Let’s be honest, Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts have had a bit of a tough reputation over the years. Many of us remember them as the mushy, bitter vegetable we were forced to eat as kids. However, Harvard’s School of Public Health notes that they are packed with nutrients like vitamin C and vitamin K, making them a worthy addition to any meal. I’m here to tell you that those days are long gone. In fact, when prepared correctly, Brussels sprouts can be one of the most delicious, savory, and satisfying side dishes you’ll ever make. The secret lies in a perfect combination of roasting and flavor. This incredible recipe for Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts transforms the humble sprout into a show-stopping side dish that is salty, sweet, and perfectly crispy. Consequently, even the most dedicated sprout skeptics will be asking for seconds.
Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts is the perfect example of culinary magic. First, the high heat of the oven caramelizes the natural sugars in the Brussels sprouts, which significantly reduces any bitterness. Then, you introduce crispy, salty bacon, which renders its delicious fat all over the sprouts as they roast. Finally, a drizzle of sweet, pure maple syrup brings everything together, creating a glaze that is simply irresistible. This is more than just a recipe; it’s a complete game-changer for your holiday table or your next weeknight dinner. Therefore, get ready to fall in love with Brussels sprouts all over again.
Why This Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts Recipe is a Game-Changer
You might be wondering what makes Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts so special. After all, there are many ways to cook Brussels sprouts. The answer lies in the perfect balance of flavors and textures, which come together to create a truly memorable eating experience. Moreover, this recipe is incredibly simple to execute, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
A Symphony of Flavors
The taste profile of these Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts is complex and deeply satisfying. You get the earthy, slightly nutty flavor of the perfectly roasted sprouts. In addition, the smoky, salty punch from the bacon provides a savory foundation that is absolutely addictive. The sweetness of the maple syrup then cuts through the richness, creating a harmonious balance. This combination of salty, sweet, and savory hits all the right notes, making each bite more delicious than the last. It’s a flavor profile that works wonderfully for a variety of main courses.
Unbeatable Texture
Texture is just as important as flavor, and this recipe delivers in a big way. Roasting the Brussels sprouts at a high temperature ensures they become tender on the inside while the outer leaves get wonderfully crispy and slightly charred. The bacon also crisps up beautifully in the oven. As a result, you get a delightful contrast between the tender centers of the sprouts, the crispy outer leaves, and the crunchy bits of bacon. This is the exact opposite of the bland, boiled sprouts of the past.
Ultimate Versatility
Another great thing about this dish is its versatility. These Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts are elegant enough to be featured on a holiday table for Thanksgiving or Christmas, where they will undoubtedly steal the show. However, they are also simple enough to whip up for a regular weeknight meal. They pair beautifully with almost anything, from a roasted chicken or turkey to a grilled steak or piece of salmon. In short, it’s a reliable recipe you’ll turn to again and again.
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Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts: The #1 Irresistible Recipe for a Crowd-Pleasing Side Dish
A salty-sweet side dish of roasted Brussels sprouts and crispy bacon tossed in pure maple syrup—Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts are caramelized, flavorful, and guaranteed to convert sprout skeptics.
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
2 pounds fresh Brussels sprouts
8 ounces thick-cut bacon
1/4 cup pure maple syrup
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts, remove any yellow leaves, and slice them in half. Quarter larger sprouts.
3. Cut the bacon into 1/2- to 1-inch pieces (lardons).
4. In a large bowl, combine Brussels sprouts, bacon, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
5. Spread the mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Do not overcrowd; use two sheets if needed. Arrange sprouts cut-side down.
6. Roast for 20–25 minutes until the sprouts are starting to brown and the bacon is getting crispy.
7. Remove from the oven and drizzle maple syrup evenly over the sprouts and bacon. Toss gently to coat.
8. Return to the oven and roast for another 5–10 minutes until the glaze is bubbling and the sprouts are deep golden brown.
