Roasted Brussels sprouts are a simple yet flavorful dish that can elevate any meal, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast. This roasted brussels sprouts recipe takes things up a notch by adding crispy bacon and a tangy balsamic glaze. The result is a savory, slightly sweet, and crispy dish that will turn even the most skeptical eater into a Brussels sprouts fan.
1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe
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 to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the halved Brussels sprouts and blanch for 2-3 minutes, or until they are bright green and slightly softened. Drain and pat dry with a paper towel. Blanching (not boiling ) Brussels sprouts before roasting can help to partially cook them and reduce their bitterness, while also helping them to cook more evenly.
In a large bowl, toss the blanched Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Then spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, and cut side down.
Roast the Brussels sprouts in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until they are tender and starting to brown on the bottom.
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and drizzle the Brussels sprouts with balsamic vinegar. Use a spatula to toss the Brussels sprouts with the vinegar. Next, sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the Brussels sprouts and toss again once.
Serve hot and enjoy!
2. Tips for the Best Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Use Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Fresh, firm Brussels sprouts will roast better and have a sweeter flavor compared to frozen ones, which can be mushy after roasting.
Cut Evenly: For even cooking, make sure to cut the Brussels sprouts into similar-sized halves. If some sprouts are significantly smaller, you can leave them whole or slice them into thirds.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Spacing the Brussels sprouts out on the baking sheet ensures they roast and get crispy, rather than steaming and becoming soggy.
Customize the Flavor: Feel free to add other seasonings like garlic powder, red pepper flakes, or even a drizzle of honey for added depth of flavor.
3. How to Serve Roasted Brussels Sprouts
These crispy roasted Brussels sprouts are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few ideas:
As a Side Dish:
Pair with roast chicken, steak, or pork chops for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Serve alongside fish or seafood for a lighter yet flavorful dinner option.
In a Salad:
Toss the roasted Brussels sprouts with mixed greens, toasted nuts, and a balsamic vinaigrette for a warm Brussels sprout salad.
As a Topping:
Use the roasted Brussels sprouts and bacon as a topping for pasta, pizza, or even a grain bowl for added texture and flavor.
As an Appetizer:
Serve the Brussels sprouts with a dipping sauce, like garlic aioli or a spicy Sriracha mayo, for a tasty, shareable appetizer.
4. How to Store and Reheat Leftover
Storing: Store any leftover Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: To reheat, spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. You can also reheat them in an air fryer for a few minutes to bring back their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the sprouts soggy.
Roasting Brussels sprouts is an easy and delicious way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable. With these instructions we’ve shared in this article, you can create roasted Brussels sprouts that are flavorful, crispy, and perfectly cooked every time
