Balsamic Bacon Brussels Sprouts: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Balsamic Bacon Brussels Sprouts: Prepare to meet your new favorite side dish! Are you ready to transform those often-dreaded little green cabbages into a culinary masterpiece? I know, I know, Brussels sprouts have a reputation. But trust me, this recipe will convert even the most ardent sprout-hater.

Brussels sprouts, members of the Brassica family, have been cultivated since the 16th century, likely originating in Brussels, Belgium – hence the name! While they might not have always been the most popular vegetable, their nutritional value and versatility have kept them around for centuries. And now, we’re taking them to a whole new level.

What makes these Balsamic Bacon Brussels Sprouts so irresistible? It’s the perfect combination of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors. The crispy bacon adds a smoky richness, the balsamic glaze provides a delightful sweetness and acidity, and the roasted Brussels sprouts offer a slightly nutty and tender texture. This dish is incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time and simple ingredients. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fancy holiday gathering. The best part? Everyone will rave about them! Get ready to experience Brussels sprouts like never before.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved (or quartered if large)
• 6 slices thick-cut bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)

Preparing the Brussels Sprouts and Bacon

1. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: First, give your Brussels sprouts a good rinse under cold water. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. This helps them to roast properly and get nice and crispy. Trim off the very end of the stem – just a small slice. Then, depending on their size, halve or quarter them. If they’re on the smaller side, halving is fine. If they’re larger, quartering ensures they cook evenly.
2. Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet (cast iron is ideal, but any large skillet will work), cook the bacon pieces over medium heat. Stir occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and has rendered most of its fat. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
3. Remove Bacon and Reserve Fat: Once the bacon is crispy, use a slotted spoon to remove it from the skillet and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain. Don’t discard the bacon fat! We’re going to use it to add incredible flavor to the Brussels sprouts. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet. If you have more than that, pour off the excess. If you don’t have enough, you can supplement with a little olive oil.

Roasting the Brussels Sprouts

1. Sauté the Brussels Sprouts: Add the Brussels sprouts to the skillet with the bacon fat. Toss them well to coat them evenly in the fat. Season with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasoning – Brussels sprouts can handle it!
2. Sear the Brussels Sprouts: Increase the heat to medium-high. We want to get some nice color on the Brussels sprouts. Cook them, stirring occasionally, until they start to brown and caramelize on the edges. This will take about 8-10 minutes. The goal is to get them slightly tender and nicely browned.
3. Add Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes: Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Cook for about 1 minute more, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

Making the Balsamic Glaze

1. Combine Glaze Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, maple syrup (or honey), and Dijon mustard. Make sure everything is well combined. This glaze is what’s going to give our Brussels sprouts that sweet and tangy flavor.
2. Add Glaze to the Skillet: Pour the balsamic glaze over the Brussels sprouts in the skillet. Stir well to coat the Brussels sprouts evenly in the glaze.
3. Simmer and Reduce: Reduce the heat to low and let the glaze simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens slightly and coats the Brussels sprouts beautifully. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The glaze should become glossy and sticky.

Bringing it All Together

1. Add Bacon Back In: Return the cooked bacon to the skillet with the Brussels sprouts and balsamic glaze. Stir gently to combine everything.
2. Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Taste the Brussels sprouts and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add a little more salt, pepper, or even a touch more balsamic vinegar or maple syrup, depending on your preference.
3. Serve Immediately: Serve the Balsamic Bacon Brussels Sprouts immediately. They are best enjoyed hot and fresh.
4. Optional Garnish: If desired, garnish with grated Parmesan cheese before serving. The Parmesan adds a nice salty and savory element that complements the sweetness of the balsamic glaze and the richness of the bacon.

Tips for Perfect Balsamic Bacon Brussels Sprouts:

• Don’t overcrowd the skillet: If your skillet is too crowded, the Brussels sprouts will steam instead of roast. If necessary, cook them in batches.
• Use good quality balsamic vinegar: The quality of the balsamic vinegar will greatly impact the flavor of the dish. Use a good quality balsamic vinegar for the best results.
• Adjust the sweetness to your liking: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of maple syrup or honey.
• Get creative with additions: Feel free to add other ingredients to the dish, such as toasted pecans, dried cranberries, or a sprinkle of goat cheese.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the Brussels sprouts and bacon ahead of time and store them separately. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine them in the skillet with the balsamic glaze and heat through.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve as a side dish with roasted chicken, pork, or beef.
• Add to a grain bowl with quinoa or farro.
• Serve as an appetizer for a holiday gathering.
• Enjoy as a healthy and flavorful snack.

Storage Instructions:

• Store leftover Balsamic Bacon Brussels Sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave.

Conclusion:

So, there you have it! These Balsamic Bacon Brussels Sprouts are truly a game-changer. I know, I know, Brussels sprouts might not be at the top of everyone’s favorite vegetable list, but trust me on this one. The combination of the slightly bitter sprouts, the salty, smoky bacon, and the sweet and tangy balsamic glaze creates a flavor explosion that will convert even the most ardent Brussels sprout skeptic. It’s the perfect side dish to elevate any meal, from a simple weeknight dinner to a fancy holiday feast.

Why is this recipe a must-try? Well, first and foremost, it’s incredibly delicious! The balsamic glaze caramelizes beautifully in the oven, creating a sticky, irresistible coating that clings to every sprout and bacon bit. The bacon adds a wonderful depth of flavor and a satisfying crunch, while the Brussels sprouts themselves become tender and slightly sweet. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you wanting more. Secondly, it’s surprisingly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have this amazing dish on the table in under an hour. And finally, it’s a crowd-pleaser. I’ve served these Balsamic Bacon Brussels Sprouts at countless gatherings, and they’re always a hit. Even picky eaters can’t resist their charm!

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

The possibilities are endless when it comes to serving these delightful sprouts! They pair perfectly with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or pan-seared salmon. You can also add them to a grain bowl for a healthy and flavorful lunch. For a vegetarian option, you can easily omit the bacon and add some toasted pecans or walnuts for a similar crunch and nutty flavor. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese after roasting adds a salty, savory note that complements the balsamic glaze beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Another variation I love is to toss the roasted sprouts with a handful of dried cranberries for a burst of sweetness and chewiness. You could even add a drizzle of honey along with the balsamic vinegar for an extra layer of sweetness.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own! The beauty of cooking is that you can always adjust the ingredients and flavors to suit your personal preferences. If you prefer a sweeter glaze, add a little more honey or maple syrup. If you like a more pronounced balsamic flavor, use a high-quality balsamic vinegar. And if you’re a bacon lover like me, feel free to add a little extra! The key is to have fun and enjoy the process.

I truly believe that these Balsamic Bacon Brussels Sprouts will become a staple in your kitchen. They’re a delicious, easy, and versatile side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of these amazing sprouts! I’m confident that you’ll love them as much as I do.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you do, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. I’d love to hear what you think, what variations you tried, and how you served them. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me to continue creating delicious and inspiring recipes. Happy cooking!