If you’re craving a side dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion, this Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Parmesan, Bacon, and Balsamic Glaze Recipe is going to be your new best friend. It’s crispy, savory, slightly tangy, and oh-so-satisfying — everything you want Brussels sprouts to be but sometimes don’t get from the usual steaming or boiling. The combination of crispy bacon, nutty Parmesan, and a sweet-tart balsamic glaze creates a symphony of tastes that will win over even the most skeptical vegetable eaters. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple that you’ll want to serve again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s the magic behind this Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Parmesan, Bacon, and Balsamic Glaze Recipe: simple, fresh ingredients that each add their own layer of texture and flavor. Every component works together to elevate humble Brussels sprouts into a dish worth savoring.
- Brussels sprouts, 2 pounds: Trimmed and halved to ensure even roasting and crispy edges.
- Olive oil, 2 tablespoons: Helps the sprouts roast beautifully and adds a subtle fruity flavor.
- Kosher salt, ½ teaspoon: Enhances every bite with just the right amount of seasoning.
- Onion powder, ½ teaspoon: Adds a sweet, savory depth without overpowering the dish.
- Garlic powder, ½ teaspoon: Brings a warm, aromatic touch that pairs perfectly with bacon and cheese.
- Ground black pepper, ¼ teaspoon: Gives the sprouts a gentle, spicy kick to balance the sweetness.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty richness that melts slightly on the warm sprouts.
- Cooked bacon crumbles: Crispy, smoky bites that transform the dish from side to star.
- Balsamic glaze: A luscious drizzle with tangy sweetness that ties all the flavors together.
How to Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Parmesan, Bacon, and Balsamic Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to a toasty 425°F, which is just perfect for roasting the Brussels sprouts so they come out crispy without drying out. Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or foil—this makes cleanup a breeze and helps the sprouts roast evenly.
Step 2: Arrange the Sprouts
Place those halved Brussels sprouts onto your baking sheet(s). It’s important to not overcrowd them—give each little gem enough space. This ensures they roast instead of steam, which is key for getting that irresistible caramelized crunch.
Step 3: Season and Oil
Drizzle the olive oil right over the sprouts, then sprinkle on kosher salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper. These seasonings might sound straightforward, but they’re absolutely essential for building the dish’s rich, balanced flavor profile.
Step 4: Toss and Spread
With your hands or a spoon, toss everything until all the Brussels sprouts are generously coated with oil and spices. Spread them back out evenly on the sheet, making sure they’re not piled on top of one another. This little step makes all the difference for getting each sprout perfectly crispy.
Step 5: Roast to Perfection
Pop the sprouts into the oven and roast for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll notice the edges and outer leaves turning a lovely golden brown, getting crisp and flavorful. If you want, give them a quick toss halfway through to promote even cooking.
Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches
Once roasted, transfer the Brussels sprouts to a serving bowl and sprinkle generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and cooked bacon crumbles. Finish with a beautiful drizzle of balsamic glaze for that perfect sweet and tangy contrast. The result? A dish that’s vibrant in color and bursting with contrasting textures and flavors.
How to Serve Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Parmesan, Bacon, and Balsamic Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
For a finishing touch, sprinkle extra Parmesan or crispy shallots on top. A little fresh thyme or chopped parsley also brightens the dish visually and adds an herby freshness that complements the rich bacon and cheese.
Side Dishes
This Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Parmesan, Bacon, and Balsamic Glaze Recipe pairs beautifully with hearty mains like roast chicken, garlic mashed potatoes, or even a juicy steak. Its bold flavors also work well alongside a simple quinoa salad or creamy polenta, making it versatile for any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For entertaining, serve the sprouts in a rustic wooden bowl or on a festive platter garnished with extra bacon slices and balsamic drizzle artfully swirled. Alternatively, try stacking the Brussels sprouts on skewers for a fun finger-food twist at your next gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen, but the sprouts might lose a little crispness over time.
Freezing
While roasting fresh Brussels sprouts is best, you can freeze cooked leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture.
Reheating
To bring back some crunch when reheating, pop the Brussels sprouts in a hot skillet or under the broiler for a few minutes instead of microwaving. This refreshes their crispy edges and keeps the Parmesan and bacon deliciously crispy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
Fresh Brussels sprouts are ideal because they roast to a crispier texture. Frozen sprouts often release extra moisture, which can cause steaming rather than roasting. If using frozen, be sure to thaw and pat them very dry before roasting.
What can I substitute for bacon?
If you prefer a vegetarian option, crispy smoked tempeh or mushrooms sautéed with smoked paprika make great substitutes that add umami and texture.
Is the balsamic glaze necessary?
The balsamic glaze adds a perfect sweet-tart contrast that elevates the dish, but if you don’t have it on hand, a simple drizzle of good-quality balsamic vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten the sprouts nicely.
Can I prepare the Brussels sprouts ahead of time?
Yes! You can trim and halve the Brussels sprouts a day ahead and store them in the fridge. Season and roast them just before serving to maintain freshness and maximum crispness.
How do I get the Brussels sprouts extra crispy?
Spreading them out with plenty of space on the baking sheet and roasting at a high temperature are the keys to crispy sprouts. Avoid overcrowding and use a hot oven to encourage caramelization.
Final Thoughts
Making this Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Parmesan, Bacon, and Balsamic Glaze Recipe is such a rewarding experience. It’s straightforward, quick, and the result is a dish packed with bold, complementary flavors and textures. Whether you’re a longtime Brussels sprout lover or someone looking to convert skeptics, this recipe promises delicious success. Give it a try and prepare to wow everyone at your table!
Print
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Parmesan, Bacon, and Balsamic Glaze Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Roasted Brussels Sprouts recipe features crispy, caramelized Brussels sprouts seasoned with garlic, onion, and black pepper, then topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, savory bacon crumbles, and a drizzle of tangy balsamic glaze for a perfect balance of flavors. Quick and easy to prepare, this dish is an ideal side for any meal.
Ingredients
Brussels Sprouts
- 2 pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and cut in half
Seasonings and Toppings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, to taste
- Cooked bacon crumbles, to taste
- Balsamic glaze (or balsamic reduction), for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line one or two baking sheets with parchment paper or aluminum foil to make cleanup easier.
- Prepare Brussels Sprouts: Transfer the halved Brussels sprouts to the prepared baking sheet(s), arranging them evenly.
- Add Oil and Seasonings: Drizzle the olive oil over the Brussels sprouts, then sprinkle kosher salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper evenly on top.
- Toss to Coat: Gently toss the Brussels sprouts using your hands or a spatula to ensure they are evenly coated with the olive oil and seasonings. Spread them out in a single layer, making sure there is some space between them to allow roasting rather than steaming.
- Roast the Brussels Sprouts: Place the baking sheet(s) in the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes until the edges and outer leaves become browned and crispy. Toss halfway through if desired for even cooking.
- Serve and Garnish: Transfer the roasted Brussels sprouts to a serving bowl. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, cooked bacon crumbles, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving for extra flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure there is enough space on the baking sheet to prevent the Brussels sprouts from steaming instead of roasting.
- You can substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper cheese flavor.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon crumbles.
- Balsamic glaze can be purchased pre-made or easily made by reducing balsamic vinegar over low heat until syrupy.
- Adjust seasoning quantities to your taste preference.
- For extra crispiness, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end of roasting, watching carefully to prevent burning.
