Looking for a side dish that’s quick to make, delicious, and perfect for a holiday dinner? These roasted Brussels sprouts with crispy bacon might just become your new go-to recipe!
Brussels sprouts are a favorite winter vegetable that we enjoy very much, especially when we roast them with bacon. This dish is not only easy to make but also highly customizable. You can keep it simple or elevate it with sweet, nutty, or tangy toppings. It’s a recipe that feels fancy enough for the holidays but simple enough for weeknight dinners.
If you’ve been on the fence about Brussels sprouts, give this recipe a try. It might just convert you!
This recipe is part of my growing collection of side recipes for all occasions. If you like this recipe, you might also like this easy Roasted Carrots, Roasted Kabocha Squash With Coconut Oil or these Roasted Potatoes With Green Garlic And Dill. All of them are excellent next to your favorite meats or a simple salad.
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Why You'll Enjoy This Recipe
- Perfect for the Holidays: This delicious side dish shines on any festive table and pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, ham, or other holiday classics.
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, this recipe is a breeze to make.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Even Brussels sprouts skeptics may be converted after one bite of these crispy, caramelized morsels.
Ingredients Needed
- Brussels Sprouts: Fresh Brussels sprouts are ideal, but frozen ones work just as well. You can use whole or halved Brussels sprouts.
- Bacon: Opt for thick-cut diced raw bacon for a heartier texture. Turkey bacon can also be used.
- Oil: Olive oil is a classic choice, but avocado or vegetable oil works too.
- Seasonings: Garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper create a well-rounded flavor. Experiment with rosemary, smoked paprika, or even chili flakes for a twist.
- Optional Toppings: For extra flavor and a festive touch, add dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, or pecans. Drizzle maple syrup or balsamic vinegar glaze for a sweet-savory balance.
Expert Tips for Perfect Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Bacon
- Trim Properly: Remove any wilted outer leaves and slice large sprouts in half for even cooking.
- Single Layer: Spread the Brussels sprouts and bacon in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding leads to steaming rather than roasting.
- Turn Midway: Flip the sprouts halfway through baking for even caramelization.
- Use High Heat: Roasting at 400°F ensures crispy edges and tender centers.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.
- Sweet and Savory: Add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup before serving.
- Nutty Crunch: Toss in roasted almonds, pecans, or sunflower seeds.
- Cheesy Finish: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan or crumbled blue cheese on top for added richness.
- Maple Syrup: Drizzle pure maple syrup over the freshly roasted brussels sprouts.
How to Serve Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
This dish is versatile enough to complement many meals:
- As a side dish for turkey, ham, or roast beef.
- Mixed into a warm salad with arugula and a vinaigrette.
How to Store and Reheat
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in a sealed container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a 375°F oven for 10-15 minutes to retain crispiness, or use an air fryer for quick results.
- Freeze: While fresh is best, you can freeze roasted Brussels sprouts for up to 1 month. Reheat directly from frozen for best results.
This perfect side dish recipe is popular for a holiday menu, like Thanksgiving and Christmas dinner, but honestly, it’s delicious year-round, for a weeknight meal. Frozen Brussels sprouts can fill the gap when they’re not in season. Give it a go, and let me know in the comments how you like to customize yours. Do you drizzle it with maple syrup? Toss in cranberries? I’d love to hear your twists on this classic dish!
You are here for a treat! Serve them with this awesome Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin, or pork chops.
More recipes to love
- Cast Iron Brussels Sprouts With Ham
- 38 Best Thanksgiving Side Dish Recipes
- Thanksgiving Sausage And Cranberry Stuffing
📖 Recipe
Easy Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Crispy Bacon
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds of Brussels Sprouts you can use fresh or frozen
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4-6 diced slices of bacon uncooked
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme or oregano
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Optional:
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 2 tablespoons dried cranberries
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400 F.
- Clean and trim Brussels sprouts by cutting any huge heads in half through the core.
- Place the Brussels sprouts in a large bowl and drizzle with oil. Add salt, pepper, your choice of herbs and garlic powder. Mix them with your hands until they are evenly coated.
- Place the Brussels sprouts onto a large sheet pan in a single layer.
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Then evenly sprinkle the bacon pieces over the Brussels sprouts.
- Bake at 400F for about 30minutes until the Brussels sprouts are roasted and the bacon crispy, turning halfway through the cooking time, until golden and lightly caramelized. Optional, add cranberries and nuts and return to the oven for another 5 minutes.
- Serve immediately.
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