Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon and balsamic glaze come together in 30 minutes for the ultimate savory-sweet side dish.
If you’re anything like me, you’re always looking for ways to switch up the same old side dishes—especially when Brussels sprouts are on repeat. While I love a simple roasted veggie, adding bacon and a drizzle of balsamic glaze instantly takes these Brussels sprouts from basic to absolutely crave-worthy. The sprouts get perfectly crispy in the oven, the bacon adds that salty, smoky bite, and the balsamic brings just the right amount of sweet tang to tie it all together.
This is one of those side dishes I make on a regular weeknight when brussels are in season. But they also feel right at home on a holiday table. It pairs with just about everything—from a cozy roast chicken dinner to a big holiday ham—and it comes together with minimal prep and just a handful of ingredients. Trust me, once you serve these crispy Brussels sprouts with bacon and balsamic, even the veggie skeptics will be going back for seconds.
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Why this Recipe Works
Balance of Flavors: The salty bacon and sweet-tangy balsamic glaze perfectly complement the slightly bitter taste of the Brussels sprouts, making each bite a symphony of flavors.
Texture Contrast: Roasting the Brussels sprouts brings out a crispy exterior while keeping a tender interior, and the bacon adds a satisfying crunch.
Ease of Preparation: This dish comes together quickly, with minimal ingredients and prep, making it ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
- Brussels sprouts – I like to halve the brussels sprouts for maximum crispiness.
- Bacon – Adds a smoky flavor and a nice crunchy texture.
- Olive oil – Helps the sprouts roast evenly and keeps them from drying out.
- Seasonings – Salt, pepper, and garlic powder are used to enhance the natural flavors.
- Balsamic glaze – A finishing touch that adds a tangy-sweet element.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Preheat your oven to 400° F.
Cut the ends off of the Brussels sprouts and cut in half. Place the Brussels sprouts and bacon on a baking sheet. Drizzle with grapeseed oil, then season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Toss together until well-coated, spreading out the Brussels sprouts and bacon in a single layer.
Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the sprouts are crispy and the bacon is cooked through, stirring halfway.
Remove from the oven and drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving. Enjoy warm
FAQs
Yes, but fresh sprouts yield a better texture. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and dry them thoroughly.
You can reduce balsamic vinegar with a bit of honey to make your own glaze.
Absolutely! For a vegetarian option, skip the bacon or replace it with toasted nuts for crunch.
Spread the sprouts in a single layer on the baking sheet, leaving space around each piece for even roasting.
This dish is best served fresh. If needed, you can prep the sprouts and bacon ahead, then roast just before serving.
Recipe Tips & Tricks
Here are a few of my favorite tips and tricks when making Brussel Sprouts with Bacon and Balsamic.
- Crispiness – To ensure crispy Brussels sprouts, don’t overcrowd the pan—airflow is key for even browning.
- Spicy – If you want a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes before roasting or even a little hot honey.
- Bacon – Feel free to use turkey or vegan bacon options to make this dish fit your diet.
- Caramelization – For extra caramelization, toss a tablespoon of brown sugar on the sprouts before baking making sure to evenly coat them.
- Use High-Quality Balsamic Glaze – A thicker, high-quality balsamic glaze will add a richer flavor and cling to the Brussels sprouts better.
- Make Your Own Balsamic Glaze – You can also make your own glaze by simmering balsamic vinegar until it reduces by half for a more intense flavor.
- Add a Fresh Garnish – For a burst of color and brightness, sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme over the dish just before serving. This will enhance the overall flavor and add a touch of freshness to balance the richness of the bacon.
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Brussel Sprouts with Bacon and Balsamic
Equipment
- 1 Knife
- 1 Cutting Board
- Teaspoons
- Tablespoons
- 1 Baking Sheet
- 1 Spatula
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels Sprouts trimmed and halved
- 4 slices Bacon cut into 1-inch strips
- 1 teaspoon Grapeseed Oil
- ¼ teaspoon Salt
- ⅛ teaspoon Black Pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 2 tablespoons Balsamic Glaze
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400° F.
- Cut the ends off 1 pound Brussels Sprouts and cut in half. Then take 4 slices Bacon and cut into 1-inch strips.
- Place the Brussels sprouts and bacon on a baking sheet. Drizzle with 1 teaspoon Grapeseed Oil, then season with ¼ teaspoon Salt, ⅛ teaspoon Black Pepper, and ⅛ teaspoon Garlic Powder.
- Toss together until well-coated, spreading out the Brussels sprouts and bacon in a single layer.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the sprouts are crispy and the bacon is cooked through, stirring halfway.
- Remove from the oven and drizzle with 2 tablespoons Balsamic Glaze before serving. Enjoy warm
Notes
- Crispiness – To ensure crispy Brussels sprouts, don’t overcrowd the pan—airflow is key for even browning.
- Spicy – If you want a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes before roasting or even a little hot honey.
- Bacon – Feel free to use turkey or vegan bacon options to make this dish fit your diet.
- Caramelization – For extra caramelization, toss a tablespoon of brown sugar on the sprouts before baking making sure to evenly coat them.
- Use High-Quality Balsamic Glaze – A thicker, high-quality balsamic glaze will add a richer flavor and cling to the Brussels sprouts better.
- Make Your Own Balsamic Glaze – You can also make your own glaze by simmering balsamic vinegar until it reduces by half for a more intense flavor.
- Add a Fresh Garnish – For a burst of color and brightness, sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme over the dish just before serving. This will enhance the overall flavor and add a touch of freshness to balance the richness of the bacon.
Did you make this recipe? Let me know!