Irresistible Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries: The Ultimate Side Dish

Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries transform a humble vegetable into a truly unforgettable side dish. The savory crispness of bacon, the earthy sweetness of roasted Brussels sprouts, and the tart burst of fresh cranberries create a harmonious symphony of flavors and textures that is simply irresistible. This dish is destined to become a staple on your holiday table and a beloved addition to your weeknight meals.

This exquisite side dish pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses. Imagine serving it alongside a succulent glazed ham, tender baked pork chops, or a perfectly seasoned roasted chicken. It’s a versatile option that elevates any meal, whether it’s a festive holiday gathering or a casual weekend dinner.

Why These Brussels Sprouts Are a Game-Changer

For too long, Brussels sprouts have carried an undeserved reputation, often associated with bland, over-boiled preparations. But it’s time to rediscover this nutritious cruciferous vegetable in a way that truly celebrates its potential! Roasting is the secret weapon, unlocking a deep, caramelized flavor and a wonderfully tender-crisp texture that boiling or steaming simply cannot achieve. When paired with crispy, salty bacon and vibrant, tart cranberries, Brussels sprouts are transformed into a dish so flavorful, even the most skeptical eaters will ask for seconds.

The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its incredible taste but also in its remarkable simplicity and speed. In just 20 minutes of roasting, you can achieve perfection, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you crave something wholesome and delicious, or for grand holiday feasts when you need a show-stopping side that doesn’t demand hours in the kitchen. Plus, the bright red cranberries against the green sprouts and golden bacon make for a visually appealing dish that adds a pop of color to any plate.

The Magic of Roasting Vegetables

Roasting is, without a doubt, the superior method for cooking most vegetables, especially Brussels sprouts. High heat in the oven triggers the Maillard reaction, a chemical process that creates rich, complex flavors and desirable browning. Unlike boiling, which can leach out nutrients and leave vegetables watery and bland, roasting concentrates their natural sugars, enhancing their inherent sweetness and giving them a delightful caramelized exterior.

Steaming is a healthier alternative to boiling, preserving more nutrients, but it still often results in a softer texture and a less intense flavor profile compared to roasting. While grilling offers similar caramelization and a smoky char during warmer months, oven roasting provides consistent, even heat, making it perfect for year-round enjoyment, especially as the weather turns chilly and comfort food cravings set in. Once you experience Brussels sprouts roasted to perfection, you’ll never look back!

Crafting Your Perfect Plate: Ingredients and Preparation

Preparing this dish is wonderfully straightforward, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor. Here’s a detailed look at the simple steps and ingredients:

Essential Ingredients:

• Brussels Sprouts: Approximately 16 ounces (about 450g) of fresh Brussels sprouts. Look for firm, bright green sprouts without yellowing or blemishes.
• Bacon: 4 slices of your favorite bacon. Thick-cut bacon works beautifully for extra texture, but any type will do.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste. These fundamental seasonings bring out the best in the ingredients.
• Fresh Cranberries: ½ cup of fresh cranberries. Their tartness is crucial for balancing the richness of the bacon and the sweetness of the sprouts.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Crisp the Bacon: Begin by cooking the bacon in a large saucepan or skillet over medium heat until it’s wonderfully crispy. This usually takes about 5-8 minutes, depending on the thickness of your bacon. Once cooked, remove the bacon slices from the pan and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain, reserving the flavorful bacon grease in the saucepan. This grease is the secret ingredient that will coat your sprouts!
2. Preheat Your Oven: While the bacon cools, preheat your oven to a robust 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). A high temperature is key for achieving that perfect roasted texture.
3. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: Trim the ends of your Brussels sprouts and remove any loose or discolored outer leaves. For smaller sprouts, you can leave them whole, but for larger ones, it’s best to cut them in half to ensure even cooking and more caramelized surfaces.
4. Season and Toss: Place the trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts onto a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Season them generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Carefully pour the reserved bacon grease over the sprouts. Toss gently with your hands or tongs to ensure every sprout is evenly coated in that delicious, savory fat.
5. Add the Cranberries: Scatter the fresh cranberries evenly over the baking sheet alongside the Brussels sprouts.
6. Roast to Perfection: Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and roast for approximately 20 minutes. The sprouts are ready when they are tender on the inside, beautifully caramelized and slightly crispy on the outside, and the cranberries have burst, releasing their tart juices.
7. Finish with Bacon: Once roasted, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Roughly chop the crispy bacon slices and sprinkle them over the hot roasted vegetables.
8. Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, while the bacon is still crisp and the sprouts are warm and tender.

Tips for Success and Delicious Variations

Achieving the perfect roasted Brussels sprouts and bacon is simple, but a few tips can make all the difference. Also, don’t hesitate to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences!

Getting the Best Texture:

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: For crispy Brussels sprouts, ensure they have enough space on the baking sheet. If the pan is too crowded, the sprouts will steam instead of roast, leading to a soggy texture. Use two baking sheets if necessary.
• Evenly Sized Sprouts: Halving larger sprouts ensures they cook at the same rate as smaller ones, leading to consistent tenderness.
• Dry Sprouts are Key: Wash and thoroughly dry your Brussels sprouts before tossing them in bacon grease. Excess moisture can prevent proper caramelization.

