Hey y’all! If you’re on the hunt for an irresistible appetizer that’s both crispy and savory, look no further than these Bacon-Wrapped Brussels Sprouts. With smoky bacon hugging tender Brussels sprouts, every bite bursts with flavor and crunch—perfect for game nights, weeknight dinners, holiday gatherings, or whenever you want to impress. Hungry yet? Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Bacon-Wrapped Brussels Sprouts Recipe
- Easy prep with simple ingredients you likely already have at home.
- Packed with bold smoky flavor and perfect for dipping.
- Low-carb and keto-friendly—for guilt-free munching!
- Crowd-pleasing bite-size treats that vanish quickly at parties.
- Delicious hot or at room temperature, making them travel-friendly for potlucks.
Ingredients for Bacon-Wrapped Brussels Sprouts
- 1 lb fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 12 strips thick-cut bacon, halved crosswise
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup (optional for a sweet touch)
- Toothpicks (for securing bacon)
How to Make Bacon-Wrapped Brussels Sprouts
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easier cleanup. Rinse and trim your Brussels sprouts, then cut each sprout in half lengthwise.
Step 2: Season the Brussels Sprouts
In a bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, black pepper, and smoked paprika until evenly coated.
Step 3: Wrap with Bacon
Take half a strip of bacon and wrap it snugly around each Brussels sprout half. Secure the bacon with a toothpick if needed. If you like a touch of sweetness, brush the tops with maple syrup.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Arrange the bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them out. Bake for 22-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bacon is crisp and the sprouts are fork-tender.
Step 5: Serve
Remove from the oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes. Serve hot or at room temperature with your favorite dipping sauce!
Notes: Tips for Perfect Bacon-Wrapped Brussels Sprouts
- Try using fresh, firm Brussels sprouts for the best texture and flavor.
- Thicker cut bacon yields a meatier bite, while thin bacon will crisp up more quickly.
- For extra crisp, place a wire rack over your baking sheet so heat circulates all around.
Variations on Bacon-Wrapped Brussels Sprouts
- Cheesy: Insert a thin slice of sharp cheddar or gouda under the bacon before wrapping.
- Spicy: Sprinkle with cayenne pepper or drizzle with hot honey before serving.
- Glazed: Brush with balsamic reduction in the last 5 minutes of baking for tangy sweetness.
Required Equipment for Bacon-Wrapped Brussels Sprouts
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or foil
- Mixing bowl
- Basting brush (for maple syrup, if using)
- Toothpicks
Storage Instructions for Bacon-Wrapped Brussels Sprouts
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place on a baking sheet in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 5-7 minutes until sizzling. Freezing is not recommended as the texture may become mushy.
Pairings & Serving Recommendations
- Serve with a creamy honey mustard dipping sauce or sriracha aioli for extra zing.
- Pair with sparkling wine, craft beer, or crisp cider for refreshing contrast.
- Great as a side dish for grilled meats or a hearty vegetarian main paired with roasted sweet potatoes.
Pro Tips for the Best Bacon-Wrapped Brussels Sprouts
- Pat Brussels sprouts dry after washing for maximum crispiness.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—give each morsel space to crisp up.
- Halfway through baking, flip each piece so the bacon crisps evenly (here’s how to perfect oven bacon!).
Bacon-Wrapped Brussels Sprouts FAQ
- Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts instead of fresh?
- Fresh sprouts work best for optimal texture, but if using frozen, thaw and pat them completely dry first.
- How can I make these Brussels sprouts ahead of time?
- Prep and wrap the day before; refrigerate covered. Bake just before serving for best results.
- Can I cook Bacon-Wrapped Brussels Sprouts in an air fryer?
- Yes! Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping once, until bacon is crisp and sprouts are tender.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved if large
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon, cut in half
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Balsamic glaze, for serving (optional)
Instructions
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1Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and set a wire rack on top.
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2In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt until well coated.
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3Wrap each Brussels sprout with a half slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if necessary. Arrange them seam side down on the prepared baking rack.
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4Bake for 25-30 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and the sprouts are tender.
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5Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving, if desired.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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