Let me tell you, roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon are simply divine! My first encounter with this crispy, salty, and savory side dish was at a Thanksgiving dinner a few years back. I wasn’t exactly enthusiastic about Brussels sprouts as a child (who was, right?), but when I bit into those perfectly roasted, slightly caramelized sprouts infused with a yummy bacon flavor, I was a total convert! Now, I look forward to making them every chance I get!
What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare, and it brings out all those delicious, nutty flavors of the Brussels sprouts while balancing them perfectly with the saltiness of the bacon. Trust me, even the toughest veggie skeptics in your life will be asking for seconds!
What’s in Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon?
Brussels Sprouts: These little green gems are packed with nutrients like vitamin K, vitamin C, and fiber. They have a natural sweetness that truly shines when roasted. I like to choose fresh, firm Brussels sprouts—trust me, it makes a difference!
Bacon: The crispy goodness of bacon adds a delightful salty crunch and enhances the earthy flavors of the Brussels sprouts. I usually go for a good-quality, thick-cut bacon; it just elevates the dish so well!
Olive Oil: A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil is essential for roasting the vegetables and helps them crisp up beautifully. Plus, it adds a lovely flavor.
Salt and Pepper: Simple yet effective! These classic seasonings enhance all the other flavors in the dish and ensure every bite is tasty.
Is Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Good for You?
Well, that depends on how you look at it! Let’s break it down:
Brussels Sprouts: These are a fantastic source of antioxidants, which can promote good health. They’re rich in vitamins and minerals and are known for their potential anti-inflammatory benefits.
Bacon: While delicious, bacon can be high in sodium and saturated fats, so moderation is key here! Using high-quality bacon can also mean fewer preservatives.
Overall, this dish is a comforting classic that can fit into a balanced diet if enjoyed in moderation. Just don’t go serving it every day (tempting as that might be)!
Ingredients List
– 1 lb fresh Brussels sprouts (cleaned and halved)
– 4 slices of thick-cut bacon (chopped)
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– Salt (to taste)
– Pepper (to taste)
This recipe serves about 4 as a side dish.
How to Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon?
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Good things happen at this temperature!
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts and chopped bacon. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Toss until everything is well coated.
3. Spread the Brussels sprouts and bacon mixture evenly on a large baking sheet. It’s important not to overcrowd the pan—give them the space to roast!
4. Roast in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through for even cooking. You want those lovely sprouts to be golden brown and crispy!
5. Once done, remove from the oven and give them a taste. Add extra salt and pepper if desired!
6. Serve warm and enjoy the crunchy, savory goodness with family and friends.
Let’s Make It Even Better!
– **Add Garlic:** For an extra pop of flavor, toss in some minced garlic in the last 5 minutes of roasting.
– **Sprinkle with Parmesan:** When they’re out of the oven, a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese takes this dish over the top!
– **Balsamic Drizzle:** For a tangy twist, drizzle some balsamic glaze right before serving. Sweet and savory? Yes, please!
I hope you give this roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon recipe a try! I can guarantee it’ll be a hit at your dinner table, and who knows, it might just convert a few skeptics along the way! Let me know how yours turned out—I can’t wait to hear your thoughts!