Irresistible Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts Recipe

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by Aria

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Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts are the culinary equivalent of a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine small, tender Brussels sprouts caramelized to perfection, drizzled with rich maple syrup, and sprinkled with crispy bacon bits. The aroma wafts through your kitchen like an invitation to indulge in a gourmet adventure that feels both fancy and comforting.

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There’s something undeniably magical about the combination of maple and bacon. It takes these misunderstood little green orbs from “Oh no, not Brussels sprouts again!” to “I can’t believe I devoured that whole bowl!” Whether you’re serving them at a holiday feast or just trying to impress friends at a casual dinner party, these Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts will steal the show—and maybe even your heart.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This delightful dish is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners
  • The sweet and savory flavor profile will please even the pickiest eaters
  • Visually, the vibrant greens and crispy bacon create an eye-catching presentation on any table
  • Versatile enough to complement any meal, they make an excellent side for both casual gatherings and festive occasions

The first time I made Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts, my family’s eyes widened in disbelief—my kids thought I was trying to trick them into eating vegetables. But after one bite, they were clamoring for seconds!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Brussels Sprouts: Look for firm, bright green sprouts; avoid any with yellowing leaves or blemishes.

  • Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for extra crispiness; it adds a robust flavor that pairs beautifully with maple.

  • Maple Syrup: Choose 100% pure maple syrup for the best sweetness; artificial syrups just won’t cut it.

  • Olive Oil: A splash of good quality olive oil ensures even roasting and enhances flavor.

  • Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings elevate the dish; use freshly cracked pepper if possible.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts

How to Make Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts

First things first: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a large baking sheet and line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup later.

Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: Rinse your Brussels sprouts under cold water and trim off any tough stems. Cut them in half lengthwise for optimal roasting.

Crisp the Bacon: Dice your thick-cut bacon into small pieces and cook it in a skillet over medium heat until it’s crispy. This should take about 5-7 minutes; keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!

Toss It All Together: In a large bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts with cooked bacon (including drippings), drizzle olive oil over them, and season generously with salt and pepper.

Add Maple Delight: Pour in maple syrup over the mixture, tossing everything until well-coated. The sweet aroma will have your mouth watering already!

Roast Away: Spread everything evenly on the prepared baking sheet and roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even caramelization.

Afterward, let them cool slightly before serving—if you can resist! Your kitchen will be filled with heavenly scents that scream comfort food.

Enjoy this sweet-savory masterpiece as a side dish or even as a stand-alone snack while you binge-watch your favorite shows!

You Must Know

  • Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts are not just a side dish; they’re the highlight of any meal
  • The sweet maple syrup balances the savory bacon, creating a delectable dish that screams comfort food
  • Crispy, caramelized edges add texture, making them irresistible to even the pickiest eaters

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve perfect Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts, start by roasting the sprouts at 425°F until tender and crispy. Toss in cooked bacon and drizzle with maple syrup during the last five minutes for optimal flavor integration.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out maple syrup for honey for a different sweetness or add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. You can also throw in some pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and nuttiness.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F to regain crispness, avoiding soggy sprouts.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • To make your Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts shine, always choose fresh sprouts that are firm and vibrant green
  • Avoid overcooking; they should be tender yet crispy!
  • For added depth of flavor, consider adding balsamic vinegar before serving

Sharing my first attempt at these beauties brings back memories of my family’s rave reviews—especially my bacon-loving uncle who practically licked his plate clean!

FAQ

Can I prepare Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep them and store them in the fridge before roasting.

What if I don’t like Brussels sprouts?

Try substituting with cauliflower or green beans for a similar preparation.

How do I ensure my bacon is crispy?

Cook bacon until it’s well-done before adding it to the Brussels sprouts for crunch.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts


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  • Author: Jennifer
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Indulge in the irresistible combination of sweet maple syrup and crispy bacon with these Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts. Perfectly roasted until golden brown, these tender Brussels sprouts transform into a flavorful dish that’s sure to impress at any gathering. Whether as a side for holiday feasts or a standalone snack, this recipe will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Enjoy the delightful balance of flavors that turns a humble vegetable into a gourmet experience.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
  • 6 strips thick-cut bacon, diced
  • 1/4 cup 100% pure maple syrup
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Rinse Brussels sprouts, trim stems, and cut in half.
  3. Cook diced bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  4. In a bowl, combine halved Brussels sprouts with cooked bacon (including drippings), olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  5. Drizzle maple syrup over the mixture and toss well.
  6. Spread evenly on the baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through for even caramelization.
  7. Let cool slightly before serving.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe (150g)
  • Calories: 260
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 540mg
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg

 

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