Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

My Simple Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe: A Weeknight Winner

As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a healthy and delicious dinner can feel like a Herculean task. But sometimes, the simplest recipes are the most satisfying. This Brussels sprouts and bacon recipe is a perfect example. It’s quick, easy, and the flavors are incredible – a winning combination that even picky eaters will enjoy.

I discovered this recipe a few months ago when I was looking for a way to use up some leftover bacon. I'm always looking for ways to incorporate more vegetables into our family's diet, and Brussels sprouts, while sometimes unfairly maligned, are a nutritional powerhouse. This recipe completely changed my perception of them. The smoky bacon perfectly complements the slightly bitter taste of the sprouts, creating a harmonious blend that’s simply addictive. The addition of a touch of sweetness from the sugar balances the savory notes, taking the dish to the next level.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. Feel free to experiment with different seasonings. I often use a blend of herbs, but a simple sprinkle of garlic powder or onion powder would also work wonders. If you don’t have leeks on hand, a regular sweet onion will do just fine. And, of course, the amount of bacon is entirely up to you! More bacon? Absolutely! Less bacon? Still delicious.

This isn’t just a quick weeknight meal; it’s a versatile dish that can be adapted to fit any occasion. It’s equally at home as a simple side dish alongside roasted chicken or pork, or it can be elevated to the star of the show by serving it as part of a more substantial meal. The possibilities are endless. This is the perfect recipe to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a recipe that has become a staple in my house, and I hope it becomes a favorite in yours too.

Beyond the Recipe: The Importance of Simple Meals

In today’s fast-paced world, finding time for ourselves, let alone creating elaborate meals, often feels impossible. We’re constantly juggling work, family, and a million other responsibilities. But nurturing our bodies and families through nourishing food doesn't need to be a stressful endeavor. Simple recipes like this one are a testament to that fact. They prove that healthy, flavorful meals don't require hours of prep time or complex techniques. Sometimes, the best meals are the ones made with a few simple, fresh ingredients and a little love.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Don’t overcook the Brussels sprouts. They should be tender-crisp, not mushy. Start checking for doneness around 20 minutes and adjust cooking time based on preference.
• Use good quality bacon. The flavor of the bacon significantly impacts the overall taste of the dish.
• Don't be afraid to experiment. Add different herbs, spices, or even a splash of balsamic vinegar to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
• Make it a meal prep staple. This dish is easily made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for a quick and easy lunch or dinner throughout the week.

This recipe is more than just a way to cook Brussels sprouts; it’s a reminder that even amidst the chaos of daily life, there’s always time to nourish ourselves and our families with delicious, wholesome food. It’s a recipe for good health, happy families, and a little bit of deliciousness. Give it a try and let me know what you think!

Step-by-step

• In a skillet, cook the bacon to crisp-tender.
• While the bacon is cooking, slice the Brussels sprouts into halves starting at the stem, cutting off the stem ends. Very small ones can be left whole.
• Remove the bacon and all but approximately 3 tablespoons drippings from the skillet.
• Put the Brussels sprouts, onion, and garlic in the skillet and cook until the onion and garlic are softened.
• Add the Fox Point Seasoning, sugar, and bacon.
• Stir, cover, and cook until the sprouts are the desired tenderness (20-30 minutes).
• Stir once or twice during cooking and adjust the heat down if they start sticking or if they seem too watery.
• Remove the cover for the last 10 minutes if you'd like some of the liquid to evaporate.
• Add the butter in small pieces around the skillet.
• Add salt and pepper to taste while the butter is melting.