Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts

Crispy Brussels sprouts meet smoky bacon and rich maple syrup in this side dish that always disappears quickly at my dinner table. The sweet glaze hugs every golden sprout and salty bacon bit, making it both comforting and holiday-worthy. This is a dish I make for potlucks, Thanksgiving, and any cozy Sunday. Its crowd-pleasing power is real.

I found this recipe hunting for something new to convince my family Brussels sprouts were worth loving. Now it is the hands down favorite vegetable and everyone asks for seconds.

Ingredients

• Brussels sprouts: Fresh sprouts deliver the best texture Look for small firm ones with tight leaves
• Thick-cut bacon: The extra thickness gives bold smoke and chewy bites Choose bacon with minimal additives for best flavor
• Pure maple syrup: You want Grade A for rich flavor and proper caramelization Not imitation syrup
• Olive oil: Adds subtle fruitiness and helps crisp everything Use good quality extra virgin for best result
• Kosher salt: Balances sweet with savory Larger crystals boost flavor evenly
• Black pepper: Brings gentle heat and complexity Always use fresh cracked
• Garlic powder: Optional Adds extra depth and warmth Choose brands without fillers

Instructions

Preheat and Prep:

Heat oven to four hundred Fahrenheit or two hundred Celsius Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to avoid sticking and speedy cleanup

Mix Greens:

Toss the trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts in a large mixing bowl with olive oil salt pepper and garlic powder if you like Stir really well so every sprout gets a slick of oil and seasoning

Add Bacon:

Mix in the chopped bacon and stir to combine It helps the bacon nestle among the sprouts so they crisp together and the fat melts into the vegetables

Spread and Roast:

Pour the mixture evenly over the lined baking sheet Spread out so none are crowded Bake for twenty minutes Stir everything once halfway through to ensure even browning

Glaze and Caramelize:

Drizzle maple syrup all across the hot sprouts and bacon Toss gently to coat Return to the oven for five more minutes The syrup will bubble and stick in golden spots

Serve and Enjoy:

Transfer crispy sprouts and bacon to a serving dish Eat immediately for max crunch and flavor

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My favorite part is seeing the maple syrup bubble over the bacon edges I always sneak the crispy bits from the pan before serving. My grandma once called it dessert disguised as vegetables.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container for two to three days though they are crispest on day one. If you want to reheat do it in a hot oven or air fryer rather than microwave to regain some crunch.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap honey for maple syrup if you want something brighter or use turkey bacon for lighter flavor. You can also toss in toasted pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.

Serving Suggestions

This pairs perfectly with roast chicken pork chops or even a vegetarian grain bowl. Add a squeeze of lemon to brighten the sweetness or top with a sprinkle of chili flakes.

Cultural and Historical Context

Brussels sprouts have long been a comfort food in European kitchens but roasting with bacon and maple is a distinctly modern American twist. It is a favorite for Thanksgiving and Sunday meals where bold flavors are celebrated.

Seasonal Adaptations

Use honey instead of maple syrup in spring. Add a sprinkle of dried cranberries for a festive winter touch. Swap bacon for diced ham or pancetta depending on what is in the fridge.

Success Stories

My neighbor tried this recipe for her Friendsgiving last year. Every guest raved and she sent me a thank you text before dessert was even served. One reader emailed after making these for a picky eater thanksgiving and now they make them every month.

Freezer Meal Conversion

You can roast everything up to the maple glaze step and freeze flat in a zip bag. To serve just reheat and toss in the syrup before the final caramelizing bake.

Save

Serve warm and enjoy every crisp salty sweet bite. It is the perfect side to share at your next gathering.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do you achieve crispy Brussels sprouts?

Roast the halved sprouts at high heat and spread them out on the baking sheet. Stir once for even browning.

→ Can you substitute the maple syrup?

Yes, honey works well if you prefer a different sweetness profile. Drizzle in the same step as maple syrup.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Double check labels if needed for cross-contamination.

→ What can you use instead of bacon?

For a vegetarian option, omit bacon or use smoked tempeh for a similar flavor boost.

→ How do you keep the sprouts crispy when serving?

Serve immediately after roasting. Waiting too long may make them lose their crunchy texture.

→ Can pecans be added to this dish?

Absolutely! Toasted pecans are delicious and add extra crunch—sprinkle them in the last minutes of roasting.