Lemony Brussels Sprouts With Bacon and Breadcrumbs

Ingredients for Lemony Brussels Sprouts With Bacon and Breadcrumbs

• 1.1kg brussels sprouts, trimmed

• 110g slab bacon or pancetta (Italian bacon), coarsely chopped

• 45ml olive oil, divided, plus more for serving

• 110g coarse fresh breadcrumbs

• 1 small Fresno chilli, seeds removed, finely chopped

• 1 tablespoon thyme leaves

• 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest

• Kosher salt

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, divided

How to make Lemony Brussels Sprouts With Bacon and Breadcrumbs

Remove outer leaves from brussels sprouts; set aside. Halve sprouts; set aside. Pulse bacon in a food processor until finely ground. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium-low. Cook bacon, stirring often, until browned around edges and fat is rendered, about 4 minutes. Add breadcrumbs and cook, stirring often, until brown and crisp, about 5 minutes. Transfer breadcrumb mixture to paper towels and let cool slightly. Toss in a medium bowl with chilli, thyme, and lemon zest; set aside.

Increase heat to medium-high and heat 2 tablespoons oil in same skillet. Add reserved halved brussels sprouts; season with salt. Cook, tossing occasionally, until deeply browned all over, 5–8 minutes. Reduce heat to low, cover skillet, and cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Uncover skillet, add reserved leaves and 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and toss to combine. Cover skillet and cook, tossing occasionally, until leaves are bright green and just wilted, 4–5 minutes. Uncover; add remaining 1 tablespoon lemon juice and season with salt.

Transfer brussels sprouts to a platter, drizzle with more oil, and top with reserved breadcrumb mixture (reheat breadcrumb mixture if needed in a small skillet or in microwave).

Breadcrumb mixture can be made 3 hours ahead; store uncovered at room temperature. Brussels sprouts (without leaves) can be cooked 2 hours ahead; store covered at room temperature. Reheat before adding leaves.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.