Exciting Variations:

• A Touch of Sweetness: For an extra layer of flavor that complements the tart cranberries, drizzle 1-2 tablespoons of maple syrup or a balsamic glaze over the sprouts and cranberries during the last 5-10 minutes of roasting.
• Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the baking sheet during the last 10 minutes of roasting for an additional layer of texture and flavor.
• Cheesy Indulgence: After roasting, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese or crumbled goat cheese for a savory, tangy finish.
• Garlic Lover’s Dream: Toss in a few minced garlic cloves along with the bacon grease for an aromatic boost.
• Spicy Kick: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle warmth that surprisingly enhances the dish.
• Vegetarian Option: To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and toss the Brussels sprouts and cranberries with a good quality olive oil. You can add a pinch of smoked paprika for a hint of smoky flavor.
• Using Frozen Brussels Sprouts: While fresh is preferred, frozen can work in a pinch. Thaw them completely and pat them very dry before roasting to minimize excess moisture. Roasting time might be slightly longer.

This dish is so satisfying that it often becomes a star in its own right. I’ve found that when I make this for dinner, especially when I add seasoned chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces and diced sweet potatoes to the baking sheet, there are rarely any leftovers!

Serving Suggestions: Perfect Pairings

This Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries side dish is incredibly versatile, making it a perfect accompaniment for almost any meal, especially during the colder months and holiday season.

Holiday Feast Essentials:

This recipe is a cornerstone of my holiday menu. This Thanksgiving, I plan on serving them alongside my famous Creamy Garlic Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes, a comforting Green Bean Casserole from Scratch, my Hubby’s absolute favorite Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing, and this decadent Sweet Potato Casserole with two delightful toppings. The contrasting flavors and textures of each dish create an unforgettable spread.

Everyday Dinners:

Don’t save this dish just for special occasions! It’s a fantastic addition to your regular dinner rotation. It pairs wonderfully with simple grilled chicken, pan-seared salmon, baked cod, or even a hearty vegetarian main like lentil loaf or a wild rice pilaf. The brightness of the cranberries and the savory bacon elevate even the simplest proteins.

More Delicious Vegetable Recipes:

If you love discovering new ways to enjoy vegetables, be sure to explore these other fantastic recipes that highlight the natural flavors of fresh produce:

• Perfectly Roasted Asparagus
• Flavorful Sautéed Mushrooms
• Hearty Braised Red Cabbage

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have any leftovers of these delectable Brussels sprouts (a rare occurrence!), they can be stored and reheated. Simply place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For best results when reheating, spread them on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the bacon crisps up again. This method helps restore some of their original texture, unlike microwaving which can make them a bit soft.

Nutritional Highlights of This Dish

Beyond its incredible taste, this dish also offers several nutritional benefits, thanks to its star ingredients:

• Brussels Sprouts: These mini cabbages are packed with Vitamin C (great for immunity), Vitamin K (important for bone health and blood clotting), and dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness. They also contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
• Cranberries: Known for their high antioxidant content, cranberries are particularly beneficial for urinary tract health. They also provide Vitamin C and fiber.
• Bacon: While bacon adds a delicious savory element, it’s best enjoyed in moderation. It provides protein and some essential nutrients, but is higher in fat and sodium.

Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional values per serving:

• Calories: 146 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 11 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Fat: 9 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 14 mg
• Sodium: 174 mg
• Potassium: 495 mg
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Vitamin A: 855 IU
• Vitamin C: 98 mg
• Calcium: 48 mg
• Iron: 1.7 mg

These values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are answers to some common questions about making Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries:

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

Yes, you can. However, make sure to thaw them completely and pat them very dry with paper towels before roasting. Excess moisture will prevent them from browning properly and can make them soggy. The roasting time might need to be extended slightly.

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

While fresh cranberries offer a delightful tart burst, dried cranberries can be used for a sweeter, chewier texture. If using dried, add them about halfway through the roasting process to prevent them from burning. Keep in mind the flavor profile will be different, with less tartness.

How do I prevent my Brussels sprouts from becoming soggy?

The key is to avoid overcrowding the baking sheet and to ensure your sprouts are as dry as possible before roasting. Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and give the sprouts plenty of space to caramelize.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This dish is best served immediately for optimal crispiness and flavor. However, you can prep the Brussels sprouts (trimming and halving) and cook the bacon ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator. Then, combine and roast just before serving.

What if I don’t have bacon grease?

If you don’t have bacon grease, you can use olive oil, avocado oil, or even butter to coat the Brussels sprouts. You will still get a delicious roasted vegetable, but it will lack the signature smoky bacon flavor. Consider adding some smoked paprika if using a different fat.

Recipe Summary: Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries

Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries Recipe

Author: Anna

Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries is simply the BEST WAY to enjoy Brussels sprouts! Bacon roasting in the oven with fresh cranberries makes them quite irresistible, balancing savory, sweet, and tart flavors.

Ingredients

• 16 oz Brussels sprouts
• 4 slices bacon
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ½ cup fresh cranberries

Instructions

1. Cook bacon in a large saucepan until crispy. Remove onto a paper towel lined plate. Reserve bacon grease.
2. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
3. Trim Brussels sprouts. Place on a parchment paper lined large baking sheet. Season with salt and pepper. Pour bacon grease over sprouts. Toss gently. Add fresh cranberries.
4. Roast for 20 minutes or until the Brussels sprouts are tender and cranberries burst.
5. Chop bacon and sprinkle over vegetables.
6. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 146kcal | Carbohydrates: 11g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 14mg | Sodium: 174mg | Potassium: 495mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 855IU | Vitamin C: 98mg | Calcium: 48mg | Iron: 1.7mg

If you like this recipe and make it, snap a photo and share it on INSTAGRAM! Tag me @crunchycreamysweet so I can check it out and leave a comment!