These Cheesy Bacon Brussels Sprouts feature tender Brussels sprouts are pan-fried for a crispy char, then roasted with buttery garlic and topped with melted mozzarella and crispy bacon. This quick, low-carb side dish is packed with savory flavor and ready in under 30 minutes.
1.5lbbrussels sproutsends trimmed and cut in half lengthwise
½teaspoonkosher salt
Fresh cracked pepper
1tablespoonbutter
1tablespoonminced garlic3-4 cloves
1 ½cupsshredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
Pan-Fry Bacon & Brussels:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
While the oven heats, place a frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the bacon strips and cook until crispy, about 4-6 minutes per side. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
Carefully pour off most of the bacon grease from the pan, leaving about 1-2 tablespoons behind. Add the cut Brussels sprouts and a pinch of kosher salt to the pan. Toss the Brussels sprouts to coat them evenly in the bacon grease, then spread them into a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for about 4-6 minutes, until they begin to char.
Add the butter and minced garlic to the pan, stirring until the butter has melted and the garlic is fragrant. Remove the pan from heat.
Bake & Finish:
Transfer the Brussels sprouts to a lightly greased baking sheet, spreading them out in a single layer. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the Brussels sprouts are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and top the Brussels sprouts with shredded mozzarella cheese and crumbled bacon. Return the pan to the oven and broil until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Even Cooking: For best results, try to cut the Brussels sprouts into similar sizes so they cook evenly. If you prefer smaller pieces, they will crisp up nicely.
Bacon Grease: If you prefer to use less bacon grease, you can drain off most of it, leaving just enough to lightly coat the Brussels sprouts.
Butter Alternative: For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter.
Garlic Flavor: If you love garlic, feel free to add an extra clove or two. You can also use roasted garlic for a milder, sweeter flavor.
Oven-Only Method:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Toss the cut Brussels sprouts with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out in a single layer on a lightly greased baking sheet.
Roast the Brussels sprouts for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they are tender and nicely charred.
While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, cook the bacon in a separate pan or in the oven until crispy. Crumble and set aside.
When the Brussels sprouts are done, remove them from the oven and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese and crumbled bacon.
Return the baking sheet to the oven and broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Nutritional Information is an estimate only and will vary according to specific ingredients and amounts used.