Crispy Balsamic Bacon Sprouts

This caramelized balsamic bacon Brussels sprouts recipe transforms the humble vegetable into an irresistible side dish that even Brussels sprout skeptics will devour. The roasting process brings out their natural sweetness while the bacon adds smoky depth and the balsamic glaze delivers the perfect tangy finish.

I discovered this combination when trying to please both my Brussels sprout-loving spouse and bacon-obsessed children. This dish has become our Sunday dinner staple that brings peace to the table every single time.

Ingredients

• Brussels sprouts: These little cabbage cousins develop amazing caramelized flavors when roasted. Look for bright green, firm sprouts with tightly packed leaves for the freshest taste.
• Bacon: Adds irresistible smoky flavor and crispy texture. Choose thick-cut bacon for the best texture and flavor impact.
• Olive oil: Helps achieve that perfect crispy exterior. Use a good quality oil since the flavor will come through.
• Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance the natural flavors. Freshly ground pepper makes a noticeable difference.
• Balsamic glaze: Provides sweet tanginess that balances the savory elements. Store-bought saves time but choose one without artificial ingredients if possible.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare:

Set your oven to 400°F and get your baking sheet ready with parchment paper. This temperature is perfect for achieving caramelization without burning and the parchment prevents sticking while making cleanup easier.

Season the Brussels:

In a large mixing bowl toss your halved Brussels sprouts thoroughly with olive oil salt and pepper ensuring each piece gets evenly coated. This even distribution of oil and seasonings is crucial for consistent browning and flavor.

Arrange for Roasting:

Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet making sure they aren't overcrowded. Giving each piece enough space allows hot air to circulate properly creating that desirable crispy exterior.

Roast to Perfection:

Cook for 35-40 minutes remembering to stir halfway through. Look for deeply browned edges that indicate caramelization has occurred which concentrates the natural sugars and creates complex flavors.

Prepare the Bacon:

While the Brussels roast cook your chopped bacon in a skillet over medium heat until properly crispy. The rendered fat should be clear and the bacon pieces should have a reddish-brown color and firm texture.

Combine and Finish:

Once the Brussels sprouts are done toss them with the crispy bacon bits and drizzle with balsamic glaze. The heat from the sprouts will slightly warm the glaze creating an aromatic finish.

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The balsamic glaze is truly the secret ingredient here. I once made this without it when I ran out and my daughter immediately noticed something was missing. The sweet-tangy finish it provides creates a remarkable contrast to the savory elements that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

Make-Ahead Tips

You can prepare this dish partially in advance to save time on busy evenings. Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts up to two days before cooking and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also cook the bacon ahead of time and store it separately then simply reheat it briefly before combining with the freshly roasted Brussels sprouts. The entire finished dish can be reheated in a 350°F oven for about 5-7 minutes if needed.

Ingredient Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable to dietary needs and pantry limitations. For a vegetarian version substitute the bacon with smoked almonds or mushrooms sautéed with a drop of liquid smoke. No store-bought balsamic glaze? Make your own by simmering 1 cup of balsamic vinegar with 2 tablespoons of honey until reduced by half. Purple or yellow Brussels sprouts work beautifully in this recipe if you can find them and add visual interest.

Serving Suggestions

These Brussels sprouts shine alongside roasted chicken or grilled steak as the perfect side dish. They also work wonderfully with holiday meals from Thanksgiving to Christmas dinner. For a complete weeknight meal pair them with a simple baked potato or quick-cooking grain like quinoa. I sometimes add a handful of dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds when serving at special occasions for a pop of color and sweet-tart contrast.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I ensure the Brussels sprouts are crispy?

Make sure to spread the sprouts in a single layer on the baking sheet and roast at a high temperature to achieve crispy edges.

→ Can I use fresh balsamic instead of glaze?

Yes, you can reduce balsamic vinegar in a saucepan over low heat until thickened to use as a substitute for store-bought glaze.

→ What type of bacon works best for this dish?

Thick-cut bacon provides the best texture and flavor for this dish, but regular sliced bacon works as well.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

You can roast the sprouts and cook the bacon ahead of time. Reheat them and combine with the glaze just before serving.

→ What other seasonings work well for this recipe?

Feel free to add garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika to the Brussels sprouts for extra flavor.