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Delight your guests with this Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Shallots recipe, a crowd-pleasing, holiday-ready dish that elevates the classic combination of brussels sprouts and bacon! This low-carb, gluten-free, and keto-friendly recipe brings rich flavors and satisfying textures to your table, making it perfect for festive gatherings or regular weeknight dinners. The crispy bacon and caramelized shallots beautifully enhance the natural sweetness of the Brussels sprouts, creating a delicious side dish that everyone will love. Enjoy the simplicity and elegance of this dish any time of year!
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Bacon & Shallot Brussels Sprouts: The Ultimate Low-Carb Side Dish
Christmas is one of my absolute favorite times of the year (yes, I’m one of "those" people who can’t get enough holiday cheer!). Cooking for my family during the holidays brings me so much joy, and sharing traditional dishes filled with love is one of my favorite love languages. As I look to create healthier options for our festive feasts, I’ve discovered a love for Brussels sprouts—especially since my daughter-in-law adores them!
But here’s the thing: my daughter, aka Miss Picky Pants, used to turn her nose up at them. I totally get it; I was once in the same boat! My childhood memories of Brussels sprouts involve a pot of boiled greens that left our home smelling less than appetizing. Who wants to dive into a dish that makes the house stink? Luckily, I’ve learned that there are much better ways to prepare Brussels sprouts that coax out their delicious, cabbage-y flavors without that awful odor.
When I wanted to win my daughter over, I knew I had to bring out the big guns—bacon and shallots! The crispy bacon adds a savory punch, while the shallots offer a milder onion flavor. Color me all kinds of shocked when she not only tried one but then went back for seconds! Now, she’s a Brussels sprout fan, thanks to this irresistible recipe. If you’re looking to convert a Brussels sprout skeptic in your life, this Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Shallots recipe is your secret weapon!
Looking for more tasty holiday recipes to add to your menu? Give this Pork Crown Roast or Boneless Rib Roast with Garlic and Herbs a try! If you are looking for tried and true side dishes, how about trying this Keto Cranberry and Pecan Stuffing or this Keto Green Bean Casserole?
🍽️✨ Don't forget to share your delightful creations with us on Instagram using #BobbisKozyKitchen for a chance to be featured in our newsletter! 📸
Why You'll Love Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Shallots
- Irresistible Flavor Combination: The combination of crispy bacon and savory shallots elevates the humble Brussels sprouts into a flavor-packed side dish that even picky eaters will adore. The bacon adds a smoky richness, while the shallots impart a mild sweetness, creating a delightful balance that makes this dish utterly irresistible.
- Easy to Make: This recipe takes just 30 minutes to prep and cook, making it perfect for busy weeknights or festive holiday gatherings. It's simple enough for novice cooks yet impressive enough to wow your guests, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
- Healthy and Guilt-Free: This recipe is not only low-carb and keto-friendly but also gluten-free. By using fresh Brussels sprouts and wholesome ingredients like chicken bone broth and extra virgin olive oil, you can enjoy a delicious and nutritious side dish without compromising your dietary goals.
In This Post
- 🥘Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Shallots Ingredient Notes
- Substitutions
- 🍽Equipment Needed
- Storage and Reheating Instructions for Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Shallots
- 💭Top tip
- FAQ about Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Shallots
- More Delicious Brussels Sprout Recipes...
- Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Shallots
- Food safety
🥘Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Shallots Ingredient Notes
- Brussels Sprouts: Look for firm, bright green sprouts that are small and compact. Avoid any with yellowing leaves or signs of wilting. Smaller sprouts tend to be sweeter and less bitter than larger ones.
- Bacon: Choose high-quality bacon for the best flavor. Thick-cut bacon will give you more chew and a hearty texture, while regular-cut bacon will work just fine if that’s what you have.
- Shallots: These add a milder onion flavor compared to regular onions, enhancing the dish without overpowering the Brussels sprouts. Make sure they are firm and free from blemishes.
- Chicken Bone Broth: Using homemade chicken bone broth will add depth and richness to the dish. If you don’t have homemade broth, opt for a high-quality store-bought version without added preservatives or sugars.
This combination of ingredients will ensure your Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Shallots are flavorful and a joy to eat!
The printable recipe card at the bottom of the page contains a detailed list of measurements and instructions.
Helpful Hint: 💡 For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes just before serving. This will elevate the dish and add a delightful zing that complements the sweetness of the Brussels sprouts and the savory bacon.
Substitutions
Bacon Alternatives:
- Turkey Bacon: A leaner option that still provides a smoky flavor.
