Savory Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Skewers

Name: Savory Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Skewers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 16 oz Brussels sprouts, trimmed; 8 slices thick-cut bacon, cut in half; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Skewers (wooden or metal)

Highlighted under: Satisfying Meals

I absolutely love grilling, and these Savory Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Skewers are a delightful way to combine smoky flavors with fresh veggies. Whenever I prepare these skewers, I’m reminded of the perfect summer barbecues with friends and family. The combination of crispy bacon and tender Brussels sprouts brings together a unique flavor profile that’s hard to resist. It’s a crowd-pleaser at parties, and they are surprisingly easy to put together. Trust me, once you try these skewers, you won’t want to go back to plain Brussels sprouts!

Created by

The Laurascookbook Team

Last updated on 2026-02-11T16:25:27.710Z

When I first experimented with Brussels sprouts on the grill, I was blown away by how the heat transformed their natural bitterness into a sweet, nutty flavor. Wrapping them in bacon not only elevates the taste but also adds an exciting crunch that my dinner guests always rave about. I usually go for thick-cut bacon, as it crisps beautifully and complements the sprouts perfectly.

One tip that I’ve found helpful is to parboil the Brussels sprouts for a few minutes before skewering them. This ensures they are tender and can absorb the smoky flavors while still holding their shape on the grill. Everyone loves the combination, and I can never make enough of these skewers!

Why You'll Love These Skewers

The smoky flavor of bacon perfectly complements the earthy Brussels sprouts.
Crispy texture combined with a juicy interior makes each bite satisfying.
A fun and interactive dish that’s great for grilling season or any occasion.

Maximizing Flavor with Bacon

The type of bacon you choose plays a significant role in the overall flavor of these skewers. I recommend using a thick-cut bacon for its higher fat content, which crisps up beautifully on the grill and provides a perfect contrast to the tender Brussels sprouts. Additionally, consider experimenting with flavored bacon, such as hickory or applewood smoked, to amplify the smoky notes in your dish. Just remember that the saltiness of the bacon will season the sprouts, so be cautious with additional salt until you’ve tested a bite.

Another fun tip is to partially cook the bacon ahead of time. Precooking the bacon for about 3-4 minutes in the microwave can ensure it gets crispy on the grill without overcooking the Brussels sprouts. This method also allows you to achieve a perfect balance between the bacon and sprouts without worrying about the sprouts becoming too mushy. Just be sure to wrap the bacon around the sprouts while the bacon is still pliable to make it easier to thread onto skewers.

Perfect Grilling Techniques

Grilling these skewers requires a medium-high heat to ensure that the bacon gets crispy without burning and the sprouts become tender. A tip I find helpful is to oil the grill grates beforehand to prevent sticking. You can use a paper towel soaked in olive oil, held with tongs, to lightly coat the grates. This small step can save you from the frustration of food that clings to the grill.

Turning the skewers occasionally is key to achieving an even cook. Aim for a golden brown color on the bacon and grill marks on the sprouts, which will usually take about 10 minutes. If you notice that the bacon is cooking faster than the sprouts, lower the heat slightly or move them to a cooler part of the grill. This technique ensures all components are cooked just right and enjoy the best texture.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

16 oz Brussels sprouts, trimmed
8 slices thick-cut bacon, cut in half
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Skewers (wooden or metal)

Make sure to prepare your ingredients ahead of time for a smoother cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create delicious skewers:

Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the Brussels sprouts and cook for 5 minutes, then drain and pat dry.

Season the Sprouts

In a mixing bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

Assemble the Skewers

Take a piece of bacon and wrap it around each Brussels sprout. Thread 4-5 wrapped sprouts onto each skewer.

Grill the Skewers

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove the skewers from the grill, let them cool for a couple of minutes, and then serve warm as a delicious appetizer or side dish.

Enjoy your savory skewers with your favorite dip or dressing!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, marinate the Brussels sprouts in your favorite sauce for an hour before wrapping them in bacon.

Serving Suggestions

These Savory Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Skewers make an excellent appetizer, but you can elevate your serving game by pairing them with a homemade dipping sauce. A balsamic glaze, ranch dressing, or garlic aioli would enhance the flavor profile beautifully. For a fun twist, serve them on a platter with grilled fruits like pineapple or peaches for a contrast of flavors and colors.

If you're hosting a larger gathering, consider grouping multiple skewers together on a beautiful serving platter alongside a charcuterie board. This will not only provide a wonderful visual presentation but also encourage guests to mix and match flavors, creating their own unique bites.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftover skewers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, I recommend using the oven or an air fryer to maintain their crispy texture. Simply place them on a baking sheet and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.

For make-ahead options, you can prep the skewers a few hours in advance. Just assemble the wrapped Brussels sprouts and bacon, then cover and refrigerate until you're ready to grill. This strategy allows you to save time during your grilling session and ensures even the busiest of hosts can present a delicious, freshly grilled dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular bacon instead of thick-cut?

Yes, but the cooking time may vary, and they might not develop the same level of crispiness.

→ Can I make these skewers ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the skewers ahead of time and refrigerate them. Just grill when ready to serve.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with these skewers?

Honey mustard, ranch, or a balsamic glaze are excellent choices to complement the flavors.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven for best results.