Southern-Inspired Brussels Sprouts with Crispy Bacon

Brussels sprouts are cooked to tender perfection and paired with crispy bacon for a delicious Southern twist. Easy to make and full of flavor, this dish is sure to become a family favorite at any meal.

★★★★★5(2 reviews)Updated: Mar 31, 2026

Prep Time 15 min

Cook Time 35 min

Total Time 50 min

Difficulty Medium

Ingredients 0/7

1 pound thick-cut smoked bacon 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 ½ pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved salt and ground black pepper to taste 2 large sweet yellow onions, sliced 1 (15 ounce) can cream-style corn 5 sprigs fresh thyme, stemmed

What Makes This Dish So Tasty

This dish combines the natural earthiness of Brussels sprouts with the smoky crunch of bacon. It’s a perfect blend of flavors and textures that feels both comforting and satisfying. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy a vegetable that some people often overlook.

Pro Kitchen Tips

- Make sure to trim the Brussels sprouts evenly so they cook at the same rate.
- Cook the bacon first and use the rendered fat to sauté the sprouts for extra flavor.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure the sprouts get nicely browned and crispy.

Step 1

Gently heat your oven to 450°F. While it’s warming up, slice the bacon into thin strips about a quarter-inch thick. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the bacon until it’s nice and crispy, which should take around 5 to 7 minutes. Once done, take the bacon out and set it on a paper towel to drain, but keep the flavorful drippings in the pan.

Step 2

Toss the Brussels sprouts with salt, pepper, and a good drizzle of those bacon drippings. Spread them out on a baking sheet and pop them in the oven for about 15 minutes. After that, switch your oven to the broiler and broil the sprouts for 5 or 6 minutes until they get a little charred and extra tasty.

Step 3

While the sprouts are roasting, go back to your skillet with the bacon drippings and add the onions. Cook them slowly over medium heat, stirring now and then, until they turn golden and caramelized—this usually takes 15 to 20 minutes.

Step 4

When the Brussels sprouts are done, add them to the skillet with the onions along with the corn and fresh thyme. Give everything a good stir and let it all cook together for about 5 minutes until everything’s warmed through. Finally, toss the crispy bacon back in right before serving for that perfect crunch.

Serving Ideas

Serve this as a side alongside roasted chicken or grilled pork chops. It also pairs well with creamy mashed potatoes or cornbread for a true Southern-inspired meal. A drizzle of balsamic glaze can add a nice touch of sweetness.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet to keep the bacon crispy and the sprouts tender, rather than using a microwave which can make them soggy.

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By Ayesha Khan

Home Cooking Expert

Ayesha shares simple recipes with clear steps to help you cook confidently at home.