Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Blue Cheese and Bacon Bites is a delicious side dish that combines the earthy taste of roasted Brussels sprouts with the smoky flavor of bacon and the tangy creaminess of blue cheese. This dish is perfect for holidays, gatherings, or any meal where you want a standout side. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/3 cup crumbled blue cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare Brussels Sprouts: Place the halved Brussels sprouts in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Toss to coat the Brussels sprouts evenly.
- Add Bacon: Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Scatter the chopped bacon pieces over the Brussels sprouts.
- Roast: Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the Brussels sprouts are tender and slightly caramelized, and the bacon is crispy. Stir halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Add Blue Cheese: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and immediately sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese over the hot Brussels sprouts. The cheese will soften slightly from the heat.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve warm.
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Brussels Sprouts Size: If your Brussels sprouts are particularly large, consider cutting them into quarters to ensure they roast evenly.
- Blue Cheese Substitute: If blue cheese is too strong for your taste, you can use crumbled feta or goat cheese for a milder flavor.
- Bacon Crispness: For extra crispy bacon, you can pre-cook the bacon pieces in the oven for about 5 minutes before adding them to the Brussels sprouts.
Variations
- Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts: Drizzle 1-2 tablespoons of maple syrup over the Brussels sprouts during the last 10 minutes of roasting for a sweet and savory twist.
- Spicy Brussels Sprouts: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Brussels sprouts before roasting for a bit of heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon and add toasted pecans or walnuts for crunch and a nutty flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Holiday Side Dish: This dish makes an excellent side for holiday meals, especially Thanksgiving or Christmas.
- Main Course Pairing: Serve alongside roasted chicken, steak, or pork tenderloin for a complete meal.
- Appetizer: These Brussels sprouts can also be served as an appetizer, perfect for a dinner party or gathering.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can roast the Brussels sprouts and bacon ahead of time and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Add the blue cheese just before serving.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop for best results.
Can I Use Frozen Brussels Sprouts?
Fresh Brussels sprouts are recommended for this recipe, as frozen Brussels sprouts can become mushy when roasted. However, if you use frozen, be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before roasting.
What Can I Use Instead of Blue Cheese?
If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, you can use feta, goat cheese, or even Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Get Crispy Brussels Sprouts?
To get crispy Brussels sprouts, make sure they are spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding will cause them to steam rather than roast, resulting in less crispiness.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Blue Cheese and Bacon Bites is a flavorful and crowd-pleasing side dish that combines the perfect blend of savory, tangy, and smoky flavors. The crispy Brussels sprouts, salty bacon, and creamy blue cheese make for a dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday gathering or a weeknight dinner, this dish is a guaranteed hit. Gather your ingredients, roast, and enjoy!
Happy Cooking!
