If you’re on the hunt for a side dish that’s both wholesome and indulgent, look no further! These Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Butter Glaze are crispy, savory, and slightly sweet—the perfect balance for your taste buds. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or a fancy holiday spread, this recipe is a winner.
Brussels sprouts have made a huge comeback in the culinary world, and for good reason. They’re packed with nutrients, versatile, and, when cooked right, downright delicious. Pairing them with crispy beef bacon and a buttery glaze transforms them into a crowd-pleasing dish that even picky eaters will enjoy.
Let’s dive into the details, from ingredients to step-by-step instructions, nutritional benefits, and even tips to customize this recipe to fit your preferences!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe of Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts
This recipe checks all the boxes:
- Healthy: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, Brussels sprouts are a nutritional powerhouse. The beef bacon adds protein, and the butter glaze incorporates healthy fats.
- Delicious: The combination of roasted sprouts, crispy bacon, and a buttery glaze is a flavor explosion. A hint of sweetness from honey and tang from Dijon mustard elevate this dish to gourmet status.
- Simple to Make: With just 10 minutes of prep and a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a dish that looks and tastes impressive.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Brussels Sprouts
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, wash your Brussels sprouts thoroughly, then trim the ends and cut them in half.
Next, toss the sprouts in olive oil, salt, and pepper, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. This ensures they roast evenly and don’t steam.
Step 2: Cook the Beef Bacon
In a medium skillet, cook the chopped beef bacon over medium heat until crispy. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the cooked bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess grease.
Pro Tip: Save about 1 tablespoon of the rendered bacon fat—it adds incredible flavor to the glaze.
Step 3: Roast the Brussels Sprouts
Place the Brussels sprouts in the oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re golden brown and slightly crispy on the edges.
Why Roast? Roasting brings out the natural sweetness in Brussels sprouts, making them caramelized and tender while maintaining a slight crunch.
Step 4: Make the Butter Glaze
While the sprouts are roasting, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Stir in the honey (if using), Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and lemon juice. For an extra depth of flavor, whisk in the reserved bacon fat.
Simmer the mixture for 1-2 minutes until it’s well combined and slightly thickened. Set aside.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
Once the Brussels sprouts are out of the oven, transfer them to a large serving bowl. Add the crispy bacon and pour the butter glaze over the top. Toss everything gently to coat, ensuring each piece is covered in the flavorful glaze. Optional: Drizzle with balsamic vinegar for an added dose of flavor!
Serve immediately and watch this dish disappear from the table in no time!
Tips for Perfect Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Ensure the Brussels sprouts are in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of roasting.
- Flip for Even Cooking: Flipping the sprouts halfway ensures they roast evenly on all sides.
- Add Crunch: For added texture, sprinkle toasted nuts like almonds or pecans on top before serving.
Why Brussels Sprouts Deserve a Spot on Your Plate
Brussels sprouts are part of the cruciferous vegetable family, which includes kale, broccoli, and cauliflower. They’re low in calories but high in nutrients, including:
- Vitamin C: Boosts immunity and promotes healthy skin.
- Vitamin K: Supports bone health and aids in blood clotting.
- Fiber: Promotes digestive health and keeps you full longer.
- Antioxidants: Help reduce inflammation and combat free radicals.
Pairing them with beef bacon and butter not only enhances their flavor but also adds healthy fats and protein, making this dish both satisfying and nutritious.
Customizing Your Roasted Brussels Sprouts
This recipe is versatile and can easily be adapted to suit your preferences or dietary needs:
- Make It Dairy-Free: Swap the butter for coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative.
- Go Sweet and Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of maple syrup to the glaze.
- Add Cheese: For a decadent twist, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan or crumbled feta on top before serving.
- Switch the Protein: If you don’t eat pork, substitute turkey or beef bacon for a slightly different flavor.
Pairing Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses. Here are a few ideas:
- Roast Chicken or Turkey: The savory-sweet profile of this side dish complements roasted poultry perfectly.
- Grilled Salmon: The buttery glaze and crispy bacon pair wonderfully with rich, flaky fish.
- Steak: This hearty dish holds its own alongside robust red meats.
Meal Prep and Storage Tips
- Make Ahead: You can cook the bacon and prepare the glaze a day in advance. Store them in separate containers in the fridge.
- Reheating: Warm the Brussels sprouts in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes to restore their crispiness.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Butter Glaze: The Ultimate Low Carb Side Dish
Equipment
- 1 Medium Skillet
- 1 Oven Pan
Ingredients
Brussels Sprouts:
- 450 grams Brussels sprouts, Trimmed and halved
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper
Bacon:
- 4 strips Bacon, chopped into bite-sized pieces
Butter Glaze:
- 2 tbsp Butter (or ghee for a paleo-friendly option)
- 1 tbsp Honey (optional for a touch of sweetness)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tbsp Fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare Your Brussels SproutsStart by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, wash your Brussels sprouts thoroughly, then trim the ends and cut them in half.Next, toss the sprouts in olive oil, salt, and pepper, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. This ensures they roast evenly and don’t steam.
- Cook the BaconIn a medium skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the cooked bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess grease.Pro Tip: Save about 1 tablespoon of the rendered bacon fat—it adds incredible flavor to the glaze.
- Roast the Brussels SproutsPlace the Brussels sprouts in the oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re golden brown and slightly crispy on the edges.Why Roast? Roasting brings out the natural sweetness in Brussels sprouts, making them caramelized and tender while maintaining a slight crunch.
- Make the Butter GlazeWhile the sprouts are roasting, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Stir in the honey (if using), Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and lemon juice. For an extra depth of flavor, whisk in the reserved bacon fat.Simmer the mixture for 1-2 minutes until it’s well combined and slightly thickened. Set aside.
- Assemble the DishOnce the Brussels sprouts are out of the oven, transfer them to a large serving bowl. Add the crispy beef bacon and pour the butter glaze over the top. Optional: Add balsamic vinegar to add an extra dose of flavor. Toss everything gently to coat, ensuring each piece is covered in the flavorful glaze.Serve immediately and watch this dish disappear from the table in no time!
Notes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 7g
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 5g
Conclusion
These roasted Brussels sprouts with beef bacon and butter glaze are the perfect combination of healthy and indulgent. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want to elevate your weeknight dinner, this dish delivers in every way.
With its balance of crispy textures, savory flavors, and a touch of sweetness, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Plus, it’s so easy to customize that you can make it your own.
Give this recipe a try, and let me know how it turns out in the comments! And don’t forget to share it with someone who loves a healthy twist on comfort food.
Happy cooking! 🌱