Maple-Bacon Brussels Sprouts

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 25 min
🍽 Serves: 4
★★★★★
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Maple-Bacon Brussels Sprouts bring a delightful twist to a classic vegetable side dish. The combination of crispy bacon and sweet maple syrup turns humble Brussels sprouts into an irresistible treat. Perfect for fall gatherings or a cozy family dinner.

Ingredients for Maple-Bacon Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts are the star of this dish, providing a hearty, earthy base. When roasted, they become tender inside with a crispy exterior. Bacon adds a smoky, salty crunch that's hard to resist. The fat from the bacon also helps flavor the sprouts. Olive oil ensures even roasting and adds a subtle richness. Maple syrup brings a touch of sweetness that complements the bacon perfectly. Finally, a bit of salt and black pepper bring everything together, enhancing the natural flavors.

Tips & Tricks

  • For extra crispy sprouts, make sure they're spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet.
  • Use pure maple syrup for the best flavor—avoid pancake syrup.
  • If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the maple syrup to 2 tablespoons.
  • Try using thick-cut bacon for more pronounced flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

These Maple-Bacon Brussels Sprouts pair wonderfully with roasted chicken or turkey. They also complement a savory pork roast beautifully. For a vegetarian meal, serve them alongside a hearty grain salad or risotto.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can roast the Brussels sprouts and cook the bacon a few hours ahead. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, then drizzle with syrup before serving.
What can I use instead of maple syrup?
Honey or agave syrup can be used as alternatives, though the flavor profile will change slightly.
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Fresh is best for roasting, but if using frozen, make sure to thaw and pat them dry thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.

Maple-Bacon Brussels Sprouts Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Next, wash your Brussels sprouts thoroughly, trim the ends, and slice each one in half. This helps them roast evenly and speeds up the cooking time.

In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, a pinch of salt, and a few grinds of black pepper. Ensure each sprout is nicely coated. Spread them out on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Pop them in the oven and let them roast for 20-25 minutes. Halfway through, give them a stir to promote even browning.

While the sprouts are roasting, cook your bacon in a pan over medium heat until it's crispy. Once done, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to cool slightly before crumbling it into small pieces. Now, take a small saucepan and gently warm the maple syrup over low heat until it's slightly thickened.

When the Brussels sprouts are done roasting, drizzle them with the warmed maple syrup and sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the top. Toss everything together to ensure the sprouts are well-coated with syrup and bacon bits. Serve immediately and enjoy this delectable side dish!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients.
  • Perfect balance of sweet and savory.
  • Great way to make Brussels sprouts appealing to everyone, even skeptics!
  • Ideal for holiday meals or everyday dinners.

Ingredients

1 lb Brussels sprouts
4 slices bacon
2 tbsp olive oil
1/4 cup pure maple syrup
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Wash and trim the Brussels sprouts, cutting each in half for even roasting.
3. In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper to coat evenly.
4. Spread the Brussels sprouts on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and caramelized.
6. While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, cook the bacon in a pan over medium heat until crispy, then crumble into small pieces.
7. In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the maple syrup until slightly thickened.
8. Once the Brussels sprouts are done, drizzle them with the warm maple syrup and add the crumbled bacon, tossing to combine.
9. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious maple-bacon Brussels sprouts.

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