Print

Crispy Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Crumbles

crispy balsamic roasted brussels sprouts - featured image

A quick and easy holiday side dish featuring crispy roasted Brussels sprouts glazed with tangy balsamic vinegar and topped with savory bacon crumbles. Perfectly crispy, flavorful, and a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
  • ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Rinse and dry Brussels sprouts. Trim stem ends and halve lengthwise; quarter large sprouts for even roasting.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  4. Arrange sprouts cut side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer.
  5. Roast for 20-25 minutes, tossing halfway through, until deep golden brown and tender. Rotate pan if needed for even cooking.
  6. While sprouts roast, crisp bacon in a skillet over medium heat. Drain on paper towels and crumble once cool.
  7. In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and honey. Simmer over medium-low heat for 5-7 minutes until reduced by half and slightly thickened, stirring occasionally.
  8. Toss roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon crumbles. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and sprinkle red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

Dry Brussels sprouts thoroughly before roasting to avoid sogginess. Toss sprouts halfway through roasting for even browning. Use good-quality aged balsamic vinegar for richer flavor. Bacon should be cooked separately to keep it crispy. The balsamic glaze should be thick but not syrupy to avoid overpowering the dish. For vegetarian option, omit bacon and add toasted nuts and smoked paprika.

Nutrition

Keywords: Brussels sprouts, balsamic vinegar, bacon, roasted vegetables, holiday side, crispy, easy recipe