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
Scale
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.
