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 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved; 4 slices thick-cut bacon, diced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)

Highlighted under: Feel-Good Flavors

I absolutely love making Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon because it brings together the rich, savory flavors of crispy bacon and caramelized sprouts. This dish has become a staple in my kitchen, especially during cooler months when I crave something hearty yet healthy. The combination of textures—tender sprouts contrasted with the crunch of bacon—makes every bite a delight. Plus, it's so simple to prepare, making it an ideal side dish for any meal or even a snack on its own. You'll find yourself going back for seconds!

Created by

Veronica Miles

Last updated on 2026-02-08T01:49:36.272Z

When I first tried roasting Brussels sprouts, I was amazed at how their flavor transformed. The high heat caramelizes the natural sugars, creating a deliciously complex taste that perfectly complements the smoky bacon. I often use thick-cut bacon for extra crispiness, which takes the dish over the top!

One tip I’ve learned is to spread the sprouts out on the baking sheet for even cooking. If they’re overcrowded, they’ll steam instead of roast, and we definitely want that beautiful caramelization. The result is a side dish that disappears in minutes!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crispy bacon enhances the earthy flavor of the Brussels sprouts
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners
A great source of vitamins while still being indulgent

Maximizing Flavor and Texture

To achieve that perfect balance of crispness and tenderness, it’s essential to roast the Brussels sprouts with the cut side facing down on the baking sheet. This technique allows the flat surface to caramelize beautifully, resulting in those delightful golden edges. Keep an eye on them during the last five minutes; you want them to maintain their structure while the bacon gets crispy, creating a harmonious bite with contrasting textures.

Choosing thick-cut bacon is crucial for this dish. Not only does it provide a more pronounced smoky flavor, but its texture holds up better during roasting. If you prefer a healthier option, turkey bacon can also be used. While it won’t render as much fat, you can add a splash of olive oil to ensure your Brussels sprouts don’t dry out during the cooking process.

Serving and Storage Tips

These Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon can be served immediately as a delectable side dish or a tasty snack on their own. They pair wonderfully with a variety of entrees, such as roasted chicken or grilled steak, providing a satisfying contrast to heartier meals. For a more gourmet touch, serve them on a bed of creamy polenta or alongside a bright citrus salad, freshening the dish with additional layers of flavor.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating is best done in an oven for about 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to regain that crispy texture. Avoid the microwave, as it can make the sprouts soggy—nobody wants that! This dish is also great for meal prep; you can roast a large batch and enjoy them throughout the week.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Bacon

Ingredients

1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
4 slices thick-cut bacon, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)

These simple ingredients come together to create a wonderfully flavorful dish.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure the sprouts roast perfectly.

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts and diced bacon. Drizzle with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper.

Spread on Baking Sheet

Spread the mixture evenly on a baking sheet, ensuring the sprouts are cut-side down for maximum caramelization.

Roast

Place in the oven and roast for 20-25 minutes until the sprouts are golden and the bacon is crispy.

Serve

Optionally, drizzle with balsamic vinegar for extra flavor before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon!

Pro Tips

For an added twist, try adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese during the last few minutes of roasting for a cheesy finish!

Ingredient Swaps and Variations

Feel free to experiment with the flavors by adding additional ingredients like garlic cloves or shallots for an aromatic touch. Tossing in some red pepper flakes can add a pleasant kick, balancing the saltiness of the bacon. For a vegetarian alternative, consider omitting the bacon entirely and using smoked paprika or liquid smoke to replicate that savory depth, while using olive oil for richness.

If you prefer a different green, asparagus or green beans can be substituted for Brussels sprouts, following the same roasting guidelines. Regular cabbage can also be used, although it will require a longer cooking time to soften. Just remember to adjust the timing accordingly to ensure everything is perfectly cooked.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue when roasting Brussels sprouts is uneven cooking, which often results from overcrowding the baking sheet. It’s vital to give them space to roast properly; if needed, use two sheets to avoid steaming instead of roasting. A good rule of thumb is to ensure the sprouts are in a single layer without touching each other for even caramelization.

Another potential problem is undercooked or overly tough sprouts. If you find that the centers aren't tender after the recommended roasting time, consider giving them an extra 5-10 minutes in the oven. If they’re browned on the outside but still firm inside, try pre-steaming or blanching in boiling water for a minute before roasting. This step can speed up their cooking process, ensuring they turn out perfectly tender while still crispy on the outside.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! You can substitute the bacon with smoked tempeh or omit it entirely for a vegetarian version.

→ How can I know when the Brussels sprouts are done?

They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside while tender on the inside. Use a fork to check tenderness.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients ahead, but it's best to roast them just before serving to maintain their crispness.

→ What other seasonings can I add?

Feel free to experiment with garlic powder, red pepper flakes, or even a squeeze of lemon for a zesty kick!