Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Chestnuts

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 30 min
🍽 Serves: 4
★★★★★
Be the First to Review!

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Chestnuts is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings a touch of warmth to your table. Perfect for the fall and winter months, this recipe combines savory, sweet, and nutty notes for a truly satisfying side.

Ingredients for Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Chestnuts

Brussels sprouts are the star of the show, offering a slightly bitter taste that transforms into a nutty sweetness when roasted. Bacon adds a smoky, savory depth that pairs beautifully with the sprouts. Roasted chestnuts bring a subtle sweetness and creamy texture, making them a perfect balance to the dish. Olive oil helps everything roast up beautifully, adding a touch of richness, while salt and pepper enhance all the flavors.

Tips & Tricks

  • For extra crispiness, make sure your Brussels sprouts are completely dry before roasting.
  • Use a large enough baking sheet to avoid overcrowding; this ensures everything roasts rather than steams.
  • If you prefer a smokier flavor, consider using smoked bacon or adding a pinch of smoked paprika.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with a roasted chicken or turkey, making it a fantastic addition to your holiday table. For a vegetarian option, serve it alongside a hearty grain salad or a creamy risotto. The flavors also complement a simple steak dinner beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Yes, but fresh Brussels sprouts will give you a better texture and flavor. If using frozen, thaw and dry them thoroughly before roasting.
What if I can't find roasted chestnuts?
You can roast raw chestnuts yourself or substitute with another nut like pecans or hazelnuts for a different flavor profile.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain crispiness.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Chestnuts Recipe Walkthrough

First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is key to getting those Brussels sprouts nicely browned and crisp. While the oven is heating up, take a moment to prep your veggies. Give the Brussels sprouts a good rinse under cold water, then trim off the ends and cut each one in half. This helps them cook evenly and allows those delicious crispy edges to form.

Next, grab your bacon and chop it into small pieces. I find that smaller bits of bacon distribute more evenly throughout the dish, ensuring every bite has a touch of that smoky goodness. If you're using pre-cooked roasted chestnuts, you're already ahead of the game. If not, roasting them beforehand ensures they bring their sweet, nutty flavor to the table.

Now, it's time to bring everything together. On a large baking sheet, toss the Brussels sprouts, bacon, and chestnuts with the olive oil. Season generously with salt and pepper, then spread everything out in a single layer. This helps each ingredient roast evenly and develop those lovely caramelized flavors.

Pop the tray in the oven and roast for 25-30 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, give the sprouts a stir to ensure even browning. You’re looking for the Brussels sprouts to be tender and crispy, with the bacon cooked to perfection.

Once out of the oven, serve the dish warm. It’s best enjoyed fresh, when the sprouts are at their crispiest and the bacon is perfectly crisp.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect balance of savory bacon and sweet chestnuts.
  • Easy to prepare with just a handful of ingredients.
  • Crispy, caramelized Brussels sprouts that even skeptics will enjoy.
  • Great for holiday gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

1 lb Brussels sprouts
4 oz bacon
1 cup roasted chestnuts
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Clean and halve the Brussels sprouts.
3. Chop the bacon into small pieces.
4. On a baking sheet, toss Brussels sprouts, bacon, and chestnuts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
5. Spread out in a single layer.
6. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until Brussels sprouts are browned and crisp.
7. Serve warm.

Ratings and Comments

Thank you for your rating!