Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Blue Cheese and Bacon Bites: The Perfect Crowd-Pleaser!
Ah, the tantalizing aroma of Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Blue Cheese and Bacon Bites wafting through your kitchen—doesn’t that sound delightful? If you’re like me and love a dish that not only keeps you happy but also makes your guests do a happy dance, then you’ve stumbled upon a treasure here!
Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or trying to impress friends at your next gathering, this dish is the ultimate win. It’s quick, easy, and completely irresistible. Plus, it tackles that common dilemma we all face: how to turn those “little cabbages” into something delectable. Let’s dive into this delightfully savory recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your culinary arsenal!
Why You’ll Love Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Blue Cheese and Bacon Bites
Let’s face it: Brussels sprouts often get a bad rap. But when you combine them with crispy bacon and pungent blue cheese, voilà! You’ve got a match made in heaven. The roasted Brussels sprouts have that perfect crunch, while the bacon provides a salty, savory kick, and the blue cheese? It’s like a flavor explosion taking your taste buds on a joyride.
In just a few steps, this dish becomes a vibrant addition to your table. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without anyone even noticing (who knew you could be a stealthy mom or chef, right?).
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll want to gather to whip up these glorious bites:
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 4 strips of bacon, chopped (because is there ever too much bacon?)
- 4 oz blue cheese, crumbled (or more, if you’re feeling adventurous!)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: balsamic reduction for drizzling (seriously, it’s like magic in a bottle!)
Steps to Make the Magic Happen
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (about 200°C). This is where the roasting magic happens!
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Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: In a large mixing bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. You want them coated but not drenched—after all, we’re aiming for ‘crispy’ not ‘soggy’!
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Add the Bacon: Throw in those chopped bacon pieces! The fat from the bacon will infuse the sprouts with all kinds of flavor.
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Roast Away: Spread the Brussels sprouts and bacon mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the sprouts are tender and the bacon is crispy. Give them a shake halfway through for even cooking!
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Blue Cheese Bliss: Once they’re perfectly roasted, sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese over the top and pop them back in the oven for an additional 5 minutes. This will melt the cheese just enough to coat the sprouts.
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Serve and Enjoy: Drizzle with balsamic reduction if you like, then serve your Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Blue Cheese and Bacon Bites warm!
Cooking Tips to Level-Up Your Dish
- Don’t Skimp on Those Flavors: Feel free to get creative! Add garlic or a dash of red pepper flakes for a spicy touch.
- Looking for a Lighter Option? Swap out the bacon for turkey bacon or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika for that smoky flavor without the added calories. No judgment here—whatever gets those sprouts gobbled up!
A Personal Touch
I first tossed Brussels sprouts and bacon together for a family holiday dinner. You should’ve seen my kids’ faces—they were skeptical at first, but after that first bite, the “this is so good!” chorus filled the room. Now, I whip them up for everything from casual weeknight dinners to elegant gatherings with friends. They’re essentially my secret weapon, and soon enough, they’ll be yours too!
FAQs About Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Blue Cheese and Bacon Bites
Can I substitute the blue cheese?
Absolutely! If blue cheese isn’t your jam, try goat cheese or feta for a different flavor profile.
How can I store leftovers?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll still be delicious for 2-3 days—just pop them in the oven to reheat!
Can I make these ahead of time?
You can prep the Brussels sprouts and bacon in advance, but I recommend roasting them just before serving for that extra crispy goodness.
As you gather around the table to enjoy these remarkable Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Blue Cheese and Bacon Bites, take a moment to savor not just the flavors but the experience. Cooking is not just about the food; it’s about the connection, the laughter, and the memories that we create.
So, roll up those sleeves, grab that apron, and let’s turn those Brussels sprouts into a family favorite! Your vegan friends might just be a little jealous—but that’s a risk I’d say is worth taking.
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PrintRoasted Brussels Sprouts with Blue Cheese and Bacon Bites
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
The perfect crowd-pleaser combining crispy bacon, pungent blue cheese, and roasted Brussels sprouts for an irresistible dish.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 4 strips of bacon, chopped
- 4 oz blue cheese, crumbled
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: balsamic reduction for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (about 200°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Throw in chopped bacon pieces.
- Spread the Brussels sprouts and bacon mixture on a baking sheet and roast for about 20-25 minutes or until tender and crispy.
- Sprinkle blue cheese over the top and roast for an additional 5 minutes.
- Drizzle with balsamic reduction if desired, then serve warm.
Notes
Feel free to add garlic or red pepper flakes for some heat. For a lighter option, substitute bacon with turkey bacon or smoked paprika.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Brussels sprouts, blue cheese, bacon, side dish, roasted vegetables