Keto Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Crispy Bacon
Tender roasted Brussels sprouts caramelized to perfection and topped with crispy bacon pieces create a savory side dish that transforms this often-misunderstood vegetable into a crowd favorite. The high heat develops deep flavors while the bacon adds smoky richness and textural contrast. Perfect for holiday dinners, weeknight meals, or any time you want to make vegetables irresistible to even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients
- 2 cups Brussels sprouts, washed and trimmed
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 3 thin slices bacon
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 350 F
- 2
Wash Brussels sprouts and pat dry with paper towels
- 3
Peel outer layer of Brussels sprouts to remove old or discolored leaves
- 4
Trim ends and slice Brussels sprouts lengthways
- 5
Place Brussels sprouts in mixing bowl
- 6
Add olive oil, salt, and pepper to bowl
- 7
Mix to coat evenly
- 8
Spread Brussels sprouts on baking sheet
- 9
Bake for 20 minutes
- 10
Heat skillet over medium heat with remaining olive oil
- 11
Cook bacon slices for 2 minutes on each side
- 12
Remove bacon and let cool
- 13
Chop bacon into bite-size pieces
- 14
Transfer roasted Brussels sprouts to serving bowl
- 15
Sprinkle bacon on top, mix, and serve immediately
Tips
Cut Brussels sprouts uniformly for even cooking and better presentation
Don't overcrowd the baking sheet or sprouts will steam instead of roast
Cook bacon until just crispy to maintain texture when mixed with hot vegetables
Good to Know
Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days in airtight container
Brussels sprouts can be trimmed and cut up to 1 day ahead
Best served immediately while Brussels sprouts are hot and bacon is crispy
Common Mistakes
Don't skip patting Brussels sprouts dry to avoid soggy results
Don't overcook bacon or it will become too hard when reheated with vegetables
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I make this without bacon for vegetarians?
Yes, omit the bacon and add toasted pine nuts, dried cranberries, or grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor and texture.
What if my Brussels sprouts are browning too quickly?
Cover with foil and reduce oven temperature to 325 F to prevent burning while allowing them to finish cooking through.
How long will leftovers keep in the refrigerator?
Properly stored leftovers will keep for up to 3 days, though the bacon may lose some crispness when reheated.