The first time I made Bacon Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts, I knew I had stumbled upon a culinary miracle. Imagine this: tender Brussels sprouts swaddled in savory, crispy bacon, adorned with a sweet glaze that dances between the rich notes of maple and the zing of mustard. Every bite is a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
This dish isn’t just for those cozy holiday gatherings; it’s an irresistible side that can elevate any weeknight dinner or impress guests at your next potluck. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a showstopper that will convert even the staunchest Brussels sprout skeptics into enthusiastic fans.
So, if you’re looking to break away from the monotony of fast food and create something that radiates warmth and flavor, let’s dive into this captivating recipe. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Why are Bacon Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts so irresistible?
Bold flavors: The combination of crispy bacon and sweet maple syrup creates a taste explosion that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Quick to make: In just 20 minutes, you can whip up this gourmet side dish, perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
Crowd-pleaser: This stunning dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a great conversation starter at any meal.
Versatile pairing: Serve them alongside grilled meats, a hearty stew, or even at your next brunch; they complement endless options!
Satisfying crunch: The texture of roasted Brussels sprouts combined with crispy bacon provides a delightful contrast that’s hard to resist.
Bacon Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts Ingredients
For the Brussels Sprouts
• Brussels sprouts – Fresh and firm sprouts are key for a satisfying crunch that pairs beautifully with the bacon.
For the Bacon
• Thick-cut smoked bacon – This type of bacon ensures ample flavor and crispiness, essential for the irresistible taste of Bacon Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts.
For the Mustard Sauce
• Dijon mustard – Adds a tangy depth to the glaze, balancing the sweetness from the maple syrup.
• Wholegrain mustard – Provides a rustic texture and a slightly milder flavor; feel free to substitute with your favorite mustard!
For the Sweet Glaze
• Maple syrup or honey – Choose maple syrup for a rich, authentic taste, or honey for a floral sweetness. It’s optional, but highly recommended!
Seasonings
• Freshly ground black pepper – A hint of spice to elevate the flavors in every bite.
• Salt – Just a pinch enhances overall taste, especially crucial when working with bacon.
How to Make Bacon Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place your rack in the middle, and line a rimmed baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup. Soak toothpicks in a bowl of water to keep the bacon secured.
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Blanch the Brussels sprouts by adding them to boiling water for 2–3 minutes. This softens them for roasting. Once done, drain the sprouts and transfer them to iced water to stop the cooking process.
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Wrap each Brussels sprout tightly with bacon, making sure the ends overlap by half an inch. Depending on the size, feel free to cut your bacon strips in half or thirds to perfectly fit the sprouts.
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Secure the bacon in place using the soaked toothpicks, then arrange the wrapped sprouts on the prepared baking sheet. Roast them in the oven for 10 minutes to get that initial crispiness going.
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Whisk together the Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, maple syrup (if you’re using it), salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a small bowl. This delightful glaze will enhance the flavors of your dish.
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Brush the Brussels sprouts generously with the mustard glaze after 10 minutes of roasting. Place them back in the oven for another 10 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the sprouts are cooked through. Once out, drizzle with any remaining glaze for an extra punch of flavor. Enjoy!
Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped herbs for an added touch of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Bacon Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts?
Creating a well-rounded meal is easy when you pair these crunchy, savory bites with the right sides and drinks.
- Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken complements the savory bacon with a light, protein-rich option. Their combined flavors create a satisfying and hearty meal.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture of mashed potatoes contrasts beautifully with the crunch of the Brussels sprouts, inviting indulgent bites.
- Rosemary Focaccia: Soft and fragrant, the herby focaccia adds a dash of flavor while being perfect for sopping up any leftover glaze.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and creamy dressing provide refreshing acidity to balance the richness of the bacon, enhancing each component of the dinner.
- Herbed Quinoa: This nutty grain dish adds a delightful textural contrast and makes for a healthy, vibrant addition to the plate, contributing extra nutrients.
- Sparkling Cider: A bubbly beverage like sparkling cider brightens the palate and brings out the sweetness of the maple glaze while being family-friendly.
- Dark Chocolate Tart: End on a sweet note with a rich dark chocolate tart; its bittersweet flavors beautifully contrast the dish’s savory elements.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs flawlessly with the salty bacon, bringing a different depth of flavor that will leave everyone satisfied.
- Crispy Tofu Bites: For a vegetarian option, accompany with crispy tofu bites tossed in a light soy glaze, providing a delicious alternative to meat.
