Transform your perception of vegetables forever with this incredible recipe for **Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Honey Butter and Bacon**. Forget any past reservations about these mini cabbages; this dish elevates them from a simple side to a star attraction on any table. The irresistible combination of crispy, smoky bacon, sweet, decadent honey butter, and perfectly roasted Brussels sprouts creates an explosion of flavors and textures in every single bite. It’s a culinary revelation that promises to delight even the most discerning palates and convert skeptics into ardent fans.
The Irresistible Allure of This Recipe
This isn’t just another side dish; it’s a testament to how a few simple ingredients can create culinary magic. Each forkful delivers a symphony of tastes and textures: the delicate sweetness and rich creaminess of the honey butter, the satisfying crunch and savory saltiness of the perfectly cooked bacon, and the subtly bitter, smoky depth of the oven-roasted Brussels sprouts. It’s a harmonious blend that’s truly unforgettable.
For many, Brussels sprouts carry a stigma from childhood memories of overcooked, mushy, and unappetizing vegetables. I, too, was once in that camp. But a beautifully prepared roasted Brussels sprouts dish changed everything for me. However, even great things can benefit from innovation. I began to wonder how to take that delicious foundation and elevate it further, transforming it into something extraordinary. After a delightful period of experimentation and refinement, this recipe was born, exceeding all expectations and becoming an instant favorite.
If you’re seeking to revitalize your vegetable repertoire and introduce a side dish that genuinely excites, this recipe is your answer. It’s not only incredibly delicious but also surprisingly straightforward to prepare, proving that gourmet flavors don’t require complex techniques. Give it a try, and you’ll discover a new appreciation for these versatile greens.
This indulgent side pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses, making it perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions. Imagine serving these exquisite Brussels sprouts alongside a succulent garlic herb beef top round roast, a magnificent prime rib, or a tender smoked chuck roast. They would also be a spectacular addition to any holiday feast, complementing a traditional roast turkey with a burst of sophisticated flavor. If you prefer a less sweet option, be sure to explore our recipe for crispy roasted Brussels sprouts with aioli, offering a different yet equally delicious profile.
Essential Ingredients for Culinary Success
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its reliance on readily available, simple ingredients. You won’t need to hunt for obscure items; everything on this list is a pantry staple or easily found at your local grocery store. This simplicity, combined with the power of roasting and a few flavor-packed additions, is what truly makes this dish shine and totally worth making.
- Brussels Sprouts (1 1/2 – 2 lbs): Look for firm, bright green sprouts with tightly packed leaves. Avoid any with yellowing or soft spots. Medium-sized sprouts are ideal for roasting as they cook evenly and develop a good char.
- Bacon (6 Slices): Your choice of thick-cut or regular bacon will work wonderfully. Thick-cut bacon yields heartier, chewier bits, while regular bacon offers crispier crumbles. Both infuse the dish with a crucial smoky, salty flavor.
- Butter (Room Temperature): Softened butter is key for creating a smooth, emulsified honey butter. It blends effortlessly with the honey, ensuring an even coating for the sprouts.
- Honey: Any good quality honey will do. It provides a natural sweetness that beautifully balances the savory bacon and the slight bitterness of the Brussels sprouts.
- Kosher Salt: Essential for seasoning. Kosher salt has a larger crystal size, which provides a more pronounced burst of saltiness and adheres well to the vegetables.
- Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper offers a superior aroma and sharper flavor compared to pre-ground varieties, adding a subtle spicy kick.
Crafting Your Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Honey Butter and Bacon
Follow these straightforward steps to create a show-stopping side dish that will earn you rave reviews. The process is designed to maximize flavor and achieve perfect textures, ensuring every bite is a delightful experience.
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Bacon
Begin by preheating your oven to a precise 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190°C). A consistent oven temperature is crucial for achieving beautifully roasted and slightly charred Brussels sprouts. While the oven heats, cook 6 slices of bacon using your preferred method—whether pan-fried until crisp, baked in the oven, or air-fried. The goal is perfectly cooked, crispy bacon. Once done, carefully transfer the cooked bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess fat. Critically, reserve approximately 2 tablespoons of the rendered bacon grease from the pan; this flavorful fat will be instrumental in seasoning the Brussels sprouts.
