If you’re searching for a dish that’s both irresistibly flavorful and simple to prepare, look no further than the Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe. This dish perfectly balances the earthy bite of Brussels sprouts with the smoky crunch of bacon, all elevated by the tangy sweetness of balsamic vinegar and a hint of maple syrup. It’s one of those recipes that feels gourmet but cooks up quickly, making it a fantastic side for any meal or even a hearty snack you’ll find yourself craving time and time again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward yet essential: each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this dish so delightful. From the fresh green Brussels sprouts to the rich, savory bacon and the subtle bitterness dancing with sweet balsamic and maple syrup, every element counts.
- 1 ½ pounds Brussels sprouts (trimmed and halved): Choosing fresh, firm sprouts ensures a crunchy-tender bite when roasted.
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon (chopped into 1” pieces): Thick-cut bacon renders deliciously crispy and adds smoky depth.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Helps to roast the sprouts evenly and adds a rich mouthfeel.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the natural flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional but highly recommended): Adds a gentle, caramelized sweetness that beautifully contrasts the savory notes.
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional, finish at the end): Brings brightness and a touch of acidity that lifts the entire dish.
How to Make Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large sheet pan with parchment paper. The high heat is key for roasting the Brussels sprouts to a perfect crisp while allowing the bacon fat to render beautifully without sticking to the pan.
Step 2: Trim and Halve the Brussels Sprouts
Trim off the ends of the Brussels sprouts and peel away any loose outer leaves. Slice each sprout in half to expose more surface area, which helps them caramelize and crisp up during roasting.
Step 3: Oil and Season
Drizzle the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, then sprinkle kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper over them. Toss everything together until each sprout is coated. This step ensures every bite bursts with flavor and perfectly roasted texture.
Step 4: Scatter the Bacon Pieces
Scatter the chopped bacon evenly over the Brussels sprouts on the pan without mixing. This placement lets the bacon fat slowly melt and infuse itself into the sprouts as everything roasts, creating layers of savory goodness.
Step 5: Roast Until Tender and Crispy
Pop your sheet pan into the oven and roast for approximately 25 to 30 minutes. Be sure to stir once halfway through to promote even roasting. When done, the Brussels sprouts should be tender with golden, crispy edges, and the bacon will be beautifully browned and crisp.
Step 6: Add the Final Touches
If you’re feeling adventurous, toss the roasted Brussels sprouts and bacon lightly with maple syrup for a touch of sweetness, then drizzle with balsamic vinegar right before serving. The balsamic adds a sophisticated depth that will make this dish unforgettable.
How to Serve Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe
Garnishes
For a fresh pop, top with toasted walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and nutty flavor. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or crumbled goat cheese can also add luscious creaminess that plays nicely with the dish’s tangy and smoky notes.
Side Dishes
This Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled steaks, or even a simple pan-seared fish. It’s a fantastic vegetable side that complements hearty mains perfectly and can elevate any weeknight dinner or holiday feast alike.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these sprouts over a bed of creamy polenta or tossed with cooked quinoa for a vibrant, colorful bowl. You can even chop and mix them into warm pasta for an unexpected, flavor-packed meal that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, though the sprouts won’t be quite as crisp as when freshly roasted.
Freezing
While you can freeze the leftovers for up to a month, keep in mind the texture may soften after thawing. For best results, freeze the Brussels sprouts and bacon separately if possible, and reheat them together later.
Reheating
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to regain some crispiness or spread leftovers on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
Frozen Brussels sprouts can be used in a pinch, but they release more moisture and won’t roast up as crispy. If using frozen, make sure to dry them thoroughly before roasting.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Absolutely! You can omit the bacon and add a smoky touch with smoked paprika or smoked salt, or toss in toasted nuts for crunch.
Can I prepare this recipe without maple syrup?
Yes, the maple syrup is optional but really enhances the balance of flavors with its sweetness. If you skip it, consider adding a pinch of brown sugar to mimic that caramelized note.
What type of balsamic vinegar works best?
Use a good-quality balsamic vinegar, preferably one that isn’t too thick or too sweet, to maintain a nice tangy brightness without overwhelming the other ingredients.
How do I ensure the Brussels sprouts cook evenly?
Cutting the sprouts in half exposes tender insides and allows them to caramelize nicely. Stirring once during roasting also ensures even cooking and browning on all sides.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making and savoring this Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe as much as I do. It’s truly one of those dishes that elevates any meal with its delightful balance of textures and flavors. Give it a try — your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon recipe combines tender, caramelized Brussels sprouts with crispy bacon, finished with a touch of sweet maple syrup and tangy balsamic vinegar for a deliciously balanced side dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 ½ pounds Brussels sprouts (trimmed and halved)
Meat
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon (chopped into 1” pieces)
Other Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional but highly recommended)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional, finish at the end)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large sheet pan with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
- Prepare Brussels Sprouts: Trim the ends from the Brussels sprouts, remove any loose outer leaves, then slice each sprout in half. Spread them evenly across the prepared sheet pan.
- Season and Oil: Drizzle the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, then toss until all sprouts are evenly coated with oil and seasoning.
- Add Bacon: Scatter the chopped bacon pieces evenly over the Brussels sprouts without mixing them in. This allows the bacon fat to render and flavor the sprouts during roasting.
- Roast: Roast the Brussels sprouts and bacon in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring once halfway through cooking. Roast until the sprouts are tender with crispy edges and the bacon is golden and cooked through.
- Finish with Maple Syrup and Balsamic Vinegar: Remove from the oven and while still hot, optionally toss the sprouts with maple syrup for a hint of sweetness. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar to add brightness and depth of flavor, then serve immediately.
Notes
- You can omit the maple syrup and balsamic vinegar if you prefer a more savory dish.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the pan to ensure even roasting and crispiness.
- If thick-cut bacon is unavailable, regular bacon can be used but may cook faster, so adjust roasting time accordingly.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated but are best enjoyed fresh for optimal crispness.
