Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Balsamic Glaze

Introduction

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Balsamic Glaze is a simple yet flavor-packed side dish that transforms humble Brussels sprouts into a caramelized, savory-sweet delight. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the sprouts, while crispy bacon adds smoky depth, and a drizzle of tangy balsamic glaze ties everything together. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday feasts, or anytime you want a side that will impress even Brussels sprouts skeptics.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it turns Brussels sprouts—often a divisive vegetable—into a universally adored side. The combination of crispy bacon and the sweet-tart balsamic glaze elevates the sprouts to a level of indulgence that feels both cozy and sophisticated. Every bite has a perfect balance of caramelization, crunch, and tang, making it incredibly satisfying. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, yet it looks and tastes like a dish you’d find in a fine restaurant.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This recipe is a must-try because it’s a foolproof way to make Brussels sprouts irresistible. The roasting intensifies their flavor, while the bacon and balsamic glaze add complementary textures and tastes. It’s a versatile side that pairs beautifully with meats, poultry, seafood, or even as a topping for salads and grain bowls. Whether for a holiday table or a simple dinner, this dish is guaranteed to become a favorite.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25–30 minutes
• Total Time: 35–40 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories (per serving): ~220 kcal
• Cuisine: American
• Course: Side Dish

Ingredients

• 1 ½ lbs Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
• Optional: 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet.
3. Scatter chopped bacon over the sprouts.
4. Roast 20–25 minutes, stirring halfway, until sprouts are golden and bacon is crispy.
5. Drizzle with balsamic glaze (and honey if using) before serving.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation Method

1. Prep Brussels Sprouts: Trim the ends and remove any yellow or damaged outer leaves. Cut in half lengthwise.
2. Preheat Oven: Set oven to 400°F (200°C).
3. Toss with Oil and Seasoning: In a large bowl, toss sprouts with olive oil, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
4. Add Bacon: Spread Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet and sprinkle chopped bacon evenly over the top.
5. Roast: Roast for 20–25 minutes, tossing halfway through, until sprouts are golden brown and slightly crispy, and bacon is cooked.
6. Glaze and Serve: Remove from oven and drizzle with balsamic glaze (and honey if desired). Toss gently to coat. Serve warm.

How to Serve

Serve as a side dish alongside roasted meats, poultry, or fish. It’s perfect for holiday dinners, weeknight meals, or even tossed into a grain bowl for a hearty lunch. Garnish with extra balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for presentation.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Make sure Brussels sprouts are dry before roasting for maximum caramelization.
• Cut larger sprouts in quarters to ensure even cooking.
• Use a rimmed baking sheet to catch bacon grease and prevent mess.
• Toss halfway through roasting for even browning.

Variations

1. Add Nuts: Toss with toasted pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
2. Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the roasted sprouts before serving.
3. Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes to the olive oil before roasting.
4. Maple-Balsamic: Mix balsamic glaze with a teaspoon of maple syrup for a sweet finish.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftover roasted Brussels sprouts in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
• Freezer: Not recommended, as roasted sprouts can become mushy when thawed. Best enjoyed fresh.

Special Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet (preferably rimmed)
• Mixing bowl
• Tongs or spatula for tossing
• Oven

FAQ

Q: Can I use pre-cooked bacon?
A: Yes, you can, but it won’t render as much fat to flavor the sprouts. Add during the last 5–7 minutes of roasting to crisp it up.

Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Yes, omit the bacon and drizzle with extra olive oil or sprinkle with smoked paprika for flavor.

Q: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
A: You can trim and halve the sprouts ahead of time, but roasting is best done fresh for optimal texture.

Q: Can I roast Brussels sprouts at a higher temperature?
A: Yes, up to 425°F (220°C) for faster caramelization, but watch closely to avoid burning.

Conclusion

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Balsamic Glaze is a simple yet indulgent side dish that turns a humble vegetable into a crowd-pleaser. The caramelized sprouts, crispy bacon, and tangy-sweet balsamic glaze create a perfect harmony of flavors. Easy to prepare, versatile, and full of fall and winter comfort, this recipe is a must for weeknight dinners, holiday feasts, or any occasion where flavor and simplicity meet.