The Story Behind Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Thanksgiving Side Dish

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon is perhaps the dish most responsible for rehabilitating the reputation of a vegetable that a generation of children was taught to despise. Brussels sprouts (Brassica oleracea var. gemmifera) are a relatively recent cultivar — first developed in Belgium (hence the name) in the 16th century, though cruciferous vegetables in the broader Brassica family have been eaten in Europe since ancient Roman times. The key transformation in their reputation came from understanding the chemistry of cooking: boiling Brussels sprouts releases sulfurous compounds that cause the notorious bitter smell, while roasting at high heat caramelizes their natural sugars and creates a nutty, sweet, crispy result that is genuinely delicious. Adding bacon to the equation provides smoky, salty richness that harmonizes perfectly with the sprouts' slightly bitter edge. This combination — simple, honest, and deeply satisfying — has made roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon one of the most popular Thanksgiving sides of the 21st century.


Time and Servings:

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Servings: 6 servings

Nutrition (per serving):

  • Calories: 180 kcal
  • Protein: 5g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 5g

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
  • 4 slices bacon, chopped
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
    • Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it for easy cleanup.
  2. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:
    • In a large mixing bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with 2 tbsp of olive oil, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
    • Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
  3. Add the Bacon:
    • Evenly distribute the chopped bacon pieces over the Brussels sprouts.
  4. Roast the Sprouts:
    • Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 25 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking.
    • The sprouts are done when they are crispy on the edges and the bacon is golden and cooked through.
  5. Serve:
    • Remove the roasted Brussels sprouts and bacon from the oven.
    • Transfer to a serving dish and serve warm as a flavorful Thanksgiving side dish.

Tips for Success:

  • For extra flavor, drizzle a touch of balsamic glaze over the roasted Brussels sprouts before serving.
  • Ensure the Brussels sprouts are in a single layer to allow them to roast evenly and get crispy.
  • Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese before serving for an indulgent twist.

Wine, Cocktail, or Drink Pairing:

  • Pair this savory dish with a bold Cabernet Sauvignon, a fruity Zinfandel, or a refreshing sparkling cider for a perfect holiday pairing.