Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe – Easy & Delicious Side Dish
Roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon is a flavorful and crispy side dish that combines the earthy taste of Brussels sprouts with the savory, smoky flavor of bacon. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also a great way to get picky eaters to enjoy these nutrient-rich vegetables. The caramelization of the Brussels sprouts as they roast in the oven, combined with the crispiness of the bacon, makes this a crowd-pleasing recipe perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday meal or a casual dinner, this dish will quickly become a favorite.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe – Easy & Delicious Side Dish
Nutrition:
- Calories: 250 per serving
- Carbs: 15g
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 9g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Vitamins & Minerals: High in Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and Folate
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.)
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Equipment:
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Knife and cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Large spoon for tossing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Active Time: 30 minutes
Resting Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Course: Side Dish
Cuisines: American, Mediterranean
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Brussels sprouts: Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Cook the bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it becomes crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon from the pan and set aside. Leave about 1 tablespoon of rendered bacon fat in the pan for added flavor (you can discard the rest or save for another use).
- Season the Brussels sprouts: Drizzle the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, and add minced garlic, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Toss the Brussels sprouts in the oil and seasonings until well coated.
- Roast the Brussels sprouts: Spread the Brussels sprouts evenly on the prepared baking sheet, cut-side down for a crispy texture. Roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the Brussels sprouts are golden brown and crispy on the edges.
- Add bacon: Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted, toss them with the crispy bacon and a splash of balsamic vinegar (if desired) for added flavor. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if you like. Serve hot as a side dish to your favorite main course!
Tips:
- For an extra crispy texture, ensure the Brussels sprouts are spread in a single layer on the baking sheet, avoiding overcrowding.
- If you prefer a more intense flavor, drizzle the Brussels sprouts with a bit more balsamic vinegar before serving.
- For a lower-fat version, consider using turkey bacon instead of regular bacon.
This roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon recipe is a perfect combination of flavors and textures, making it a delightful addition to any meal. The smoky bacon complements the slightly bitter Brussels sprouts, resulting in a deliciously balanced dish.
I am Ashley Doyle, Senior Specialist in Food & Policy at The Humane Society of the United States and editor at airfryermama.com. I am passionate about transforming our global food system by promoting delicious, climate-friendly, plant-based foods. After transitioning from law to food and public policy, I now work with major food service companies to develop plant-based initiatives and animal welfare policies. My goal is to drive institutional change to combat climate change and improve our food system.