Step 2: Crumble the Bacon
Allow the cooked bacon to cool sufficiently so it’s easy and safe to handle. Once cool, crumble the bacon into small, bite-sized pieces. Set the crumbled bacon aside for later; its crispy texture and salty notes will be added at the very end to maximize its impact.
Step 3: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Take about 1 1/2 to 2 pounds of medium Brussels sprouts, which is approximately 24 individual sprouts. Thoroughly wash them and then trim off the tough ends. Halve each sprout lengthwise. As you’re trimming and cutting, remove any outer leaves that appear bruised, yellowed, or otherwise unappetizing to ensure the best flavor and appearance. Place all the prepared Brussels sprout halves into a large mixing bowl.
Step 4: Season the Sprouts with Bacon Grease
Pour the previously reserved 2 tablespoons of warm bacon grease directly over the halved Brussels sprouts in the bowl. This is where a significant portion of the flavor begins to develop. Sprinkle the sprouts with 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. The bacon grease acts as a rich, flavorful oil, ensuring the seasonings adhere well and promoting excellent crisping during roasting.
Step 5: Ensure Even Coating
Gently mix or toss the Brussels sprouts until each piece is thoroughly coated with the bacon grease, salt, and pepper. You can use your hands or a large spoon. Ensuring an even coating is vital for uniform cooking and consistent flavor distribution across all the sprouts.
Step 6: Roast to Perfection
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper; this prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Arrange the seasoned Brussels sprouts on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are placed flat-side down. This allows the cut sides to caramelize beautifully, developing a deep, rich flavor and a desirable char. Roast the Brussels sprouts in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Halfway through the roasting time (around the 15-minute mark), gently turn them over with a spatula to ensure even cooking and browning on all sides.
Step 7: Prepare the Honey Butter
While your Brussels sprouts are roasting, it’s the perfect time to prepare the delectable honey butter. In a small bowl, combine two tablespoons of softened, room-temperature butter with two tablespoons of honey. Using room-temperature butter is crucial here, as it will cream together smoothly with the honey. Whisk the mixture vigorously until it is well combined and has a smooth, creamy consistency. Set this exquisite honey butter aside.
Step 8: Combine Sprouts with Honey Butter
Once the Brussels sprouts have roasted for 30 minutes and have developed a slight char and tender-crisp texture, carefully remove them from the sheet pan. Transfer the hot roasted sprouts directly into the bowl containing the prepared honey butter. The warmth of the sprouts will help the butter melt and coat them beautifully.
Step 9: Toss and Add Bacon
Stir the roasted Brussels sprouts and honey butter until all the sprouts are completely and evenly coated. The honey butter will cling to every crevice, infusing them with its sweet and savory goodness. Next, add the crumbled bacon to the bowl. Give everything another gentle stir to distribute the bacon throughout the dish, ensuring delightful crunch in every bite.
Step 10: Final Seasoning and Serve
Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want a pinch more salt or a dash more pepper to enhance the flavors. Serve these spectacular Brussels sprouts immediately, allowing guests to enjoy them while they’re warm and the bacon is at its crispiest. This side dish is incredibly easy to assemble, and these simple steps truly elevate a basic vegetable to an extraordinary culinary experience.
This remarkable side dish is so simple to prepare, yet delivers such complex and satisfying flavors. Even those who typically shy away from vegetables will find themselves reaching for more. The crispy texture, coupled with the rich honey butter and savory bacon, makes eating Brussels sprouts an absolute delight. Don’t hesitate – give this recipe a try and witness the transformation firsthand!
Frequently Asked Questions
Crispiness is often a matter of heat and space. Ensure your oven temperature is at least 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190°C) – anything lower might steam them instead of roasting. Crucially, don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Give each sprout enough room to breathe and roast properly. If they’re too close, they’ll release moisture and steam, preventing them from developing that desirable crispy exterior. Using parchment paper also helps, and a preheated baking sheet can give them a head start.
