These roasted Brussels sprouts are bursting with flavor, thanks to crispy bacon! The sprouts turn tender and caramelized while the bacon adds a delicious crunch.
I love serving these with my dinner, and they disappear quickly! They are super easy to make and make any meal feel special. Plus, who can resist bacon? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brussels Sprouts: Fresh Brussels sprouts are best for this recipe. If you can’t find them, you can substitute with broccoli florets for a similar texture, though the flavor will be different.
Bacon: I love using thick-cut bacon for its chewiness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey bacon or pancetta would work too. For a vegetarian version, try smoked tempeh or mushrooms for that savory taste.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds great flavor, but any cooking oil like avocado or melted coconut oil would also be suitable. Just keep in mind that coconut oil may impart a slight coconut taste.
Balsamic Vinegar: While optional, it really enhances the dish. If you don’t have it, substituting with apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the flavors.
How Do I Roast Brussels Sprouts to Get Them Perfectly Crisp?
To achieve beautifully roasted Brussels sprouts, it’s important to follow a few key steps. Here’s how:
- Set your oven to a high temperature, around 400°F (200°C). This helps create a nice caramelization.
- Make sure to cut the Brussels sprouts in half. This increases their surface area, allowing them to crisp up nicely.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet! Spacing them out helps steam escape and promotes browning.
- Stir halfway through cooking for even roasting. This also ensures all sides get that lovely golden color.
Following these tips will give you delightful, crispy Brussels sprouts every time!
How to Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Bacon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Brussels Sprouts: 1 ½ pounds, trimmed and halved
- Bacon: 6 slices, chopped
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon, freshly ground
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced (optional)
- Balsamic Vinegar: 1 tablespoon (optional, for finishing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to roast. In total, you should expect to spend around 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and satisfying side dish for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature helps to get the Brussels sprouts nice and crispy!
2. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:
In a large bowl, add your trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts. Drizzle the olive oil over the sprouts, and sprinkle on the salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss everything together until the sprouts are well coated—this helps them roast evenly and gain flavor!
3. Arrange on a Baking Sheet:
Spread the Brussels sprouts out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Make sure not to overcrowd them to ensure they roast properly.
4. Add the Bacon:
Evenly scatter the chopped bacon pieces over the Brussels sprouts. The bacon will crisp up and flavor the sprouts beautifully as they roast.
5. Roast in the Oven:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for about 25 to 30 minutes. Be sure to stir the mixture halfway through to promote even roasting. You’ll know they’re done when the sprouts are tender and caramelized, and the bacon is crispy!
6. Add Garlic (Optional):
If you’re using garlic, add the minced garlic to the baking sheet during the last 5 minutes of roasting. This will prevent the garlic from burning while still infusing a wonderful aroma and flavor.
7. Finish and Serve:
Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted to perfection, remove them from the oven. If you like, drizzle a little balsamic vinegar over the top for an extra burst of flavor. Toss gently to combine everything, and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon!
These Brussels sprouts make a fantastic side dish any day of the week, and they’re sure to impress your family and friends!
Can I Use Frozen Brussels Sprouts for This Recipe?
While fresh Brussels sprouts are best for roasting, you can use frozen ones in a pinch! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess moisture before roasting to avoid sogginess.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
No problem! Simply skip the bacon and instead use olive oil along with a smoky seasoning, like smoked paprika or liquid smoke, to replicate that savory flavor. You can also add nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch!
Can I Prepare These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can trim and halve the Brussels sprouts and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before roasting. Just toss them with the oil, salt, and pepper right before roasting. This makes meal prep a breeze!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through for that crispy texture again.