Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon are the dish that converts even the most dedicated Brussels sprout skeptic into an ardent fan—a glorious transformation of a humble vegetable into a caramelized, crispy, utterly irresistible side dish. This recipe is a masterclass in roasting, where high heat works its magic on halved Brussels sprouts, coaxing out their natural sugars and creating deeply browned, crispy edges while the interiors become tender and sweet. The magic is amplified by the addition of savory bacon, its smoky, salty crunch providing the perfect counterpoint to the sprouts’ earthy sweetness. A generous shower of grated Parmesan cheese, added in two stages, melts and crisps into golden, nutty bits that cling to every sprout, creating an irresistible crust of cheesy, savory perfection.
The brilliance of this dish lies in its simplicity and the profound depth of flavor it achieves with minimal effort. The roasting process does the heavy lifting, transforming the sprouts without any fussy techniques. The bacon, cooked until crisp and roughly chopped, adds not only flavor but also a satisfying textural contrast. The final toss with the remaining Parmesan just before serving ensures every sprout is coated in a final layer of cheesy goodness that melts slightly from the residual heat. This side dish is the perfect accompaniment to any roast, holiday turkey, or simple weeknight chicken, and it’s so delicious it often steals the spotlight from the main course. It’s proof that with a little heat and the right companions, Brussels sprouts can be absolutely spectacular.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Caramelized, Crispy Perfection: High-heat roasting creates irresistible crispy edges and tender, sweet interiors.
- Irresistible Flavor Trio: The combination of earthy sprouts, smoky bacon, and nutty Parmesan is pure magic.
- Simple, Foolproof Method: Just toss, roast, and serve—no complicated steps.
- The Ultimate Side Dish: Pairs beautifully with everything from roasted chicken to holiday turkey to steak.
- Converts Sprout Haters: This recipe is famous for winning over even the most resistant vegetable skeptics.
Ingredients:
For the Roasted Sprouts:
2 lbs Brussels sprouts, fresh
2 tablespoons olive oil
1½ teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
For the Toppings:
6 slices cooked bacon, roughly chopped
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided (¼ cup for roasting, ¼ cup for finishing)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Trim the tough ends off each Brussels sprout. Cut each sprout in half lengthwise. If any sprouts are very large, cut them into quarters so all pieces are roughly the same size for even roasting.
Step 3: Toss with Seasonings
Place the prepared Brussels sprouts in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with kosher salt and black pepper. Add half (¼ cup) of the grated Parmesan cheese. Toss well until every sprout is evenly coated.
Step 4: Roast
Spread the seasoned sprouts in a single, even layer on the prepared baking sheet, cut-side down if possible for maximum caramelization. Roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the sprouts are tender and deeply golden brown with crispy edges.
Step 5: Add Bacon and Remaining Cheese
Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Immediately sprinkle the chopped bacon and the remaining ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese over the hot sprouts. Toss gently to combine. The residual heat will slightly melt the cheese.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Taste and adjust with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately.
Tips:
- Uniform Size: Cut sprouts into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Give the sprouts room on the baking sheet. If they’re crowded, they’ll steam instead of roast. Use two sheets if necessary.
- Cut Side Down: Arrange sprouts with the cut side touching the pan for the best caramelization.
- Cook Bacon Ahead: Prepare the bacon by frying, baking, or air-frying until very crisp, then chop or crumble.
- Add a Squeeze of Lemon: A final squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens all the flavors beautifully.
Storage Options:
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven or air fryer for 5-10 minutes to restore crispness. The microwave will make them soggy.
- Not for Freezing: The texture of roasted sprouts becomes waterlogged and unappetizing upon thawing.
- Make-Ahead: You can trim and halve the sprouts a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Roast just before serving.
Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon are a revelation—a side dish so delicious it deserves a place at every table. They are crispy, savory, cheesy, and utterly addictive, proving that the simplest preparations often yield the most spectacular results.
