Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe Perfect for Fall

Picture this: a crisp autumn afternoon, the scent of maple syrup and smoky bacon wafting through your kitchen, mingling with the earthy aroma of roasted Brussels sprouts. It’s the kind of smell that makes you pause, take a deep breath, and smile because you know something delicious is about to happen. The first time I made maple roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon, I was instantly hooked. This recipe has become a staple for cozy family dinners and festive holiday gatherings. My family couldn’t stop sneaking bites straight from the pan (and honestly, who could blame them?).

Years ago, Brussels sprouts weren’t exactly my favorite vegetable. They were often boiled into oblivion, leaving them bland and mushy. But let me tell you, roasting them transforms them into something magical—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor. Add the smoky richness of bacon and the sweet, caramelized touch of maple syrup, and you’ve got yourself a dish that feels like a warm hug. This recipe is dangerously easy, endlessly adaptable, and guaranteed to make even Brussels sprouts skeptics come back for seconds.

Whether you’re looking for a side dish to impress at Thanksgiving or just want a quick way to elevate your weekday dinner, these maple roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon are your answer. Bookmark this one—you’ll be making it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests.
• Simple Ingredients: No exotic grocery store runs required—everything is probably already in your kitchen.
• Perfect for Fall: With maple syrup and smoky bacon, this recipe screams cozy autumn vibes.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Even Brussels sprouts skeptics become fans of this dish—it’s that good.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The combination of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors makes this recipe a true standout.

What sets this recipe apart is the balance of flavors. The maple syrup caramelizes beautifully, giving the Brussels sprouts a sweet glaze, while the bacon adds a savory crunch. Plus, roasting brings out the natural nuttiness of the sprouts, making them irresistibly delicious. It’s comfort food at its finest—simple, satisfying, and full of flavor. Trust me, after one bite, you’ll understand why this dish has become a family favorite!

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor without the fuss. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Brussels sprouts: Fresh, halved, and trimmed (look for bright green sprouts for the best flavor).
• Bacon: Thick-cut slices work best for a hearty texture and smoky flavor.
• Maple syrup: Pure maple syrup for that authentic sweetness—skip the imitation stuff!
• Olive oil: Helps the sprouts crisp up beautifully in the oven.
• Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings to enhance the natural flavors.
• Garlic powder: Adds a subtle, savory depth to the dish.

If you’re looking to make substitutions, you can swap out the maple syrup for honey or agave if needed, and try turkey bacon for a lighter option. For a vegetarian spin, skip the bacon and add toasted pecans for crunch.

Equipment Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to make this recipe:

• Sheet pan: A large, rimmed baking sheet is perfect for even roasting.
• Mixing bowl: For tossing the sprouts with maple syrup and seasonings.
• Sharp knife: To trim and halve the Brussels sprouts.
• Tongs: Handy for flipping the sprouts halfway through roasting.

No fancy equipment needed here—just the basics! If you don’t have a sheet pan, a large baking dish works in a pinch, though your sprouts might not crisp up as much.

Preparation Method

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Trim the Brussels sprouts by cutting off the tough ends and slicing them in half lengthwise.
3. In a large mixing bowl, toss the halved sprouts with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Spread the sprouts evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure there’s enough space between them to roast properly—overcrowding leads to steaming, not crisping.
5. Cut the bacon into small pieces and sprinkle it over the Brussels sprouts.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After 10 minutes, use tongs to flip the sprouts to ensure even browning.
7. Once the sprouts are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the oven. Drizzle with an additional tablespoon of maple syrup for extra sweetness if desired.
8. Serve immediately while warm. Enjoy!

If your sprouts aren’t crisping up, make sure your oven is fully preheated and avoid overcrowding the pan. They should be caramelized and slightly charred on the edges for the best flavor!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Don’t overcrowd: Spread the sprouts out on the sheet pan—if they’re too close, they’ll steam instead of roast.
• Use high-quality maple syrup: Pure maple syrup makes all the difference in flavor. It’s worth the investment!
• Flip halfway: Turning the sprouts halfway through cooking ensures even browning.
• Experiment with bacon: Try applewood-smoked bacon for added depth or turkey bacon for a lighter option.
• Add crunch: Toasted pecans or walnuts make a great addition if skipping bacon.

Pro tip: If you want extra crispy sprouts, preheat the baking sheet in the oven before adding the ingredients—it helps them crisp up faster!

Variations & Adaptations

This recipe is endlessly customizable! Here are a few ideas:

• Vegetarian: Skip the bacon and add 1/4 cup of toasted almonds or pecans for crunch.
• Spicy twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
• Seasonal flavors: Toss in dried cranberries for a festive holiday touch.
• Low-carb: Use sugar-free maple syrup for a keto-friendly version.

I once swapped out the maple syrup for balsamic glaze—it was a hit! Feel free to get creative and make the recipe your own.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These maple roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon are best served warm, straight from the oven. Pair them with roasted chicken, pork tenderloin, or even a holiday turkey for a complete meal. A glass of crisp white wine complements the flavors beautifully.

For storage, let the sprouts cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, spread them on a baking sheet and warm in a 375°F (190°C) oven until heated through—this helps restore their crispiness.

Pro tip: The flavors deepen as they sit, making leftovers even tastier the next day!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s a rough estimate for one serving:

• Calories: 180
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Protein: 6g

Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamins C and K, while bacon provides protein and a touch of indulgent flavor. Maple syrup adds natural sweetness without refined sugars. It’s a balanced dish that feels like a treat without being overly heavy.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing side dish that’s perfect for fall, these maple roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon should be on your list. They’re sweet, savory, and absolutely delicious—plus, they’re easy to make and customizable to suit your tastes.

I love this recipe because it transforms simple ingredients into something truly special. There’s something so comforting about the combination of maple, bacon, and roasted vegetables. I hope you enjoy making (and eating!) this dish as much as my family does.

Let me know how it turns out for you! Share your adaptations, drop a comment, or tag me on social media—I’d love to see your creations. Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

Fresh Brussels sprouts work best for roasting, but if using frozen, thaw and pat them dry to remove excess moisture.

What’s the best way to make this dish vegetarian?

Skip the bacon and add toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts for crunch and flavor.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Trim and toss the sprouts with maple syrup and seasonings, then refrigerate until ready to roast.

How do I make the sprouts extra crispy?

Preheat the baking sheet and avoid overcrowding the pan—crispy sprouts need space to roast properly!

What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs beautifully with roasted meat, mashed potatoes, or a crisp fall salad.

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