Ready in: 40 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Roasting · Storage: Up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Quick Answer
Roast halved Brussels sprouts with bacon, maple syrup, and spices until crispy and golden for a festive side dish.
When the chill of autumn settles in New York City and I find myself wandering through the festive stalls in the Union Square Greenmarket, the vibrant colors of fresh produce inspire me to think of holiday feasts. This year, as Thanksgiving and Christmas approach, I've been particularly drawn to the humble Brussels sprout, a glorious little nugget that can shine on any festive table. Today, I'm excited to share with you a recipe that transforms these green gems into a stunning side dish: Roasted Maple Brussels Sprouts with Bacon.
A Festive Side Dish for the Holidays
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously caramelized Brussels sprouts that bring a festive touch to any meal.
- The perfect balance of sweetness from maple syrup and savory goodness from bacon.
- Simple ingredients come together for an unforgettable side dish.
- Easy to prepare, making it a great addition to your holiday gatherings.
- Can be made ahead of time for stress-free entertaining.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients for your Roasted Maple Brussels Sprouts with Bacon:
Vegetables
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
Bacon
- 4 slices of thick-cut bacon, chopped
Seasonings & Oils
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a touch of heat)
Garnish
- Crumble goat cheese or feta, for serving (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
How to Make Roasted Maple Brussels Sprouts with Bacon (Step-by-Step)
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your delicious roasted Brussels sprouts.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to a toasty 400°F (200°C). This sets the stage for perfectly caramelized Brussels sprouts.
Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts with chopped bacon. The aroma of fresh Brussels sprouts is earthy and invigorating. Drizzle the olive oil over the mixture, followed by maple syrup. Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Toss everything together until the Brussels sprouts are well-coated.
Step 3: Arrange on a Baking Sheet
Spread the Brussels sprouts mixture in a single layer on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper. It's crucial not to overcrowd the pan; give each sprout some space to roast to golden perfection.
Step 4: Roast in the Oven
Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and roast for about 20-25 minutes. Halfway through, give them a gentle toss to ensure even caramelization. You'll know they're done when the bacon is crispy, the sprouts are tender, and the edges are beautifully browned. The sweet, nutty aroma of the maple syrup mingling with the savory bacon is simply irresistible.
Step 5: Serve
If you want to elevate this dish, sprinkle crumbled goat cheese or feta on top just before serving for a creamy contrast. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Trimming Brussels Sprouts Properly: Be sure to remove the tough outer leaves and trim the stem. This helps them roast evenly and enhances their tender flavor.
- Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: Too many sprouts on one pan will steam instead of roast, leading to a soggy texture.
- Underestimating Roast Time: Keep an eye on your sprouts as every oven behaves differently; they should caramelize and crisp without becoming mushy.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- For a touch of extra flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar before serving.
- If you're looking to make this dish ahead of time, prep the Brussels sprouts and bacon the night before, store them in the fridge, and roast them just before mealtime.
- This dish pairs beautifully with roasted meats or as a festive addition to a vegetarian spread.
Variations
- Use pancetta instead of bacon for a different flavor profile.
- Add chopped pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch.
- Incorporate dried cranberries or cherries for a sweet-tart twist.
How to Serve
- Sprinkle crumbled goat cheese or feta on top for a creamy contrast.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color.
- Serve alongside roasted meats or as part of a holiday buffet.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prep Brussels sprouts and bacon the night before and refrigerate until ready to roast.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to regain crispiness.
- Freezing: Not recommended as the texture may change upon thawing.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Testing this dish has reaffirmed my belief that simple ingredients, when prepared with care, can create something extraordinary. The combination of sweet maple, crispy bacon, and tender Brussels sprouts is a reminder that the most satisfying dishes often come from a place of comfort and simplicity-perfect for sharing during this cozy holiday season.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 1 cup
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~210 calories · 6g protein · 16g carbs · 14g fat
Recipe by:
Crispy Roasted Maple Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts with chopped bacon. Drizzle the olive oil over the mixture, followed by maple syrup. Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Toss everything together until well-coated.
- Spread the mixture in a single layer on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Roast for about 20-25 minutes, giving them a gentle toss halfway through.
- Sprinkle crumbled cheese on top before serving and garnish with parsley.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
It is recommended to use fresh Brussels sprouts for the best texture and flavor. Frozen Brussels sprouts may not achieve the same level of crispiness when roasted.
2. How do I know when the Brussels sprouts are done?
The Brussels sprouts are done when the bacon is crispy, the sprouts are tender, and their edges are beautifully browned. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes in the oven.
3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! You can omit the bacon and add extra seasoning or smoked paprika for a smoky flavor. You could also try using plant-based bacon alternatives.
4. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
You can prep the Brussels sprouts and bacon the night before and store them in the fridge. Roast them just before serving for the best results.
5. What can I serve with Roasted Maple Brussels Sprouts?
This dish pairs beautifully with roasted meats, such as turkey or chicken, or can be a festive addition to a vegetarian spread.
