extra crunch!

For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon entirely and add smoked paprika or liquid smoke to provide a similar smoky essence.

Cheese Options

You might consider adding some parmesan or feta cheese to enhance the flavor.

Try sprinkling either cheese over the dish just before serving for a creamy, salty finish.

Additional Vegetables

Including diced apples or pears can add a sweet contrast to the savory sprouts.

Feel free to mix in some red onions or shallots for an added depth of flavor and a touch of sweetness.

Spices and Herbs

Experiment with spices like red pepper flakes to add heat or thyme for a herbal touch.

Consider using fresh herbs such as parsley or chives to give the recipe a fresh and vibrant taste.

These are just a few suggestions to make this dish your own!

How to Store Leftover Michael Symon Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

When you’ve got delicious leftovers, it’s important to keep them fresh!

Let’s talk storage methods to extend their life without sacrificing flavor.

Use an Airtight Container

Place the Brussels sprouts and bacon in an airtight container to prevent them from losing moisture and flavor.

This step helps them stay fresh longer.

Refrigerate Promptly

Store the leftovers in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking to minimize the risk of spoilage.

This practice is crucial for maintaining their quality over a few days.

Keep for a Few Days

Leftovers can typically last for three to four days in the fridge if stored correctly.

Make sure not to push this limit to enjoy them at their best.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Too Little Oil

One mistake you might make when cooking Brussels sprouts with bacon is using too little oil.

If there’s not enough oil, the sprouts will soften instead of crisping up nicely in the pan.

You’ll want to coat them well, so they caramelize and get that wonderful char.

Overcooking the Bacon

Another common mistake is overcooking the bacon.

If the bacon is too crispy before you add the Brussels sprouts, it can end up too brittle.

Aim for a slightly chewy texture at first—it’ll balance perfectly once fully cooked with the sprouts.

Not Mixing Well

Finally, not mixing everything properly can lead to uneven flavors.

You should stir the Brussels sprouts frequently to coat them all in the bacon fat evenly.

This helps ensure every bite is packed with the savory goodness of the dish.