9. Serve warm, directly from the baking sheet or transfer to a serving dish.
Notes
Use fresh Brussels sprouts for best texture. Trim and halve up to two days in advance to save prep time.
Don’t overcrowd the pan—space allows for caramelization rather than steaming.
Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or chopped nuts like pecans during the last few minutes for extra flavor.
Reheat leftovers in the oven or air fryer at 375°F to restore crispiness—avoid microwaving if possible.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Ingredients for the Perfect Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
The beauty of Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts is its simplicity. You only need a handful of high-quality ingredients to create this fantastic side dish. As you will see, the focus is on letting each component shine. Here is what you will need:
- Brussels Sprouts: 2 pounds, fresh
- Bacon: 8 ounces, thick-cut is recommended
- Pure Maple Syrup: 1/4 cup
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Kosher Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to taste
- Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon, freshly ground
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
For the best results, it’s important to choose your ingredients wisely. For example, the USDA recommends choosing a variety of vegetables, and for this recipe, look for fresh Brussels sprouts that are firm, compact, and bright green. Avoid any that have yellowing leaves or look bruised. When it comes to bacon, a thick-cut variety works best because it won’t burn as quickly in the hot oven and will provide a meatier bite. Most importantly, be sure to use 100% pure maple syrup. Pancake syrup is mostly corn syrup and artificial flavors, and it will not provide the same rich, authentic taste. Using the real thing makes a world of difference in this recipe.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Roasting Perfection
Now that you have your ingredients, it’s time to bring it all together. This process is straightforward and mostly hands-off once the sprouts are in the oven. Just follow these simple steps for perfect Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts every time.
- Preheat and Prepare: First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Then, line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This also helps prevent sticking.
- Prep the Brussels Sprouts: Wash the Brussels sprouts thoroughly. After that, trim off the tough bottom ends and remove any yellow or damaged outer leaves. Slice each sprout in half lengthwise. For very large sprouts, you can quarter them.
- Prep the Bacon: Cut the bacon slices into 1/2-inch to 1-inch pieces, often called “lardons.”
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts, bacon pieces, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together until the sprouts are evenly coated.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the sprout and bacon mixture in a single, even layer on the prepared baking sheet. It is crucial not to overcrowd the pan. If necessary, use two baking sheets. This ensures the sprouts roast instead of steam, which is key to getting them crispy. Try to place as many sprouts as you can cut-side down for a better sear.
- Roast: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the sprouts are tender and starting to brown and the bacon is getting crispy.
- Add the Maple Syrup: Carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Drizzle the maple syrup evenly over the sprouts and bacon. Toss gently to coat everything in the sweet glaze.
- Final Roast: Return the baking sheet to the oven and roast for another 5-10 minutes. This final step allows the maple syrup to caramelize into a beautiful glaze. Keep a close eye on them during this time to prevent the sugar from burning. The sprouts are done when they are deeply golden brown and the glaze is bubbly.
- Serve Immediately: Finally, remove the sprouts from the oven and serve them warm.
| Step | Action | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Preheat Oven and Prep Pan | Using parchment paper makes cleanup a breeze. |
| 2 | Trim and Halve Sprouts | Uniform size helps them cook evenly. |
| 3 | Chop Bacon | Thick-cut bacon provides the best texture. |
| 4 | Toss Ingredients | Use a large bowl to ensure everything gets coated. |
| 5 | Spread on Baking Sheet | Do not overcrowd the pan; use two if needed for crispiness. |
| 6 | Initial Roast | This step is to cook the sprouts and render the bacon fat. |
| 7 | Add Maple Syrup | Drizzle evenly to coat all the sprouts and bacon. |
| 8 | Final Roast | Watch closely to get a perfect caramelization without burning. |
Tips and Tricks for the Best Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts Every Time
While the recipe is simple, a few expert tips can elevate your Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts from great to absolutely unforgettable. Paying attention to these small details will guarantee perfect results each time you make them.
