Oh, my dears, do you remember those culinary adventures where a single ingredient, often overlooked, transforms into something utterly delightful? Today, we’re embarking on just such a journey with our beloved brussels sprouts, elevated to new heights in this Roasted Bacon Brussels Sprouts recipe. It’s a dish that perfectly marries the crisp, savory notes of bacon with the tender sweetness of roasted sprouts, all brought together with a luscious balsamic maple glaze. A truly magical side dish!
I still recall my grandmother’s gentle encouragement to try every vegetable, even the ones I eyed suspiciously. It was in her sun-drenched kitchen that I learned the art of making something truly special from humble beginnings. This particular combination reminds me of those cherished afternoons, where simple ingredients, when given a little love and patience, became unforgettable.
This recipe for Bacon Brussels Sprouts isn’t just easy to prepare; it’s a family-friendly favorite that adds a touch of gourmet flair to any meal, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and holiday gatherings. My top tip? Always use fresh, vibrant brussels sprouts – they make all the difference!
What You Need to Make This Recipe
To create these irresistible roasted brussels sprouts, you’ll need a few simple, yet powerful ingredients. The thick-cut bacon offers a beautiful salty counterpoint, while the fresh garlic infuses everything with a wonderful aroma, creating a truly memorable Bacon Brussels Sprouts dish. The full list of ingredients and precise measurements are waiting for you in the recipe card below, ready to guide your culinary adventure.
How to Make Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Whipping up these delightful Bacon Brussels Sprouts is a breeze, I promise! You’ll start by crisping up that wonderful bacon, filling your kitchen with an aroma that signals something delicious is on its way. Then, the brussels sprouts get their moment to shine, sautéed until they’re beautifully tender with a delightful char. Finally, everything comes together with a harmonious seasoning and a drizzle of that tempting balsamic maple glaze.
Crispy Roasted Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Wash and trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts, removing any loose outer leaves. Cut each sprout in half through the stem. Dice the thick-cut bacon into small, even pieces (about 1/2 inch).
- In a large skillet (cast iron works great) over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until it’s crispy and golden brown. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the crispy bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain. Reserve about 1-2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet. Discard any excess fat or save for other uses.
- Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the halved Brussels sprouts to the skillet with the reserved bacon fat. If there isn’t enough bacon fat (at least 1 tablespoon), add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the Brussels sprouts are tender-crisp and nicely browned, about 10-12 minutes.
- During the last 2-3 minutes of cooking the sprouts, add the minced garlic to the skillet and stir constantly until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Season the sprouts with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Return the crispy bacon bits to the skillet with the Brussels sprouts. Toss everything together to combine.
- Transfer the Bacon Brussels Sprouts to a serving dish. If desired, drizzle lightly with balsamic glaze before serving warm.
Notes
Creating perfectly crispy Bacon Brussels Sprouts is all about a few simple tricks I’ve picked up over the years. Trust me, these little details make all the difference in achieving that irresistible texture and flavor.
First, ensure your brussels sprouts are dry before roasting. Any excess moisture will steam them instead of allowing them to crisp up beautifully. I always give mine a good pat-down with a kitchen towel before tossing them with olive oil.
My Secret Trick: When cooking the thick-cut bacon, render it slowly over medium heat. This allows the fat to melt out gradually, resulting in incredibly crispy bacon bits that are bursting with flavor, perfect for your Bacon Brussels Sprouts. Don’t rush it!
For that lovely caramelization, don’t overcrowd your baking sheet. Give those brussels sprouts some space to breathe! If they’re too close together, they’ll steam rather than roast, and we want those gorgeous, crispy edges. I often use two baking sheets if I’m making a larger batch.
Finally, while the balsamic glaze is tempting to add early, I recommend drizzling it on right before serving. This preserves its sweet, tangy punch and prevents it from burning or becoming overly sticky during the roasting process, ensuring your Bacon Brussels Sprouts taste fresh and vibrant.
Fun Variations for Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Part of the joy of cooking is making a recipe your own, adding those little touches that speak to your heart and your palate. These Bacon Brussels Sprouts are wonderfully adaptable, and I love experimenting with different twists!
