Name: Bacon Jam Brussels Sprouts
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 slices bacon, chopped; 1/2 cup onion, finely diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed; 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar; 1/4 cup water; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe· 4.3 from 22 reviews

If you’ve been searching for a show-stopping side dish that balances rich, savory flavors with a touch of sweetness, look no further than these incredible Bacon Jam Brussels Sprouts. This recipe combines crisp-tender Brussels sprouts with a luscious, smoky bacon jam that elevates every bite. The fusion of tender greens, caramelized onions, crispy bacon, and a hint of apple cider vinegar creates a mouthwatering experience that’s perfect for holiday tables or any day you want to treat yourself to something special. Bacon Jam Brussels Sprouts is my go-to recipe when I want to impress guests or just enjoy a cozy dinner with an irresistible side.

Bacon Jam Brussels Sprouts - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines because of its simple, yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a key role, whether it’s adding texture, depth, or that perfect balance between savory and sweet.

1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved: Fresh sprouts bring a slight earthiness and are the hearty base of this dish.
6 slices bacon, chopped: Adds essential smoky flavor and irresistible crispness.
1/2 cup onion, finely diced: Softens and sweetens during cooking, forming the backbone of the jam.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a fragrant punch that complements the bacon perfectly.
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed: Infuses the jam with deep, molasses-like sweetness that balances the vinegar.
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar: Adds a tangy brightness that cuts through the richness beautifully.
1/4 cup water: Helps adjust consistency for that perfect jam-like texture.
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Brings warmth and smoky depth to the bacon jam.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and tying all the flavors together.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for searing the Brussels sprouts to a golden-perfect crust.

How to Make Bacon Jam Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Cook the Bacon to Crisp Perfection

Start by cooking the chopped bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until it becomes wonderfully crisp. This process renders out the flavorful bacon fat, which you’ll use for cooking the onions. Once crisp, remove the bacon pieces with a slotted spoon and set them aside, leaving the fat right there in the pan.

Step 2: Transform Onions and Garlic into the Base of the Jam

Next, add the finely diced onions to the bacon fat. Cook them over medium heat until they soften and become translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it releases its aroma. This step builds the rich base for the jam.

Step 3: Create the Sweet and Tangy Bacon Jam

To your sautéed onions and garlic, add the brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, water, and smoked paprika. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook down for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens into a jam-like consistency that will cling beautifully to the Brussels sprouts.

Step 4: Sear the Brussels Sprouts to Golden Perfection

While the bacon jam is simmering, heat olive oil in a separate large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the halved Brussels sprouts cut side down, and resist the urge to stir for about 5 minutes. This gives them a beautiful deep golden crust. Afterward, stir and continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes until they’re tender but still hold a bit of bite. Season them with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Finally, toss the sautéed Brussels sprouts with the thickened bacon jam and the crispy bacon pieces until every bite is coated with that luscious, smoky-sweet glaze. Serve warm and watch this dish disappear from the table with happy smiles all around!

How to Serve Bacon Jam Brussels Sprouts

Garnishes

Enhance your Bacon Jam Brussels Sprouts with simple garnishes like chopped fresh parsley or finely chopped chives. These brighten the dish with a pop of green and a subtle fresh flavor that contrasts the rich bacon jam. A light sprinkle of toasted pecans or walnuts also adds a delightful crunch and nutty note if you’re feeling adventurous.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with roasted meats such as turkey, pork loin, or a juicy steak. Its sweet-savory complexity cuts through richer mains, making it a fantastic holiday side or an everyday dinner accompaniment. For a vegetarian-friendly meal, serve it alongside hearty grains like quinoa or wild rice with a squeeze of lemon for extra zest.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to wow your guests? Try layering the Bacon Jam Brussels Sprouts over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes. You can also top small toasted baguette rounds or crackers with a spoonful for an irresistible appetizer platter. The jewel-like glossy jam on those sprouts is a feast for the eyes as well as the palate!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, so the next day the Bacon Jam Brussels Sprouts taste just as good if not better. Just be sure to cool them to room temperature before refrigerating.

Freezing

While you can freeze this dish, the texture of Brussels sprouts may become a bit softer upon thawing. If freezing is needed, place the cooled Bacon Jam Brussels Sprouts in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil if needed to revive their moisture and crispness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as direct heat in a pan will preserve the texture and keep the bacon jam sticky and delicious.

FAQs

Can I make the bacon jam in advance?

Absolutely! The bacon jam can be made a day or two ahead and stored in the fridge. This actually helps the flavors meld beautifully, making the dish even tastier once combined with the Brussels sprouts.

What if I don’t eat pork? Can I make this recipe without bacon?

If you prefer to skip bacon, you can substitute with smoked paprika and a dash of liquid smoke to get some of the smoky flavor. For crunch, consider crispy fried onions or toasted nuts, but the dish will have a different character without bacon.

Are there ways to make this recipe spicier?

Definitely! Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the bacon jam while it simmers gives a lovely heat that complements the sweet and smoky notes perfectly. Adjust to your heat preference for a personalized twist.

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

Fresh is best here due to texture, but if frozen ones are all you have, thaw and drain them well before cooking. They won’t get quite as crisp, but will still taste delicious with the rich bacon jam.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, Bacon Jam Brussels Sprouts is naturally gluten-free, as none of the ingredients contain gluten. Just be sure to check that your favorite bacon brand doesn’t have any added gluten-containing additives.

Final Thoughts

Bacon Jam Brussels Sprouts is one of those dishes that feels like a special treat every time you make it. The magic combination of crispy bacon, caramelized onions, and perfectly seared Brussels sprouts never fails to impress. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or simply want to elevate your weeknight dinner, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds. Give it a try and share the love with the people around you — I promise, it’ll become one of your favorite go-to sides!