Brussel Sprouts with Bacon and Balsamic

Name: Brussel Sprouts with Bacon and Balsamic
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
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

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Oven roasted Brussel sprouts with bacon and balsamic are crispy, caramelized, and loaded with savory bacon and tangy balsamic glaze, these Brussels sprouts are the ultimate side dish that will leave everyone reaching for seconds.

White bowl filled with sliced roasted brussels sprouts with bacon on a white countertop.

This Brussels sprouts recipe brings together the earthy taste of roasted Brussels sprouts, the smoky richness of bacon, and a sweet-tangy balsamic glaze that balances the flavors perfectly. The sprouts are sliced in half to maximize the crispy edges, then tossed with chopped bacon for an extra layer of flavor. Finally, a drizzle of balsamic glaze is added, giving the dish a pop of acidity and a subtle sweetness that complements the salty bacon. This recipe is easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for holiday gatherings!

What’s great about this recipe is how versatile it is. It pairs well with many main dishes, from roasted chicken to a holiday ham, and it’s quick to prepare. Plus, it only requires a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, so you can whip it up whenever you need a quick and tasty veggie side. Serve it straight from the oven while the Brussels sprouts are still crisp and the bacon is perfectly crunchy.

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, balsamic glaze, bacon, grapeseed oil, garlic powder, pepper, salt on a white countertop.

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

White countertop, blue cutting board with sliced brussels srpouts and a knife, with seasoning in a dish.

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.

White counter with a parchment liner on a gold baking sheet with sliced brussels sprouts and bacon.

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

Parchment paper lined gold baking sheet with sliced roasted brussels sprouts, bacon, and balsamic glaze.

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

Yes, but fresh sprouts yield a better texture. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and dry them thoroughly.

What if I don’t have balsamic glaze?

You can reduce balsamic vinegar with a bit of honey to make your own glaze.

Can I make this recipe without bacon?

Absolutely! For a vegetarian option, skip the bacon or replace it with toasted nuts for crunch.

How do I prevent soggy Brussels sprouts?

Spread the sprouts in a single layer on the baking sheet, leaving space around each piece for even roasting.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This dish is best served fresh. If needed, you can prep the sprouts and bacon ahead, then roast just before serving.

Recipe Tips & Tricks

White bowl on a blue and white cloth filled with brussels sprouts.

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.

If you make these balsamic roasted brussels sprouts recipe, I would be honored and love for you to take the time to leave a ⭐ star rating and comment! I spend hours developing and testing these recipes, and always love to hear feedback and user experience!

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