Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Bacon

Name: Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Bacon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved; 4 strips of bacon, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)

Highlighted under: Vitality Kitchen

I absolutely love making Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon because it's a delightful combination of flavors that always leaves everyone wanting more. The crispy bacon adds a savory, smoky touch that perfectly complements the earthy sweetness of the Brussels sprouts. I often prepare this dish for family gatherings or festive dinners, and it never fails to impress. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up! You can have them ready in no time while serving up a healthy veggie.

Created by

Eliza Thornton

Last updated on 2026-02-08T01:52:38.374Z

When I first tried roasting Brussels sprouts with bacon, I was amazed at how beautifully the flavors melded together. The technique of roasting not only caramelizes the natural sugars in the sprouts but also crispifies the bacon, creating a satisfying texture profile. I usually toss the sprouts in olive oil and sprinkle some salt before adding them to the oven; this helps them achieve that golden-brown finish that makes them irresistible.

One tip I learned along the way is to use parchment paper on the baking sheet. It not only prevents sticking but also makes cleanup a breeze! This dish has become a go-to in my kitchen because it combines ease with a gourmet touch, making it perfect for any occasion.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crispy, savory bacon that enhances the Brussels sprouts flavor
A perfect balance of textures—from crunchy to tender
Quick and easy prep, great for weeknight dinners or special occasions

Mastering the Roast

Roasting Brussels sprouts can be tricky, as you want them perfectly tender without being mushy. Make sure to toss them with olive oil thoroughly, ensuring every piece is well-coated. This not only enhances flavor but promotes even cooking. When roasting, look for a golden-brown color with slightly charred edges, which will indicate caramelization and a deeper flavor. Don't rush the toss halfway through; it helps in achieving even browning and crispiness.

If you find that the Brussels sprouts are browning too quickly, consider reducing the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) for the remainder of the cooking time. This adjustment can help you achieve the desired tenderness without burning. Additionally, be cautious not to overcrowd the baking sheet; leaving space between the sprouts allows hot air to circulate, which leads to that coveted crispy texture.

Bacon: The Flavor Bomb

Using a good quality bacon is crucial for this recipe, as it significantly impacts the overall flavor profile. I recommend opting for thick-cut bacon, as its added fat component will render beautifully during roasting, creating crisp, flavorful bits that clings to the Brussels sprouts. Remember that thinner bacon might cook faster and could easily burn. If you're seeking a healthier option, turkey bacon can also work; just keep an eye on the roasting time since it may not render as much fat.

When adding the bacon to the sprouts, consider layering it both on top and beneath the Brussels sprouts on the baking sheet. This technique allows the bacon drippings to seep down and flavor the sprouts further. Mixing half of the bacon bits in with the sprouts while keeping some for the top can create a delightful texture contrast, ensuring every bite is packed with that smoky goodness.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for a delicious side dish!

Ingredients

1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
4 strips of bacon, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)

Feel free to adjust the bacon amount or add your favorite seasonings!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon!

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare Brussels Sprouts

In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well-coated.

Add Bacon

Spread the Brussels sprouts on the prepared baking sheet and sprinkle the chopped bacon on top.

Roast

Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the Brussels sprouts are tender and the bacon is crispy, tossing halfway through.

Serve

If desired, drizzle with balsamic vinegar before serving for an extra flavor boost!

Enjoy your delicious and crispy Brussels sprouts!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese just before serving.

Ingredient Variations

Feel free to customize the recipe according to your palate. For instance, if you're not a fan of Brussels sprouts, substitute them with green beans or asparagus, adjusting the cooking time accordingly. These vegetables also respond well to roasting but may require a shorter cook time. You can experiment with adding different herbs or spices, such as garlic powder or smoked paprika, to elevate the dish's flavor profile.

For a tangy twist, you might want to include some grated Parmesan cheese during the last 5 minutes of roasting. This addition will melt beautifully and create a savory crust. Additionally, if you're aiming for a healthier version, consider using a drizzle of balsamic glaze after roasting instead of balsamic vinegar, adding a sweet and tangy finishing touch.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This dish is perfect for prepping ahead of time. You can wash and trim the Brussels sprouts up to two days in advance; just keep them stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For optimal flavor, consider pre-cooking the bacon in advance. Just be careful not to cook it fully during pre-cooking; you want it partially crispy to finish roasting with the sprouts later on.

Leftover roasted Brussels sprouts can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat them, simply toss them in a hot skillet for a few minutes until warmed through. This method revives their crispiness, avoiding the soggy texture that often happens in the microwave. You can also add a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of cheese to freshen them up when serving the leftovers.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can omit the bacon and roast the Brussels sprouts with olive oil and your favorite seasoning for a delicious vegetarian option.

→ What can I serve with roasted Brussels sprouts?

These Brussels sprouts pair wonderfully with roasted meats, such as chicken or pork, or can be served as part of a hearty vegetarian meal.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results!

→ Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

While fresh Brussels sprouts yield the best results, you can use frozen. Just ensure they are thawed and drained before cooking.