Balsamic Brown Sugar Brussels Sprouts Recipe

Introduction

Balsamic Brown Sugar Brussels Sprouts combine caramelized sweetness with the savory crunch of crispy bacon for a delightful side dish. This easy recipe transforms simple Brussels sprouts into a flavorful treat that’s perfect for any meal.

Ingredients

• ½ pound fresh Brussels sprouts, cut into quarters
• 5-6 slices bacon, cut into bite-size pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Pinch of salt and pepper
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon aged balsamic vinegar, plus more for drizzling

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cut the bacon into bite-size pieces (lardons). Spread them evenly on a half-sheet pan.
2. Step 2: Place the pan with bacon in a cold oven, then set the oven to 425°F (220°C) and let the bacon slowly cook and become crispy as the oven preheats.
3. Step 3: While the bacon cooks, quarter the Brussels sprouts and toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Step 4: When the bacon is crispy, remove it from the pan and drain on paper towels.
5. Step 5: Spread the Brussels sprouts on the pan with the flat sides down and roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes until tender and browned.
6. Step 6: During the last 3 minutes, add the cooked bacon back to the pan along with the brown sugar and aged balsamic vinegar. Toss everything to coat.
7. Step 7: Return the pan to the oven for 3 more minutes to let the flavors meld and the sugar caramelize slightly.
8. Step 8: Remove from the oven, transfer to a serving dish, and drizzle extra balsamic vinegar over the top if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Use thick-cut bacon for a meatier texture and richer flavor.
• For a vegetarian version, omit bacon and add toasted pecans or walnuts for crunch.
• Try adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before roasting for a hint of heat.
• Make sure to roast the Brussels sprouts with the flat side down for better caramelization.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or oven to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?

Fresh Brussels sprouts are best for roasting since they become tender and caramelized. Frozen Brussels sprouts tend to be softer and may not crisp up as well, but they can be used in a pinch. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

What is aged balsamic vinegar and can I substitute it?

Aged balsamic vinegar is thicker and sweeter than standard balsamic vinegar because it has been matured for several years. If you don’t have it, you can use regular balsamic vinegar but expect a less syrupy texture and slightly different flavor. Drizzle with care!

Balsamic Brown Sugar Brussels Sprouts Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 88 reviews

A deliciously caramelized side dish featuring crispy bacon and tender Brussels sprouts glazed with a sweet and tangy balsamic brown sugar sauce, perfect for holiday meals or everyday dinners.

• Author: Lena
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Vegetables

• ½ pound fresh Brussels sprouts, quartered

Meat

• 5–6 slices bacon, cut into bite-sized pieces

Oils & Vinegars

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon aged balsamic vinegar (super thick kind), plus extra for drizzling

Seasonings & Sweeteners

• Pinch of salt and pepper
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

Instructions

1. Prepare the bacon: Cut the bacon slices into bite-sized pieces (lardons). Separate the pieces and arrange them evenly on a half-sheet pan.
2. Start cooking the bacon: Place the sheet pan with bacon in a COLD oven, then set the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C). Let the bacon slowly render its fat and crisp up as the oven preheats.
3. Prepare the Brussels sprouts: While the bacon cooks, quarter your Brussels sprouts and toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper to ensure even seasoning and adhesion.
4. Drain the bacon: Once the bacon is crispy and browned, remove it from the pan and drain excess grease on a paper towel-lined plate.
5. Roast the sprouts: Add the seasoned Brussels sprouts to the same pan, placing them flat side down to ensure caramelization. Roast in the oven at 425°F for 20-25 minutes.
6. Add bacon and glaze: In the last 3 minutes of roasting, sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the Brussels sprouts and add the cooked bacon back on top. Drizzle the tablespoon of aged balsamic vinegar over everything.
7. Toss and finish roasting: Gently toss the sprouts, bacon, and glaze to coat thoroughly, then return the pan to the oven for a final 3 minutes for caramelization.
8. Serve: Remove from oven, transfer to a serving dish, and drizzle extra aged balsamic vinegar over the top as desired for an extra tangy finish.

Notes

• Using a cold oven to start cooking the bacon helps render fat evenly and crisps the bacon without burning.
• Quartering Brussels sprouts ensures they cook evenly and develop a nice caramelized surface.
• Flat side down on the pan encourages better browning and texture on sprouts.
• Adjust the amount of balsamic vinegar drizzled at the end according to your taste preference.
• This dish is best served immediately while warm and crispy.

Keywords: Brussels sprouts, bacon, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, roasted vegetables, side dish, holiday recipe