Savory Bacon Brussels Sprouts: Easy Recipe for Christmas Dinner

Posted on November 19, 2025

savory bacon Brussels sprouts - featured image

The aroma of crispy bacon mingling with roasted Brussels sprouts is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. Honestly, I first made these savory bacon Brussels sprouts for a holiday gathering a few years ago, and they were a hit! Each bite is a delightful combination of smoky, salty, and slightly sweet flavors that dance on your palate. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together around the table, and let’s face it—everyone loves bacon!

These Brussels sprouts are not just a side dish; they’re a celebration of flavors that pairs perfectly with your festive turkey or ham. The best part? You only need a handful of ingredients to whip up this crowd-pleaser, making it a no-fuss addition to your Christmas dinner. Plus, they’re packed with nutrients, so you can feel good about indulging a little during the holiday season.

Whether you’re hosting a big family gathering or just having a cozy dinner with close friends, these savory bacon Brussels sprouts will surely impress. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this easy recipe that you’ll want to make again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to love these savory bacon Brussels sprouts! Let me share a few insights that make this recipe stand out.

Quick & Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy holiday cooking schedules. You can prep it while your turkey is roasting.
Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of these ingredients in your kitchen already. No fancy grocery trips are needed!
Perfect for Holiday Gatherings: These Brussels sprouts are a great addition to your Christmas dinner table, adding flavor and a touch of elegance.
Crowd-Pleaser: Trust me, everyone will rave about these savory bacon Brussels sprouts, from kids to grandparents!
Unbelievably Delicious: The combination of crispy bacon and caramelized Brussels sprouts is simply irresistible.

What makes this recipe different is the cooking method. By roasting the Brussels sprouts until they’re golden brown and tossing them with crispy bacon, you create a dish that’s not only flavorful but also visually appealing. The contrast of textures makes each bite satisfying and fun!

Let’s also talk about comfort food—this dish nails that feeling. It’s the kind of food that makes you feel warm and cozy inside, perfect for a chilly Christmas evening. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate vegetables into your holiday feast without sacrificing taste. You’ll find these savory bacon Brussels sprouts will steal the show on your dinner table!

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. You won’t need to worry about hunting down any exotic items; these are mostly pantry staples!

Brussels sprouts: 1 pound, trimmed and halved (look for bright green sprouts that are firm to the touch)
Bacon: 6 slices, chopped (I recommend a good-quality, thick-cut bacon for the best flavor)
Olive oil: 2 tablespoons (extra virgin is best for flavor)
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced (fresh garlic gives a great depth of flavor)
Salt: to taste (don’t go overboard since bacon is already salty)
Pepper: to taste (freshly cracked black pepper works wonders)
Balsamic vinegar: 1 tablespoon (optional, but adds a nice tangy sweetness)

Feel free to swap in turkey bacon if you’re looking for a lighter option. Also, if you can’t find fresh Brussels sprouts, frozen ones will work in a pinch—just make sure to thaw and drain them well before cooking.

Equipment Needed

Large baking sheet: A rimmed sheet is ideal for roasting and catching any drippings.
Mixing bowl: For tossing the Brussels sprouts with the seasoning.
Sharp knife: For trimming and halving the Brussels sprouts.
Spatula: To flip the Brussels sprouts halfway through cooking.

No need for fancy gadgets here! Just the basics will do, and if you’re like me, you probably already have everything you need in your kitchen. A good-quality knife will make the prep a lot easier!

Preparation Method

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the Brussels sprouts: Trim the ends and cut them in half. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until all are well coated.
Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a large baking sheet. This helps them roast evenly!
In a separate bowl, mix the chopped bacon with the Brussels sprouts, spreading it out evenly over the baking sheet.
Roast in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the Brussels sprouts are golden brown and crispy and the bacon is cooked through.
If using balsamic vinegar, drizzle it over the Brussels sprouts during the last 5 minutes of roasting for extra flavor.
Once cooked, remove from the oven and let cool for a minute before serving.

Keep an eye on the Brussels sprouts as they roast; you want them to be tender with a bit of crispiness, not burnt! The smell will start to fill your kitchen, and trust me, your family will be eager to dig in.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are a few tips I’ve learned from making these savory bacon Brussels sprouts multiple times:

Even Cooking: Make sure your Brussels sprouts are all about the same size for even cooking. If you have some larger ones, just cut them in smaller pieces.
Don’t Crowd the Pan: If your baking sheet is too crowded, the Brussels sprouts will steam instead of roast. If you need to, use two sheets!
Watch the Bacon: Since bacon can cook at different rates, make sure to check it during roasting to avoid overcooking.
Flavor Boost: Adding a touch of maple syrup or honey during the last few minutes of roasting can give a sweet twist that balances the savory bacon.

If you ever find yourself with leftover Brussels sprouts (which is rare!), try tossing them into a salad or a frittata for a quick meal!

Variations & Adaptations

While this recipe is fantastic as is, here are some variations you can try:

Cheesy Brussels Sprouts: Add 1/2 cup of shredded Parmesan or Gruyère cheese in the last 5 minutes of roasting for a cheesy twist.
Spicy Kick: Toss in some red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot sauce for a spicy version.
Maple Glaze: Drizzle with maple syrup before roasting for a sweet and savory combo.

Feel free to adjust the recipe based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. If you want to make it vegetarian, simply leave out the bacon and toss in some nuts for crunch!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These savory bacon Brussels sprouts are best served warm right out of the oven. They make a perfect side dish for your Christmas dinner, alongside turkey or glazed ham. I love presenting them in a beautiful serving bowl, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color.

If you have leftovers (which I doubt!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This dish actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

These savory bacon Brussels sprouts are not just delicious; they’re also nutritious! Brussels sprouts are a great source of vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. The bacon adds protein and flavor, making this dish a balanced side. Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional information per serving:

Calories: 150
Protein: 5g
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 4g

They’re perfect for gluten-free diets, and you can easily make them keto-friendly by adjusting the ingredients. Just be mindful if you have any allergies, especially to bacon or garlic!

Conclusion

In conclusion, these savory bacon Brussels sprouts are a must-try for your Christmas dinner. They’re quick, easy, and full of flavor—what more could you ask for? I love how they can be customized to fit anyone’s taste preferences, making them a versatile addition to any holiday table.

I encourage you to make this recipe your own! Feel free to experiment with different flavors or ingredients that resonate with you. I would love to hear how your version turns out, so please leave a comment below or share your adaptations!

Happy cooking, and may your Christmas dinner be filled with delicious moments and cherished memories!

FAQs

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?

Yes, frozen Brussels sprouts will work! Just make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before roasting.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and consider adding nuts for crunch and extra flavor.

Can I prepare these Brussels sprouts ahead of time?

You can prep the Brussels sprouts and bacon ahead of time, but I recommend roasting them just before serving for the best texture.

What can I serve with these Brussels sprouts?

They pair wonderfully with roasted turkey, glazed ham, or even a hearty vegetarian dish like a nut roast.

Are Brussels sprouts healthy?

Absolutely! They’re packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, making them a nutritious choice for any meal.

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