There’s something magical about the transformation of Brussels sprouts in the oven. Once the underdog of vegetables, these tiny green cabbages bloom into caramelized perfection when roasted. I remember the first time I prepared these Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon for a holiday dinner—it was a gamble. Would my guests, notorious sprout skeptics, give them a chance? By the end of the meal, not a single sprout was left, and everyone was asking for the recipe. The smoky turkey bacon, crunchy pecans, and tangy-sweet glaze make this dish irresistible, and it has since become a family favorite.
Why You Will Love Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Our Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon isn’t just another vegetable side—it’s a balance of bold flavors and textures that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings.
- Loaded with wholesome ingredients like Brussels sprouts, turkey bacon, and pecans for a healthier twist on indulgence.
- A flavor-packed glaze that combines the sweetness of maple syrup, the tang of Dijon, and the depth of balsamic vinegar.
Ingredients Notes For Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Each ingredient in Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon works together to create a dish that’s comforting, flavorful, and a little indulgent.
- Brussels sprouts (1 pound): Trimmed and halved for even cooking and perfect caramelization.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Helps the Brussels sprouts achieve a crisp exterior.
- Honey (1 tablespoon): Adds a natural sweetness to balance the slight bitterness of the sprouts.
- Turkey bacon (6 slices): A smoky, leaner alternative to traditional bacon.
- Maple syrup (1/4 cup): Provides rich sweetness that complements the savory components.
- Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon): Adds tangy depth to the glaze.
- Balsamic vinegar (1 tablespoon): Elevates the glaze with its sharp and slightly sweet profile.
- Red pepper flakes (optional, 1/4 teaspoon): For those who enjoy a hint of heat.
- Chopped pecans (1/4 cup): Bring a nutty crunch to round out the dish.
Substitution Tips:
- Replace turkey bacon with vegan bacon for a plant-based version.
- Swap honey with agave syrup to make it vegan-friendly.
- Use walnuts or almonds if pecans aren’t available.
Kitchen Equipment Needed: Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet(s)
- Small whisk or fork
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula or tongs
How to Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
1. Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure even roasting.
2. Prep the Brussels Sprouts
In a large mixing bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer for optimal crisping.
3. Cook the Turkey Bacon
Arrange the turkey bacon pieces on a separate baking sheet. This ensures they cook evenly and crisp up perfectly.
4. Roast to Perfection
Place both baking sheets in the oven. Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping the Brussels sprouts halfway through. Look for a tender center and caramelized edges on the sprouts, and a crispy texture for the turkey bacon.
5. Make the Glaze
While everything roasts, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using) in a small bowl.
6. Combine and Toss
Transfer the roasted Brussels sprouts and turkey bacon to a serving dish. Drizzle the glaze over the top and gently toss to coat.
7. Add the Final Touch
Sprinkle chopped pecans over the dish just before serving for a delightful crunch.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon pairs beautifully with roasted meats or as part of a vegetarian spread. Serve warm for the best flavor.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop to maintain their crispiness.
- Freezing: While the Brussels sprouts can be frozen, the glaze is best added fresh for maximum flavor.
Variations and Substitutions
This Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon is wonderfully adaptable to different tastes and dietary requirements.
- Add dried cranberries for a pop of color and sweetness.
- Make it spicy by adding more red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha.
- Use prosciutto instead of turkey bacon for a fancier twist.
Helpful Notes
- Spread out the Brussels sprouts on the baking sheet—crowding them will make them steam instead of roast.
- To save time, you can prepare the glaze a day ahead.
- For extra caramelization, broil the Brussels sprouts for the last 2–3 minutes of roasting.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Ina Garten: “Use good-quality olive oil and balsamic vinegar—it makes all the difference in simple dishes like this.”
- Jamie Oliver: “Always roast Brussels sprouts cut-side down first for an even golden finish.”
- Martha Stewart: “A sprinkle of flaky sea salt at the end enhances the flavors beautifully.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Yes, but be sure to thaw and dry them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture during roasting.
2. How do I make this dish vegan?
Replace honey with agave syrup and turkey bacon with a plant-based bacon alternative.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can roast the Brussels sprouts and bacon in advance, but glaze and toss them just before serving for the best texture.
5. How can I make the glaze thicker?
Simmer the glaze in a small saucepan for a few minutes to reduce and thicken it.
This Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for any meal or occasion. Its combination of textures, flavors, and versatility makes it a must-try recipe that’s as easy to love as it is to prepare!