- Pancetta: Adds a rich, savory taste and can be used in the same quantity as bacon.
- Smoked Sausage: Sliced smoked sausage or kielbasa can add flavor and protein.
Shallots:
- Green Onions (Scallions): Use the white parts for a milder onion flavor.
- Leeks: Offer a similar taste profile with a slightly sweeter flavor.
Broth:
- Vegetable Broth: For a vegetarian option, ensure it's low in carbs.
- Mushroom Broth: Provides a rich, umami flavor and is great for enhancing the dish.
Brussels Sprouts:
- Green Beans: A good alternative if you're looking for something different, though they may require less cooking time.
- Cauliflower: While not a direct replacement, roasted cauliflower can add a similar texture and flavor when seasoned well.
Seasoning:
- Garlic Powder: If you like garlic, a sprinkle of garlic powder can enhance the dish.
- Herbs de Provence: A blend of herbs can provide a nice flavor boost without adding carbs.
Feel free to mix and match these substitutions to suit your taste preferences while keeping the dish low-carb!
🍽Equipment Needed
This is the equipment you will need to make Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Shallots.
Storage and Reheating Instructions for Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Shallots
Storage:
- Cool Down: Allow the Brussels sprouts to cool to room temperature after cooking.
- Airtight Container: Transfer the leftover Brussels sprouts and bacon to an airtight container. This helps maintain freshness and prevents odors from other foods in the refrigerator.
- Refrigerate: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
Reheating:
- Stovetop:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil or a small amount of water/broth to prevent sticking.
- Add the Brussels sprouts and bacon, stirring occasionally until heated through (about 5–7 minutes).
- Microwave:
- Place the Brussels sprouts and bacon in a microwave-safe dish.
- Cover with a microwave-safe lid or plate to retain moisture.
- Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until warmed through, stirring in between.
- Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread the Brussels sprouts and bacon on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Enjoy your Brussels sprouts warm, and feel free to add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or additional seasoning when reheating for extra flavor!
💭Top tip
To ensure your Brussels sprouts cook evenly, try to pick sprouts that are roughly the same size. If you have larger sprouts, cut them in half to match the size of the smaller ones. This will help them cook uniformly and achieve that perfect tender-crisp texture!
FAQ about Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Shallots
Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts, but they will have a different texture than fresh ones and I am not a fan of it. If using frozen, make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
If you prefer a vegetarian or turkey option, you can use turkey bacon or a plant-based bacon alternative. Just keep in mind that the flavor may differ slightly, and you may need to adjust cooking times.
Feel free to experiment by adding other ingredients like garlic, crushed red pepper flakes for heat, or a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist!
More Delicious Brussels Sprout Recipes...
Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Shallots
Ingredients
- 4 slices bacon chopped
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 large shallot minced
- 1 1/2 lbs Brussels sprouts trimmed but left whole (large sprouts can be cut in half)
- pink salt
- fresh cracked black pepper
- 1 cup chicken bone broth
Instructions
- Cook the bacon in a medium skillet over medium-high heat until it begins to crisp and renders it fat.
- Remove bacon with a slotted spoon to a paper towel-lined plate. Reserve.
- Add shallot to the pan and saute 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add Brussels sprouts and stir to coat in bacon fat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook Brussels sprouts 3 to 4 minutes to begin to soften, then add broth.
- Bring broth to a bubble, cover and reduce heat to medium-low.
- Cook 10 minutes, until tender.
- Transfer sprouts to a serving dish with a slotted spoon and top with cooked bacon bits.
Disclaimer
Most of my recipes are low-carb (or keto) and gluten-free, but some are not. Please verify that a recipe fits your needs before using it. Recommended and linked products are not guaranteed to be gluten-free. Recipes may contain errors, so please use your common sense when following them. Nutritional information is provided as a courtesy and is approximate only. We cannot guarantee the accuracy of the nutritional information given for any recipe on this site. Erythritol carbs will not be included as it has a glycemic index of 0 (meaning it does not spike blood sugar) and it’s not metabolized. Net carbs are the total carbs minus fiber.
Nutrition
Food safety
- Do not use the same utensils on cooked food that previously touched raw meat
- Wash hands after touching raw meat
- Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
- Never leave cooking food unattended
- Use oils with a high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds
- Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove
See more guidelines at USDA.gov.
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Tom
I'm looking forward to trying this recipe. I generally roast Brussels sprouts in the oven with little more than salt and pepper and some olive oil. Thanks for sharing. ~ Tom
Bobbi | Bobbi's Kozy Kitchen
Tom I have done them that way too and love them! Hope you enjoy them as much as we did!