Introduction
If you love meals that feel comforting but still wholesome, this Warm Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Dinner Bowl is going to win your heart. It’s loaded with crispy bacon, caramelized Brussels sprouts, and warm savory flavors that come together in one satisfying bowl.
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, quick lunches, or cozy dinners when you want something filling without spending hours in the kitchen. Simple ingredients, bold flavor, and minimal cleanup — that’s a win.
Ingredients (Serves 2–3)
Main Ingredients
- Brussels sprouts – 500 g (about 1 lb), trimmed and halved
- Bacon – 6 slices, chopped (thick-cut preferred)
- Olive oil – 1 tablespoon
- Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
- Red onion – ½ medium, sliced
- Salt – ¾ teaspoon (or to taste)
- Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
- Smoked paprika – ½ teaspoon
- Red chili flakes – ¼ teaspoon (optional)
Optional Add-Ins (Highly Recommended)
- Maple syrup or honey – 1 tablespoon (for balance)
- Dijon mustard – 1 teaspoon
- Parmesan cheese – ¼ cup, freshly grated
- Cooked quinoa or brown rice – 1 cup (for a heartier bowl)
- Fried or soft-boiled eggs – 2–3, for topping
Essential Kitchen Tools & Appliances
- Cutting board
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing bowl
- Paper towels
- Optional: Oven (if roasting instead of pan-cooking)
Preparation Steps (Simple & Stress-Free)
- Wash and prep Brussels sprouts
Rinse well, trim the ends, and slice them in half lengthwise. - Prep bacon and veggies
Chop bacon into bite-size pieces. Slice the red onion and mince garlic. - Optional grain prep
If using quinoa or rice, cook it now and keep warm. - Season sprouts
Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped bacon and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until crispy.
- Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on paper towels.
- Leave 1–2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pan.
Step 2: Cook the Brussels Sprouts
- Increase heat to medium-high.
- Add Brussels sprouts cut-side down.
- Cook 5–7 minutes without stirring until nicely browned.
- Stir and cook another 4–5 minutes until tender.
Step 3: Build Flavor
- Add sliced red onion and garlic.
- Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in maple syrup (or honey) and Dijon mustard if using.
Step 4: Bring It Together
- Add cooked bacon back to the pan.
- Toss everything well and taste for seasoning.
- Remove from heat.
🔥 Secret Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan — crispy Brussels sprouts need space!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm in a bowl over quinoa, brown rice, or cauliflower rice
- Top with grated Parmesan, a soft-boiled egg, or a drizzle of olive oil
- Add a side of simple green salad or crusty bread
- Finish with freshly cracked black pepper
Additional Tips & Variations
- Make it vegetarian: Swap bacon for smoked mushrooms or crispy chickpeas
- Extra protein: Add grilled chicken, turkey bacon, or tofu
- Low-carb version: Skip grains and add avocado
- Extra crunch: Sprinkle toasted nuts or seeds
- Cheesy boost: Add feta or goat cheese instead of Parmesan
Nutrition Details (Approx. Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~420 kcal |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Carbohydrates | 24 g |
| Fiber | 7 g |
| Fat | 28 g |
| Saturated Fat | 9 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Sodium | ~780 mg |
Values may vary based on toppings and portion size.
FAQ Section
Q: Can I store leftovers?
Yes! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Q: How do I reheat it?
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave for 1–2 minutes.
Q: Can I roast the Brussels sprouts instead?
Absolutely. Roast at 200°C (400°F) for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway.
Q: Is this recipe healthy?
Yes! Brussels sprouts are high in fiber and vitamins, and you can control fat by using less bacon.
Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, just skip the cheese.
Wrap-Up
This Warm Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Dinner Bowl proves that simple ingredients can create big comfort flavors. It’s cozy, filling, and endlessly customizable — the kind of meal you’ll crave again and again.
Fun fact: Brussels sprouts taste sweeter when cooked properly because heat breaks down their natural bitterness — which is why crispy edges make all the difference.
If you want a bowl that feels like a warm hug after a long day, this one’s it 🥓🥬✨
