Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon – Easy Dinner Recipe

Why You’ll Love It

Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon are the perfect balance of sweet and savory. This easy dinner side dish offers a delightful caramelized flavor enhanced by crispy bacon and natural maple syrup glaze. It’s a great way to enjoy nutrient-packed Brussels sprouts with a crowd-pleasing twist. This recipe is approachable for home cooks and can easily complement a variety of mains.

Ingredients

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved (substitute with cauliflower florets for a different texture)
• 4 slices bacon, chopped (use turkey bacon for a leaner option)
• 2 tbsp pure maple syrup (replace with honey or agave nectar if preferred)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (can substitute avocado or grapeseed oil)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the Brussels sprouts out in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet.
4. Roast in the oven for 15 minutes to start browning and softening.
5. Meanwhile, cook the chopped bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels.
6. Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Drizzle the maple syrup over the Brussels sprouts and sprinkle the cooked bacon pieces evenly.
7. Return the baking sheet to the oven and roast for an additional 10 minutes until caramelized and tender.
8. Serve immediately with your favorite dinner mains or add to a holiday table as a festive side.

For more hearty easy weeknight dinners, check out our full recipe collection. Also, learn how to roast vegetables perfectly at Food Network.

Expert Tips

Ensure the Brussels sprouts are cut evenly for consistent roasting. Use fresh, firm sprouts for the best texture. Cook the bacon until crisp to add a satisfying crunch. If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the maple syrup by half or use it as a light drizzle after roasting. For extra flavor, toss with minced garlic or a sprinkle of chili flakes before roasting.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or a skillet to maintain crispness. While not ideal for freezing due to texture changes, you can freeze roasted sprouts for up to 1 month; thaw and re-crisp in a hot oven.

Variations

• Vegan: Omit bacon and add smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a similar flavor. Use maple syrup as is.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: No dairy in this recipe.
• Refined Sugar-Free: Pure maple syrup is a natural sweetener; avoid alternatives with refined sugars.

FAQ

Can I make Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon ahead of time?

Yes, roast the Brussels sprouts and cook the bacon separately, then combine and finish roasting just before serving to keep them crispy.

What if I don’t have maple syrup?

Honey or agave nectar can be good substitutes but will alter the flavor slightly.

How do I know when the Brussels sprouts are done?

They should be tender on the inside and caramelized with a golden-brown color on the outside.

Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?

Yes, Brussels sprouts and bacon are low in carbs, though maple syrup adds some natural sugars.

What makes Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon special?

The combination of sweet maple syrup and savory bacon brings out the best in roasted Brussels sprouts, creating a crowd-pleasing dish.

Call to Action

Try this easy Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon recipe tonight! Let us know what you think by leaving a comment below. Don’t forget to rate, save, and share with friends who love flavorful and comforting dinner sides. For more seasonal recipes, browse our Seasonal Recipe Collection.