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 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)

Highlighted under: Balanced Food Studio

I absolutely love making Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon because they are the perfect combination of savory and crisp. The smoky flavor from the bacon elevates the earthy taste of the Brussels sprouts, making them irresistible. Every time I prepare this dish, friends and family rave about how delicious and comforting it is. It’s incredible how just a few simple ingredients can come together to create such a delightful side dish that pairs well with almost any main course. Trust me, you won’t be able to stop at just one sprout!

Created by

Skylar Jennings

Last updated on 2026-02-08T06:13:36.799Z

When I first tried roasting Brussels sprouts with bacon, I was blown away by how the two flavors melded together. I’ve learned that cooking them at high heat allows the edges to caramelize beautifully, adding depth to the dish. To enhance the flavor even more, I suggest using thick-cut bacon, which stands up well to the robust Brussels sprouts.

In my kitchen experiments, I discovered that tossing the sprouts in a little olive oil and seasoning them generously gives them that extra flavor kick. If you’re looking for a quick yet impressive side dish to accompany a holiday meal or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe will not disappoint!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Savory richness from crispy bacon
Tender, caramelized Brussels sprouts with a slight crunch
An effortless side that complements any main course

Mastering the Roasting Technique

Roasting Brussels sprouts is all about achieving that perfect balance between tender and crispy. To accomplish this, always ensure your oven is fully preheated to 425°F (220°C) before adding the sprouts. A hot oven helps caramelize the natural sugars in the Brussels sprouts, giving them a delightful golden brown color and enhancing their flavor. If you notice they’re cooking unevenly, give them a stir halfway through the roasting time to promote uniform crispiness.

Using thick-cut bacon elevates this dish significantly, as its higher fat content lends more flavor to the Brussels sprouts. When bacon is chopped and mixed with the sprouts, the rendered fat during roasting coats them, creating a rich, savory flavor profile. If you prefer a lighter option, turkey bacon or pancetta can be substituted, but be mindful of cooking times as they may require adjustments.

Flavor Enhancements and Variations

While the recipe includes a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar for a tangy finish, consider experimenting with additional flavor enhancers. A sprinkle of garlic powder or freshly minced garlic can add a fragrant note that pairs beautifully with the smoky bacon. Alternatively, tossing in some red pepper flakes before roasting can introduce a welcome heat to balance the dish's richness. Feel free to mix in other vegetables such as diced sweet potatoes or carrots for an added touch of sweetness and color.

For a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and sauté the Brussels sprouts in olive oil with smoked paprika. This will impart a smoky flavor without the meat. You can also enhance the dish with nuts like slivered almonds or walnuts added towards the end of roasting for that extra crunch and nutritional boost.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

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

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) for optimal roasting.

Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts with chopped bacon. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.

Roast in the Oven

Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until Brussels sprouts are golden brown and bacon is crispy. Stir halfway through for even cooking.

Add the Finishing Touch

Once done, remove from the oven and drizzle with balsamic vinegar if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can add minced garlic to the Brussels sprouts before roasting or finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the cooked Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To keep them crispy when reheating, try using the oven instead of the microwave. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until heated through. This helps to maintain their texture rather than making them soggy.

You can also prepare this dish ahead of time and roast the Brussels sprouts just before serving for maximum freshness. Simply follow all the steps up to the roasting part, cover the seasoned mixture, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to enjoy, roast them directly from the fridge, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.

Serving Suggestions

These Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon make a fantastic side dish for a variety of main courses. They pair particularly well with roasted meats, such as chicken or pork, thanks to their earthy flavor complementing the savory notes of the protein. Consider serving them alongside a creamy mashed potato or quinoa salad to round out your meal.

For a more festive occasion, dressing the dish up with a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds or fresh herbs like parsley or thyme just before serving can add a vibrant touch. Not only does this enhance the presentation, but it also adds a fresh burst of flavor that balances the richness of the bacon and Brussels sprouts.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey bacon instead of pork bacon?

Yes, turkey bacon works well, although the flavor will be slightly different.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the Brussels sprouts and bacon the day before; just store them in the fridge until you're ready to roast.

→ What can I serve with roasted Brussels sprouts?

They pair beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a hearty vegetarian main dish.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.