Let’s go back in time for a bit. When I was young, Brussels sprouts were not my favorite. I even dreaded them at dinner. But now, I love to share my favorite side dish: roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon and balsamic glaze recipe.
This recipe made me love Brussels sprouts again. It also made our family dinners better.
Imagine eating crispy, roasted veggies. The Brussels sprouts taste great with smoky bacon. And the balsamic glaze adds sweetness and tanginess.
This recipe is perfect for healthy meals. Brussels sprouts are full of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. They’re called ‘superfoods’ for a reason.
When I first made this, I used 1 ½ pounds of veggies. I roasted them at 425 degrees F for 20 to 25 minutes. It was a hit. You can add up to 2 more pounds for family gatherings without changing the glaze.
This recipe is great for any meal. It’s perfect for weeknights, holidays, or special events. It’s healthy and delicious, with 9g of protein and only 264 calories per serving. It’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Introduction to My Favorite Side Dish
Finding the perfect side dish is magical. For me, it’s this roasted Brussels sprouts recipe. It mixes savory bacon with sweet balsamic glaze. This turns ordinary Brussels sprouts into a dish I love.
Why This Recipe is a Game-Changer
This Brussels sprouts recipe is special because of its mix of textures and flavors. You get crispy leaves, crunchy pecans, sweet cranberries, and tangy balsamic glaze. It’s made with 1 lb. of Brussels sprouts, 3-4 slices of bacon, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
It also has 3 tablespoons of brown sugar, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and black pepper. This makes a dish that’s easy to make but very rewarding.
The Inspiration Behind This Dish
This recipe was inspired by roasted vegetables. But adding bacon and balsamic glaze made it even better. It’s great for holiday dinners or a special weeknight meal.
The dish is flavorful, crisp, and delicious. It’s perfect for almost everyone. Plus, it’s quick to make, ready in just 40 minutes. Prep takes 15 minutes, and roasting takes 25. Serve it hot and enjoy the praise!
Ingredients Needed for Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Balsamic Glaze
Are you ready to make a healthy dish perfect for Thanksgiving? Let’s look at what you need for these tasty Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Balsamic Glaze.
The Essential Ingredients
Here’s a detailed list of the must-have ingredients:
- 2 cups (or 16 ounces) of fresh Brussels sprouts
- 4 slices of chopped bacon
- 1/2 diced yellow onion
- 1/4 cup of balsamic vinegar
- 1/8 cup of olive oil
- 5 grams of salt
- 1 tablespoon of bacon grease (from cooked bacon)
- 1/2 cup of brown sugar (for the glaze)
Optional Additions
To make the dish your own or perfect for Thanksgiving, try these optional additions:
- Cranberries for a hint of sweetness
- Pine nuts or almonds for an extra crunch
- A splash of maple syrup for an added layer of flavor
- Parmesan cheese grated on top for a savory touch
These extras can make the dish even better. It becomes a healthy recipe and a memorable Thanksgiving side dish.
Choosing the Best Brussels Sprouts
Choosing the right Brussels sprouts is key for great flavors and textures. Whether you pick fresh or pre-packaged sprouts, knowing the differences is important. This helps you get the best sprouts for your dish.
Fresh vs. Pre-Packaged Brussels Sprouts
Fresh sprouts on the stalk are firmer and taste better. They’re best in late fall to early winter. Pre-packaged sprouts are easy to find all year but might not be as fresh.
Look for sprouts that are bright green and tightly packed. They should not be yellow or wilted.
Tips for Selecting High-Quality Sprouts
Here are some tips for picking the best sprouts:
- Check the Color: Choose sprouts that are bright green. Avoid any with yellow leaves.
- Feel the Texture: Fresh sprouts should feel firm. Pre-packaged ones should also be firm.
- Check for Freshness: Buying sprouts on the stalk keeps them fresh longer. For packaged ones, check the expiration date.
- Size Matters: Smaller sprouts are sweeter and tender. Larger ones might need more cooking time.
| Characteristic | Fresh Brussels Sprouts | Pre-Packaged Brussels Sprouts |
|---|---|---|
| Availability | Seasonal (Late Fall to Early Winter) | Year-Round |
| Texture | Firm and Crisp | Varies (Can be Less Firm) |
| Convenience | Requires Trimming | Pre-Trimmed |
| Shelf Life | Lasts Longer on the Stalk | Shorter Shelf Life |
By focusing on these details, you can pick the best sprouts. Whether fresh or pre-packaged, the right sprouts make your dish amazing. They add a delicious crunch that goes well with bacon and balsamic glaze.
