Roasted Brussels Sprouts Turkey Bacon

There was a rainy Tuesday last November when I realized I had zero appetite for heavy comfort food but still wanted something warm from the oven. I found a bag of sprouts hiding in the crisper drawer and decided to experiment with whatever meat was left in the fridge. The smell of smoked paprika hitting the hot oil completely changed how I view this often maligned vegetable. It became an instant staple in my house for those nights when you need a quick win.

I served this at a dinner party once expecting complaints about Brussels sprouts but the platter was empty before the main course even hit the table. My brother actually asked if there were more hidden in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• Brussels sprouts: Trimming and halving ensures they roast evenly and get those crispy edges
• Turkey bacon: Chopping it into small bits helps it render fat and crisp up nicely among the veg
• Olive oil: This is essential for carrying the spices and helping the sprouts caramelize
• Smoked paprika: This ingredient is the secret weapon for adding depth without adding heat

Instructions

Preheat and Prep:

Get your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet to save cleanup later

Season the Mix:

Toss the halved sprouts and chopped bacon with oil and spices in a large bowl until everything is well coated

Arrange for Roasting:

Spread the mixture out in a single layer so air can circulate and crisp everything up

Cook to Perfection:

Let it roast for 20 to 25 minutes and stir halfway through to prevent burning

Finish and Serve:

Toss them in a serving dish and add cheese or herbs if you feel like dressing them up

Save

Sitting on the couch with a bowl of these warm sprouts while watching a movie is one of my simple pleasures. It is the kind of food that feels good to eat.

Getting the Texture Right

I have learned that cutting the sprouts uniformly is the most important step for even cooking. If some are huge and others tiny the small ones will burn before the big ones finish.

Choosing the Right Bacon

Turkey bacon varies wildly between brands so look for one that is meaty rather than fatty. Some brands smoke more than others so taste a raw piece before seasoning to adjust the salt levels.

Serving Suggestions

While this is great on its own it pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or a grilled steak.

• A drizzle of balsamic reduction adds a tangy sweetness
• Lemon zest brightens the dish right before serving
• Try tossing in some toasted nuts for extra crunch

Save

I hope this simple side brings a little crunch and joy to your dinner table tonight. Enjoy every bite.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I get crispy Brussels sprouts?

The key is roasting at high heat (425°F) and spreading them in a single layer so they brown rather than steam. Don't overcrowd the pan, and avoid stirring too frequently—one flip halfway through is perfect.

→ Can I use regular bacon instead?

Absolutely. Regular bacon works beautifully and adds extra richness. Just keep in mind it has more fat, so you may want to drain some before serving or reduce the olive oil slightly.

→ Should I cut the sprouts in half?

Yes, halving helps them cook evenly and creates more surface area for caramelization. Make sure the pieces are relatively uniform in size so they finish roasting at the same time.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep leftover sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 375°F oven for 10-15 minutes to recrisp, or enjoy cold in salads.

→ What goes well with roasted Brussels sprouts?

They pair wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, pork tenderloin, or salmon. They're also excellent alongside other roasted vegetables or as part of a Thanksgiving or Christmas feast.

→ Why do my Brussels sprouts taste bitter?

Bitterness often comes from overcooking or using older sprouts. Look for tight, bright green heads and roast just until golden and tender-crisp. The bacon and seasonings here also help balance any natural bitterness.