If you’re looking for a dish that bursts with flavor, warmth, and a little bit of savory crunch, you’re going to love this Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe. The caramelized edges of the Brussels sprouts paired with crispy bacon create the perfect balance of textures, while the subtle sweetness of maple syrup and tang of balsamic vinegar transform this humble vegetable into a star side dish. It’s easy to prepare, irresistibly delicious, and will quickly become your go-to for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet thoughtfully chosen to bring out the best in every bite. Each component highlights different flavors and textures, making this recipe a crowd-pleaser that feels both cozy and gourmet.
- 1 ½ pounds Brussels sprouts (trimmed and halved): Fresh and firm sprouts ensure tenderness and caramelization when roasted.
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon (chopped into 1” pieces): Adds smoky, crispy goodness that complements the earthiness of the Brussels sprouts.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Helps the sprouts roast evenly and develop that golden finish.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the ingredients’ natural flavors.
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional but highly recommended): A touch of sweetness that balances the savory and bitter notes.
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional, finish at the end): Adds a bright, tangy depth to finish the dish beautifully.
How to Make Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lining a large sheet pan with parchment paper. This not only prevents sticking but makes cleanup a breeze—something we all appreciate after a delicious meal.
Step 2: Trim and Halve the Brussels Sprouts
Trim off the tough ends of your Brussels sprouts and peel away any loose outer leaves. Then, slice them cleanly in half to ensure even roasting and that perfect tender interior with crispy outsides.
Step 3: Season the Brussels Sprouts
Place your prepared sprouts on the sheet pan, then drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Toss everything together until every sprout is coated, which helps them roast evenly and taste incredible.
Step 4: Add the Bacon
Scatter the chopped thick-cut bacon right on top of your Brussels sprouts, but resist the urge to toss again. This allows the bacon to slowly render its fat, infusing the sprouts with rich, smoky flavor as everything cooks.
Step 5: Roast to Perfection
Put the pan in the oven and roast for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring once halfway through. You’ll know they’re done when the Brussels sprouts are tender with beautifully crisped edges and the bacon pieces turn golden and delightfully crispy.
Step 6: Finish with Sweetness and Tang
If you’re feeling ambitious, toss the hot sprouts and bacon with a tablespoon of maple syrup for a hint of sweetness that contrasts wonderfully with the savory notes. A drizzle of balsamic vinegar right before serving brings out a layer of brightness and complexity that makes this Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe truly irresistible.
How to Serve Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe
Garnishes
For a little extra flair, consider sprinkling toasted pecans or sliced almonds on top to add crunch. A scattering of freshly chopped parsley or chives adds a pop of fresh color and an herbaceous hint that livens up the dish.
Side Dishes
This recipe works beautifully alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a simple pasta dish. The combination of smoky bacon and tangy balsamic means it complements both meat-heavy and vegetarian meals with ease.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Brussels sprouts directly from the sheet pan for a rustic vibe or arrange them neatly on a warmed platter for more formal occasions. Garnishing with edible flowers or a swirl of balsamic glaze can turn this everyday favorite into a show-stopping plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. This dish keeps well for up to 3 days without losing too much flavor, making it a perfect option for meal prep or next-day sides.
Freezing
While freezing roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon isn’t ideal due to texture changes, you can freeze the components separately. Store cooked bacon and blanched Brussels sprouts in separate freezer bags for up to 2 months and reheat together for convenience.
Reheating
For best results, reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat or in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes to regain that crispy exterior. Microwaving can work in a pinch but may leave them a bit soggy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
Fresh Brussels sprouts are best for roasting because they crisp up nicely. You could try frozen if thawed and patted dry, but the texture might be softer and less caramelized.
What if I don’t have maple syrup?
Don’t worry! While maple syrup adds a lovely sweetness, you can substitute honey or leave it out entirely and still enjoy wonderful flavor from the balsamic vinegar and bacon.
Is there a vegetarian substitute for the bacon in the Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe?
Absolutely! Try smoked tempeh or coconut bacon for a vegetarian option that still provides smoky crunch. Just chop and cook them similarly to bacon before roasting.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time and reheat before serving?
Yes, you can roast the Brussels sprouts and bacon ahead and gently reheat as described. Adding the maple syrup and balsamic vinegar fresh before serving will keep those flavors vibrant.
How do I make the Brussels sprouts extra crispy?
Make sure your oven is fully preheated to 425°F, don’t overcrowd the pan, and toss the Brussels sprouts with enough olive oil. Stirring halfway through helps develop even crispiness.
Final Thoughts
This Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe truly transforms a classic vegetable into a standout dish that’s full of flavor, texture, and character. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple. Give it a try—you’ll wonder how you ever made Brussels sprouts any other way!
Print
Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon recipe combines crispy, caramelized Brussels sprouts with savory, crispy bacon. Finished with a hint of maple syrup and a splash of balsamic vinegar, this dish offers a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors, making it a delightful side for any meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Meat
- 1 ½ pounds Brussels sprouts (trimmed and halved)
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon (chopped into 1” pieces)
Seasonings and Condiments
- 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 facilitate easy cleanup.
- Prepare Brussels sprouts: Trim the ends from the Brussels sprouts, remove any loose outer leaves, and slice them in half. Spread them evenly on the prepared sheet pan.
- Season the sprouts: Drizzle the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, then toss until they are evenly coated.
- Add the bacon: Scatter the chopped bacon pieces over the Brussels sprouts without stirring or mixing. This allows the bacon fat to render properly as it cooks.
- Roast the dish: Roast in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring once halfway through cooking. The Brussels sprouts should be tender with crispy edges and the bacon golden and crisp.
- Finish with maple and balsamic: If desired, toss the hot roasted Brussels sprouts and bacon with maple syrup for a light sweetness, then drizzle with balsamic vinegar for added brightness and depth of flavor.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh Brussels sprouts and thick-cut bacon for richer flavor and texture.
- If you prefer a stronger balsamic flavor, add more balsamic vinegar to taste after roasting.
- This dish can be made ahead and reheated in the oven to retain crispiness.
- Maple syrup is optional but adds a lovely touch of sweetness that complements the savory bacon.
- Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and simplify cleanup.
