Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Easy Side Dish Recipe

Get ready to completely transform your opinion of Brussels sprouts with this incredible roasted recipe that combines crispy bacon, caramelized onions, and perfectly crispy Brussels Sprouts. If you’ve only experienced boiled or steamed Brussels sprouts that left you less than impressed, this recipe will be a complete game-changer. The high-heat roasting technique caramelizes the natural sugars, while the bacon adds smoky richness, transforming these humble vegetables into an irresistible side dish that even the pickiest eaters will request again and again.

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Why This Recipe Works

The secret to perfect Brussels sprouts lies in high-temperature roasting, which caramelizes their natural sugars and creates crispy, golden edges while keeping the centers tender. Pre-cooking the bacon ensures it renders correctly and doesn’t become soggy during roasting. The combination of bacon fat and olive oil creates the perfect medium for achieving that coveted crispy exterior, while the onions add sweetness that balances any lingering bitterness from the sprouts.

How to Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

For the Roasted Vegetables:

• Brussels sprouts – Choose firm, bright green sprouts that will hold their shape during roasting
• Bacon – Provides smoky flavor and renders fat that enhances the roasting process
• Onion – Becomes sweet and caramelized during roasting, balancing any bitterness
• Olive oil – Helps achieve crispy edges and carries flavors throughout the dish
• Salt – Enhances natural flavors and helps draw out moisture for better browning
• Black pepper – Adds warmth and complements the smoky bacon flavor

Partially cook the bacon and onion. Then toss with fresh Brussels sprouts, olive oil, and seasonings. Bake in the oven until perfectly browned and delicious.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Oven and Pan

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures proper caramelization while preventing the caramel from burning.
2. Prepare a large sheet pan or rimmed baking sheet for roasting.

Preparing the Bacon and Red Onions

3. Slice the bacon into bite-sized pieces.
4. In a large skillet, pan-fry the bacon pieces but only partially cook them. The bacon should render some fat but remain flexible, as it will finish cooking in the oven.
5. Remove the partially cooked bacon from the pan and set aside.
6. Add the diced red onion to the same pan with the bacon drippings.
7. Cook the red onion until just softened, about 2-3 minutes. Do not drain the pan drippings.

Preparing the Brussels Sprouts

8. Wash the Brussels sprouts thoroughly and pat dry.
9. Slice each Brussels sprout in half lengthwise.
10. Remove any brown or damaged outer leaves from the Brussels sprouts.

Assembling and Roasting

11. On the prepared cookie sheet, add the sliced Brussels sprouts, partially cooked bacon, and softened red onions along with all the pan drippings.
12. Mix everything well on the cookie sheet.
13. Drizzle the olive oil over the Brussels sprouts mixture and stir until the Brussels sprouts are evenly coated with oil.
14. Roast for approximately 25 minutes, or until the Brussels sprouts are golden brown and crispy on the edges.

Final Seasoning

15. Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with kosher salt, then add fresh-cracked black pepper before serving.

Chef’s Notes

The key to success is not overcrowding the pan and ensuring Brussels sprouts are completely dry before roasting. Any excess moisture will create steam, preventing proper browning. Cut Brussels sprouts just before cooking to prevent them from drying out.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

• Refrigerator Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Note that Brussels sprouts will lose some crispiness when chilled.
• Reheating Method: Reheat in a 400°F oven for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness. Never microwave, as this will make them soggy and unappetizing.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as Brussels sprouts become mushy when frozen and thawed.

Love roasted vegetables? Take a look at these recipes:

• Air Fryer Roasted Corn
• Parmesan Roasted Potatoes
• Oven Roasted Asparagus
• Honey Roasted Carrots