Introduction

Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon is the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors. Tender roasted Brussels sprouts caramelized in the oven, crispy bites of smoky bacon, and a drizzle of rich maple syrup all come together to create a dish that feels both rustic and gourmet. This is not your average vegetable side—it’s a dish that transforms Brussels sprouts into a star of the table.

What makes this recipe extra special is how roasting enhances the natural sweetness of the sprouts, eliminating their bitterness. The bacon adds a salty, crispy edge, while the maple syrup ties everything together with a subtle sweetness. It’s the kind of dish that even Brussels sprouts skeptics will fall in love with.

Why I Love This Recipe

• Sweet & savory combo – Bacon’s saltiness pairs perfectly with maple’s sweetness.
• Crowd-pleasing side – Even kids and picky eaters are won over by this dish.
• Elegant yet simple – Easy enough for weeknights, but impressive for holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter.
• Comfort food vibes – Warm, caramelized, and full of flavor.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This recipe is a must-try because it transforms a humble, often misunderstood vegetable into something absolutely irresistible. It’s not just a side dish; it’s the kind of recipe that makes people ask for seconds and request it for every holiday gathering. With only a few ingredients, you can make a dish that tastes like it came from a restaurant.

Recipe Information

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25–30 minutes
• Total Time: 35–40 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories per Serving: ~180 kcal
• Course: Side Dish
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

• 1 ½ lbs Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
• 3 tbsp pure maple syrup
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Optional garnish: fresh thyme or parsley

Cooking Directions

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Prep the Brussels Sprouts

• Trim the stem ends and remove any discolored leaves.
• Cut sprouts in half for even roasting.

3. Cook the Bacon

• In a skillet, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until just crispy.
• Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside (reserve bacon drippings).

4. Season the Sprouts

• Toss halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, 2 tbsp of the maple syrup, salt, pepper, and 1 tbsp of bacon drippings.
• Spread evenly on a baking sheet, cut side down for best caramelization.

5. Roast

• Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until caramelized and tender.

6. Add Bacon & Finish with Maple Syrup

• Toss roasted sprouts with crispy bacon and drizzle with the remaining 1 tbsp maple syrup.
• Mix gently and return to oven for another 2–3 minutes.

7. Serve

• Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.

How to Serve

• Serve hot straight from the oven as a side for roast turkey, ham, steak, chicken, or even vegetarian mains.
• Great addition to a holiday spread, especially Thanksgiving or Christmas.
• Can also be served as a hearty vegetable side for weeknight dinners.

Recipe Tips

• Place sprouts cut-side down to ensure maximum caramelization.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan—use two baking sheets if needed.
• Use real maple syrup (not pancake syrup) for the best flavor.
• Cook bacon until just crispy—overcooked bacon will dry out in the oven.

Variations

1. Nutty Twist – Add toasted pecans or walnuts at the end for crunch.
2. Spicy Kick – Drizzle with sriracha or sprinkle with red pepper flakes.
3. Cheesy Version – Top with grated parmesan or crumbled goat cheese.
4. Vegetarian Option – Skip the bacon and roast with extra olive oil, then finish with smoked paprika for flavor.
5. Balsamic Upgrade – Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze instead of (or in addition to) maple syrup.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Not recommended—Brussels sprouts lose texture when frozen after roasting.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 375°F for 8–10 minutes to restore crispiness.

Special Equipment Needed

• Sharp knife for trimming and halving sprouts
• Baking sheet (preferably lined with parchment)
• Skillet for cooking bacon
• Mixing bowl for tossing ingredients

FAQ

Q1: Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Fresh is best, but frozen can work if thawed and patted dry before roasting.

Q2: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes—trim and halve Brussels sprouts ahead, and cook bacon. Assemble and roast just before serving.

Q3: What’s the best type of bacon to use?
Thick-cut bacon works best as it holds up during roasting and adds hearty bites.

Q4: Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Yes, but use two baking sheets to avoid overcrowding.

Conclusion

Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon is the kind of side dish that steals the spotlight. With its irresistible balance of crispy, salty, smoky, and sweet flavors, it turns a simple vegetable into a holiday-worthy showstopper. Whether you’re making it for a holiday dinner or a weeknight treat, this dish proves that Brussels sprouts can be the highlight of any meal.