If you are on the lookout for a side dish that packs bold flavors and a delightful combination of textures, look no further than this Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe. The roasted Brussels sprouts come out tender and caramelized, with crispy edges that contrast beautifully with the salty, smoky bacon. The subtle sweetness from a touch of maple syrup and the tangy brightness of balsamic vinegar elevate every bite, making it a hands-down favorite for family dinners and holiday feasts alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward yet each plays a crucial role in making this dish sing. From the fresh greens and savory bacon to the balancing act of sweet and tangy touches, every single one brings something special to your plate.
- Brussels sprouts (1 ½ pounds, trimmed and halved): The star of the show—roasts to crispy perfection while staying tender inside.
- Thick-cut bacon (8 slices, chopped into 1” pieces): Adds smoky, salty richness and delicious crispy texture.
- Olive oil (3 tablespoons): Helps everything roast evenly and develops that golden crust.
- Kosher salt (1 teaspoon): Seasoning that enhances the natural flavors and balances bitterness.
- Maple syrup (1 tablespoon, optional but highly recommended): Adds a subtle sweetness that contrasts beautifully with savory elements.
- Balsamic vinegar (1 tablespoon, optional, to finish): Provides a tangy punch and depth that brightens the dish.
How to Make Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C), an ideal temperature for roasting to get those Brussels sprouts nice and crispy. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper; it makes cleanup a breeze and helps prevent sticking as the natural sugars caramelize.
Step 2: Prep the Brussels Sprouts
Trim off the ends of the Brussels sprouts and peel away any loose or damaged outer leaves. Slice each sprout in half so they roast evenly and develop a beautiful golden-brown crust on the cut sides when cooking.
Step 3: Coat and Season
Drizzle the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil and sprinkle with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss everything until the sprouts are evenly coated—this step ensures they roast up moist inside with a perfectly crisp exterior.
Step 4: Add Bacon
Scatter chopped thick-cut bacon pieces over the Brussels sprouts without mixing them in right away. This allows the bacon fat to render down and seep into the sprouts while roasting, infusing them with incredible smoky flavor.
Step 5: Roast to Perfection
Place the pan in the oven and roast for 25 to 30 minutes. Make sure to stir halfway through so everything cooks evenly. You’ll want to see the Brussels sprouts tender with deeply browned edges and the bacon crisped to a perfect golden brown.
Step 6: Finish with Sweetness and Tang
As the final flourish, if you like a touch of sweetness and an extra layer of complexity, toss the hot Brussels sprouts with maple syrup and drizzle balsamic vinegar over the top. These simple additions transform the dish from delicious to downright irresistible.
How to Serve Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe
Garnishes
To add even more appeal and flavor, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or thyme leaves over the dish just before serving. A few toasted walnuts or pecans can provide a delightful crunch, and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds a savory finish that complements the bacon and balsamic beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, pork tenderloin, or a juicy steak. It also holds its own alongside grain bowls or creamy mashed potatoes, balancing richness with its bright, smoky character.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish family-style on a rustic wooden board for a casual feel or arrange the Brussels sprouts alongside a nest of fluffy quinoa or wild rice for an elegant plated presentation. Adding edible flowers or microgreens on top can elevate the visual appeal, perfect for special occasions!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Brussels sprouts and bacon in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh and delicious for up to three days, making them easy to enjoy as a quick side or snack.
Freezing
If you want to keep this dish longer, you can freeze it. Spread the cooled sprouts and bacon on a baking sheet first for flash freezing, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They keep well for up to two months and thaw quickly.
Reheating
To retain the original crispiness, reheat leftovers in a hot oven at 400°F (205°C) for about 10 minutes rather than microwaving. This refreshes the texture and brings out the wonderful roasted flavors as if freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use regular vinegar instead of balsamic?
You can substitute with red wine or apple cider vinegar, but balsamic vinegar’s sweet and tangy profile complements the Brussels sprouts and bacon best, making the dish truly special.
Is it necessary to add maple syrup?
Maple syrup is optional but highly recommended because it adds a subtle sweetness that balances the bitterness of the sprouts and the saltiness of the bacon beautifully.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Skip the bacon and add toasted nuts or smoked paprika for depth. Roasting the Brussels sprouts with olive oil and seasoning alone is still delicious.
What if I don’t have thick-cut bacon?
Regular bacon works fine too—just chop it similarly. The key is crispiness and rendered fat to flavor the Brussels sprouts.
How do I know when the Brussels sprouts are done?
They should be tender when pierced with a fork and have crispy, golden-brown edges. The bacon should also be nicely browned and crisp.
Final Thoughts
This Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe quickly became one of my absolute favorites because it transforms humble veggies into a mouthwatering, crave-worthy side that’s bursting with flavor. I hope you give it a try and find it just as delightful at your table!
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
A delicious and easy recipe for Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with crispy bacon, enhanced with a touch of maple syrup and balsamic vinegar for a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors. This nutritious side dish makes an excellent accompaniment to any meal and is roasted to achieve tender sprouts with crispy edges and golden bacon.
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 the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large sheet pan with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup after roasting.
- Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts, remove any loose outer leaves, and cut them in half. Spread them evenly on the prepared sheet pan to allow for even roasting.
- Season and Toss: Drizzle the Brussels sprouts with olive oil and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss them well to ensure every piece is evenly coated with oil and seasoning.
- Add the Bacon: Scatter the chopped thick-cut bacon pieces evenly over the Brussels sprouts without mixing, so the bacon fat can slowly render during roasting.
- Roast the Mixture: Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and roast for 25 to 30 minutes. Stir the sprouts and bacon once halfway through the cooking time to promote even browning and crispness. The sprouts should be tender with crispy edges and the bacon golden and cooked through.
- Finish with Maple Syrup and Balsamic Vinegar: Once roasted, if desired, toss the hot Brussels sprouts with a tablespoon of maple syrup for a subtle sweetness. Finish by drizzling a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar over the dish to add brightness and depth.
Notes
- For crispier Brussels sprouts, spread them in a single layer without overcrowding the pan.
- Use thick-cut bacon for the best texture and flavor.
- Maple syrup and balsamic vinegar are optional but highly recommended for a balanced sweet and tangy flavor.
- This dish can be prepared ahead; reheat in a hot oven to retain crispness.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially if using salted bacon.
