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Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon – Easy Balsamic Glaze Recipe

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Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts are paired with smoky bacon and finished with a sweet, tangy balsamic glaze for a comforting, crowd-pleasing side dish. This easy recipe delivers bold flavor and irresistible texture in under 35 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon (about 5 oz), cut into 1/2-inch pieces
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • Optional: pinch red pepper flakes
  • Optional: 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • Optional: 1 tsp fresh thyme or rosemary, chopped

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Trim stem ends and halve Brussels sprouts lengthwise. Remove any yellow or dry outer leaves.
  3. Slice bacon into 1/2-inch pieces.
  4. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts, bacon, olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  5. Spread mixture in a single layer, cut-side down, on a large rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Do not overcrowd.
  6. Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping sprouts halfway through (at about 15 minutes) with a spatula or tongs. Bacon should be golden and sprout edges deeply browned.
  7. While sprouts roast, combine balsamic vinegar and brown sugar in a small saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to simmer.
  8. Simmer glaze for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and syrupy. If too thick, add a splash of water.
  9. Check sprouts for doneness: they should be fork-tender with crispy edges and caramelized bacon.
  10. Drizzle hot sprouts and bacon with balsamic glaze right out of the oven. Toss gently to coat, or serve glaze on the side. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

For extra crispiness, make sure the oven is fully preheated and do not overcrowd the pan. Use thick-cut bacon for best texture. If making vegetarian, omit bacon and add toasted nuts or seeds. Glaze can be made with honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar. Reheat leftovers in a hot oven or air fryer for best results.

Nutrition

Keywords: Brussels sprouts, bacon, balsamic glaze, roasted vegetables, easy side dish, holiday, comfort food, gluten-free, crispy, oven roasted

Find it online: https://avabake.com/crispy-roasted-brussels-sprouts-with-bacon-easy-balsamic-glaze-recipe/