Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Cranberries

Introduction

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Cranberries is a flavor-packed side dish that brings together savory, smoky, and sweet elements in perfect harmony. The crispy roasted sprouts pair beautifully with salty bacon, while the cranberries add a burst of tart sweetness that balances everything out. This dish is especially popular during the holiday season but is delicious enough to enjoy year-round.

It’s a crowd-pleaser because it elevates humble Brussels sprouts into a dish that even skeptics fall in love with. The combination of textures—crispy, chewy, tender—and flavors makes it both comforting and festive.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s the kind of dish that wins over even those who claim they don’t like Brussels sprouts. The roasting caramelizes the sprouts, giving them a nutty flavor, while the bacon adds richness and a savory punch. The cranberries introduce a delightful pop of sweetness and color, making the dish not just tasty but visually appealing.

It’s also incredibly easy to prepare, yet looks like a gourmet side dish worthy of a holiday feast.

Why This is a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because:

• It turns a simple vegetable into something extraordinary.
• The balance of flavors (salty, smoky, sweet, tangy) makes it irresistible.
• It’s versatile—perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or weeknight dinners.
• It’s easy enough for beginners but impressive enough for entertaining.

Recipe Information

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25–30 minutes
• Total Time: 35–40 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories: ~180 calories per serving

Cuisine and Course

• Cuisine: American
• Course: Side Dish

Ingredients

• 1 ½ lbs (700 g) Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 6 slices bacon, chopped
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional, for extra tang)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• (Optional) ¼ cup toasted pecans or walnuts for crunch

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread on baking sheet with bacon pieces.
4. Roast 25–30 minutes until crispy and golden.
5. Toss with cranberries (and nuts if using).
6. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar before serving.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Prep oven and pan: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare sprouts: Trim stems and halve Brussels sprouts.
3. Season: Toss sprouts with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
4. Add bacon: Scatter chopped bacon evenly over sprouts.
5. Roast: Place in oven and roast for 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway, until sprouts are tender and caramelized and bacon is crisp.
6. Finish: Remove from oven and toss with dried cranberries and optional nuts.
7. Serve: Drizzle lightly with balsamic vinegar (optional) and serve hot.

How to Serve

• Serve as a holiday side dish alongside roasted meats like turkey, ham, or beef.
• Can also be enjoyed as a hearty side for weeknight dinners.
• Garnish with extra cranberries or toasted nuts for a festive touch.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Roast at high heat for maximum caramelization.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet—spread sprouts out for even crisping.
• If you like extra sweetness, drizzle with a teaspoon of honey before roasting.
• Use thick-cut bacon for more meaty texture.

Variations

• Maple Glazed: Add 1–2 tbsp maple syrup before roasting.
• Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan just before serving.
• Nut-Free: Skip nuts if you prefer a simpler version.
• Vegetarian: Omit bacon and roast sprouts with a touch of smoked paprika for a similar flavor profile.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended as sprouts may lose texture, but you can freeze for up to 1 month if needed. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.
• Reheating: Best reheated in a skillet or oven at 350°F (175°C) to keep bacon crispy.

Special Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper (for easy cleanup)
• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Conclusion

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Cranberries is the ultimate holiday side dish that transforms simple ingredients into something spectacular. The smoky bacon, sweet cranberries, and caramelized sprouts come together in a dish that’s not only delicious but also festive and colorful.

Whether you’re making it for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a cozy dinner, this recipe will surely earn a spot on your table. It’s quick, easy, and guaranteed to make Brussels sprouts a family favorite.

Print Recipe

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Cranberries

Author: admin Cuisine: American Courses: Dinner

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 30 mins Total Time 40 mins

Servings: 6 Calories: 180 calories

Description

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Cranberries is a flavor-packed side dish that brings together savory, smoky, and sweet elements in perfect harmony.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 1 ½ lbs (700 g)
• 6 slices bacon, chopped
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional, for extra tang)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• (Optional)

Instructions

1. Prep oven and pan : Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare sprouts : Trim stems and halve Brussels sprouts.
3. Season : Toss sprouts with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
4. Add bacon : Scatter chopped bacon evenly over sprouts.
5. Roast : Place in oven and roast for 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway, until sprouts are tender and caramelized and bacon is crisp.
6. Finish : Remove from oven and toss with dried cranberries and optional nuts.
7. Serve : Drizzle lightly with balsamic vinegar (optional) and serve hot.

Keywords: Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Cranberries