Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Cranberries

There’s something magical about the combination of crispy, golden-brown Brussels sprouts, savory bacon, and sweet-tart cranberries. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Cranberries is the perfect balance of salty, sweet, smoky, and tangy flavors — a side dish that elevates even the simplest meal. This dish transforms the humble Brussels sprout into a vibrant, crowd-pleasing masterpiece that feels both rustic and festive.

The roasting process caramelizes the outer leaves, giving them a delightful crunch while keeping the inside tender. The bacon adds irresistible richness, while dried cranberries lend a pop of sweetness and color, making this dish perfect for holiday tables, Sunday dinners, or even weeknight meals when you want something wholesome yet indulgent.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it proves that Brussels sprouts can be absolutely delicious when prepared right. The combination of crispy roasted sprouts with smoky bacon and juicy cranberries makes every bite satisfying and multidimensional. It’s a dish that looks gourmet but is incredibly simple to make.

Another reason I adore it is its versatility — it pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, chicken, beef, or even vegetarian mains. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and can be adjusted easily for different diets. It’s also a fantastic make-ahead dish that reheats beautifully.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This recipe is a must-try because it completely changes how most people feel about Brussels sprouts. Even the biggest skeptics often turn into fans after trying this dish. It brings together festive flavors — smoky bacon, caramelized vegetables, and the burst of cranberries — creating the perfect balance of taste and texture.

Whether you’re preparing a holiday feast or a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe adds warmth, color, and a sense of celebration to your table. It’s one of those dishes that makes you think, “Why didn’t I make this sooner?”

Preparation and Cooking Details

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25–30 minutes
• Total Time: 35–40 minutes
• Servings: 4–6 servings
• Calories: Approximately 190 calories per serving
• Course: Side Dish
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds (about 700g) Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional Add-Ins:

• ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (for extra crunch)
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup (for added sweetness)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (for a subtle tang)

Cooking Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Brussels sprouts: Trim off the stems and remove any yellow or damaged leaves. Cut them in half lengthwise.
3. Toss with oil: In a large mixing bowl, combine the Brussels sprouts, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat evenly.
4. Add bacon: Spread the Brussels sprouts on the baking sheet and scatter the chopped bacon evenly on top.
5. Roast: Place the sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 25–30 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the sprouts are golden and the bacon is crispy.
6. Add cranberries: Remove from the oven, sprinkle the dried cranberries over the hot sprouts, and drizzle with balsamic vinegar. Toss gently so the heat slightly softens the cranberries.
7. Serve: Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy warm.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Step 1: Wash, trim, and halve Brussels sprouts.
2. Step 2: Chop bacon into small pieces.
3. Step 3: In a bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Step 4: Spread evenly on a baking sheet and sprinkle bacon on top.
5. Step 5: Roast for 25–30 minutes at 400°F until sprouts are caramelized and bacon is crispy.
6. Step 6: Remove from oven, add cranberries and balsamic vinegar, and mix gently.
7. Step 7: Serve immediately while warm and crisp.

How to Serve

Serve this dish warm as a side for:

• Holiday dinners: Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter
• Everyday meals: With roasted chicken, pork tenderloin, steak, or fish
• Vegetarian meals: Alongside mashed potatoes or quinoa

Garnish with a drizzle of maple syrup or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for extra flavor and presentation.

Recipe Tips

• For extra crispiness, roast the Brussels sprouts cut-side down.
• Use thick-cut bacon for a hearty, meaty texture.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking pan — it prevents proper caramelization.
• Add a touch of maple syrup or honey to balance the salty bacon.
• Toss in toasted nuts like pecans or almonds for extra crunch.
• You can also finish with a sprinkle of parmesan for a savory twist.

Recipe Variations

1. Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts: Drizzle maple syrup before roasting for a sweet-salty flavor.
2. Nutty Version: Add toasted pecans, almonds, or walnuts after roasting.
3. Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or crumbled goat cheese just before serving.
4. Cranberry-Apple Twist: Add small diced apples along with cranberries for a fruity variation.
5. Vegetarian Version: Omit bacon and substitute with roasted chickpeas or smoked tempeh for texture.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes to regain crispiness.
• Freezing: Not ideal due to texture changes, but if needed, freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in a hot oven to restore crispness.

Special Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet or roasting pan
• Parchment paper or aluminum foil
• Mixing bowl
• Tongs or spatula for tossing

Conclusion

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Cranberries is a side dish that perfectly captures the spirit of comfort and celebration. It’s simple yet sophisticated, offering an incredible blend of flavors — smoky, salty, sweet, and tangy — in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or making a weeknight meal feel special, this dish will add warmth and color to your table.