If you are on the hunt for a dish that perfectly balances savory, sweet, and tangy flavors, then the Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe is absolutely a must-try. This dish takes humble Brussels sprouts and transforms them with the smoky goodness of crispy bacon, a splash of rich balsamic vinegar, and a touch of maple syrup to create a spectacular harmony of tastes. It’s a festive, vibrant side that pairs beautifully with weeknight dinners or holiday feasts, promising to convert even the most hesitant sprouts eater into a devoted fan.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is half the joy of cooking, and with this recipe, it’s wonderfully simple. Each component contributes uniquely: from the crispiness of bacon to the tangy sweetness brought by balsamic vinegar, all culminating in a dish full of color and irresistible aroma.
- Brussels sprouts (1 ½ pounds): Fresh and firm, trimmed and halved to ensure even roasting and a beautiful caramelized crust.
- Thick-cut bacon (8 slices): Chopped into 1-inch pieces to deliver smoky, crispy bites throughout the dish.
- Olive oil (3 tablespoons): Coats the sprouts for roasting, helping them crisp up while adding a smooth richness.
- Kosher salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances the natural flavors and balances the sweetness and tang.
- Maple syrup (1 tablespoon, optional): Adds a subtle sweetness that contrasts perfectly with savory bacon.
- Balsamic vinegar (1 tablespoon, optional): A finishing touch that brightens and deepens the flavor profile with its rich acidity.
How to Make Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to a toasty 425°F (220°C). This high heat is crucial for getting the Brussels sprouts wonderfully crispy on the outside while keeping them tender inside. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper—it makes cleanup a breeze and ensures your sprouts don’t stick.
Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Trim the ends off the Brussels sprouts and peel away any loose outer leaves; this prevents bitterness and keeps your bites tender. Next, slice each sprout in half to maximize the caramelized edges when roasting. Spread them evenly across your prepared pan to ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Season and Coat
Drizzle the Brussels sprouts generously with olive oil, then sprinkle with kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper. Toss them well right on the pan or in a bowl to coat every bite, which gives them an irresistibly crisp skin once roasted.
Step 4: Add the Bacon
Scatter the chopped bacon on top of the veggies without stirring it in just yet. This technique lets the bacon render its fat slowly, basting the Brussels sprouts as they cook and infusing the entire dish with smoky umami magic.
Step 5: Roast to Perfection
Pop the pan into the oven and roast for 25 to 30 minutes. Halfway through, give everything a good stir to ensure the sprouts cook evenly and soak up that wonderful bacon flavor. You’re looking for tender sprouts with crispy, golden edges and perfectly browned bacon pieces.
Step 6: Final Flavors
After roasting, while still hot, drizzle the Brussels sprouts with a tablespoon of maple syrup if you want a light sweetness that complements the bacon’s saltiness. Finally, toss with balsamic vinegar to introduce a bright and complex tang that lifts the entire dish to next-level deliciousness.
How to Serve Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or thyme to add vibrant color and fresh herbal notes that contrast beautifully with the richness of the balsamic roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon recipe. Toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts add delightful crunch and an extra layer of flavor complexity.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs gorgeously with roasted meats such as chicken, pork, or beef, making it a fantastic companion for any hearty entree. For a vegetarian twist, serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a tangy quinoa salad to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
To impress your guests, serve the Brussels sprouts warm in a rustic wooden bowl or a vibrant ceramic dish that highlights their caramelized edges. You could also top with crumbled goat cheese or a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds for festive flair and a burst of freshness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover balsamic roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon recipe keeps nicely in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, though you may want to reheat gently to keep the sprouts tender and bacon crispy.
Freezing
While roasting fresh is best, you can freeze leftovers by placing them in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Keep in mind that freezing may slightly soften the sprouts, so this is best for saving a quick side dish rather than for pristine texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a hot oven or air fryer to restore crispiness—about 10 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make both bacon and Brussels sprouts soggy and less appetizing.
FAQs
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
While fresh Brussels sprouts roast best, you can use frozen ones if you thaw and dry them thoroughly first. Keep in mind they may not caramelize as well and can become a bit mushier in texture.
Is it necessary to add maple syrup and balsamic vinegar?
Both ingredients are optional but highly recommended because they create a wonderful balance of sweet and tangy flavors that elevate this dish from delicious to unforgettable.
What if I don’t eat pork or bacon?
You can substitute bacon with smoked turkey bacon or even crispy pancetta. For vegetarian options, try smoked tempeh or mushrooms for a similar smoky texture and depth.
How spicy is this dish?
This recipe is naturally mild, making it suitable for all palates. You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes before roasting if you prefer a little heat.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can prep the Brussels sprouts and bacon ahead, store them separately, and combine right before roasting for up to a day. Roasting fresh is best for optimum texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
The Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and endlessly versatile—perfect for weeknights or entertaining guests. I can’t wait for you to try it and watch it become a cornerstone of your kitchen favorites, just like it is in mine.
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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 tender, caramelized Brussels sprouts with crispy, flavorful bacon, enhanced by a touch of maple syrup and balsamic vinegar for a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors. It’s an effortless oven-roasted side dish that makes a delicious addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 ½ pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
Meats
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped into 1-inch pieces
Seasonings and Condiments
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 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 to ensure easy cleanup after roasting.
- Prepare Brussels Sprouts: Trim off the ends of the Brussels sprouts, remove any loose or damaged outer leaves, and slice them in half. Spread the halved Brussels sprouts evenly across the prepared sheet pan.
- Season Brussels Sprouts: Drizzle the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, sprinkle with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, then toss them gently to ensure all the pieces are evenly coated with the oil and seasoning.
- Add Bacon: Scatter the chopped bacon pieces over the Brussels sprouts without mixing. This allows the bacon fat to render slowly during roasting, infusing flavor throughout the dish.
- Roast: Place the sheet pan in the oven and roast for 25 to 30 minutes. Stir once halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. You want the Brussels sprouts tender with crispy, caramelized edges, and the bacon golden and crispy.
- Finish and Serve: If desired, toss the hot Brussels sprouts and bacon with maple syrup to add a subtle sweetness. Finish by drizzling balsamic vinegar over the dish to provide brightness and depth of flavor just before serving.
Notes
- Using thick-cut bacon ensures a better texture and flavor impact in the dish.
- Removing loose outer leaves from Brussels sprouts helps achieve a crispier texture while roasting.
- Maple syrup is optional but recommended to balance the savory and tangy flavors.
- Balsamic vinegar should be added at the end to preserve its bright acidity.
- For a spicier version, consider adding red pepper flakes when seasoning.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.
