Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Halved Brussels sprouts roasted at high heat with crisp bacon until deeply caramelized, then finished with a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Serves 6 to 8.

Sheet pan of caramelized roasted Brussels sprouts with crispy bacon
  • Prep 15 min
  • Cook 30 min
  • Total 45 min
  • Yield 6 to 8 servings

Roasting turns Brussels sprouts sweet and nutty, with crisp, nearly charred edges. Here they roast right alongside chopped bacon, which bastes them as it crisps.

A drizzle of balsamic glaze at the end adds a little sweetness that balances the bacon.

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze

Instructions

  1. Heat the oven. Heat the oven to 425°F with a rack in the upper third.
  2. Toss. Toss the sprouts with the oil, salt and pepper on a large rimmed sheet pan. Turn them cut side down and scatter the bacon over them.
  3. Roast. Roast 25 to 30 minutes, stirring once halfway, until the sprouts are tender and deeply browned and the bacon is crisp.
  4. Finish. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and serve hot.

Tips

  • Placing the sprouts cut side down gives the best caramelization.
  • Give them space on the pan; crowded sprouts steam instead of roasting.

Questions about this recipe

Can I prep Brussels sprouts ahead?
Trim and halve them up to 2 days ahead and refrigerate in a bag.
What can I use instead of balsamic glaze?
Simmer 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar until reduced to about 2 tablespoons, or use a drizzle of maple syrup.

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