A Touch of Spice
If you enjoy a little heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when you sauté the brussels sprouts. My friend, Emily, absolutely loves a spicy kick to her savory dishes, and it adds a fantastic warmth to the sweetness of the balsamic glaze. It truly makes the Bacon Brussels Sprouts pop!
Nutty Crunch
For an extra layer of texture and a boost of flavor, toast some chopped pecans or walnuts and sprinkle them over the finished dish. The nutty crunch complements the crispy bacon and tender sprouts beautifully. My sister always asks me to add candied pecans when I make this.
Citrus Brightness
A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving can brighten the entire dish, cutting through the richness of the bacon and glaze. It’s a simple addition that makes a big impact, adding a lovely zestiness to your Bacon Brussels Sprouts.
What to Serve With Bacon Brussels Sprouts
These Bacon Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Maple Glaze are so versatile, they can elevate almost any meal! I love to think of them as a bright, savory-sweet counterpoint that makes the whole plate sing.
They pair wonderfully with a simple roasted chicken or a perfectly seared steak for a weeknight dinner that feels effortlessly elegant. The richness of the meat is beautifully balanced by the tangy sweetness of the glaze and the savory bacon.
For a holiday feast, these Bacon Brussels Sprouts are an absolute must-have. I love serving them alongside a succulent roast turkey or a glazed ham. Their vibrant flavors and beautiful presentation make them a festive addition to any special occasion. My mom always makes sure I bring a big platter of these when we gather for the holidays.
If you’re looking for a lighter meal, they’re fantastic as part of a hearty grain bowl, perhaps with some quinoa and grilled halloumi. And for a quick, comforting side, they’re perfect next to a creamy bowl of Creamy Tomato Soup.
How to Store Bacon Brussels Sprouts
After enjoying your delicious Bacon Brussels Sprouts, you might find yourself with a few leftovers – a rare but welcome occurrence! Proper storage is key to keeping them tasting great.
Once completely cooled, transfer any leftover Bacon Brussels Sprouts to an airtight container. They will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. While they won’t be as crispy as when freshly made, the flavors will still be wonderful.
To reheat, I recommend spreading them on a baking sheet and warming them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This helps to re-crisp them slightly. My personal tip for reheating is to avoid the microwave if you can, as it tends to make them a bit softer; the oven brings back some of that lovely texture. You can also quickly sauté them in a pan for a few minutes.
Nutritional Benefits
While we often think of desserts on recipesdessert.net, these Bacon Brussels Sprouts offer a wonderful blend of indulgence and wholesome goodness! Brussels sprouts are packed with fiber and vitamins C and K, contributing to a healthy diet. This dish offers a delicious way to enjoy your vegetables, making it a treat that’s both satisfying and nourishing.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
While best served fresh for optimal crispness, you can prep the sprouts and cook the bacon a day ahead. Store them separately, then combine and roast or sauté the sprouts with the bacon just before serving.
What if I don’t have balsamic glaze?
You can easily make your own! Simmer balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan over medium-low heat until it reduces by about half and thickens slightly. This homemade glaze will work perfectly with your Bacon Brussels Sprouts.
Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Absolutely! Turkey bacon is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just be mindful that it may not render as much fat, so you might need a little extra olive oil for the Bacon Brussels Sprouts.
My brussels sprouts aren’t getting crispy, what am I doing wrong?
Ensure they are dry before roasting and that your oven is hot enough. Also, don’t overcrowd the pan; use multiple trays if necessary so they have enough space to roast and crisp up beautifully, giving you perfect Bacon Brussels Sprouts.
Conclusion
And there you have it, my friends – a recipe for Roasted Bacon Brussels Sprouts that’s sure to become a new favorite in your home. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients, combined with a little love and patience, can create something truly extraordinary. I hope you’ll embrace the joy of preparing these delightful sprouts and share them with the ones you love, creating new, sweet memories around your table. Happy cooking, and remember, every dish made with heart is a magical treat!