Crispy Bacon Brussels Sprouts Roast with Garlic and Balsamic Recipe

If you’re looking for a way to elevate your vegetable game, this Crispy Bacon Brussels Sprouts Roast with Garlic and Balsamic Recipe is an absolute must-try. It brilliantly combines the smoky crispness of bacon with tender, caramelized Brussels sprouts, enhanced by fragrant garlic and a tangy splash of balsamic vinegar. The result is a vibrant, flavorful side dish that will turn even Brussels sprouts skeptics into believers. Trust me, once you try this, it might just become your go-to veggie favorite for any meal!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Crispy Bacon Brussels Sprouts Roast with Garlic and Balsamic Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture, balancing savory, sweet, and tangy notes with a perfect crisp bite.

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved: Provides a sturdy, slightly bitter base that roasts beautifully to crispy perfection.
• 4 slices bacon, diced: Adds a smoky, salty crunch that enhances every bite with mouthwatering richness.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps to coat the sprouts evenly and encourages caramelization in the pan and oven.
• Salt, to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
• Black pepper, to taste: Gives a gentle peppery kick that complements the garlic and balsamic.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth and depth.
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional): Adds a beautiful tangy sweetness that perfectly balances the savory components.

How to Make Crispy Bacon Brussels Sprouts Roast with Garlic and Balsamic Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First, get your oven heated to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is key to achieving that coveted crispy edge on the Brussels sprouts while keeping their insides tender and flavorful.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon Crisply

Place diced bacon in a large skillet over medium heat and cook until it’s beautifully crispy, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. The bacon fat rendered here will infuse the sprouts with incredible flavor, so don’t rush this step.

Step 3: Drain the Bacon

Once your bacon is perfectly crisp, remove it with a slotted spoon onto paper towels to drain excess grease. This keeps the bacon crunchy instead of soggy when added back later.

Step 4: Reserve Bacon Fat

Keep just a tablespoon of that flavorful bacon fat in your skillet, discarding or saving the rest. This fat is liquid gold and will help the Brussels sprouts develop a gorgeous sear.

Step 5: Sauté Brussels Sprouts

Throw the halved Brussels sprouts into the skillet and toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they begin browning and getting fragrant—this is when their natural sugars start to caramelize.

Step 6: Add Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and continue cooking for 1 to 2 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the air fills with a delicious garlicky aroma—just be careful not to burn it!

Step 7: Transfer and Roast

Move the Brussels sprouts and garlic from the skillet onto a baking sheet in a single layer. Placing them in the oven allows the heat to gently roast and crisp the edges over 15 to 20 minutes, elevating their texture to a whole new level.

Step 8: Finish with Balsamic and Bacon

Once roasted, drizzle the Brussels sprouts with the balsamic vinegar if you’re using it. Then stir in the crispy bacon bits, mixing everything to combine the smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors perfectly.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

The final touch is to serve immediately while the dish is warm and the bacon maintains that satisfying crunch. This simple sequence delivers a side dish bursting with flavor and texture that everyone will love.

How to Serve Crispy Bacon Brussels Sprouts Roast with Garlic and Balsamic Recipe

Garnishes

For a little extra pop, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or thyme over the top right before serving. A light sprinkle of grated Parmesan can also elevate the dish with a subtle nutty richness that pairs beautifully with the roasted flavors.

Side Dishes

This Crispy Bacon Brussels Sprouts Roast with Garlic and Balsamic Recipe works wonderfully alongside roasted chicken, pork tenderloin, or a juicy steak. It also adds a flavorful green component on holiday plates where heavier meats dominate.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this dish on a rustic wooden board or in a colorful ceramic dish for a warm, inviting presentation. You can also toss the sprouts with cooked quinoa or farro to turn it into a hearty vegetarian-friendly main when leaving out the bacon.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Brussels sprouts can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let them cool to room temperature before refrigeration to keep them fresh and flavorful.

Freezing

While fresh is best for this recipe, you can freeze cooked Brussels sprouts in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Note that the texture may soften a bit after freezing, so reheating in a skillet rather than the microwave will help regain some crispness.

Reheating

To reheat leftover Crispy Bacon Brussels Sprouts Roast with Garlic and Balsamic Recipe, pop them in a skillet over medium heat. This method restores their crispy edges much better than microwaving, keeping the dish deliciously crunchy.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe without bacon?

Absolutely! You can omit the bacon for a vegetarian version and add a bit more olive oil or a sprinkle of smoked paprika to maintain some smoky flavor. Roasting the Brussels sprouts with garlic and balsamic alone still creates a delightful dish.

Is balsamic vinegar necessary?

The balsamic vinegar isn’t essential but highly recommended. It adds a beautiful sweet-tart balance that contrasts the savory bacon and roasted sprouts, rounding out the overall flavor profile.

How do I keep the Brussels sprouts from getting mushy?

Ensuring high heat roasting and proper sautéing helps keep the sprouts crispy on the outside yet tender inside. Avoid overcrowding the pan or baking sheet so they roast evenly rather than steam.

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?

Fresh Brussels sprouts give the best texture and flavor. Frozen sprouts tend to release extra moisture when cooked, which can prevent crisping. If using frozen, make sure to thaw thoroughly and pat them dry before cooking.

What’s the best way to dice bacon for this dish?

Cut the bacon into small, uniform pieces so they cook evenly and crisp nicely. Smaller bits also distribute more flavor throughout the Brussels sprouts, ensuring every bite is bursting with smoky goodness.

Final Thoughts

This Crispy Bacon Brussels Sprouts Roast with Garlic and Balsamic Recipe is a fantastic way to bring bold, comforting flavors to your table with minimal fuss. Whether you’re making a weeknight side or adding variety to holiday meals, this recipe is bound to become a favorite. Give it a go and watch even the most hesitant vegetable eaters ask for seconds!

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