Savory Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts Recipe Youll Love

Let me tell you, the aroma of crispy bacon mingling with caramelized Brussels sprouts and the sweet hint of maple syrup is the kind of magic that stops you in your tracks. The first time I made these Savory Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts, I couldn’t believe how quickly they disappeared. It was a chilly autumn evening, and I was hoping to spruce up a boring weeknight dinner. But what started as a side dish soon became the star of the table. My family couldn’t get enough—they kept sneaking bites straight from the pan!

These Brussels sprouts are everything you want in comfort food: crispy on the outside, tender in the middle, smoky from the bacon, and just sweet enough with a kiss of maple syrup. They’re the kind of dish you’d want to bring to every holiday dinner or whip up for a cozy Sunday night meal. Honestly, I wish I’d discovered this recipe years ago—it would have saved me a lot of frustration trying to convince people to love Brussels sprouts!

Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or even a casual dinner party, this recipe has quickly become a staple in my house. It’s ridiculously easy to make, but the end result feels fancy enough to impress anyone. And let’s face it—anything with bacon is an instant crowd-pleaser. You’re going to want to bookmark this one because it’s about to become your go-to side dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.
• Minimal Ingredients: With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual family dinner, these Brussels sprouts fit right in.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Even picky eaters will be converted by the crispy bacon and sweet maple glaze.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The combination of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors is pure comfort food bliss.

What makes this recipe stand out is the balance of flavors—sweet maple syrup complements the salty bacon beautifully, while the caramelized edges of the Brussels sprouts add a nutty crunch. Plus, it’s versatile! You can easily adapt it for dietary needs or seasonal ingredients, making it a recipe for everyone. Trust me, this isn’t just another Brussels sprouts recipe—it’s the best one you’ll ever try. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug after a long day and leaves everyone asking for seconds.

What Ingredients You Will Need

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

• Brussels sprouts: Fresh, halved, and trimmed. Look for small to medium sprouts for even cooking.
• Bacon: Thick-cut for maximum flavor and crispy texture.
• Maple syrup: Pure maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness without overpowering the savory elements.
• Olive oil: For roasting and helping the Brussels sprouts crisp up beautifully.
• Garlic: Minced for a subtle, aromatic punch.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, for seasoning the sprouts perfectly.
• Optional: Red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

These ingredients are easy to find and likely already in your kitchen. If you’re missing one, don’t worry—I’ve included substitutions and variations below!

Equipment Needed

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

• Sheet pan: A sturdy pan is essential for even roasting.
• Sharp knife: For trimming and halving the Brussels sprouts.
• Mixing bowl: To toss the sprouts with the oil and seasonings.
• Tongs: Helpful for flipping the sprouts and bacon mid-cook.

If you don’t have a sheet pan, a large skillet works in a pinch. And trust me, a good knife makes all the difference when prepping those tiny sprouts!

Preparation Method

1. Preheat the oven: Set it to 400°F (200°C) and line your sheet pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Brussels sprouts: Trim the ends, remove any damaged outer leaves, and slice them in half. Place them in a mixing bowl.
3. Add seasonings: Drizzle the sprouts with olive oil, then toss in the minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir until evenly coated.
4. Prepare the bacon: Slice the thick-cut bacon into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
5. Arrange on the sheet pan: Spread the seasoned Brussels sprouts on the pan in a single layer. Scatter the bacon pieces over the top.
6. Roast: Bake for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking.
7. Add the maple syrup: Drizzle the maple syrup over the sprouts and bacon, then toss gently to coat. Return to the oven for another 5-7 minutes, or until the sprouts are caramelized and the bacon is crispy.
8. Serve: Remove from the oven and transfer to a serving dish. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes if desired.

Pro tip: Watch closely during the last few minutes to avoid burning the syrup—it should caramelize, not scorch.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Spread the sprouts and bacon in a single layer to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
• Use fresh Brussels sprouts: Frozen sprouts won’t caramelize as beautifully, and their texture can be mushy.
• Flip halfway through: Stirring the sprouts and bacon ensures all sides get crispy and golden brown.
• Choose the right bacon: Thick-cut bacon works best for this recipe—it stays meaty and flavorful as it crisps up.
• Experiment with flavors: Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a bright finish.

From my own experience, I’ve learned that patience is key. Letting the Brussels sprouts caramelize fully adds so much depth to their flavor!

Variations & Adaptations

• Vegetarian option: Skip the bacon and toss the sprouts with smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
• Low-carb: Use sugar-free maple syrup for a keto-friendly version.
• Seasonal twist: Add dried cranberries or chopped pecans for a festive holiday vibe.
• Spicy version: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to amp up the heat.

Personally, I love adding chopped walnuts for extra crunch—it’s a small change that makes a big impact!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These Brussels sprouts are best served warm, straight from the oven. Pair them with roasted chicken, pork tenderloin, or even a hearty veggie dish for a complete meal. For beverages, a crisp white wine or sparkling cider complements the flavors beautifully.

If you have leftovers (unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) to revive the crispy texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the sprouts soggy.

Pro tip: The flavors deepen overnight, so don’t be afraid to enjoy them the next day!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s an estimate of what you’ll get per serving:

• Calories: 180
• Protein: 7g
• Carbs: 12g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 3g

Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamins C and K, while bacon adds a satisfying protein boost. Maple syrup brings antioxidants, but enjoy it in moderation. Keep in mind that the recipe contains potential allergens like bacon and garlic—adjust as needed!

Conclusion

There’s a reason these Savory Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts are a favorite in my kitchen—they’re easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and always a hit. Whether you’re looking for a quick side dish or something special for the holidays, this recipe delivers every time.

Feel free to customize it to suit your taste—add a sprinkle of cheese, swap the bacon for pancetta, or try a dash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist. I’d love to hear how you make it your own!

If you give this recipe a try, let me know what you think in the comments below. And don’t forget to share it with your friends—it’s too good to keep to yourself. Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

Fresh Brussels sprouts are best for this recipe since they caramelize better and have a better texture. Frozen sprouts can be used in a pinch, but they may turn out softer and less crispy.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prep the sprouts and bacon ahead of time, but this dish is best served fresh out of the oven. If reheating, use the oven rather than the microwave to maintain crispiness.

Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?

Absolutely! Turkey bacon is a great alternative. Just keep in mind it won’t render as much fat, so you may need to add a little extra olive oil to the sprouts.

What can I serve with these Brussels sprouts?

They pair beautifully with roasted meats like chicken or pork, or even with a vegetarian main dish. A crisp white wine or sparkling cider is a great beverage choice.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

To make it vegan, skip the bacon and replace it with smoked tempeh or roasted mushrooms. Use maple syrup and olive oil for the glaze—still delicious!

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