Instant Pot Brussels Sprouts with Crispy Bacon

Hey there, friends! If there’s one vegetable that I’ve seen go from “ugh, do I have to eat that?” to “I’ll take seconds, please!” it’s brussels sprouts. And when you pair these roasted gems with smoky, crispy bacon and the magic touch of the Instant Pot, you’ve got yourself a side dish that’s wholly irresistible. Plus, it comes together in no time thanks to our favorite kitchen gadget.

**If you’re looking for a quick, hearty, and downright delicious way to turn brussels sprouts into a family-favorite dish, this recipe is calling your name!**

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s lightning-fast: Seriously, we’re talking under 30 minutes from start to finish.
• Bacon makes everything better, and this recipe is no exception.
• Perfect for meal prep or a dinner party side dish—it fits every occasion.
• The Instant Pot does the heavy lifting, so you barely have to think about it after prep!

Ingredients Breakdown

Essentials

• Brussels Sprouts (1 lb): Fresh is best! Look for bright green sprouts with tight leaves. Halve or quarter them depending on their size.
• Bacon (4-5 slices): Go for thick-cut for the ultimate smoky, crispy bites. Turkey bacon works too if you prefer!
• Chicken Stock (1/2 cup): Adds moisture and a savory punch. You can substitute with vegetable broth.
• Garlic (2-3 cloves, minced): Because garlic makes everything better!
• Salt & Pepper: Simple, yet essential for balanced seasoning.

Pro Tips

• Want a vegetarian twist? Leave out the bacon and swap the stock for veggie broth. Add a pinch of smoked paprika for that hint of bacon-y flavor.
• If using frozen brussels sprouts, be sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how we’re turning humble brussels sprouts into an Instant Pot masterpiece:

1. Sizzle the Bacon: Set your Instant Pot to Sauté mode. Once hot, add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, stirring occasionally. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
2. Toss in minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
3. Add Brussels Sprouts: Stir your halved brussels sprouts into the pot, letting them mingle with the garlic and bacon drippings for about 2-3 minutes. This step builds that irresistible flavor base.
4. Add Stock & Cook: Pour in the chicken stock, give everything a stir, and secure the Instant Pot lid. Set to Manual (High Pressure) for 3 minutes.
5. Quick Release & Crisp: Once cooked, do a quick pressure release. Open the lid, give the sprouts a gentle stir, and select Sauté mode again. Let everything cook for another 2-3 minutes to evaporate any excess liquid and develop some caramelization.
6. Bring Back the Bacon: Stir the crispy bacon back into the pot just before serving, saving a handful for garnishing if you’d like.

Chef’s Tips and Tricks

• Crispier Sprouts: Craving extra crunch? After cooking, pop the sprouts under a broiler for 3-4 minutes.
• Avoid Overcooking: Stick to the 3-minute pressure cooking time to keep the sprouts tender, not mushy.
• Make It a Meal: Toss these brussels sprouts with some cooked pasta or serve over creamy polenta for a hearty dish.

Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
• Kid-Friendly: Try drizzling with honey or a balsamic glaze to bring out a sweet-savory vibe.
• Perfect Pairings: Serve alongside roast chicken, steak, or even a stuffed acorn squash for a balance of flavors.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet to bring back some crispiness.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

I wouldn’t recommend it—brussels sprouts can get a bit mushy when thawed. This dish is best enjoyed fresh!

My sprouts turned out soggy. What went wrong?

Likely overcooking or too much liquid. Stick to the recommended cook time and be sure to sauté off excess liquid after pressure cooking.

Printable Recipe Card

There you have it—proof that brussels sprouts deserve a spot on your regular rotation! If you try this out and fall in love (trust me, you will), drop a comment below or snap a photo and share with #TheKitchensAid. I’d love to see your creations!