Description
Enjoy a delightful combination of sweet and savory with these Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Bacon. Tender Brussels sprouts are sautéed in crispy bacon fat and drizzled with a rich honey-balsamic glaze, making this dish a perfect side or light main course.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Rinse the Brussels sprouts under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Shake off excess water.
- Trim the ends of each Brussels sprout with a sharp knife to help them cook evenly and prevent bitterness.
- Cut each Brussels sprout in half lengthwise to allow for faster cooking and more surface area for the glaze.
- In a large skillet, add the chopped bacon over medium heat. A cast-iron skillet is preferred for even heat distribution.
- Cook the bacon for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until crispy and golden brown.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease, leaving about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the skillet.
- Add the halved Brussels sprouts to the skillet with the reserved bacon fat, stirring to coat them.
- Season the Brussels sprouts with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Sauté the Brussels sprouts for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and slightly caramelized. Reduce heat if they brown too quickly.
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar to create the glaze.
- Once the Brussels sprouts are tender, pour the honey glaze over them in the skillet and stir well to coat.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the glaze to thicken and adhere to the Brussels sprouts.
- Add the crispy bacon back into the skillet and toss everything together gently to combine.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or honey as desired.
- Remove the skillet from heat once everything is well combined and heated through.
- Transfer the honey-glazed Brussels sprouts and bacon to a serving platter.
- Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for garnish.
- Serve warm as a side dish or light main course.
Notes
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil if needed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes