We’ve always been fans of transforming humble veggies into crowd-pleasers, and our take on the Lazy Dog Brussels Sprout recipe does just that. It’s a simple twist on a restaurant favorite that brings out the sprouts’ crispy goodness with minimal fuss, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Brussels sprouts might have had a tough reputation in the past, but we’re confident this easy recipe will win you over. With bold flavors and straightforward steps, it’s perfect for anyone looking to add a healthy, delicious side to their table without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
In our Lazy Dog-inspired Brussels Sprouts recipe, we focus on simple, fresh ingredients that deliver bold flavors and a crispy texture with minimal prep. Below, we list the ingredients in the order they’re used, including any necessary preparation notes for accuracy and ease.
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved to ensure even roasting and maximize their natural crunch
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, used for coating to promote caramelization and enhance the sprouts’ earthy taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced, added early for infusing a pungent aroma that complements the sprouts’ bitterness
- 4 strips bacon, chopped, incorporated for smoky depth and to create a savory contrast against the vegetables
- 1 teaspoon salt, adjusted to taste for balancing flavors without overwhelming the dish
- ½ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground, for a subtle kick that highlights the recipe’s Lazy Dog essence
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional), drizzled at the end to add a tangy sweetness if desired for an extra layer of complexity
This selection transforms ordinary Brussels sprouts into a standout side that’s both nutritious and irresistible, perfect for quick weeknight meals.
Equipment Needed
Before we dive into preparing our flavorful Lazy Dog-inspired Brussels sprouts, let’s ensure we have the essential tools on hand. These items help us achieve that perfect crispy texture and bold flavors with minimal fuss.
To make the process smooth and efficient, we’ll need the following equipment. We’ve organized them in the order they might be used during preparation:
- Baking sheet: A large, rimmed one for roasting the Brussels sprouts to golden perfection in the oven.
- Chef’s knife and cutting board: For trimming and halving the Brussels sprouts quickly and safely.
- Mixing bowl: A medium-sized one to toss the ingredients together, ensuring even coating with olive oil and seasonings.
- Skillet or frying pan: Preferably non-stick, for cooking the bacon and garlic to add that smoky aroma.
- Measuring spoons: To accurately measure out items like olive oil and seasonings for consistent results.
- Oven mitts: For safely handling hot pans and transferring our dish in and out of the oven.
- Tongs or spatula: For flipping and serving the Brussels sprouts without damaging their crispy exterior.
With these tools ready, we’re set to transition seamlessly from gathering ingredients to cooking up a dish that will make Brussels sprouts the star of any meal.
Instructions
Now that we have our fresh ingredients and tools lined up, let’s transform those Brussels sprouts into a crispy, flavorful side dish inspired by the Lazy Dog restaurant. We’ll walk you through each step with precision for effortless, mouthwatering results.
Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
First, we start by prepping our star ingredient—the Brussels sprouts—to ensure even cooking and maximum flavor absorption. Gather 1 pound of trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts, along with 3 cloves of minced garlic, 4 strips of chopped bacon, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and seasonings like salt and black pepper.
Follow these steps for preparation:
- Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts: Using a chef’s knife and cutting board, remove any tough outer leaves from the Brussels sprouts and cut off the stem ends. Slice each sprout in half lengthwise to create even pieces that will crisp up perfectly in the oven.
- Mince the garlic: Peel and finely chop 3 cloves of garlic to release their aromatic essence, which will infuse the dish with a bold, savory punch.
- Chop the bacon: Slice 4 strips of bacon into small, uniform pieces to ensure they cook evenly and add a smoky, irresistible crunch.
- Toss ingredients together: In a mixing bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts, minced garlic, chopped bacon, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste, tossing everything until evenly coated for that caramelized finish.
Cook the Brussels Sprouts
Once prepped, we move on to cooking, where the magic happens—roasting to achieve that golden, crispy texture that makes this Lazy Dog Brussels Sprout Recipe a standout. Preheat your oven to 425°F and have your large rimmed baking sheet ready.
Here’s how we bring it all together:
- Arrange on the baking sheet: Spread the tossed Brussels sprouts mixture evenly on the baking sheet, ensuring the pieces aren’t overcrowded for optimal browning and crispiness.
- Roast in the oven: Place the sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through with tongs to promote even caramelization. The sprouts should emerge tender on the inside with a crispy, charred exterior that delivers a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor.
