Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Roasted Brussels sprouts with crispy bacon are a match made in culinary heaven! This dish is a perfect side for any meal, bringing together the earthy flavors of Brussels sprouts with the rich, smoky taste of bacon. Finished with a splash of balsamic vinegar, these Brussels sprouts are both savory and slightly tangy, making them a crowd-pleaser even for those who aren’t typically fans of this green veggie.

Ingredients

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved (1 1/2 lbs works too)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper (approximately 1 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper)
• 4 ounces bacon, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (or balsamic glaze)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare Brussels Sprouts:

• Place the halved Brussels sprouts on the prepared baking sheet.
• Drizzle them with olive oil, ensuring they are well coated. Sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
• Arrange the Brussels sprouts cut-side down on the baking sheet to achieve a nice sear.

1. Add Bacon:

• Evenly distribute the bacon pieces across the baking sheet, ensuring they are spread out so they cook evenly alongside the Brussels sprouts.

1. Roast:

• Roast in the preheated oven for 15-25 minutes, tossing halfway through to ensure even cooking.
• Start checking the Brussels sprouts at the 15-minute mark. Cooking time will vary depending on the size of the sprouts and your oven. Roast until the Brussels sprouts are fork-tender and caramelized, but not mushy, and the bacon is crispy.

1. Finish with Balsamic:

• Remove the Brussels sprouts from the oven and immediately toss them with the balsamic vinegar or glaze for a burst of tangy flavor. Serve hot.

Tips

• Size Matters: The size of your Brussels sprouts will affect cooking time. Smaller sprouts may cook faster, so keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
• Bacon Alternatives: For a slightly different flavor, you can use pancetta instead of bacon.
• Get a Good Sear: Placing the Brussels sprouts cut-side down helps them develop a beautiful golden-brown sear, enhancing their flavor and texture.
• Balsamic Glaze: If you prefer a sweeter finish, balsamic glaze is an excellent alternative to regular balsamic vinegar, adding a syrupy richness to the dish.

This dish is easy to prepare yet packed with flavor, making it an excellent addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving it alongside a holiday roast or as a weeknight side, these Brussels sprouts with bacon are sure to be a hit!