- Lemonade Spritzers: Refreshing lemonade spritzers offer a zesty and vibrant drink choice that cleanses the palate, making your feast feel complete.
Bacon Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts Variations
Feel free to play with the flavors and ingredients to make this dish your own and tantalize those taste buds!
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Vegan Option: Substitute bacon with smoked tempeh or coconut bacon for a plant-based twist that still packs a smoky flavor punch.
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Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the mustard glaze for a fiery burst that ignites your palate, turning up the heat in every bite.
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Nutty Delight: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the sprouts before roasting for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the maple beautifully.
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Herb Infusion: Mix finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into your mustard glaze for an aromatic lift that enriches the dish with fragrant notes.
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Sweet and Savory: Incorporate diced apples or pears along with the Brussels sprouts for a refreshing sweetness that balances the savory bacon beautifully.
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Zesty Citrus: Zest some lemon or orange into the glaze to brighten the flavors, making the dish even more refreshing and vibrant on your plate.
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Cheesy Option: Top the finished sprouts with a sprinkle of crumbled feta or goat cheese for a creamy element that adds richness and depth to each flavorful bite.
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Maple-Sesame: Swap out the maple syrup for a combination of soy sauce and sesame oil in the glaze for an Asian-inspired savory twist that’s both unique and delicious.
Expert Tips for Bacon Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- Choose Fresh Sprouts: Fresh, firm Brussels sprouts make all the difference. Avoid yellow or wilting sprouts for the best flavor and texture.
- Perfect Bacon Wrapping: Ensure the bacon overlaps by half an inch when wrapping the sprouts. This guarantees crispy edges and holds everything together during roasting.
- Avoid Overcooking: Blanching for just 2-3 minutes keeps the Brussels sprouts tender but prevents them from becoming mushy during roasting.
- Customize the Glaze: Feel free to adjust the sweetness by using more or less maple syrup. This Bacon Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts dish can be tailored to your taste!
- Rotate for Even Crisping: Halfway through roasting, consider rotating the pan to ensure even cooking and crispiness for all the sprouts.
Make Ahead Options
These Bacon Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts are a fantastic option for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy weeknights! You can blanch and wrap the Brussels sprouts in bacon up to 24 hours in advance, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, you can whisk together the glaze and keep it separately for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy this dish, simply roast the prepared sprouts straight from the fridge, brushing them with the glaze halfway through cooking for that irresistible flavor. This way, you’ll have a delicious side dish with minimal effort, ensuring every bite remains just as delightful!
How to Store and Freeze Bacon Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Room Temperature: Bacon Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts are best enjoyed fresh, but can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 hours if serving at a gathering.
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave for maximum crispiness.
Freezer: If you need to freeze them, place cooled sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a sealed freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to revive that crunchy texture of the bacon and warm the sprouts evenly.
Bacon Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
Absolutely! While fresh Brussels sprouts are preferred for their firmness and flavor, frozen ones can work in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before wrapping in bacon to ensure they get crispy.
How do I know when my Brussels sprouts are ripe?
Look for tightly packed, bright green Brussels sprouts. They should feel firm to the touch, and avoid any that have yellow or wilting leaves. Fresh sprouts are perfect for achieving that delightful crunch and flavor!
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftover Bacon Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to preserve their crispy bacon, it’s best to reheat them in the oven rather than the microwave, as it helps retain that delectable crunch.
Can I freeze Bacon Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts?
Yes, you can! To freeze, first let the Brussels sprouts cool completely. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. After freezing, transfer them to a sealed freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months, making them an easy option for quick meals!
What if my bacon isn’t crisping up properly?
If your bacon is not crisping as you’d like, check your oven temperature; it should be at 400°F (200°C) for proper roasting. Another great tip is to make sure there is enough space between the wrapped sprouts on the baking sheet; overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than roasting. If needed, pop them back in the oven for an additional 5 minutes.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! For gluten-free options, ensure your mustard is gluten-free as some brands may contain traces of gluten. If you’re accommodating specific allergies, you can substitute the bacon with turkey bacon or even a plant-based version if desired. Always check ingredient labels to stay safe!
Bacon Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts You’ll Crave Forever
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a rimmed baking sheet with foil.
- Blanch the Brussels sprouts in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then transfer to iced water.
- Wrap each Brussels sprout with bacon, overlapping ends by half an inch.
- Secure the bacon with soaked toothpicks and arrange on the baking sheet. Roast for 10 minutes.
- Whisk together Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, maple syrup, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Brush the sprouts with the mustard glaze after 10 minutes, then roast for another 10 minutes until bacon is crispy.