Bacon Selection and Alternatives
Choosing the right bacon is key for great taste and texture in roasted Brussels sprouts. Thick-cut, minimally processed bacon is best. It stays crisp and adds a savory flavor to the dish.
Types of Bacon to Use
The type of bacon you pick is important. Thick-cut bacon works best because it keeps its texture. It doesn’t get lost with the Brussels sprouts and glaze.
| Bacon Type | Texture | Flavor |
|---|---|---|
| Thick-Cut Bacon | Crisp and hearty | Robust, smoky flavor |
| Regular-Cut Bacon | Crumbly | Milder |
| Maple Bacon | Slightly chewy | Sweet and savory |
Substitutions for Non-Pork Eaters
Turkey bacon is a great choice for those who don’t eat pork. It has a similar texture and can soak up the balsamic glaze’s flavors. Turkey bacon lets everyone enjoy the crispy texture and sweet-savory taste.
Other options for non-pork eaters include:
- Vegetarian Bacon: Made from plants, it can be very tasty when cooked right.
- Chicken Bacon: A protein-rich choice with a milder taste, great for those who like lighter flavors.
How to Make Homemade Balsamic Glaze
Making homemade balsamic glaze is easy and makes your food taste better. It’s great on roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon. You can also use it in many other dishes.
Steps for a Perfect Reduction
- Choose Quality Vinegar: Pick a good balsamic vinegar. The better the vinegar, the tastier your glaze will be.
- Pour and Simmer: Put 1 cup of balsamic vinegar in a saucepan. Heat it until it starts boiling on medium heat.
- Reduce Heat: After boiling, turn the heat down to a simmer. Stir it now and then so it doesn’t stick.
- Look for Thickness: The vinegar will get thicker. You want it to be like syrup, which takes about 15-20 minutes.
- Cool and Store: When it’s thick, turn off the heat. Let it cool down. It will get even thicker as it cools.
Storing and Using Glaze
When your glaze is ready, put it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge. This keeps it fresh for weeks. You can use it on salads, veggies, meats, and even desserts.
Homemade balsamic glaze makes your food taste fancy. It can make simple meals special. Make sure to store it right to keep its flavor.
Preparing the Brussels Sprouts
Getting Brussels sprouts ready is key. You might trim, slice, or make them crispy. It’s important to do it right for the best taste.
Trimming and Slicing Techniques
First, cut off the hard ends and any bad leaves. Then, cut each sprout in half or quarters. I save loose leaves for roasting because they get crispy.
Maximizing Crispy Leaves
To get crispy sprouts, follow some steps. Coat them in olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet to roast evenly.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F.
- Trim the ends and slice the Brussels sprouts.
- Coat the Brussels sprouts in olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes, tossing halfway through to promote even browning.
Using fresh ingredients and these steps can make your dish amazing. Every bite will be tender and crispy.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 126kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 8g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Sodium | 448mg |
| Potassium | 214mg |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 4g |
| Vitamin A | 415IU |
| Vitamin C | 38.7mg |
| Calcium | 18mg |
| Iron | 0.8mg |
Cooking the Bacon to Perfection
Getting the bacon just right is crucial for a tasty Brussels sprouts and bacon dish. We want the bacon to be crispy and browned evenly. Let’s explore how to make it perfect.
First, cut the bacon into small pieces. This makes it cook faster and get crispy. Heat your skillet over medium heat. Slow cooking is key to get the bacon fat right, making it crispy.
Put the bacon pieces in the skillet, spreading them out. Stir them now and then to cook evenly. In 12 to 20 minutes, they’ll turn golden and crispy. Don’t cook on high heat to avoid burning.
When the bacon is crispy, take it out with a slotted spoon. Put it on a paper towel to soak up fat. Keep the bacon fat for later to add flavor to the sprouts. Perfectly cooked bacon makes the dish unforgettable.
| Time Details | Temperature | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Prep Time: 5 minutes | N/A | N/A |
| Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Medium Heat | Crispy Bacon |
| Total Time | N/A | 45 minutes |
| Servings | N/A | 4 to 6 servings |
| Bacon Roast Time | 450°F | 12 to 20 minutes |
| Roasting Brussels Sprouts | 450°F | 20 to 25 minutes |
| Reheating Temperature | 350°F | Restored Crispiness |
Sauteing the Onion for Extra Flavor
In this section, I’ll show you how to make our roasted Brussels sprouts even better. We’ll saute onions to add depth and complexity. The right onion and cooking methods can really boost the flavor.
