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Quick Crispy Bacon Balsamic Brussels Sprouts | Easy Side Dish

crispy bacon balsamic brussels sprouts - featured image
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This quick and easy side dish features crispy roasted Brussels sprouts with salty bacon and a tangy-sweet balsamic glaze. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a crowd-pleaser that even Brussels sprout skeptics will love.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
  • 4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped into 1-inch pieces
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
  • Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
  2. Rinse the Brussels sprouts under cold water and pat them dry. Trim off the tough stem ends and remove any yellow or damaged outer leaves. Cut each sprout in half lengthwise through the stem. Cut any large sprouts into quarters.
  3. Stack the bacon slices and cut them crosswise into 1-inch pieces.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts, chopped bacon, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss well until every sprout is coated.
  5. Spread the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, arranging the sprouts cut-side down as much as possible.
  6. Roast for 15 minutes.
  7. Remove the pan from the oven. Flip the sprouts and stir the bacon. Drizzle the balsamic vinegar over everything and toss gently to coat. If using maple syrup or honey, add it now.
  8. Return the pan to the oven and roast for another 10-15 minutes, until the sprouts are tender and the edges are deeply browned and crispy. If using Parmesan, sprinkle it on during the last 5 minutes.
  9. Let the sprouts rest for 2 minutes before serving.
  10. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Notes

Don’t skip drying the sprouts; wet sprouts won’t crisp up. Arrange sprouts cut-side down for best caramelization. Do not overcrowd the pan. Add balsamic vinegar halfway through to prevent burning. For extra crispy sprouts, press down on each sprout half with a spatula after the first 15 minutes. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; reheat in the oven or air fryer for best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: Brussels sprouts, bacon, balsamic, crispy, easy side dish, roasted vegetables, quick recipe

Find it online: https://fizzlefork.com/quick-crispy-bacon-balsamic-brussels-sprouts-easy-side-dish/