Festive Smashed Brussels Sprouts with Crispy Bacon Recipe
Introduction
These festive smashed Brussels sprouts are a delicious twist on a classic side dish, combining tender sprouts with crispy smoked bacon. Perfect for holiday meals, they bring both flavor and a satisfying texture to your plate.
Ingredients
- 200g Brussels sprouts, trimmed (prepared weight)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 100g smoked streaky bacon rashers
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 200°C/180°C fan/gas mark 6. In a large bowl, toss the trimmed Brussels sprouts with the olive oil and season well with salt and pepper.
- Step 2: Spread the sprouts evenly on a large roasting tray. Roast for 15–20 minutes, turning them halfway, until they are tender.
- Step 3: Remove the tray from the oven. Using a sturdy mug or potato masher, press down on each sprout to ‘smash’ and flatten it gently but firmly.
- Step 4: Cut the smoked streaky bacon into bite-sized strips using kitchen scissors or a knife. Scatter the bacon evenly over the smashed sprouts.
- Step 5: Lower the oven temperature to 190°C/170°C fan/gas mark 5 and return the tray to the oven. Roast for 7–9 minutes until the bacon is crisp.
- Step 6: If the bacon needs extra crisping, increase the oven back to 200°C/180°C fan/gas mark 6 for a few more minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning. Serve warm.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or a drizzle of balsamic glaze just before serving.
- You can substitute smoked streaky bacon with pancetta or prosciutto for a different smoky taste.
- Use a heavy-bottomed mug or small plate to smash the sprouts evenly without making a mess.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a low oven or in a skillet to keep the bacon crisp. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before roasting to avoid excess moisture. Fresh sprouts will yield the best texture.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Skip the bacon and try adding toasted nuts or crispy fried shallots for a crunchy topping instead. A smoky smoked paprika sprinkle can add a similar depth of flavor.
PrintFestive Smashed Brussels Sprouts with Crispy Bacon Recipe
A delicious and festive dish featuring smashed Brussels sprouts roasted to tender perfection and topped with crispy smoked streaky bacon. This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect as a side dish for holiday meals or cozy dinners.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2-3 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: British
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 200g Brussels sprouts, trimmed (prepared weight)
Other Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 100g smoked streaky bacon rashers
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Heat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan)/gas mark 6 to prepare for roasting the Brussels sprouts.
- Season and roast sprouts: In a large bowl, combine the trimmed Brussels sprouts with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and season them well with salt and pepper. Spread them out evenly on a large roasting tray. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, turning the sprouts halfway through to ensure even cooking, until they are tender and starting to brown.
- Smash the sprouts: Remove the roasting tray from the oven. Using a sturdy mug or a potato masher, press down on each Brussels sprout to flatten and ‘smash’ them gently but thoroughly.
- Prepare bacon and continue roasting: Cut the smoked streaky bacon into bite-sized strips using kitchen scissors or a sharp knife. Scatter the bacon pieces evenly over the smashed sprouts on the roasting tray. Reduce the oven temperature to 190°C (170°C fan)/gas mark 5.
- Roast until crisp: Return the roasting tray to the oven and roast the sprouts and bacon together for 7-9 minutes until the bacon is crisp. If the bacon isn’t sufficiently crispy after this time, increase the oven temperature back to 200°C (180°C fan)/gas mark 6 for a few more minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Notes
- Trimming Brussels sprouts means removing the tough stems and any outer leaves that are damaged.
- Pressing the sprouts flat helps them get crispy edges and increases surface area for caramelization.
- Use smoked bacon for a robust smoky flavor that pairs well with the sprouts.
- Monitor closely when crisping the bacon at higher heat to prevent overcooking.
- This dish works great as a side for festive meals or a flavorful vegetable option any time.
Keywords: Brussels sprouts, smashed sprouts, roasted vegetables, crispy bacon, festive side dish, holiday recipe
