Roasting Brussels sprouts in the oven is one of the easiest and most flavorful ways to prepare this nutritious vegetable. When roasted properly, Brussels sprouts transform from bitter and dense into tender, caramelized bites with crispy edges and deep, savory flavor. Adding bacon and balsamic vinegar elevates the dish even further, creating a perfect balance of smoky, salty, and tangy notes that make this recipe a crowd favorite.
1. How to Roast Brussels Sprouts in Oven ( Yield: 4 Servings )
Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 4–5 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preheat the oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven is essential for achieving crisp edges and proper caramelization. While the oven heats, prepare your Brussels sprouts and other ingredients.
Prepare the Brussels sprouts
Rinse the Brussels sprouts thoroughly under cold water and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Trim off the tough stem ends and remove any yellow or damaged outer leaves. Slice each Brussels sprout in half lengthwise so they cook evenly and expose more surface area for browning.
Cook the bacon
Cook the bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate to drain excess grease, then crumble into small pieces. Set aside. You can cook the bacon ahead of time to save preparation time.
Season the Brussels sprouts
Place the halved Brussels sprouts in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss everything well until the Brussels sprouts are evenly coated.
Arrange on the baking sheet
Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a large baking sheet, cut-side down. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can cause steaming instead of roasting. Use two baking sheets if necessary.
Roast in the oven
Place the baking sheet on the middle rack of the oven. Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping the Brussels sprouts halfway through to ensure even browning. They should be fork-tender on the inside and deeply golden on the outside.
Add the bacon
During the last 5 minutes of roasting, sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the Brussels sprouts. Return the pan to the oven so the bacon warms and melds with the roasted flavors.
Finish and serve
Remove the Brussels sprouts from the oven and taste for seasoning. Add more salt or pepper if needed. Serve immediately while hot and crisp.
2. Tips for Perfect Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasting Brussels sprouts may seem simple, but a few key tips can make the difference between good and truly exceptional results.
First, always dry the Brussels sprouts thoroughly after washing. Excess moisture prevents browning and leads to soggy vegetables. Dry sprouts roast better and develop crisp, caramelized edges.
Second, cut Brussels sprouts evenly. Halving them lengthwise ensures uniform cooking and allows the flat sides to make direct contact with the hot pan, creating better browning.
Third, don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Space allows hot air to circulate around each sprout. If they’re too close together, they’ll steam instead of roast.
Another important tip is to roast at a high temperature. A 400°F oven is ideal for achieving crispy exteriors without drying out the interior.
Lastly, add delicate ingredients like bacon at the end of cooking. This prevents burning while still allowing the flavors to combine beautifully.
3. Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make roasted Brussels sprouts without bacon?
Yes, you can omit the bacon entirely for a vegetarian version. You may want to add extra seasoning or a sprinkle of nuts or cheese for additional flavor.
Why do my Brussels sprouts taste bitter?
Bitterness often comes from undercooking or overcrowding the pan. Proper roasting at high heat helps reduce bitterness and enhances natural sweetness.
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
Fresh Brussels sprouts yield the best texture, but frozen ones can work in a pinch. Thaw and dry them thoroughly before roasting, and expect a slightly softer result.
How do I store leftover roasted Brussels sprouts?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore some crispness.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can trim and halve the Brussels sprouts and cook the bacon in advance. Roast everything just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
What can I serve with roasted Brussels sprouts?
They pair well with roasted chicken, grilled steak, salmon, or holiday dishes like turkey and ham.
4. Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 |
| Protein | 7 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 14 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 320 mg |
Roasting Brussels sprouts in the oven is one of the most reliable ways to turn a simple vegetable into a flavorful, satisfying dish. The combination of crispy edges, tender centers, smoky bacon, and tangy balsamic vinegar creates a side dish that appeals even to those who normally avoid Brussels sprouts.
With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe proves that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring. Try it once, and it’s sure to become a regular part of your meal rotation.
