Get ready to revolutionize your side dish repertoire with a mouthwatering recipe that turns ordinary Brussels sprouts into an irresistible culinary masterpiece. Imagine crispy, caramelized vegetables studded with sweet and savory candied bacon, creating a flavor explosion that will make even the most vegetable-averse eaters come back for more. This dish is not just a side – it's a game-changing experience that combines the earthy richness of Brussels sprouts with the indulgent crunch of perfectly candied bacon.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and slice them in half lengthwise. Ensure they are clean and dry by patting them with a paper towel.
- Chop the bacon into small, roughly 1/2-inch pieces. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, salt, and black pepper.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with half of the chopped bacon pieces. Drizzle with a small amount of olive oil and sprinkle half of the brown sugar mixture over the vegetables.
- Spread the Brussels sprouts cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Ensure they are not overcrowded to allow proper caramelization.
- Sprinkle the remaining bacon pieces and brown sugar mixture over the Brussels sprouts.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, turning once halfway through cooking. The sprouts should be crispy and caramelized, and the bacon should be golden and candied.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a serving dish and serve hot as a delicious side dish.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Sprouts: Select firm, bright green Brussels sprouts without any yellow leaves for the best texture and flavor.
- Dry is Key: Ensure Brussels sprouts are completely dry before roasting to achieve maximum crispiness and prevent steaming.
- Single Layer Magic: Spread sprouts in a single layer on the baking sheet to ensure even caramelization and crispy edges.
- Bacon Placement Matters: Distribute bacon pieces evenly to guarantee every bite has a perfect sweet and salty crunch.
- Watch Carefully: Check the dish at the 20-minute mark to prevent burning, as brown sugar can quickly go from caramelized to burnt.
- Let it Rest: Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes after roasting to let the flavors meld and the bacon crisp up slightly.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 20mg