Absolutely, cutting Brussels sprouts in half is highly recommended for this recipe. This technique significantly increases the surface area that comes into contact with the heat and the delicious bacon grease, allowing for better caramelization and a more intense roasted flavor. Additionally, smaller pieces cook more quickly and evenly than whole sprouts, ensuring a tender interior and a beautifully crisp exterior.
For this particular recipe, parboiling (partially boiling) the Brussels sprouts is generally not necessary, especially if you’re using medium-sized sprouts. The roasting time is sufficient to cook them through while still allowing them to get tender-crisp. However, if you happen to have exceptionally large Brussels sprouts, a quick parboil for 2-3 minutes before roasting can give them a head start on tenderness, ensuring they are soft in the middle without becoming over-roasted on the outside.
While these Brussels sprouts are best served fresh for optimal crispiness, you can prepare some components in advance. The bacon can be cooked and crumbled a day or two ahead and stored in an airtight container. The honey butter mixture can also be prepared and refrigerated. When it’s time to serve, simply roast the Brussels sprouts, then combine with the pre-made honey butter and bacon. This significantly cuts down on last-minute preparation time.
Brussels sprouts are nutritional powerhouses! They are incredibly rich in Vitamin K, which is vital for bone health and blood clotting. They also boast high levels of Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports the immune system. Furthermore, these miniature cabbages are a good source of fiber, promoting digestive health, and contain various other beneficial compounds and antioxidants, making them an excellent addition to a balanced diet.
Other Delicious Side Dishes to Explore
If you’ve enjoyed elevating your vegetables with this recipe, you’ll love exploring other creative and flavorful side dishes. These recipes complement a wide range of main courses and offer something for every palate, ensuring your meal is always well-rounded and exciting.
Baked Macaroni And Cheese
Fast And Delicious Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Roasted Green Beans and Mushrooms
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Honey Butter Recipe
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Ingredients
- 6 slices Bacon thick cut or regular, for crisp crumbles
- 1.5 lbs Brussels sprouts fresh, firm, and halved
- 2 tbsp Honey for a touch of natural sweetness
- 2 tbsp Butter softened to room temperature
- 1/2 tsp Kosher salt to taste
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper freshly ground, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190°C) to ensure even and proper roasting of the Brussels sprouts.
- Cook 6 slices of bacon using your preferred method until crispy. Once cooked, remove the bacon but reserve 2 tablespoons of the flavorful bacon grease.6 slices Bacon
- Once the bacon has cooled enough to handle, crumble it into small pieces and set aside.
- Halve approximately 24 medium Brussels sprouts (about 1.5 lbs) and place them into a large mixing bowl. Discard any bruised or yellowed outer leaves.1.5 lbs Brussels sprouts
- Pour the reserved bacon grease over the halved Brussels sprouts. Sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper.1/2 tsp Kosher salt, 1/4 tsp Black pepper
- Gently mix or toss the sprouts until they are evenly coated with the bacon grease and seasonings.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the Brussels sprouts flat-side down. Roast for 30 minutes, turning them once halfway through to ensure even browning.
- While the sprouts are roasting, combine 2 tablespoons of softened butter and 2 tablespoons of honey in a separate bowl. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined, then set aside.2 tbsp Honey, 2 tbsp Butter
- After 30 minutes, remove the roasted Brussels sprouts from the oven once they have a slight char and are tender-crisp.
- Transfer the hot roasted Brussels sprouts into the bowl with the honey butter and stir gently until every sprout is thoroughly coated.
- Add the crumbled bacon to the bowl and stir it in, distributing the crispy pieces throughout the dish.
- Taste and season with additional salt and pepper as desired, then serve immediately for the best flavor and texture!
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 24g |
Protein: 10g |
Fat: 19g |
Saturated Fat: 8g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 7g |
Trans Fat: 1g |
Cholesterol: 37mg |
Sodium: 597mg |
Potassium: 736mg |
Fiber: 7g |
Sugar: 12g |
Vitamin A: 1470IU |
Vitamin C: 145mg |
Calcium: 76mg |
Iron: 3mg