Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Balsamic Glaze Recipe

Last updated on January 10th, 2025

Today, we’re upgrading this nutritious green with a recipe that’s sure to convert even the most stubborn Brussels sprout skeptic: Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Balsamic Glaze.

About this Recipe

Roasting is a game-changer when it comes to Brussels sprouts. The high heat caramelizes the natural sugars in the vegetable, creating a crispy exterior and a tender interior.

The result? A nutty, slightly sweet flavor that’s far removed from the boiled, bitter sprouts you might remember from childhood.

We’re not stopping at simple roasting, though. This recipe takes things up a notch with two flavor-packed additions:

1. Bacon: The salty, smoky notes of bacon complement the earthiness of the Brussels sprouts. As an added bonus, the rendered fat from the bacon adds an extra layer of richness to the dish.
2. Balsamic Glaze: A drizzle of sweet and tangy balsamic glaze balances out the savory elements, adding depth and complexity to every bite.

Make it Your Own

While this recipe is delicious as-is, don’t be afraid to play around with it! Some ideas I have for you are:

• Add chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts work well) for extra crunch
• Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving
• Toss in some dried cranberries for a sweet-tart pop of flavor
• Use pancetta instead of bacon for an Italian twist

Now, let’s get to the recipe!

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Balsamic Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer, cut-side down.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the sprouts are tender and caramelized, with crispy edges.
5. While the sprouts are roasting, cook the chopped bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels.
6. Once the Brussels sprouts are done, transfer them to a serving bowl.
7. Toss with the crumbled bacon and drizzle with balsamic glaze.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Make it More Delicious

• Choose the Right Sprouts: Look for bright green Brussels sprouts that are firm and compact. Smaller sprouts tend to be sweeter and more tender.
• Prep Properly: Trim the ends and remove any yellowed or damaged outer leaves. Halving the sprouts ensures even cooking and maximizes the crispy surface area.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer with some space between each piece. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of roasting, which can result in soggy sprouts. Roast Cut-Side Down: Place the halved sprouts cut-side down on the baking sheet. This allows for better caramelization and crispiness.
• Watch the Clock: Keep an eye on your sprouts as they roast. Cooking times can vary depending on the size of your sprouts and the accuracy of your oven.
• Experiment with Seasonings: While this recipe uses salt and pepper, feel free to experiment with other seasonings like garlic powder, smoked paprika, or red pepper flakes.
• Make it in Advance: You can roast the Brussels sprouts and cook the bacon ahead of time. When ready to serve, reheat the sprouts in a hot oven for a few minutes, then toss with the bacon and balsamic glaze.
• Don’t Skip the Balsamic: The balsamic glaze adds a perfect sweet-tangy finish to the dish. If you don’t have glaze, you can reduce regular balsamic vinegar in a saucepan until it’s thick and syrupy.

Simple and Savory

See, this recipe is proof that a few simple ingredients, prepared thoughtfully, can create something truly spectacular. The crispy, caramelized sprouts, the salty bacon, and the sweet-tangy balsamic glaze all work in harmony to create a side dish that might just steal the show from your main course. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough for your holiday table.

Go ahead and pick up some fresh Brussels sprouts, and get ready to transform this humble vegetable into a star.

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