If you love a dish that brings together crispy texture, smoky richness, and a tangy touch, then the Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe is your new go-to side dish. This recipe perfectly balances the caramelized edges of oven-roasted Brussels sprouts with savory, crisp bacon, all uplifted by a hint of sweet maple syrup and a splash of balsamic vinegar. Whether you’re serving this at a family dinner or a holiday feast, these Brussels sprouts will no doubt steal the spotlight and have everyone reaching for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this dish right is all about the simplicity and quality of your ingredients. Each one plays an essential role in creating the perfect harmony of flavors, from the hearty crunch of Brussels sprouts to the luscious notes brought by bacon and balsamic vinegar.
- Brussels sprouts (1 ½ pounds): Trimmed and halved for even roasting and delightful crispiness.
- Thick-cut bacon (8 slices): Chopped into 1-inch pieces to render rich, smoky flavor throughout the dish.
- Olive oil (3 tablespoons): Helps the Brussels sprouts crisp up beautifully while adding a subtle fruity richness.
- Kosher salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the veggies and bacon.
- Maple syrup (1 tablespoon, optional): Adds a touch of sweetness that complements the savory and tangy notes perfectly.
- Balsamic vinegar (1 tablespoon, optional): Drizzled at the end for a bright depth that ties the whole dish together.
How to Make Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to a sizzling 425°F (220°C), which is perfect for roasting to achieve that coveted crispy edge. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper – this keeps cleanup easy and ensures nothing sticks to the pan while the magic happens.
Step 2: Prep the Brussels Sprouts
Trim the ends off each sprout and peel away any loose outer leaves that may be bruised or wilted. Cut each sprout in half so they cook evenly and develop those irresistible browned edges. Spread them out evenly on your prepared sheet pan to roast perfectly.
Step 3: Season and Toss
Drizzle the Brussels sprouts generously with olive oil, then sprinkle with kosher salt and fresh ground pepper to season every bite. Toss everything together with your hands or tongs until each sprout shines with a light coat of oil and seasoning.
Step 4: Scatter the Bacon
Now, scatter the chopped bacon evenly over the top of the Brussels sprouts. Resist the urge to mix; keeping them separate allows the bacon fat to slowly render down and infuse the sprouts with smoky goodness as they roast.
Step 5: Roast Until Perfect
Place the sheet pan in the oven and roast for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring once halfway through to ensure even cooking. You’ll notice the sprouts soften, caramelize, and develop crispy edges, while the bacon turns a gorgeous golden brown. This is exactly the texture and flavor balance you want.
Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches
Once roasted, if you’re feeling adventurous, toss your hot Brussels sprouts with a little maple syrup for a subtle sweetness that complements the smoky bacon. Then drizzle with balsamic vinegar to add brightness and a touch of acidity that rounds out the flavors beautifully. Serve immediately for maximum enjoyment.
How to Serve Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme work wonderfully as garnishes. They add a fresh pop of color and herbal fragrance that contrast nicely with the rich bacon and balsamic glaze. For a little crunch, consider sprinkling toasted walnuts or pecans over the top.
Side Dishes
This Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe pairs beautifully with roasted meats like pork loin, grilled chicken, or even a juicy steak. Mashed potatoes or a creamy risotto also make for a comforting accompaniment that highlights the savory, tangy flavors of the sprouts.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve your Brussels sprouts in a rustic cast-iron skillet right from the oven, letting the sizzling aroma greet your guests. Alternatively, create a composed salad with the roasted sprouts, crumbled goat cheese, and dried cranberries for a festive twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld nicely overnight, making it an excellent make-ahead side for busy weeknights.
Freezing
Though not ideal, you can freeze your roasted Brussels sprouts if needed. Place completely cooled sprouts and bacon in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible. For best texture, consume within 1 month and thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating
To reheat, spread the sprouts and bacon on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes. This helps revive their crispness better than the microwave, ensuring they stay deliciously crunchy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
While fresh Brussels sprouts roast best with a crisp texture, you can use frozen ones in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw and pat them dry thoroughly to avoid sogginess before roasting.
Is the maple syrup necessary?
The maple syrup is optional but highly recommended. It adds a subtle sweetness that beautifully balances the smoky bacon and tangy balsamic, creating layers of flavor.
What if I don’t eat pork? Can I skip the bacon?
Absolutely! You can omit bacon and toss in toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts for crunch and richness. Adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika can add smoky depth too.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Substitute bacon with plant-based bacon alternatives or simply add extra olive oil and smoked spices. Finish with the balsamic vinegar and maple syrup to keep the flavor profile vibrant.
How do I know the Brussels sprouts are done?
They should be tender when pierced with a fork and have crispy, golden edges. The bacon should be fully crisp and sizzling, which usually takes about 25 to 30 minutes at 425°F (220°C).
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to elevate your vegetable game, the Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe is a must-try that’ll delight your taste buds and impress your dinner guests. It’s a celebration of bold, comforting flavors wrapped in one beautiful, easy-to-make dish. Dive in and enjoy every savory, tangy, crispy bite!
Print
Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4.5 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Description
Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon is a deliciously savory side dish featuring tender Brussels sprouts roasted to perfection alongside crispy bacon. Enhanced with a touch of maple syrup and finished with balsamic vinegar, this recipe offers a perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors. Ideal for a comforting family meal or holiday dinner, these Brussels sprouts bring a flavorful twist to your vegetable repertoire.
Ingredients
Brussels Sprouts
- 1 ½ pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
Bacon
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped into 1-inch pieces
Seasonings and Extras
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional but highly recommended)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional, to finish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large sheet pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup, ensuring an even roasting surface for the Brussels sprouts and bacon.
- Prepare Brussels Sprouts: Trim the ends off the Brussels sprouts, remove any loose outer leaves, then slice each sprout in half for even cooking and maximum caramelization.
- Toss with Oil and Seasoning: Spread the halved Brussels sprouts evenly on the lined sheet pan. Drizzle with olive oil, season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, then toss gently until all sprouts are well coated.
- Add Bacon: Scatter the chopped thick-cut bacon pieces evenly over the Brussels sprouts without stirring. This allows the bacon fat to render slowly and infuse the sprouts with smoky flavor during roasting.
- Roast: Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and roast for 25 to 30 minutes. Halfway through cooking, stir the Brussels sprouts and bacon once to ensure even roasting, until the sprouts are tender with crispy edges and the bacon is golden brown.
- Optional Finishing Touches: Remove the pan from the oven and, if desired, toss the hot Brussels sprouts with the maple syrup for a hint of sweetness. Finish by drizzling with balsamic vinegar to add brightness and depth of flavor before serving.
Notes
- Using thick-cut bacon adds texture and robust flavor; turkey bacon can be a lighter alternative but may produce less fat for roasting.
- Do not mix bacon with Brussels sprouts before roasting, so bacon fat renders properly and crisps up.
- Maple syrup and balsamic vinegar are optional but highly recommended to balance savory and sweet flavors.
- For extra crispiness, place Brussels sprouts cut-side down on the baking sheet.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in a skillet or oven for best texture.
