Save This dish features tender Brussels sprouts roasted to a crisp golden brown alongside savory beef bacon. Tossed in olive oil and seasoned with salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder, the sprouts develop a rich, caramelized flavor. Beef bacon adds a smoky, satisfying contrast. Garnished with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired, it makes an easy yet flavorful side or appetizer. Ideal for quick preparation and serving straight from the oven.
My skepticism about Brussels sprouts lasted until I discovered how roasting transforms them into something completely different. These little cabbages develop an irresistible sweetness when exposed to high heat, and the beef bacon adds a smoky richness that makes them disappear from the serving plate faster than any vegetable should.
I made this for a friend who swore she hated Brussels sprouts since childhood. She took one cautious bite, went silent for a moment, then asked for the recipe before dinner was even over.
Ingredients
- Brussels sprouts: Fresh, tight heads without yellowing leaves roast more evenly and develop better caramelization
- Beef bacon: The smoky, savory notes from beef bacon stand up beautifully to the sweetness of roasted sprouts
- Olive oil: Helps the seasonings stick and promotes even browning without overpowering delicate flavors
- Kosher salt: Coarse salt adheres better to vegetables and draws out moisture for crispier results
- Black pepper: Freshly ground adds a bright, spicy kick that cuts through the richness
- Garlic powder: Distributes evenly over the sprouts and mellows nicely during roasting
- Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness to balance the roasted flavors
Instructions
- Heat things up:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup later
- Coat the sprouts:
- Toss halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until every piece glistens
- Arrange for success:
- Spread sprouts in a single layer on the baking sheet and scatter diced beef bacon evenly across the top
- Roast to golden perfection:
- Cook for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until sprouts are tender with caramelized edges
- Finish and serve:
- Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with fresh parsley or Parmesan if you are feeling fancy
Save This dish has become my go to for holiday gatherings because it converts even the most stubborn Brussels sprout skeptics. Watching people return for thirds never gets old.
The Secret to Perfect Roasting
High heat is essential for developing those crispy, caramelized edges that make roasted vegetables so addictive. The natural sugars in Brussels sprouts concentrate and sweeten as they roast, transforming any bitterness into something rich and complex.
Making It Your Own
A drizzle of balsamic glaze right before serving adds acidity that cuts through the richness and creates a restaurant worthy presentation. You can also toss the roasted sprouts with hot pasta for a quick, satisfying main dish.
Timing Is Everything
The difference between perfectly roasted and unpleasantly mushy is just a few minutes, so keep an eye on them during the final minutes of cooking. Trust your senses more than the timer when the sprouts smell deeply roasted and look golden brown.
- Shake the pan instead of stirring to minimize breaking apart delicate roasted edges
- Let the sprouts rest for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle
- Reheat leftovers in a hot skillet to restore some of the original crispiness
Save Simple ingredients prepared with attention to detail can turn humble vegetables into something extraordinary.
Recipe FAQs
- → What is the best way to prepare Brussels sprouts for roasting?
-
Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts to ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior. Thoroughly coat them in olive oil and seasonings before roasting.
- → Can I substitute beef bacon with other types?
-
Yes, turkey or regular pork bacon can be used as alternatives to provide similar smoky flavors with slight differences in texture.
- → How do I achieve crispy bacon in the oven?
-
Scatter diced bacon evenly over the sprouts and roast at 425°F (220°C), stirring halfway through to allow even crisping.
- → Is it necessary to use Parmesan cheese as garnish?
-
No, Parmesan is optional and can be omitted for a dairy-free option or replaced with fresh herbs like parsley for added freshness.
- → Can this dish be served as a main course?
-
While designed as a side, it can be tossed with cooked pasta or grains to create a quick and flavorful main dish.
