Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Balsamic is a delicious side dish that your whole family will love. This easy oven-roasted recipe combines the savory crunch of roasted Brussels sprouts with the smoky flavor of bacon, all topped with a tangy balsamic glaze, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
Brussels sprouts, a fall vegetable favorite, are transformed into crispy goodness with this recipe. The combination of roasted Brussels sprouts, crispy bacon, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze makes for a crave-worthy side dish that pairs well with any main course.
Historically, Brussels sprouts have been enjoyed for their unique flavor and nutritional benefits, making them a staple in many households.
Why We Love This Recipe:
- Crispy Texture: Roasting the Brussels sprouts creates a satisfying crunch.
- Savory and Sweet Combination: The bacon adds a savory depth, while the balsamic glaze provides a touch of sweetness.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses basic pantry staples for a quick and easy preparation.
- Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for family dinners, holiday meals, or entertaining guests.
If you like this side dish, you may also love our Easy Rainbow Roasted Carrots Recipe or our Crispy Garlic Parmesan Green Beans.
Jump to:
What Ingredients Will You Need?
- Brussels sprouts: Choose fresh, firm Brussels sprouts for the best results.
- Bacon: Opt for thick-cut bacon for a heartier texture.
- Olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a rich flavor.
- Salt and pepper: Season to taste for the perfect balance of flavors.
- Balsamic glaze: A store-bought glaze works well, or make your own by reducing balsamic vinegar.
Note: Refer to the recipe card below for exact quantities.
Instructions
How to Make Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Balsamic
STEP ONE: Prepare the Brussels sprouts
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Trim the stems, halve the Brussels sprouts, and dry them thoroughly. Toss the Brussels sprouts in a large mixing bowl with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
STEP TWO: Cook the bacon
While preparing the Brussels sprouts, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease and chop into small pieces.
STEP THREE: Roast the Brussels sprouts
Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until crispy and caramelized.
STEP FOUR: Combine and serve
Once the Brussels sprouts are done roasting, transfer them to a serving dish. Sprinkle the cooked bacon pieces over the top. Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.
What Are Some Good Substitutions?
- Bacon: Use turkey bacon or pancetta for a different flavor.
- Balsamic glaze: Substitute with a honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness.
- Olive oil: Replace with avocado oil or melted coconut oil for a unique taste.
How Can You Change This Recipe Up?
- Diet: Make it vegetarian by omitting the bacon and adding toasted nuts.
- Flavor: Add a sprinkle of garlic powder before roasting or top with Parmesan cheese.
- Spice: Sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
- Equipment: Try using an air fryer for an even crispier texture.
What Kitchen Equipment Is Best?
This post shows some of our kitchen essentials. Please visit our shop if you would like to see more of our favorites. These are Amazon affiliate links and we earn commission from qualifying purchases.
- Baking sheet
- Large mixing bowl
- Skillet
- Paper towels
How Should You Store This?
Store any leftover crispy Brussels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This dish is not freezer-friendly.
Note: Refer to Top Tips below for more storage and reheating tips.
What Are Some Expert Tips?
For the crispiest Brussels sprouts, they should be thoroughly dried before roasting.
Cut the Brussels sprouts evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
For an added layer of flavor, try tossing the Brussels sprouts with a bit of garlic powder before roasting.
To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
More Recipes You'll Love ♥️
Have Leftover Ingredients?
- Use leftover Brussels sprouts in our Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad.
- Add chopped bacon to scrambled eggs for a hearty breakfast.
- Drizzle leftover balsamic glaze over a Burrata Caprese.
Need Something To Pair This With?
- Pair this dish with a juicy roasted turkey for Thanksgiving dinner.
- Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting dinner.
- Complement with a glass of crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.
In The Mood For a Similar Dish?
- Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus Bundles
- Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Parmesan and Garlic Aioli
- Green Beans with Almonds
- Caramelized Carrots
- Caramelized Sweet Potatoes Recipe
- Cheesy Broccoli and Cauliflower Bake
Related
More side dish recipes you will love:
FAQ
To keep Brussels sprouts crispy after roasting, spread them out on a baking sheet instead of piling them up. This allows the air to circulate around them, maintaining their crispiness. You can also reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to restore their texture.
For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, a dash of red pepper flakes for heat, or a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for sweetness. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can also enhance the dish.
To reduce bitterness in Brussels sprouts, make sure to roast them at a high temperature, which helps to caramelize their natural sugars. Additionally, using a bit of olive oil and salt can enhance their flavor, and pairing them with ingredients like bacon and balsamic glaze can balance out any remaining bitterness.
📖 Recipe
Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Balsamic: Easy Oven-Roasted Recipe
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Skillet
- Paper towels
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts trimmed, halved, and dried
- 4-6 slices of bacon
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- salt and pepper to taste
- balsamic glaze for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Trim the stems, halve the Brussels sprouts, and dry them thoroughly. In a large mixing bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the Brussels sprouts are crispy and caramelized.
- While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Chop into small pieces.
- Once the Brussels sprouts are done roasting, transfer them to a serving dish. Sprinkle the cooked bacon pieces over the top.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.
Notes
- Bacon: Use turkey bacon or pancetta for a different flavor.
- Balsamic glaze: Substitute with a honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness.
- Olive oil: Replace with avocado oil or melted coconut oil for a unique taste.
Nutrition
Crispy Brussels sprouts with bacon and balsamic are a delicious and easy side dish that your family will love.
Try this recipe today, and don't forget to share your results and explore more of our related posts!
Important Food Safety Tips
Always wash Brussels sprouts thoroughly before use. Cook bacon to a safe internal temperature to avoid foodborne illness. Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
- Create a clean work area.
- Wash hands after touching raw meat or seafood.
- Rinse fresh produce thoroughly.
- Do not use the same cutting board or utensils on cooked food or produce, that previously touched raw meat or seafood.
- Do not leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods.
- Never leave cooking food unattended.
- Use oils with a high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds.
- Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove.
See more guidelines at USDA.gov.
Comments
No Comments