brussel sprouts recipe bacon balsamic
- The Best brussel sprouts recipe bacon balsamic
- Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Balsamic Glaze, and Garlic
- 🥘Ingredients
- 👨🍳Directions
- 🔧Equipment
- 📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- 📝Notes
- Watch Video Of How Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Balsamic Glaze, and Garlic Works
- ❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Balsamic Glaze, and Garlic
The Best brussel sprouts recipe bacon balsamic
This dish is also one of those rare recipes that’s just as good for you as it is for your taste buds. Brussels sprouts are packed with fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants that help keep things running smoothly inside. The bacon adds a touch of fat that’s good for you in moderation, and the balsamic glaze brings in some natural sugars without the heavy processed stuff. It’s not a “clean eating” meal in the strictest sense, but it’s balanced—sweet, salty, and slightly tangy without being overly indulgent. Plus, it’s versatile. You can serve it as a side to grilled chicken or pork, eat it straight from the pan, or even turn it into a hearty sandwich filling. My kids and I always have leftovers because it’s so satisfying, and it’s easy to reheat if you’re not done yet. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a way to make healthy eating feel like a treat.
Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Balsamic Glaze, and Garlic
A flavorful dish featuring crispy roasted Brussels sprouts tossed with smoky bacon, a tangy balsamic glaze, and aromatic garlic for a delightful autumnal side dish. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 lbs Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 8 oz thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 1 tbsp butter
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. -
2
Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them evenly on the baking sheet. -
3
Roast Brussels sprouts for 20 minutes, then stir and return to the oven for another 10 minutes until crispy. -
4
In a small saucepan, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon, leaving the fat in the pan. Melt butter in the bacon fat. -
5
In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. Pour over the crispy bacon and toss gently. -
6
Transfer Brussels sprouts to a serving dish, top with bacon-balsamic mixture, and serve warm.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- Baking sheet
- Oven
- Small saucepan
- Whisk
- Tongs
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the Brussels sprouts.
- Ensure bacon is fully cooked before adding it to the balsamic glaze.
- Adjust sweetness by adding more honey or reducing balsamic vinegar if preferred.
Watch Video Of How Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Balsamic Glaze, and Garlic Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Balsamic Glaze, and Garlic
What is the best way to prepare bacon for the Brussels sprouts recipe with bacon balsamic?
The best way to prepare bacon is to cook it until it’s crispy and slightly charred, which adds a smoky depth to your dish. Cut bacon into thick strips, cook them in a cold pan over medium-low heat until they render their fat (about 3-4 minutes), then flip and cook until fully crispy (another 2-3 minutes). Remove from the pan and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pan for the Brussels sprouts.
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How do I choose the right Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
Look for Brussels sprouts that are firm, bright green, and free of yellowing or wilted leaves. They should be about the size of a golf ball (about 1.5–2 inches in diameter). Avoid sprouts that look shriveled or have a strong odor, as these may be old or past their prime.
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Can I substitute balsamic glaze for balsamic vinegar in this recipe?
Yes, you can! If you have balsamic glaze on hand, you can use it as a direct substitute—just reduce it slightly to account for its thicker consistency. For example, if the recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, use 1.5–2 tablespoons of balsamic glaze. The glaze will add a sweeter, more concentrated flavor, so adjust to taste.
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Why should I blanch the Brussels sprouts before roasting them?
Blanching (boiling for 2–3 minutes) helps soften the outer leaves while keeping the sprouts crisp-tender inside. It also removes any dirt or waxy coatings, ensuring a cleaner roast. After blanching, you can toss them in the bacon fat and oil before roasting to maintain crispiness and enhance flavor.
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What’s the best oil to use for roasting the Brussels sprouts alongside the bacon?
For this recipe, use avocado oil or extra virgin olive oil—both have high smoke points and add a pleasant nutty flavor. Avoid refined oils like vegetable or canola if you prefer a cleaner taste. A light spray or 1–2 tablespoons of oil in the pan will keep the sprouts crispy and prevent sticking.
