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INSTANT POT DINNER RECIPES

Bacon Brussels Sprout Bites

Bacon Brussels Sprout Bites are a delicious, savory appetizer that’s perfect for any gathering. These bites combine the earthy flavor of Brussels sprouts with the crispy, smoky goodness of bacon, making them an irresistible snack for parties, game days, or holiday gatherings. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can whip up a dish that will impress your guests and have them coming back for more.

Table of Contents

  • Ingredients
  • Instructions
  • Cooking Notes
  • Variations
  • Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
  • Conclusion

Ingredients

  • 1 pound Brussels sprouts (trimmed and halved)
  • 1 pound bacon (cut in half)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Toothpicks (for assembling)
  • Optional: 1/4 cup balsamic glaze for drizzling

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
  2. Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half lengthwise.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well coated.

Step 2: Wrap the Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

  1. Take a half slice of bacon and wrap it around each Brussels sprout half.
  2. Secure the bacon with a toothpick to hold it in place.

Step 3: Bake

  1. Arrange the bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are evenly spaced to allow for even cooking.
  2. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the Brussels sprouts are tender. Flip them halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.

Step 4: Serve

  1. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the bites cool for a few minutes.
  2. Drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired for a sweet contrast to the savory bacon.
  3. Serve warm with toothpicks for easy snacking.

Cooking Notes

  • Bacon: Regular-cut bacon works best for this recipe. Thick-cut bacon may take longer to cook and may not crisp up as well.
  • Crispiness: If you prefer extra crispy bacon, place the bites under the broiler for an additional 1-2 minutes after baking. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
  • Brussels Sprouts Size: If the Brussels sprouts are large, you may want to cut them into quarters to ensure they cook evenly.

Variations

Spicy Bacon Brussels Sprout Bites

  • Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the olive oil mixture for a bit of heat.

Maple-Glazed Bacon Brussels Sprouts

  • Brush the bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts with maple syrup halfway through baking for a sweet and savory combination.

Parmesan Bacon Brussels Sprouts

  • Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the bites during the last 5 minutes of baking for a cheesy finish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make These Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can assemble the bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts up to a day in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Bake them fresh for the best taste and texture.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftover bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.

Can I Use Turkey Bacon?

Yes, you can use turkey bacon for a lighter option. Keep in mind that turkey bacon may not crisp up as much as regular bacon, so you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Bacon Brussels Sprout Bites are the perfect combination of savory, crispy, and tender—all wrapped up in a bite-sized package. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a delicious snack, these bites are sure to be a hit. Customize them with your favorite flavors and enjoy the smoky, earthy taste of this easy appetizer.

Happy cooking, and enjoy every flavorful bite of these Bacon Brussels Sprout Bites!