Description
Sizzling bacon-wrapped grilled brussels sprouts deliver smoky, crispy perfection from backyard cookouts. Crisp bacon and charred sprouts create an irresistible side dish you cannot resist trying at your next barbecue.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb (454 g) Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved if large
- 10–12 slices bacon, cut in half
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 tbsps maple syrup or balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)
- Toothpicks (to secure bacon)
Instructions
- Preparation: Meticulously trim Brussels sprouts by removing tough stem ends and discolored outer leaves, ensuring each vegetable appears vibrant and fresh.
- Seasoning: Craft a robust flavor blend by combining olive oil with garlic powder, paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl, thoroughly coating each Brussels sprout for comprehensive flavor infusion.
- Bacon Wrapping: Slice bacon strips in half and carefully envelop each seasoned sprout, securing with wooden toothpicks to maintain the compact bundle during cooking.
- Grill Setup: Preheat outdoor grill to medium-high temperature, lightly oil grates to prevent sticking and create optimal searing conditions for crispy bacon and caramelized vegetables.
- Grilling Process: Arrange bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts on the grill using indirect heat, rotating periodically to ensure uniform browning and thorough cooking for 15-20 minutes.
- Finishing Touch: In the final grilling moments, optionally brush with maple syrup or balsamic glaze to elevate flavor complexity and add a glossy sheen.
- Serving: Remove from grill when bacon achieves a golden-brown crispness and Brussels sprouts display a tender interior with slightly charred edges, ready to be served immediately.
Notes
- Prep Brussels Sprouts Carefully: Remove any damaged outer leaves and trim stems to ensure even cooking and attractive presentation.
- Season Generously: Mix olive oil with bold spices like garlic powder and paprika to intensify flavor profile and create a robust seasoning layer.
- Bacon Wrapping Technique: Use half-strips of bacon and secure with toothpicks to prevent unraveling, ensuring crispy, even coverage around each sprout.
- Grill Temperature Control: Maintain medium-high heat and use indirect grilling method to render bacon fat slowly while preventing burning and achieving perfect caramelization.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 7
- Calories: 202
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 22 mg