Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Bacon-Wrapped Brussels Sprouts are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining the smoky richness of bacon with the earthy flavor of Brussels sprouts. These bite-sized treats are easy to prepare, visually appealing, and incredibly versatile. Perfect for serving as a party appetizer, a festive holiday snack, or even a hearty side dish, they offer the perfect balance of crispy, savory, and tender in every bite.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed
12 slices bacon, cut in half
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Toothpicks, for securing
Directions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Wrap each Brussels sprout with a half slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
- Arrange the bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts on the prepared baking sheet seam-side down.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and the Brussels sprouts are tender.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or as a festive side.
Servings and Timing
This recipe yields approximately 24 bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Add a sprinkle of brown sugar on the bacon before baking for a sweet and savory twist.
- Use turkey bacon as a lighter alternative.
- Season the Brussels sprouts with cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Stuff the Brussels sprouts with a small piece of cheese before wrapping for a creamy surprise.
- Serve with a honey mustard or sriracha mayo dipping sauce for extra flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftover bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 8-10 minutes until warmed through and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the bacon soggy.
FAQs
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts a few hours ahead and refrigerate them until ready to bake.
What is the best way to keep the bacon crispy?
Bake on a wire rack placed over the baking sheet to allow air circulation around the bacon.
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Fresh Brussels sprouts are recommended for the best texture, but if using frozen, thaw and dry them thoroughly first.
How do I make these spicier?
Add cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.
What dipping sauces pair well with this dish?
Honey mustard, ranch, garlic aioli, or sriracha mayo are all excellent choices.
Can I grill these instead of baking?
Yes, grill over medium heat, turning frequently until the bacon is crisp and the sprouts are tender.
How do I prevent the bacon from unraveling?
Secure each wrap tightly with a toothpick and place seam-side down on the baking sheet.
Are there vegetarian alternatives?
You can substitute the bacon with thin slices of smoked tempeh or coconut bacon for a vegetarian version.
What size Brussels sprouts work best?
Medium-sized Brussels sprouts work best to ensure they cook evenly and are easy to eat.
How long do leftovers last?
Properly stored, they can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Conclusion
Bacon-Wrapped Brussels Sprouts are a deliciously simple yet impressive addition to any menu. With their crisp, savory exterior and tender, flavorful interior, they make the perfect appetizer or festive side dish for any occasion. Prepare a batch and watch them disappear in minutes at your next gathering.
Print
Bacon-Wrapped Brussels Sprouts
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 24 bites (serves 6-8 as an appetizer)
- Category: Appetizer, Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Bacon-Wrapped Brussels Sprouts are the ultimate crispy, savory appetizer — tender Brussels sprouts wrapped in smoky bacon and baked to perfection, making them a hit for parties, holiday gatherings, or as a flavorful side dish. (Keywords: Bacon-Wrapped Brussels Sprouts, Bacon Brussels Sprouts Appetizer, Holiday Appetizer Recipes)
Ingredients
-
1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed
-
12 slices bacon, cut in half
-
2 tablespoons olive oil
-
1 teaspoon garlic powder
-
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
-
Salt and black pepper, to taste
-
Toothpicks, for securing
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
-
In a bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
-
Wrap each Brussels sprout with a half slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
-
Arrange the bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts on the prepared baking sheet seam-side down.
-
Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and the Brussels sprouts are tender.
-
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or as a festive side.
Notes
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Choose smaller Brussels sprouts for easier wrapping and even cooking.
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Try serving with honey mustard or ranch dressing for a delicious dipping option.
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For extra crispiness, broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
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