Crispy Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts are a given at my family's holiday meals. Try this version of crispy brussels sprouts with bacon and balsamic drizzle.

Brussels sprouts are always served at my family's holiday turkey dinners.  They are traditionally served boiled with some butter spread on top.  While I will always love the way my family serves brussels sprouts at family dinners, I decided to try something different.

First, shred the brussels sprouts and sear in a skillet.  I then add sliced bacon and shallots to this dish.  Finally, drizzle balsamic glaze over the brussels sprouts to finish.  These flavors blend together perfectly, and the sprouts are crispy!

How to Make the Best Crispy Brussels Sprouts

While the full recipe instructions are available below, here are some tips to make the best brussels sprouts side for your small batch Christmas dinner!

• Sprouts: I recommend shredding your brussels sprouts for this dish.  This is important because it drastically reduces the cooking time for your sprouts.  It also helps to get that crispy sear on your sprouts!  To save time shredding your brussels sprouts, I highly recommend using the handheld slicer by OXO.  It is my favorite kitchen gadget right now, and I cannot stop raving about it!
• Bacon: adding sliced bacon cubes to the skillet before the shallots and sprouts.  This is important, because it adds a ton of flavor to the dish.  I recommend cooking the bacon until it is crispy before adding the other ingredients.  Once the bacon is crispy, add the shallots and cook until the shallots are softened.  Then it is time to sear the sprouts!
• Balsamic: once you have finished cooking your brussels sprouts, transfer them from the skillet to a serving dish.  Once the sprouts have cooled a little, drizzle some balsamic glaze over them.  This will bring the flavors in this dish to a whole other level.  You now have a side dish that could actually be a star of your holiday feast!

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