Roasted Bacon with Cauliflower
Prep
15 mins
Cook
35 mins
Servings
4
Difficulty
Easy
This is one of my favorite weeknight dinners because it comes together in under an hour and tastes like something from a fancy restaurant. Roasted bacon with cauliflower is a simple one pan meal that never fails to impress. The cauliflower gets wonderfully caramelized while the bacon crisps up perfectly, and together they're absolutely irresistible. Plus, cauliflower is packed with vitamin C and fiber, so you're getting real nutrition alongside all that delicious, savory flavor. It's honestly the kind of dish that makes healthy eating feel like a treat.
Ella x
Ingredients
- 10bacon strips(cut into 2-inch pieces)
- 1420 mlcauliflower florets(about 1 medium head, cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 3 tablespoonsbutter(melted)
- 4garlic cloves(minced)
- 2 teaspoonsfresh thyme(chopped, or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 tablespoonmaple syrup
- 1 teaspoonblack pepper(freshly ground)
- 1 teaspoonsea salt
- 1 teaspoonred pepper flakes(optional)
- 1 tablespoonbalsamic vinegar
- 237 mlparmesan cheese(grated, optional)
Detail level
Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Tip: Parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless.
- 2
Arrange the bacon pieces evenly across the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart so they can crisp up on all sides.
Tip: Don't overcrowd the pan; give bacon room to render and become crispy.
- 3
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, thyme, maple syrup, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes until well combined.
Tip: The maple syrup adds a subtle sweetness that balances the smoky bacon beautifully.
- 4
Toss the cauliflower florets with the butter-garlic mixture until all pieces are evenly coated.
Tip: Use your hands or two spoons to ensure every floret gets a coating of the flavorful butter.
- 5
Scatter the coated cauliflower pieces around and between the bacon strips on the baking sheet, distributing them in a single layer.
Tip: Arrange cauliflower near the bacon so the rendered bacon fat flavors the vegetables as they roast.
- 6
Roast in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, stirring the mixture halfway through cooking, until the bacon is crispy and the cauliflower is golden brown and tender.
Tip: Stir at the midway point to ensure even cooking and prevent burning on the bottom.
- 7
Remove from the oven and immediately drizzle with balsamic vinegar, tossing gently to combine.
Tip: The balsamic vinegar adds a tangy depth that complements the smoky, sweet flavors.
- 8
Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with grated parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm and enjoy immediately.
Tip: This dish is best enjoyed fresh from the oven while the bacon is still at maximum crispiness.
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