Balsamic Bacon Brussels Sprouts

Where Bitter Meets Sweet and Smoke

Brussels sprouts have a reputation they don't entirely deserve. Roasted properly — given enough heat, enough patience, enough time to caramelize at the edges — they become something almost unrecognizable from the vegetable that once divided dinner tables. This version layers in the quiet smokiness of bacon, the sharp sweetness of balsamic, and a gentle crunch that makes the whole thing feel considered rather than casual. It's a side dish that earns its place at the center of conversation.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds Brussels sprouts
• Alessi Sea Salt and Ground Black Pepper, to taste
• 12 ounces bacon
• 1 onion, diced
• 1/4 cups Alessi Traditional Balsamic Reduction
• 1/2 cups Vigo Seasoned Panko Bread Crumbs
• 1/4 cups shredded Parmesan Cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to broil.
2. Place Brussels sprouts in a microwave safe bowl with ¼ cup water.
3. Cover and microwave for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally; drain and season with salt and pepper.
4. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
5. Cook bacon until crisp then remove and crumble over a paper towel.
6. Reserve 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in pan and add onion.
7. Cook onion until soft and translucent then add Brussels sprouts and bacon back to pan and toss well.
8. Cook an additional 3 minutes.
9. Place Brussels sprouts into a baking dish and toss with balsamic reduction.
10. Top with Panko breadcrumbs and shredded cheese and broil for about 5 minutes or until golden brown.