When it comes to holiday dinners, I always make this easy Brussels sprouts with bacon recipe. It’s the kind of dish that turns even the biggest Brussels sprout skeptics into fans. The sprouts come out perfectly tender on the inside and deliciously crispy on the edges, while the smoky bacon adds that irresistible flavor that ties everything together.
I remember the first time I made roasted Brussels sprouts for my family, I couldn’t believe how simple ingredients could create such bold, savory flavor. The combination of caramelized sprouts, crispy bacon bits, and a light touch of garlic and olive oil makes it taste like something straight out of a restaurant kitchen.
This dish has become my go-to holiday vegetable side, especially when I need something that balances rich main courses like roast turkey or glazed ham. It’s hearty, flavorful, and always disappears fast at the dinner table. Plus, it’s easy to double the batch if you’re cooking for a crowd.
If you’re looking for that perfect crispy Brussels sprouts dish to add to your festive menu, this recipe never fails. The key is roasting them at a high temperature, that’s what gives them their golden, crunchy edges and deep flavor.
I love how this holiday side dish recipe feels elegant yet effortless. Whether for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any cozy family gathering, these Brussels sprouts with bacon add a touch of comfort and sophistication to every holiday plate.
What You’ll Need When Making This easy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe
1. Brussels Sprouts
- Fresh Brussels sprouts roast best and achieve those golden, crispy edges.
- Choose firm, bright green sprouts without yellowing leaves.
- Cut large sprouts in half so they cook evenly and caramelize beautifully.
- Rinse well and pat dry to avoid sogginess during roasting.
2. Bacon
- The star flavor booster! Bacon adds smokiness and saltiness to balance the sprouts’ slight bitterness.
- Use thick-cut bacon for hearty pieces that crisp perfectly.
- You can use applewood-smoked or hickory-smoked bacon for extra depth.
- Reserve some rendered bacon fat to roast the sprouts in for that rich flavor.
3. Olive Oil
- Helps the sprouts brown evenly without drying out.
- Balances the bacon fat for a crisp but not greasy finish.
- Adds a hint of fruity flavor that enhances the overall dish.
4. Garlic
- Garlic brings warmth and aromatic depth to the dish.
- Add it halfway through roasting to prevent burning.
- Freshly minced garlic infuses the bacon drippings beautifully.
5. Salt
- Brings out the natural sweetness of the sprouts.
- Remember, bacon adds salt too, so season lightly and adjust at the end.
6. Black Pepper
- Adds mild heat and enhances caramelization.
- Use freshly cracked pepper for the best aroma and taste.
7. Balsamic Glaze
- Adds tangy sweetness that complements the smoky bacon.
- Optional, but highly recommended for a restaurant-quality finish.
Equipment for Making This Easy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe
1. Large Baking Sheet
- Provides space for even roasting without overcrowding.
2. Mixing Bowl
- For tossing sprouts evenly with oil, bacon fat, and seasoning.
3. Skillet
- Used to cook the bacon and render flavorful fat.
4. Tongs or Spatula
- Helpful for flipping sprouts during roasting.
5. Paper Towels
- For draining bacon and removing excess grease.
6. Measuring Spoons and Cups
- To ensure perfect flavor balance in seasoning and glaze.
Quick Tips for the Best Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe
- Dry thoroughly: Moisture prevents crisping, so dry sprouts completely before roasting.
- Cut evenly: Uniform size ensures even cooking and caramelization.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Space allows heat to circulate for those crispy edges.
- Add garlic later: Avoid burnt garlic by adding it in the last few minutes.
- Try pancetta or prosciutto: A gourmet twist for an Italian-style version.
- Add a sweet element: Drizzle with honey or maple syrup before roasting for a sweet-savory balance.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe
This recipe is a crowd-pleaser even among those who claim to dislike Brussels sprouts. The combination of smoky bacon, crispy caramelized sprouts, and a touch of garlic and glaze hits every flavor note, salty, sweet, tangy, and savory. Plus, it’s an easy holiday side dish that takes just over 30 minutes from start to finish, yet looks and tastes gourmet. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any family dinner, it’s comfort and sophistication in one bowl.
- Rich in Vitamin C and K, supporting immunity and bone health.
- High in fiber, promoting digestion and fullness.
- Contains antioxidants, reducing inflammation.
- Protein and B vitamins from bacon support energy metabolism.
- Low-carb and keto-friendly, making it a balanced holiday side.
Conclusion
In a season full of indulgent sides, this easy Brussels sprouts with bacon recipe offers the perfect balance—rich yet light, simple yet elegant. Whether served alongside roasted turkey, prime rib, or a vegetarian main, it complements any meal beautifully. Once you master this recipe, it’ll become a yearly tradition, guaranteed to win over even the pickiest eaters.
Crispy on the outside, tender within, and bursting with smoky flavor, this dish proves that holiday vegetables can steal the show.
✅ Quick Tips: Read through the full recipe before diving in; it’s the best way to get a feel for the flow, prep time, and tools you’ll need. Think of it like scanning a map before a road trip: you’ll cook more confidently and avoid any surprises halfway through.
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Easy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe
This easy Brussels sprouts with bacon recipe brings together roasted sprouts with a perfect balance of crispy edges and tender centers, all tossed in smoky bacon drippings and garlic for extra depth. Finished with a drizzle of balsamic glaze, this dish makes an irresistible holiday vegetable side that’s quick to prepare, healthy, and downright delicious. It’s ideal for Thanksgiving vegetables, a Christmas dinner side dish, or even as a weekday roasted veggie recipe.
Ingredients
Instructions
Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
- Wash the Brussels sprouts thoroughly, trim off the ends, and remove any damaged outer leaves.
- Cut large sprouts in half for even roasting.
- Pat them dry with a kitchen towel to ensure they roast, not steam.
Cook the Bacon
- Place the bacon strips in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook until crisp and golden, about 6–8 minutes.
- Remove the bacon and place on paper towels to drain.
- Reserve 1 tablespoon of the bacon fat in the pan and discard the rest.
- Chop the bacon into bite-sized pieces once cooled.
Toss the Sprouts
- In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, reserved bacon fat, salt, and pepper until well coated.
- Spread them evenly on the prepared baking sheet, cut sides down for maximum crispiness.
Roast to Perfection
- Roast the sprouts in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, tossing halfway through.
- In the last 5 minutes, add the minced garlic and chopped bacon to the pan so the flavors mingle beautifully.
- You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are crisp and deep golden brown.
Finish and Serve
- Remove the pan from the oven and transfer everything to a serving bowl.
- Drizzle lightly with balsamic glaze for a tangy, glossy finish.
- Serve warm, and watch them disappear within minutes!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
Serving Size 1
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 190kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 13g20%
- Saturated Fat 4g20%
- Cholesterol 20mg7%
- Sodium 340mg15%
- Potassium 480mg14%
- Total Carbohydrate 12g4%
- Dietary Fiber 4g16%
- Sugars 4g
- Protein 6g12%
- Vitamin A 850 IU
- Vitamin C 97 mg
- Calcium 50 mg
- Iron 1.3 mg
- Vitamin E 1.5 IU
- Vitamin K 156 mcg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Don’t skip drying the sprouts, it’s the key to crispness.
- Keep the oven hot and consistent at 200°C (400°F).
- Stir halfway for even browning.
- Always taste before serving to adjust seasoning.
- Avoid overcooking, which makes sprouts mushy and bitter.
- Add the garlic and bacon near the end for best flavor.
