Maple Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe

If you’re searching for a side dish that brings together sweet, savory, and crispy textures in perfect harmony, then this Maple Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe is absolutely for you. The combination of tender roasted Brussels sprouts, smoky bacon, and that irresistible maple syrup glaze makes every bite a little celebration. It’s a fantastic way to elevate simple vegetables into a dish that steals the spotlight at any meal, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday spread. Trust me, once you try this recipe, these sprouts might just become your new favorite go-to veggie.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All the ingredients in this Maple Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe are straightforward yet pack a punch in flavor. Each one plays a vital role, from bringing out vibrant colors to layering the complex balance of sweet and savory that makes this dish so memorable.

• 1 lb. Brussels sprouts, halved (~6 cups): Fresh and firm sprouts offer a hearty base with natural earthiness and texture.
• 3 cloves fresh garlic, sliced: Adds a subtle pungency and aromatic depth that complements the sprouts beautifully.
• 5 slices bacon, chopped: Crispy, smoky bacon pieces provide irresistible saltiness and crunch.
• 3 tablespoons maple syrup, divided: The star of the show, giving that luscious sweetness and caramelized glaze.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps everything roast evenly while adding smoothness and richness.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste): Enhances all flavors without overpowering the dish.
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (plus more to taste): Offers a gentle kick and brightens the overall taste.
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme (optional): Fresh herbaceous notes that lift the dish with a subtle fragrance.

How to Make Maple Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This high heat is key to roasting the Brussels sprouts until they’re tender with the perfect caramelized edges.

Step 2: Halve the Brussels Sprouts

Cut your fresh Brussels sprouts in half lengthwise. This helps them roast more evenly and allows all the delicious flavors to infuse into their tender centers.

Step 3: Toss with Garlic, Bacon, Maple Syrup, and Olive Oil

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts with sliced garlic, chopped bacon, 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, and olive oil. Toss everything together thoroughly so that each sprout is coated with that sweet, savory, and garlicky mixture.

Step 4: Arrange on a Baking Sheet

Spread the mixture out evenly on a parchment or foil-lined baking sheet. This ensures that the sprouts roast nicely without steaming, and that the bacon gets plenty of direct heat to crisp up beautifully.

Step 5: Season with Salt and Pepper

Sprinkle kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper over the Brussels sprouts to punch up their natural flavors and balance the sweetness of the maple syrup.

Step 6: Drizzle with Additional Maple Syrup

Pour the last tablespoon of maple syrup over the Brussels sprouts to create a sticky, golden glaze that caramelizes beautifully during roasting.

Step 7: Roast Until Crispy and Tender

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the Brussels sprouts are fork-tender and the bacon is wonderfully crispy. Give the pan a quick shake or stir halfway through cooking to ensure even caramelization.

Step 8: Add Fresh Thyme (Optional)

If you love a fresh herbal touch, sprinkle the roasted Brussels sprouts with fresh thyme sprigs right after taking them out of the oven. It adds an extra layer of flavor that’s both fragrant and pretty.

Step 9: Extra Maple Sweetness (Optional)

For those who appreciate a touch more sweetness, toss the hot Brussels sprouts with an additional tablespoon or two of maple syrup as soon as they come out of the oven. This step deepens the syrup’s glossy finish and makes the dish even more irresistible.

How to Serve Maple Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe

Garnishes

To make your Maple Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe pop even more on the plate, consider garnishing with freshly grated Parmesan, a sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans for extra crunch, or a handful of pomegranate seeds to add a burst of tart color and flavor.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with roast chicken or pork tenderloin. For a vegetarian feast, complement these sprouts with creamy mashed potatoes or a grain salad. The sweet and savory profile of the Brussels sprouts helps to round out and brighten up almost any main course.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your roasted Brussels sprouts family-style in a rustic cast iron skillet or arrange them elegantly on a platter with a drizzle of extra maple syrup on top. Another fun idea is to toss them into a warm grain bowl alongside roasted nuts, fruits, and a sprinkle of goat cheese for a colorful, satisfying meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover maple bacon Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days and maintain much of their delicious flavor and texture.

Freezing

While roasting fresh Brussels sprouts is best, you can freeze cooked leftovers. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to freezer-safe bags. Use within 2 months for best flavor.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat to bring back crispiness, or in a 350-degree oven for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make the Brussels sprouts soggy instead of retaining their roasted charm.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon, and you might want to add extra olive oil or a bit of smoked paprika to capture some of that smoky flavor. This way, you still enjoy sweet and savory roasted Brussels sprouts without the meat.

What’s the best way to select Brussels sprouts?

Look for small to medium-sized sprouts that are bright green and tightly packed. Avoid any with yellow leaves or blemishes, as fresh Brussels sprouts roast up tastier and have a better texture.

Can I use other sweeteners besides maple syrup?

Certainly! Honey or agave syrup can be used as alternatives, but maple syrup lends a uniquely rich and robust sweetness that works perfectly with the bacon and Brussels sprouts.

Is it necessary to halve the Brussels sprouts?

Halving the sprouts helps them cook evenly and absorb all the wonderful flavors. Whole sprouts tend to take longer to roast and might not caramelize as nicely on the cut side.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can toss the Brussels sprouts with the garlic, bacon, maple syrup, and olive oil ahead of time and keep the mixture refrigerated for a few hours before roasting. However, the crispy bacon texture is best fresh from the oven.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about bringing together those sweet drizzles of maple syrup, crisp bacon crumbles, and perfectly roasted Brussels sprouts in this Maple Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe. It’s a dish that’s easy enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for special occasions. Give it a try and watch how it becomes a beloved staple in your meals, offering cozy comfort and flavor-packed bites every time.

Print