Ready in: 40 minutes · Serves: 6 · Technique: Roasting · Storage: Up to 3 days in an airtight container.Quick Answer
This dish combines roasted Brussels sprouts and crispy bacon, drizzled with maple syrup for a sweet and savory holiday side.When the crisp air of New York City signals the arrival of fall, I find myself excitedly exploring the vibrant farmers' markets. The sights and sounds fill my heart with joy, especially when I spot fresh Brussels sprouts piled high, glistening with morning dew. As Thanksgiving and Christmas draw near, I can't resist crafting a dish that not only showcases seasonal flavors but also warms the soul. Enter my Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon.
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Delicious balance of flavors with smoky bacon and sweet maple syrup.
- Easy to prepare and perfect for holiday gatherings or weeknight dinners.
- Brussels sprouts transform from a humble vegetable into a gourmet side dish.
- Perfectly roasted for a crispy exterior and tender interior.
- Can be made ahead of time, making holiday prep a breeze.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious dish:
Brussels Sprouts and Bacon
- 1.5 pounds of Brussels sprouts (look for tight, compact sprouts)
- 4 strips of thick-cut bacon (I prefer Applewood smoked for an extra layer of flavor)
Flavor Enhancers
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup (not the pancake syrup imitation-go for the real deal)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for a nice crisp finish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional, but it adds a lovely tang)
- Fresh thyme or rosemary for garnish (optional, but highly recommended for a gourmet touch)
How to Make Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon (Step-by-Step)
Follow these steps to create a warming and flavorful side dish that celebrates the taste of the season.
Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Rinse the Brussels sprouts under cold water and trim the ends. For those larger sprouts, I like to slice them in half, which allows for caramelization that brings out their nutty sweetness.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In a 10-inch cast-iron skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until it's crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the bacon and let it cool on a paper towel, reserving about 2 tablespoons of the bacon fat in the skillet. This adds a savory depth to the entire dish!
Step 3: Toss and Coat
In a large bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts with the reserved bacon fat, olive oil, and a generous sprinkle of salt and pepper. If you're feeling adventurous, drizzle in the balsamic vinegar. Toss everything gently until every sprout is well-coated.
Step 4: Roast to Perfection
Spread the sprouts evenly in the skillet or on a baking sheet. Roast them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, turning once halfway through. Keep a close watch; the goal is caramelization that gives them a crispy exterior and tender interior.
Step 5: Add Maple Syrup and Crumbled Bacon
About 5 minutes before they're done, drizzle the maple syrup over the sprouts and add crumbled bacon. Continue roasting until the sprouts are glossy and the syrup has thickened, creating a sticky, sumptuous glaze.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once out of the oven, toss the sprouts one last time before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary if desired. The aroma alone is enough to make anyone's mouth water!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Crowding the Pan: Make sure to leave space between the Brussels sprouts for even roasting.
- Overcooking the Bacon: Remove the bacon from the pan once it's crispy, but don't let it burn; it should add flavor, not bitterness.
- Skipping the Maple Syrup: Trust me, this is the ingredient that transforms the dish into something exceptional.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- For variation, try adding chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
- These sprouts can be made ahead of time and reheated in the oven; just add a few extra minutes to crisp them up again.
- Experiment with different herbs; a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also add a delightful kick!
Variations
- Use different types of bacon, such as turkey bacon for a lighter option.
- Swap maple syrup for honey or agave nectar for a different sweet flavor.
- Add in other vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes for more variety.
- Incorporate different herbs like sage or oregano for a unique twist.
How to Serve
- Serve as a side dish with roasted meats or as part of a holiday spread.
- Top with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
- Pair with a light salad for a complete meal.
- Garnish with additional fresh herbs just before serving for a pop of color.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare Brussels sprouts and bacon ahead of time; store separately.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet to maintain crispiness; add a few extra minutes if needed.
- Freezing: It is not recommended to freeze roasted Brussels sprouts.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Through testing this dish, I discovered the magic of balancing flavors-smoky bacon paired with sweet maple creates a harmony that's incredibly satisfying. Plus, the act of roasting Brussels sprouts elevates them from a humble side dish to a standout centerpiece at any holiday table.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 6 servings · Serving Size: 1 cup
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~210 calories · 5g protein · 20g carbs · 12g fat
Recipe by:
Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Rinse the Brussels sprouts under cold water and trim the ends. Slice larger sprouts in half for better caramelization.
- In a cast-iron skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and let cool, reserving some bacon fat in the skillet.
- In a large bowl, combine halved Brussels sprouts, reserved bacon fat, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss until well-coated.
- Spread the sprouts on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway, until caramelized.
- About 5 minutes before done, drizzle the maple syrup over the sprouts and add crumbled bacon. Roast until glossy.
- Toss the sprouts after roasting, garnish with fresh herbs, and enjoy!
Notes
FAQs
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
While fresh Brussels sprouts are recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen ones in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw and dry them thoroughly before roasting.
How do I know when the Brussels sprouts are done?
The Brussels sprouts are done when they are caramelized on the outside and fork-tender on the inside. They should have a beautiful golden-brown color and a crispy texture.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the Brussels sprouts and bacon ahead of time. Simply roast them, let them cool, and store them in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven, adding a few extra minutes to restore their crispness.
What can I substitute for maple syrup?
If you don't have maple syrup, you can use honey or agave nectar as a substitute. However, the flavor will differ slightly, so keep that in mind when making the substitution.
How can I make this dish vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, omit the bacon and use a plant-based oil instead of bacon fat. You can enhance the flavor by adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic the smoky essence.