Choosing the Right Onion
Choosing the right onion is key for great flavor enhancement. Yellow onions are perfect because they’re sweet and savory. They get really tasty when they caramelize. White onions are good if you want a sharper taste.
Cooking Tips for Maximum Flavor
To get the most flavor from onions, use the right technique. Start by cutting the onion into small, even pieces. This helps it cook evenly.
- Heat the same pan used for the bacon over medium heat. This keeps the bacon grease.
- Add the diced onions and stir often to stop them from sticking.
- Cook the onions until they’re clear and start to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
By sauteing onions in bacon grease, they get a smoky flavor. This adds a rich layer to your Brussels sprouts. These steps might seem simple, but they’re crucial for that extra flavor.
Combining the Ingredients
Mixing ingredients is key to a tasty dish. Make sure each Brussels sprout gets balsamic glaze, crispy bacon, and sautéed onions. This way, every bite is full of flavor and looks great.
Steps to Mix Everything Together Seamlessly
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to get things started.
- Prepare the Brussels sprouts by trimming and slicing them, then spread them evenly on a baking sheet.
- Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper, ensuring each piece is lightly coated.
- Add the sautéed onions, ensuring an even distribution across the Brussels sprouts.
- Layer the crispy bacon pieces over the Brussels sprouts and onions for optimal coverage.
- Finally, drizzle the balsamic glaze over the top, making sure to coat as many pieces as possible for that perfect blend of flavors.
Ensuring Even Distribution of Flavors
To get flavors right, toss Brussels sprouts halfway through roasting. This mixes everything well. Also, turn the baking sheet halfway to cook evenly.
By mixing ingredients well, you make a dish that tastes amazing. Follow these steps for a side dish that’s unforgettable. It goes well with many main dishes.
Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal
The roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon and balsamic glaze are great as a side dish. They add flavor to any meal. They’re perfect for many occasions.
Pairing with Main Courses
Pair these sprouts with a main course for a great meal. Here are some top picks:
- Roasted chicken: The chicken’s savory taste goes well with the sprouts.
- Grilled salmon: Salmon’s freshness matches the bacon and balsamic glaze’s richness.
- Lamb chops: Lamb’s strong flavor contrasts nicely with the sprouts’ sweetness.
Complementary Side Dishes
Choose side dishes that go well with the sprouts. Here are some good options:
- Mashed potatoes: They’re creamy and soft, a nice contrast to the sprouts.
- Wild rice: Its nutty taste goes well with the sprouts and bacon.
- Arugula salad: A lemon vinaigrette adds a fresh touch to the meal.
These suggestions help make a meal that’s both balanced and tasty.
Benefits of Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are now a hit in many restaurants. They are full of good stuff, making them great for a healthy meal.
Nutritional Profile
Brussels sprouts are very nutritious. They have about 38 calories per cup. This makes them a good choice for a diet.
They also have lots of vitamins and minerals. Here are some:
- Vitamin K: Helps blood to thin and can lower blood pressure.
- Vitamin C: Boosts your immune system and keeps your skin healthy.
- Fiber: Helps with digestion and keeps you full longer.
Health Advantages
Brussels sprouts do more than just taste good. They are full of antioxidants, which fight inflammation. They also have a compound called glycosinolate glucobrassicin that may prevent DNA damage and lower cancer risk.
Eating them often can help prevent cancers like breast, stomach, and kidney cancers.
| Health Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Reduced Inflammation | High antioxidant levels combat inflammation in the body. |
| Cancer Prevention | Compounds that lower the risk of DNA damage and certain cancers. |
| Improved Digestion | High fiber content aids the digestive system. |
Adding Brussels sprouts to your meals is a smart choice. They are tasty and good for you. Try roasting, salads, or new recipes to enjoy their benefits!
Alternative Cooking Methods
Want to try something new with Brussels sprouts? Grilling and air frying can make them taste amazing. These methods add variety to your cooking.
Grilling
Grilling gives Brussels sprouts a smoky flavor. Heat your grill to medium-high. Then, toss the sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Skewer them or use a basket to keep them from falling. Grill for 5-7 minutes on each side. This makes them tender and smoky, great for summer or with grilled meats.
Air Frying
Air frying is great for crispy veggies with less oil. Set your air fryer to 375°F. Coat the sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Put them in the basket in a single layer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway. This method is quick and healthy, making crispy sprouts without much oil.
Grilling or air frying Brussels sprouts brings new flavors. These methods make them exciting and tasty.