Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Bacon

Name: Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Bacon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved; 4 slices bacon, diced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

Highlighted under: Simple Comfort Food Ideas

I absolutely love making Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon because they are a delightful combination of crispy texture and smoky flavor. Whenever I roast Brussels sprouts, I always add a generous amount of bacon to elevate the dish. The savory notes from the bacon pair perfectly with the natural nuttiness of the sprouts, creating a side dish that never fails to impress. Plus, this recipe is simple enough to whip up on a weeknight but sophisticated enough for a festive gathering. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll make this dish a staple at your table.

Created by

Isolde Bennett

Last updated on 2026-02-07T20:57:40.884Z

When I first tried Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon at a dinner party, I was blown away by how delicious they were. I remember thinking about how to replicate that flavor at home and after a few tries, I developed my own recipe that truly brings out the best in both ingredients. The key is to roast the sprouts until they are perfectly caramelized and to use high-quality bacon for that extra punch.

This dish has since become one of my go-to sides for family dinners and gatherings. I’ve learned that while it’s tempting to rush the cooking process, allowing the sprouts to roast thoroughly really enhances their natural sweetness. Plus, the bacon adds a satisfying crispiness that takes them to the next level!

Why You'll Love This Dish
The crispy, salty bacon complements the tender Brussels sprouts perfectly.
Caramelization enhances the natural sweetness of the sprouts.
A quick and easy recipe that impresses at any dinner table.

Choosing the Right Brussels Sprouts

When selecting Brussels sprouts, it's important to choose ones that are firm and compact. Look for vibrant green color without any yellowing or wilting. Smaller sprouts tend to be sweeter and more tender, making them ideal for roasting with bacon. If you have the option, opt for organic Brussels sprouts as they often have more flavor and are grown without harmful pesticides.

To prepare your Brussels sprouts, trim the stem end and remove any discolored outer leaves. Halving them allows for better roasting, as it increases their surface area, leading to a better caramelization. Ensuring uniform size will also help them cook evenly—larger sprouts may require a few extra minutes in the oven.

The Role of Bacon in This Recipe

Bacon isn’t just an additional flavor; it’s a critical component of this dish that adds richness and complexity. The fat rendered from cooking the bacon coats the Brussels sprouts, contributing to their crispy texture and smoky flavor. I recommend using thick-cut bacon for a meatier bite that holds its shape during roasting. If you prefer a healthier option, turkey bacon can be used, though it may not render as much fat, resulting in less crispness.

Incorporating the bacon into the mixture before roasting allows its flavors to infuse into the Brussels sprouts. Pay attention to the cooking time, as overcooking can result in bacon that is overly crispy or burnt, while undercooking might leave it chewy. Aim for the bacon to be golden and slightly crisp to create a delightful contrast with the tender sprouts.

Variations and Additions

While this recipe shines in its simplicity, feel free to customize it according to your taste. You can add nuts, like walnuts or pecans, during the last 10 minutes of roasting for an extra layer of crunch. Tossing in some dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds after roasting can provide a lovely burst of sweetness and color that contrasts beautifully with the savory elements.

For those looking to spice things up, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving. These additions can brighten the dish and elevate it for special occasions. Should you have leftovers, you can toss them into a salad or use them as a topping for omelets, ensuring no delicious flavors go to waste.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make a delicious batch of Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon.

Ingredients for Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
4 slices bacon, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

Make sure to measure out your ingredients properly for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon.

Preheat the oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the Brussels sprouts roast evenly and develop a nice crisp.

Prepare the Brussels sprouts

In a large bowl, combine the trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts with diced bacon, olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using. Toss until everything is well-coated.

Roast the mixture

Spread the Brussels sprouts and bacon mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the oven for about 30 minutes, stirring halfway, until the sprouts are caramelized and the bacon is crispy.

Serve

Once finished, remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Serve warm as a side dish and enjoy!

Don’t forget to adjust the seasoning according to your taste!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the Brussels sprouts during the last 5 minutes of roasting.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning to make this dish in advance, it's best to roast the Brussels sprouts with bacon just before serving for optimal texture. However, you can prepare the Brussels sprouts and bacon mixture a day ahead, storing them in the refrigerator. When you're ready to cook, allow it to come to room temperature before roasting to ensure even cooking.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a hot skillet for a few minutes until warmed through, or pop them back in a hot oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This way, they'll regain some of their crispy texture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your Brussels sprouts are soggy rather than crispy, it could be due to overcrowding on the baking sheet. Make sure to spread them out in a single layer to allow proper airflow and roasting. Additionally, an aluminum foil lined sheet could trap steam—opt for a bare baking sheet instead for optimal crispiness.

Watch the roasting time closely, as oven temperatures can vary. If you notice the bacon is browning too quickly but the Brussels sprouts still look undercooked, consider removing the bacon pieces halfway through roasting and returning them for the final few minutes. This prevents the bacon from becoming overly crispy while ensuring the sprouts are perfect.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

Yes, but fresh Brussels sprouts will yield better results in terms of flavor and texture.

→ What's the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftover Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Carrots or sweet potatoes are great additions that roast well alongside Brussels sprouts.

→ Is this dish suitable for a vegetarian diet?

You can omit the bacon and use a vegetable oil, but it will no longer have the same flavor profile.