These roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon are a game changer! The crispy bacon adds a yummy flavor that makes the sprouts taste amazing. Plus, they’re easy to make!
I love how the sprouts get all nice and caramelized in the oven. It’s the perfect side dish for any meal—and who can resist the smell of bacon? Talk about mouthwatering! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brussels Sprouts: Fresh Brussels sprouts are best for this recipe. If they’re not available, you can use frozen ones, but they might be a bit softer after roasting.
Bacon: I love using thick-cut bacon for extra crunch and flavor. Turkey bacon or even pancetta can work too if you want a healthier or different option.
Olive Oil: This adds a nice, rich flavor, but you can use melted butter or avocado oil if you prefer. Each will give a slightly different taste!
Garlic: Adding garlic really boosts the flavor. If garlic isn’t your thing, you can skip it or use a dash of garlic powder as a substitute.
How Do I Ensure My Brussels Sprouts Are Perfectly Roasted?
Roasting is all about temperature and time. For Brussels sprouts, you want them to be crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Here are some tips:
- Make sure your Brussels sprouts are cut in half. This helps them cook evenly and get crispy edges.
- Keep them in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding will cause them to steam instead of roast.
- Toss them halfway through cooking for even browning and caramelization.
- If they’re not browning enough, you can crank up the oven to 425°F (220°C) in the last few minutes for a good sizzle!
How to Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Bacon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 teaspoon garlic powder or minced garlic (for extra flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25 minutes to roast in the oven, making it around 35 minutes total from start to finish. You’ll have crispy, delicious Brussels sprouts ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will help your Brussels sprouts get nice and crispy!
2. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:
Rinse the Brussels sprouts under cool water. Trim off the stem ends and cut each sprout in half for even cooking. This will also help them roast to perfection!
3. Toss with Olive Oil:
In a large bowl, add the halved Brussels sprouts. Drizzle the olive oil over them, then sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Toss everything together until the sprouts are evenly coated in oil and seasoning.
4. Arrange on a Baking Sheet:
Spread the coated Brussels sprouts out in a single layer on a large baking sheet. This is important because if they’re too crowded, they won’t crisp up as well.
5. Add the Bacon:
Now, scatter the chopped bacon pieces evenly over the Brussels sprouts. The bacon will render its fat and add delicious flavor as everything cooks!
6. Roast Until Crispy:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for about 20-25 minutes. Make sure to stir the mixture halfway through cooking to ensure everything browns evenly. You want the sprouts to be tender and caramelized, and the bacon to be nice and crispy!
7. Add Garlic (Optional):
If you’re a garlic lover, sprinkle some garlic powder or minced garlic over the sprouts about 5 minutes before they finish roasting. This will give an extra burst of flavor!
8. Serve & Enjoy:
Once finished, take the roasting pan out of the oven and let it cool for a minute. Transfer the Brussels sprouts and bacon to a serving dish. Enjoy this tasty, crispy side dish warm!
This recipe is a perfect complement to any meal. Enjoy the delightful mix of flavors and the crispy texture that makes these Brussels sprouts impossible to resist!
Can I Use Alternative Bacon Options?
Absolutely! You can use turkey bacon for a leaner option or even pancetta for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly based on the bacon type you choose.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and consider using smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a similar smoky flavor. You can also add nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch and protein!
What Should I Do if My Brussels Sprouts Are Not Browning?
If your Brussels sprouts aren’t browning, make sure they’re not overcrowded on the baking sheet. You can also turn up the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) in the last few minutes to help them crisp up nicely.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
You can prep the Brussels sprouts and bacon ahead of time! Toss them together and store them in the fridge for up to a day. Just roast them right before serving for maximum crispiness!
