When it comes to irresistible side dishes, few recipes can compete with the savory-sweet magic of Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Pecans. This dish combines crispy roasted sprouts, smoky bits of bacon, and toasted pecans that add both crunch and richness. The result? A flavor explosion that turns even the biggest Brussels sprout skeptic into a believer.

Whether you’re planning your Thanksgiving menu, Christmas feast, or simply want to elevate a weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers gourmet flavor with minimal effort. Let’s dive into the full recipe, the science behind perfect roasting, and pro tips for bringing out the best in every ingredient.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish has everything your palate craves — crispy, salty, nutty, and slightly sweet flavors that blend beautifully. Here’s why it deserves a spot on your table:

Perfectly balanced flavors: The salty bacon complements the earthy sprouts and the buttery pecans.
Simple ingredients, big flavor: Just a handful of pantry staples create restaurant-quality results.
Customizable: Add maple syrup for sweetness, balsamic glaze for tang, or even dried cranberries for a festive twist.
Quick to make: Ready in under 30 minutes with easy prep.
Great for holidays or everyday meals: Looks fancy, tastes amazing, and pairs with nearly any main course.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make the best Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Pecans, you’ll need:

1½ pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
½ cup pecans, roughly chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil or bacon fat
1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional but recommended)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Balsamic glaze or vinegar (optional finishing touch)

How to Make Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Pecans

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.

Trim the tough ends of the Brussels sprouts and slice each one in half. Removing outer leaves that look yellow or damaged ensures even roasting.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the Brussels sprouts, chopped bacon, and olive oil (or reserved bacon fat). Season generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Toss everything together until well coated.

Step 3: Roast Until Crispy

Spread the mixture evenly on the baking sheet in a single layer — this is crucial for crispiness. Roast for 20–25 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even browning.

You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are golden-brown and crispy, and the bacon is fully rendered.

Step 4: Add the Pecans

During the last 5 minutes of roasting, sprinkle in the chopped pecans. This timing prevents them from burning while allowing them to toast perfectly.

Step 5: Add Optional Finishes

For a touch of sweetness, drizzle maple syrup or balsamic glaze over the hot Brussels sprouts before serving. The caramelization adds incredible depth of flavor.

Expert Tips for Perfect Brussels Sprouts

Dry your sprouts completely — moisture is the enemy of crispiness.
Don’t overcrowd the pan. Give each sprout space to roast instead of steam.
Flip halfway through. This ensures even caramelization on both sides.
Use a heavy baking sheet. It helps retain heat and promotes crisp edges.
Add flavor layers: A sprinkle of Parmesan, a drizzle of honey, or a dash of chili flakes can transform the dish.

Flavor Variations You’ll Love

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some variations to match different tastes and seasons:

1. Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts

Add 2 tablespoons of maple syrup halfway through roasting for a rich, sweet glaze that pairs beautifully with bacon’s saltiness.

2. Balsamic Brussels Sprouts with Pecans

Toss the roasted sprouts with 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar or glaze before serving for a tangy, sophisticated twist.

3. Cranberry-Pecan Holiday Version

Add ¼ cup dried cranberries right before serving. The sweet-tart pop of flavor makes this a stunning Thanksgiving side.

4. Spicy Honey Glaze

Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of hot honey for a fiery-sweet upgrade that’s perfect alongside grilled meats.

5. Parmesan Crunch

After roasting, sprinkle ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese over the hot Brussels sprouts. It melts into a savory crust.

The Science Behind Perfectly Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts belong to the cruciferous family, alongside cabbage and kale. Their natural bitterness comes from compounds called glucosinolates, but roasting transforms them.

When you roast at a high temperature, Maillard browning occurs — the sprouts’ natural sugars caramelize, turning bitter notes into nutty sweetness. Bacon fat enhances this process, adding smoky umami, while pecans amplify the roasted nuttiness.

The combination of fat, heat, and sugar creates a layered flavor that’s both comforting and complex — the kind of dish that steals the show from any main course.

Health Benefits of Brussels Sprouts

While the bacon might be indulgent, Brussels sprouts themselves are a nutrient powerhouse. Here’s why they’re worth including in your diet:

High in Vitamin C: Boosts immunity and collagen production.
Rich in fiber: Supports digestion and gut health.
Loaded with antioxidants: Helps combat inflammation and oxidative stress.
Source of Vitamin K: Essential for bone health and blood clotting.
Supports heart health: The fiber and phytonutrients help lower cholesterol levels.

Adding pecans brings healthy fats and omega-3s, while small portions of bacon offer flavor without overwhelming calories when balanced properly.

When to Serve Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Pecans

This side dish fits effortlessly into a variety of menus:

Thanksgiving Dinner: A standout alongside turkey, mashed potatoes, and stuffing.
Christmas Feast: Adds a nutty, smoky counterpoint to rich roasts.
Fall Dinners: Perfect with pork chops, roasted chicken, or salmon.
Brunch Menus: Pairs beautifully with eggs, frittatas, or quiches.
Everyday Meals: Turn leftovers into a warm salad or grain bowl.

Pairing Ideas

To create a perfectly balanced meal, try these complementary pairings:

Main Dishes: Roast chicken, prime rib, glazed ham, or salmon.
Grains: Quinoa, farro, or wild rice for a hearty base.
Drinks: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, or a crisp hard cider.
Dessert: Finish with something light like poached pears or lemon tart.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

To prep ahead: Trim and halve the sprouts up to two days in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge.
Cooked leftovers: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven to bring back crispiness.
Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture can become mushy after thawing.

Pro tip: You can roast the bacon separately for extra-crispy bits and add them at the end for texture contrast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using frozen sprouts without drying them properly — they’ll steam instead of crisp.
Cooking at too low a temperature. Anything below 375°F won’t caramelize the sprouts.
Overcrowding the baking sheet. Air circulation is key for crispiness.
Skipping the fat. Olive oil or bacon fat is essential for flavor and texture.
Not seasoning enough. Brussels sprouts need salt to balance their natural bitterness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the bacon and toss the sprouts with olive oil and a bit of smoked paprika for that smoky flavor.

Q: Can I use other nuts?
Absolutely. Walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts all make great substitutes for pecans.

Q: What’s the best way to make them extra crispy?
Use a hot oven (400–425°F), don’t overcrowd the pan, and ensure your sprouts are fully dry before roasting.

Q: Can I cook this on the stovetop?
Yes. Sauté the bacon first, remove it, then sear the sprouts in the rendered fat until golden and tender. Add pecans and bacon at the end.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 230
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 11g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 8g
Sugars: 3g

(Values vary based on ingredients and portion size.)

Final Thoughts: Why This Recipe Belongs on Your Table

Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Pecans is more than just a side dish — it’s a celebration of texture and flavor. The combination of crispy sprouts, smoky bacon, and buttery pecans hits every note on the palate: salty, sweet, crunchy, and savory.

It’s the perfect recipe for anyone who wants to transform humble ingredients into something truly special. From festive dinners to casual weeknights, this dish adds warmth, color, and comfort to every plate.