Name: Roasted Brussels Sprouts Bacon: 40-Minute Marvel
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved; 4 slices thick-cut bacon, diced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Roasted brussels sprouts bacon has become my go-to side dish for literally any meal, and I’m so excited to share this simple recipe with you! I first discovered how amazing this combo could be on a chilly autumn evening years ago. The aroma of the bacon sizzling and the sprouts caramelizing in the oven filled my kitchen, and I knew I’d stumbled upon something special. This dish delivers that perfect balance of savory, slightly sweet, and wonderfully crispy textures that will make everyone ask for seconds. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Roasted Brussels Sprouts Bacon

This dish is a game-changer for weeknight dinners and holiday feasts alike. Here’s why you’ll be making it again and again:

Irresistible Flavor: The salty, crispy bacon perfectly complements the slightly sweet, caramelized Brussels sprouts.
Incredibly Easy: With minimal prep and straightforward steps, this bacon roasted brussels sprouts recipe is perfect for beginners.
Quick Cooking Time: Ready in under 40 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy schedules.
Healthy and Delicious: It’s a fantastic way to get your veggies in, packed with nutrients and flavor.
Versatile Side Dish: Pairs wonderfully with chicken, steak, pork, or even as part of a vegetarian meal (just omit the bacon for a vegetarian option).
Satisfying Texture: The combination of tender sprouts and crispy roasted brussels sprouts bacon is incredibly satisfying.
Minimal Cleanup: Often, you can make this entire dish on just one baking sheet!

Ingredients for Roasted Brussels Sprouts Bacon

Gather these simple ingredients for a truly delish roasted Brussels sprouts bacon dish:

1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved – make sure to trim the tough ends so they cook evenly
4 slices thick-cut bacon, diced – the thicker the bacon, the crispier and more flavorful your roasted brussels sprouts and bacon will be
2 tablespoons olive oil – extra virgin olive oil adds a lovely richness
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt – balances the flavors
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – for a hint of spice
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional) – a touch of sweetness and tang to finish

Roasted Brussels Sprouts Bacon: 40-Minute Marvel - Roasted Brussels Sprouts Bacon - additional detail

How to Make Oven Roasted Brussels Sprouts Bacon

Let’s get this delicious dish into the oven! Making oven roasted Brussels sprouts bacon is incredibly simple, and the results are always impressive. You’ll love how the flavors meld together.

Step 1: First things first, preheat your oven to a nice hot 400°F (200°C). This high heat is key for getting those sprouts tender on the inside and perfectly crispy on the outside.
Step 2: While the oven is heating up, prep your sprouts. Trim off those tough little ends and then cut them in half. In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Make sure each sprout is nicely coated; this helps them roast beautifully.
Step 3: Spread the seasoned sprouts onto a baking sheet. It’s important to get them in a single layer so they roast instead of steam. If your baking sheet looks too crowded, don’t hesitate to use two!
Step 4: Now for the star of the show: scatter your diced bacon evenly over the Brussels sprouts on the baking sheet. As this bacon roasted Brussels sprouts recipe cooks, the bacon fat will render, coating the sprouts and adding an amazing depth of flavor.
Step 5: Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven. Roast for about 20-25 minutes. About halfway through, give everything a good stir. You want to see the sprouts getting tender and developing those lovely caramelized spots, and the bacon should be wonderfully crispy.
Step 6: Once they’re done and smelling amazing, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. If you’re using it, now’s the time to drizzle about 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar over the top. It adds a subtle sweet and tangy finish that really elevates this roasted brussels sprouts side dish bacon. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Pro Tips for the Best Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts Bacon

Want to elevate your Brussels sprouts game? These little tricks will ensure your crispy roasted Brussels sprouts bacon are a showstopper every time.

Don’t Crowd the Pan: This is crucial for crispiness! Give your sprouts and bacon plenty of space on the baking sheet so they roast, not steam. Use two pans if you have to.
Dry Your Sprouts: After washing, make sure your Brussels sprouts are thoroughly dried with paper towels. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness.
Thick-Cut Bacon is Best: While any bacon works, thick-cut bacon renders fat more slowly and gets wonderfully crispy without burning, coating the sprouts beautifully.
High Heat is Your Friend: Roasting at 400°F (200°C) is key to getting those lovely caramelized edges and tender interiors.

What’s the secret to perfect roasted brussels sprouts bacon?

The real secret lies in achieving that perfect balance: tender, slightly sweet sprouts and wonderfully crispy, savory bacon. Ensuring they are dry, the pan isn’t crowded, and the oven is hot enough are the keys to this magic combination. For more tips on achieving perfect roasting, check out this guide on how to roast vegetables.

Can I make roasted brussels sprouts and bacon ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients ahead! Wash and halve the sprouts, dice the bacon, and store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Toss with oil and seasonings just before roasting for the best results.

