Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
A quick and easy roasted side dish featuring crispy Brussels sprouts with smoky bacon, perfect for weeknights, potlucks, and holiday meals.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound (450g) Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh squeezed lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
- Trim about ¼ inch off the stem end of the Brussels sprouts and peel away any yellow or damaged outer leaves. Slice each sprout in half lengthwise.
- Chop the bacon into small pieces (about ½ inch). Cook in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Drain bacon on paper towels, reserving the rendered bacon fat in the pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Drizzle in 1-2 tablespoons of the warm bacon fat and toss well to coat evenly.
- Spread the sprouts cut-side down in a single layer on the baking sheet, ensuring they are not crowded.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping the sprouts halfway through (around 12 minutes) using tongs for even browning. Look for golden, caramelized edges and tender insides.
- In the last 5 minutes of roasting, sprinkle the cooked bacon pieces over the sprouts to crisp up alongside.
- Remove from oven and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top. Toss gently to combine all flavors.
- Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
Notes
If sprouts seem dry mid-roast, drizzle a bit more bacon fat or olive oil before flipping. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure crispiness. Use a rimmed baking sheet or cast-iron skillet for best results. Reheat leftovers in a 375°F oven for 8-10 minutes to restore crispiness; avoid microwaving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About ½ cup per serv
- Calories: 175
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 13
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Carbohydrates: 8
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 6
Keywords: Brussels sprouts, bacon, roasted Brussels sprouts, crispy Brussels sprouts, easy side dish, holiday side, quick recipe