Roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon and pears are the perfect side dish to elevate any meal. Who knew those little green gems could turn into something so delicious with just a few extra ingredients? Pairing them with crispy bacon and juicy pears creates a wonderful balance of flavors that is sure to impress your dinner guests or family. Plus, roasting brings out the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts while adding that irresistible crispy texture. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe is an excellent choice. Get ready to enjoy a delightful blend of aromas and flavors that warm your heart and home!
Why This Recipe Works
Roasting Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness while adding depth through the savory notes of bacon and the subtle caramelization of pears. This one-sheet pan recipe integrates these flavors seamlessly, yielding an unforgettable side dish perfect for any meal. When vegetables meet crispy bacon, magic happens! The way the Brussels sprouts brown in the oven is nothing short of amazing. Also, adding pears introduces a lovely sweetness that perfectly complements the savory bacon.
Why You’ll Love This Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Pears
Featuring a mix of savory and sweet, this dish is not just about taste; it’s a celebration of fall flavors. The crispy bacon complements the tender Brussels sprouts, while the pears and cranberries add that perfect touch of sweetness. It forms an ideal accompaniment to any family gathering or holiday feast. Your taste buds will do a little happy dance! This dish not only tastes good, but it also looks beautiful on the plate, attracting everyone’s attention.
Ingredients
- 4 strips bacon, cut into 1/2 inch pieces
- 1 1/2 pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved lengthwise
- 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
- Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 pears, cored and cut into 8 wedges each
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
How to Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Pears
Preheat the Oven
First off, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is especially essential for achieving that crispy, caramelized texture that makes the dish irresistible.
Prepare the Brussels Sprouts and Bacon
Grab a rimmed baking sheet and place the halved Brussels sprouts alongside the chopped bacon. Then, drizzle olive oil over them. Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper – a generous sprinkling goes a long way. Toss everything together with your hands to ensure even coating. The smell alone will whet your appetite!
Roast for the First Time
Now, spread the Brussels sprouts and bacon into a single layer on the baking sheet. Place it on the middle rack of the oven and roast for 15 minutes. This part is key; it allows all the flavors to meld together while the bacon crisps up nicely.
Add the Pears
Afterward, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Scatter the pear wedges evenly across the Brussels sprouts and bacon. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and maple syrup, bringing that sweet, tangy balance into the mix. With a spatula, gently toss everything until well-coated, avoiding mushy pears!
Final Roast for Caramelization
Return the baking sheet to the oven and roast for an additional 10-15 minutes. You want the Brussels sprouts to be tender and caramelized while the bacon stays crispy. Keep a close eye; that golden hue is a good sign!
Toss in Dried Cranberries
Once finished roasting, take the dish out of the oven and sprinkle the dried cranberries over the top. These little bursts of sweetness are a delightful surprise! Gently toss everything together in the baking sheet before transferring the contents to a serving bowl.
Serve and Enjoy
Top your creation with flaky sea salt. It adds an extra burst of flavor and makes everything taste even better. This dish is ready to impress your family and friends!
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delightful combination alongside roasted meats, or as part of a festive holiday spread. It pairs beautifully with turkey or ham. Alternatively, make it a star on a vegetarian table! Think of pairing it with a hearty grain salad for a balance of textures.
Tips for Success
- Ensure you cut the Brussels sprouts evenly so they cook uniformly.
- Adjust the cooking time according to your oven; keep an eye on the sprouts to avoid overcooking.
- Consider adding nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for an extra crunch that elevates the overall experience.
Variations
Feel free to substitute pears with apples for a different twist or throw in some nuts for extra texture. A sprinkle of feta or goat cheese just before serving can elevate the dish and introduce a smooth creaminess that balances the crunchy elements.
Pairing Ideas
Think about pairing this dish with a zesty green salad or a creamy potato gratin. A light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors beautifully, enhancing the entire experience.
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prep the Brussels sprouts and bacon ahead of time, but it’s best to roast it fresh for optimum flavors.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy them again.
3. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Yes, but you might need to adjust the sweetness, considering fresh cranberries are more tart than dried.
4. Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
For a vegetarian version, you can omit the bacon and replace it with smoked paprika for a hint of smoky flavor.
5. What can I serve this with?
This dish pairs excellently with roast meats, holiday feasts, or can stand alone as a delicious vegetarian option.
This Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Pears recipe is championing effortless preparation while delivering vibrant flavors that celebrate the best of the season. It’s perfect for gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, offering a heartwarming blend of sweet and savory that you absolutely won’t want to miss!
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Pears
This dish features a delightful mix of savory bacon and tender Brussels sprouts, highlighted by the sweetness of pears. It’s a perfect side for any meal.
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 4 strips bacon, cut into 1/2 inch pieces
- 1 1/2 pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved lengthwise
- 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
- Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 pears, cored and cut into 8 wedges each
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- On a rimmed baking sheet, combine Brussels sprouts and bacon. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Spread the mixture in a single layer and roast for 15 minutes.
- Add the pear wedges, balsamic vinegar, and maple syrup to the baking sheet and toss gently.
- Return to the oven and roast for an additional 10-15 minutes until caramelized.
- Sprinkle dried cranberries over the top and toss before serving.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
Cut Brussels sprouts evenly for uniform cooking.
Adjust cooking time based on your oven.
Consider adding nuts for extra crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15
- Sodium: 400
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Unsaturated Fat: 8
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 35
- Fiber: 5
- Protein: 7
- Cholesterol: 15
