Maple Bacon Roasted Brussels

Maple Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts is a dish my family requests every fall and winter. Every bite brings together crispy edges, sweetness, and those bits of smoky bacon that make even Brussels sprout skeptics come back for seconds. This easy recipe transforms a humble vegetable into an unforgettable side that works for casual dinners or holiday feasts alike.

The first time I made this everyone kept sneaking bites right off the baking sheet before it made it to the table. Now it is the side dish that disappears fastest at family gatherings.

Ingredients

• Brussels sprouts: about one pound trimmed and halved look for sprouts that are firm bright green and heavy for their size to get the best flavor and texture
• Thick-cut bacon: use five slices chopped for richness and crunch choose bacon with good marbling for maximum crispiness in the oven
• Kosher salt: one half teaspoon enough to season without overpowering and use a fine or flaky kosher salt for even distribution
• Freshly ground black pepper: one quarter teaspoon gives just the right bite grind it fresh if possible for brighter flavor
• Pure maple syrup: two tablespoons for a touch of natural sweetness avoid pancake syrup and look for real maple for the best finish
• Olive oil: one tablespoon to help the sprouts roast evenly use extra virgin for the best taste and aroma

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit or two hundred degrees Celsius and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make clean up easy

Toss the Sprouts:

Place trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts in a large bowl add olive oil salt and pepper then toss thoroughly so every piece is glossy and seasoned

Arrange and Add Bacon:

Spread the Brussels sprouts cut side down on your prepared baking sheet this helps them caramelize evenly sprinkle chopped bacon evenly over the top for bits of pork in every bite

First Roast:

Slide the tray into your oven and roast for twenty minutes do not stir yet letting them sit undisturbed helps the undersides become deeply golden and flavorful

Add Maple Syrup and Toss:

Remove from the oven and drizzle with maple syrup immediately then use tongs or a spatula to toss gently making sure everything is lightly coated without crushing the sprouts

Final Roast:

Return the tray to the oven and roast for another eight to ten minutes watch closely in the last few minutes you want sprouts that are tender and caramelized and bacon pieces that are crisp not burnt

Serve Hot:

Transfer everything to a serving dish make sure to catch those extra crispy bacon bits on the pan serve immediately while still piping hot for the best texture and flavor

Save

My favorite ingredient here is the pure maple syrup it just brings everything together making the dish irresistible. The first Thanksgiving I made these my dad who avoided Brussels sprouts for decades actually went back for more and asked for the recipe.

Storage Tips

Let leftovers cool completely before storing in an airtight container they stay good in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat use a hot oven or skillet rather than the microwave to keep those crispy edges. You can also freeze roasted Brussels sprouts for a month although the texture will soften a bit they are still delicious tossed into warm grain bowls or salads.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap pancetta for bacon if you want something saltier and a little less smoky. For a vegetarian version skip the bacon and add a handful of coarsely chopped pecans and a touch of smoked paprika for depth. If maple syrup is not your thing honey works surprisingly well but with a bit milder flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This dish shines alongside anything roasted or grilled. Try them next to roast chicken or turkey at Thanksgiving. For brunch serve with eggs and crusty bread. The sweet-savory profile also cuts through rich mains like ham or pork tenderloin.

Cultural and Historical Notes

Brussels sprouts have always been unfairly maligned but roasting was really the turning point for their popularity in the States. The addition of bacon and maple syrup leans on classic American comfort food pairings. Home cooks started combining bacon and maple in the last couple of decades for that irresistible flavor contrast and now it is practically a fall tradition.

Seasonal Adaptations

Roast with a handful of fresh cranberries around Thanksgiving for a pop of tart color Add diced apple in the last ten minutes of roasting for extra sweetness Sprinkle with toasted hazelnuts or walnuts for a winter touch

Success Stories

I have made these Brussels sprouts for a Friendsgiving party and someone always asks for the recipe. My niece who used to push them around her plate did a full turnaround after trying these with the bacon-maple glaze. They are now a permanent side at family holidays.

Freezer Meal Conversion

To make ahead roast everything as directed but stop before the syrup step freeze in a covered dish. Reheat in a hot oven at four hundred degrees add maple syrup and roast until hot and caramelized.

Save

This is a versatile side that makes everyone rethink Brussels sprouts especially when served piping hot straight from the oven. Enjoy the balance of sweet and savory in every bite.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I keep Brussels sprouts crispy?

Roast cut-side down and avoid overcrowding the baking sheet for optimal crispiness.

→ Can I use turkey bacon instead?

Yes, turkey bacon works well and offers a lighter option with similar smoky flavor.

→ Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?

It's gluten-free as written; always check labels on maple syrup and bacon to be sure.

→ Can I prep this ahead of time?

You can trim and halve Brussels sprouts and chop bacon in advance. Roast just before serving.

→ What meals pair well with these Brussels sprouts?

They complement roasted chicken, turkey, grilled beef, or vegetarian mains beautifully.

→ Can I substitute maple syrup?

Honey is a possible substitute for maple syrup, giving a slightly different sweetness.