Why Make This Recipe
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Balsamic Onions is a dish that combines deep flavors with a simple cooking process. It’s not just delicious, but also brings together great textures that make the meal a delight. The balance of the crispy bacon, tender Brussels sprouts, and sweet yet tangy balsamic onions makes it hard to resist.
This recipe is perfect for any season and can complement various meals. It can stand out on its own as a side dish or be part of a larger feast. Plus, the ingredients are easy to find year-round, making it an accessible option for everyone.
Equipment Needed for Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon & Balsamic Onions
To successfully prepare this flavorful dish, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here are the essential items you’ll need:
- Large skillet
- Baking sheet
- Slotted spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Paper towels
What You Need to Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon & Balsamic Onions
Gather the following ingredients as you prepare to make this delightful dish:
- 6 slices of bacon, diced
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 medium red onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Pinch of red pepper flakes
- 3 teaspoons light brown sugar
- ⅓ cup balsamic vinegar
- 4 cups trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper
How to Cook Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon & Balsamic Onions Step by Step
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F. This temperature brings out the perfect roast on the Brussels sprouts, ensuring they’re crisp on the outside and tender inside.
Next, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the diced bacon to the pan. Cook the bacon until it is rendered and crispy. This can take about 5 to 7 minutes. Make sure to stir it occasionally for even cooking.
Once the bacon is crispy, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess grease.
After removing the bacon, there will be drippings left in the pan. Discard all but 1 tablespoon of these drippings but feel free to save them for other recipes if you like! Add 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter to the drippings in the skillet.
After the butter melts, add the diced red onion to the skillet along with a pinch of salt. Cook the onion for about 15 minutes or until it begins to caramelize. Stir occasionally to avoid burning.
While the onions are cooking, prepare the Brussels sprouts. Place the trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts on a large rimmed baking sheet. Drizzle them with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper. Toss them to ensure every sprout is coated with oil and seasoning.
Next, place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Roast the Brussels sprouts for 15 minutes. You will want to check them and toss them around in the pan to promote even cooking and ensure they roast until charred in spots and tender. After the first 15 minutes, continue roasting for roughly 10 more minutes.
Once the onion has reached a golden brown and caramelized state, add the minced garlic, pinch of red pepper flakes, and 3 teaspoons of light brown sugar to the skillet. Then pour in ⅓ cup of balsamic vinegar. Stir the mixture frequently, allowing the balsamic vinegar to reduce. You want it to thicken and become glossy; this should take about 5 minutes.
When the Brussels sprouts are done roasting, take them out of the oven and pour the balsamic caramelized onion mixture over the top. Toss everything together on the baking sheet until the Brussels are evenly coated with the sweet and tangy mixture. Finally, stir in the crispy bacon.
Transfer everything to a serving dish and enjoy while warm.
How to Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon & Balsamic Onions
To successfully make Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon & Balsamic Onions, it’s important you follow the steps outlined closely. The beauty of this dish lies in how each ingredient works together to create a unique flavor profile.
Start with the bacon, which adds depth and savoriness. Once cooked, the onions take center stage with their sweetness, enhanced by the balsamic vinegar. This combination pairs perfectly with the Brussels sprouts’ earthy notes, making every bite exciting. The key is in the roasting technique, which transforms the sprouts and helps meld the flavors together.
How to Serve Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon & Balsamic Onions
When it comes to serving this dish, presentation can elevate the experience. Place the roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon and balsamic onions in a shallow serving bowl or platter.
You can sprinkle a few extra crispy bacon bits on top as a finishing touch. Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley can also introduce a pop of color. Serving them right after preparation keeps the dish warm and allows the rich flavors to shine.
What to Serve with Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon & Balsamic Onions
This dish makes a great complement to a variety of main courses. You can pair it with roasted chicken or turkey for a comforting meal. It also goes well with grilled or pan-seared pork chops, making for a delightful combination of flavors.
Vegetarian options, like quinoa or lentils, can also be served alongside if you want a meatless meal. For lighter fare, consider serving it with fish, such as salmon or tilapia. The tangy and savory notes make it versatile enough to match with many styles of cooking.
How to Store Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon & Balsamic Onions
If you have any leftovers, storing them properly can help maintain their quality. Allow the dish to cool down to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer the leftovers to an airtight container.
You can store the dish in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, place the Brussels sprouts back on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore some of the crispiness.
Tips to Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon & Balsamic Onions
To enhance the flavor of your dish, consider a few tips. Firstly, don’t rush through the caramelization process with the onions. Allow them time to develop that rich, sweet flavor.
Using fresh, high-quality balsamic vinegar can elevate your dish significantly. Also, seasoning to taste at each step helps ensure a balanced flavor. Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
If you want a bit more heat, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes. Finally, for a nutty crunch, think about adding toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts right before serving.
Variation
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Some variations include adding different vegetables alongside the Brussels sprouts, such as carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes. Toss them in the olive oil and seasoning for roasting.
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of parmesan cheese over the Brussels sprouts just before the final few minutes of roasting. This will create a delicious crust that pairs nicely with the other ingredients.
Best Time to Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon & Balsamic Onions
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon & Balsamic Onions can be made any time of year! They are particularly sought after during the fall and winter months, especially during holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas.
However, they also work wonderfully in the spring and summer when Brussels sprouts are in season. This makes them a versatile dish suitable for all occasions, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While making this dish, a few common mistakes can happen when cooking Brussels sprouts. One error is overcooking them, which can result in mushy sprouts. Ensure they have a nice char and remain firm.
Another issue can stem from inadequate seasoning. Don’t hold back on the salt and pepper; season liberally to enhance the flavors of the dish. Finally, be careful not to pack the Brussels sprouts too closely on the baking sheet. Spread them out to ensure even roasting.
Nutritional Notes
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon & Balsamic Onions provides various nutritional benefits. Brussels sprouts are high in vitamins C and K, which support immune function and bone health.
The dish also contains protein and healthy fats from the bacon. However, it’s important to enjoy it in moderation due to the fat content. Pairing this dish with lean proteins or whole grains can promote balance in your meal.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts, but fresh ones will yield a better texture and flavor.
2. Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can skip the bacon and use olive oil or even smoked paprika to add flavor.
3. Can I prepare the onions ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the caramelized onions ahead of time and simply reheat them before tossing with the Brussels sprouts.
Conclusion
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon & Balsamic Onions is a dish that pleases the palate while being simple enough for any home cook to tackle. The rich flavors and delightful textures create a wonderful dining experience that can elevate any meal.
Whether you serve it during the holidays or create it for a weeknight family dinner, this recipe is sure to be a hit. With a bit of practice and care, you can master the balance of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors that define this delicious side. Enjoy exploring and making this dish your own!
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon & Balsamic Onions
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the diced bacon. Cook until crispy, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on paper towels.
- Discard all but 1 tablespoon of bacon drippings in the skillet and add 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter.
- After the butter melts, add diced red onion and a pinch of salt. Cook for about 15 minutes until caramelized.
- Meanwhile, prepare Brussels sprouts by placing them on a large rimmed baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Toss to ensure even coating and roast the Brussels sprouts in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Check and toss them for even cooking.
- Continue roasting for another 10 minutes until charred and tender.
- Once onions are golden brown, add minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and brown sugar. Pour in balsamic vinegar and reduce for about 5 minutes.
- When Brussels sprouts are done, add the balsamic onion mixture on top, toss to combine, and stir in crispy bacon.
- Transfer to a serving dish and serve warm.