Achieving Maximum Crispiness
The key to amazing Brussels sprouts is getting that crispy, caramelized texture. The most important rule, as mentioned before, is to avoid overcrowding the pan. Giving the sprouts enough space allows hot air to circulate around them, which roasts them to perfection. If they are too close together, they will trap steam and become soggy. In addition, a high roasting temperature of 400°F or even 425°F is essential for getting those crispy edges. Lastly, placing the sprouts cut-side down on the pan maximizes their contact with the hot surface, leading to a deep, golden-brown sear.
Prepping Ahead for Easy Cooking
If you are planning for a holiday meal or just want to save time on a busy weeknight, you can do some of the prep work in advance. For instance, you can wash, trim, and halve your Brussels sprouts up to two days ahead of time. Simply store them in an airtight container or a zip-top bag in the refrigerator. This way, when you’re ready to cook, you just need to toss them with the other ingredients and pop them in the oven.
Flavor Variations to Try
This recipe is fantastic as is, but it also serves as a wonderful base for other flavor additions. For a bit of tangy acidity to cut through the richness, for example, you can add a splash of balsamic vinegar along with the maple syrup. For some added crunch and nutty flavor, try tossing in a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts during the last 5-10 minutes of roasting. And if you like a little bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added with the salt and pepper for a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions and Perfect Pairings
These versatile Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts can be served in many different contexts. Whether it’s a festive gathering or a simple family dinner, they are always a welcome addition to the table.
Holiday Feasts
Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts is a true star on any holiday menu. For Thanksgiving, it’s a perfect companion to a roasted turkey, stuffing, and mashed potatoes. Its savory and sweet notes complement the traditional holiday flavors beautifully. Similarly, for Christmas, it pairs wonderfully with a glazed ham or a prime rib roast. Its vibrant green color also adds a festive touch to the plate.
Weeknight Dinners
Don’t just save Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts for special occasions. It’s quick enough to make on a weeknight. For example, serve it alongside pan-seared pork chops, baked salmon, or a simple rotisserie chicken from the grocery store. It instantly elevates any simple meal, making it feel a little more special. You could even make it the star of a meal by adding some grains like quinoa or farro.
Conclusion About Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
In conclusion, this recipe for Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts is more than just a side dish; it’s a culinary revelation that will change the way you think about this often-misunderstood vegetable. The irresistible combination of crispy, tender sprouts, salty bacon, and a sweet maple glaze is guaranteed to win over even the toughest critics at your dinner table. So, the next time you’re looking for a simple, delicious, and crowd-pleasing side, look no further. Give these Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts a try, and prepare to be amazed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
While fresh Brussels sprouts will give you the best texture, you can use frozen ones in a pinch. However, it’s crucial that you thaw them completely and pat them very dry with a paper towel before roasting. Excess moisture is the enemy of crispiness, so removing as much as possible is key. The texture may still be slightly softer than with fresh sprouts.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
It’s easy to make a vegetarian version. Simply omit the bacon. You may want to add an extra tablespoon of olive oil to compensate for the loss of bacon fat. To add a smoky flavor, you can add a pinch of smoked paprika. Roasting the sprouts with just the maple syrup, oil, salt, and pepper is still incredibly delicious.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store any leftover Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Following proper food safety guidelines from the FDA is crucial for preventing foodborne illness. When it’s time to reheat, it’s best to avoid the microwave, as it will make them soggy. Instead, reheat them in an oven or toaster oven at 375°F for about 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy again. An air fryer also works wonderfully for reheating.
Is it possible to make this in an air fryer?
Absolutely! An air fryer is a fantastic tool for making crispy Brussels sprouts. To adapt this recipe, toss the sprouts and bacon with the oil and seasonings as directed. Then, cook them in the air fryer at 380°F for about 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. After that, add the maple syrup, toss to coat, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the glaze is caramelized.