- Add finishing touches: If desired, remove from the oven and drizzle with a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy sweetness that elevates the dish’s bold flavors and balances the smokiness from the bacon.
| Step | Time (minutes) | Temperature (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| Roasting | 20-25 | 425 |
| Stirring midpoint | 10 | 425 |
Make-Ahead Instructions
As we wrap up our step-by-step guide to the Lazy Dog-inspired Brussels sprouts recipe, let’s explore how to make this dish even more convenient for busy schedules. Preparing components ahead of time ensures that our crispy, caramelized sprouts retain their bold flavors and textures, making weeknight meals a breeze without sacrificing that irresistible smokiness from the bacon and garlic.
Prepping Ingredients in Advance
We recommend prepping the key elements up to 24 hours before cooking to save time and keep everything fresh:
- Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts: Start by washing and trimming 1 pound of Brussels sprouts, then halve them. This step allows the sprouts to absorb flavors more effectively during roasting.
- Mince the garlic: Finely mince 3 cloves of garlic and store it in an airtight container to preserve its pungent aroma.
- Chop the bacon: Dice 4 strips of bacon into small pieces, which adds that signature smokiness we love in this recipe.
Storing for Later
To maintain the vibrant crunch and flavors of our Lazy Dog Brussels sprouts, proper storage is essential. Use the following guidelines to keep ingredients or the prepped mixture ready:
| Component | Storage Method | Duration | Tips for Freshness |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prepped Brussels sprouts, garlic, and bacon mixture | Place in an airtight container or sealed bag in the refrigerator | Up to 24 hours | Pat the sprouts dry to prevent sogginess and maintain their crisp texture when roasted. |
| Tossed mixture (with oil and seasonings) | Store in a bowl covered with plastic wrap in the fridge | Up to 12 hours | Toss gently before storing to ensure even coating, preserving the caramelization potential. |
Reheating and Finishing Touches
When you’re ready to cook, we can quickly transform our make-ahead prep into a delicious side:
- Remove the prepped ingredients from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to enhance roasting efficiency.
- Toss the mixture with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and black pepper in a large mixing bowl, ensuring every sprout is coated for that golden, crispy finish.
- Spread on a rimmed baking sheet and roast at 425°F for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through to achieve even browning and a nutty aroma.
- For an extra flavor boost, drizzle with balsamic vinegar right after roasting to add a tangy sweetness that elevates the dish’s appeal.
By following these straightforward steps, we ensure our Lazy Dog Brussels sprouts recipe stays effortless and flavorful, ready to impress at any gathering.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this take on Lazy Dog Brussels sprouts, turning a humble veggie into something truly irresistible. It’s a go-to for us when we want flavor without the fuss.
Next time you’re in the kitchen, whip this up and enjoy the crisp results. We’re sure it’ll become a staple in your routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Lazy Dog Brussels sprouts recipe?
This recipe is a simple, delicious way to prepare Brussels sprouts, inspired by the Lazy Dog restaurant. It transforms these veggies into a crispy, flavorful side dish that’s easy for weeknight dinners or gatherings, highlighting bold flavors and health benefits with minimal effort.
What ingredients are needed for Lazy Dog Brussels sprouts?
You’ll need 1 pound of trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 3 cloves of minced garlic, 4 strips of chopped bacon, salt, and black pepper. An optional balsamic vinegar drizzle adds tangy sweetness for extra flavor.
What equipment is required for this recipe?
Essential tools include a large rimmed baking sheet for roasting, a chef’s knife for trimming and chopping, a mixing bowl for tossing ingredients, and a non-stick skillet if needed. These items make preparation straightforward and efficient.
How do I prepare Lazy Dog Brussels sprouts?
Start by trimming and halving the Brussels sprouts, mincing garlic, and chopping bacon. Toss with olive oil, seasonings, and roast on a baking sheet at 425°F for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through for even crispiness.
Can I make Lazy Dog Brussels sprouts ahead of time?
Yes, prep ingredients like trimmed sprouts, minced garlic, and chopped bacon up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in the fridge in airtight containers to maintain freshness, then let them reach room temperature before roasting.
How long does it take to cook Lazy Dog Brussels sprouts?
The cooking time is 20-25 minutes in a preheated oven at 425°F. Remember to stir halfway through for even browning, making it a quick and easy side dish for any meal.
Are there any tips for making this recipe even better?
For extra flavor, drizzle balsamic vinegar before serving. Use fresh ingredients for the best taste, and ensure even-sized sprouts for uniform cooking. This dish pairs well with proteins and can be customized with herbs or nuts for variety.