How do I avoid common mistakes with bacon roasted brussels sprouts recipe?

The biggest pitfall is overcrowding the pan, leading to soggy sprouts. Another common mistake is not drying the sprouts well, which also causes steaming. Lastly, using bacon that’s too thin can lead to it burning before the sprouts are tender.

Best Ways to Serve Roasted Brussels Sprouts Side Dish Bacon

This versatile roasted Brussels sprouts side dish bacon is a flavor powerhouse that elevates any meal. It’s fantastic alongside a hearty grilled steak or a juicy pork chop. For a lighter option, I love pairing it with pan-seared salmon or lemon herb roasted chicken. It also makes a wonderful addition to a holiday spread, offering a savory contrast to richer dishes. Truly, this roasted brussels sprouts and bacon dish is a crowd-pleaser that works for everyday dinners and special occasions alike! If you’re looking for other great chicken pairings, consider these easy jerk chicken side pairings.

Nutrition Facts for Roasted Brussels Sprouts Bacon

This roasted Brussels sprouts bacon dish is surprisingly light and packed with nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving (this recipe makes 4 servings):

Calories: 180
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 6g
Sodium: 420mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, especially the type of bacon.

How to Store and Reheat Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Crispy Bacon

Properly storing your delicious roasted brussels sprouts with crispy bacon ensures you can enjoy those amazing flavors later. Once the dish has cooled completely to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container. For refrigeration, it will keep well for about 3-4 days. If you want to store it for longer, this dish also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.

When you’re ready to reheat, the goal is to bring back that delightful crispiness. The best method is to spread the sprouts and bacon in a single layer on a baking sheet and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until heated through and the bacon is re-crisped. You can also use an air fryer on a similar setting. Microwaving is an option, but it tends to make the sprouts softer and the bacon less crispy, so I usually avoid it for this particular dish.

Frequently Asked Questions About Easy Roasted Brussels Sprouts Bacon

What is the best way to roast brussels sprouts with bacon?

The best way involves getting your oven nice and hot (around 400°F/200°C) and ensuring you don’t overcrowd the pan. This allows the sprouts to caramelize and the bacon to get perfectly crispy. Tossing the sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper before adding the bacon is also key for even cooking and great flavor in this easy roasted Brussels sprouts bacon dish.

Why roast brussels sprouts with bacon?

Roasting Brussels sprouts with bacon transforms them from potentially bitter veggies into a savory, irresistible side. The high heat of roasting brings out their natural sweetness and creates delightful crispy edges, while the salty, smoky bacon fat infuses every bite. It’s a flavor combination that’s hard to beat for any meal! For more on the benefits of roasting vegetables, you can explore this article on the benefits of roasting vegetables.

Can I use turkey bacon for roasted brussels sprouts and bacon?

Yes, you absolutely can! While thick-cut pork bacon provides a richer flavor and crispier texture, turkey bacon is a leaner option that still works well. Just be aware that turkey bacon might cook a bit faster and may not render as much fat, so keep an eye on it during the roasting process to prevent it from drying out.

What can I add to roasted brussels sprouts with bacon for extra flavor?

You can really customize this simple Brussels sprouts bacon recipe! Try adding a clove or two of minced garlic along with the sprouts and oil for garlic roasted Brussels sprouts. A sprinkle of parmesan cheese in the last 5 minutes of roasting, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze at the end, also adds delicious complexity. If you’re looking for more ways to add flavor, check out these sauces and marinades.

Variations of Simple Brussels Sprouts Bacon Recipe You Can Try

While this classic simple Brussels sprouts bacon recipe is hard to beat, there are so many fun ways to switch it up! I love experimenting with different flavors and methods to keep things interesting. Here are a few ideas to inspire your next batch of delish roasted Brussels sprouts bacon:

Spicy Kick: For a bit of heat, toss your sprouts and bacon with a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce before roasting. This transforms it into a spicy roasted Brussels sprouts bacon dish that’s perfect for those who like a little fire!
Garlic Parmesan Delight: Add a couple of cloves of minced garlic to the sprouts along with the olive oil and seasonings. In the last 5 minutes of roasting, sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese. This makes for a fantastic garlic parmesan roasted Brussels sprouts bacon.
Balsamic Glaze Finish: After roasting, drizzle the sprouts and bacon with a thick balsamic glaze instead of plain vinegar. This adds a beautiful sweetness and tang that complements the savory bacon and sprouts exceptionally well.
Air Fryer Method: No oven? No problem! You can achieve incredibly crispy results using an air fryer. Toss the sprouts and bacon as directed and air fry at 380°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, for air fryer roasted Brussels sprouts bacon. For more air fryer ideas, explore these air fryer recipes.