Hello, food lovers! Are you ready to transform your side dish game with a recipe that’s sweet, savory, and utterly irresistible? These Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon combine crispy, caramelized sprouts, smoky bacon, and a mouthwatering maple glaze for a dish that’s as elegant as it is easy. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a holiday feast, or just looking for a way to elevate your weeknight meals, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
Introduction
Brussels sprouts often get a bad reputation, but this recipe will change the way you think about them forever. The key to making Brussels sprouts shine is roasting them until they’re golden brown and slightly crispy. Add in the smoky crunch of bacon and a sweet yet tangy maple glaze, and you’ve got a side dish that can outshine even the main course. The combination of flavors in this recipe—sweet honey, smoky bacon, and tangy balsamic vinegar—makes it perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to festive gatherings. Let’s explore why this dish is so popular and how you can make it a hit at your table.
Ingredients
To make Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, you’ll need:
For the Brussels Sprouts:
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Bacon:
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
For the Glaze:
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
How to Make Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Follow these steps to create this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure perfectly roasted Brussels sprouts and crispy bacon.
Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, honey, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet, making sure they’re not overcrowded for optimal caramelization.
Step 3: Cook the Bacon
Place the bacon pieces on a separate baking sheet. This prevents the bacon grease from making the Brussels sprouts soggy while allowing it to crisp up perfectly.
Step 4: Roast
Place both baking sheets in the preheated oven. Roast the Brussels sprouts for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they’re tender and golden brown. Roast the bacon until it’s crispy and slightly caramelized.
Step 5: Make the Glaze
While the Brussels sprouts and bacon are roasting, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of heat). This glaze adds a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess to the dish.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Once the Brussels sprouts and bacon are done, transfer them to a large serving bowl. Drizzle the glaze over the top and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Serve immediately and enjoy this sweet, smoky, and savory masterpiece.
Helpful Tips
- Choosing Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Select Brussels sprouts that are bright green and firm to the touch. Avoid any with yellowing leaves or signs of wilting for the freshest flavor.
- Cutting Consistently: Ensure the Brussels sprouts are evenly halved for consistent roasting. Smaller sprouts can be left whole if necessary.
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the glaze a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This will save you time when assembling the dish.
Cooking Tips
- For Crispier Sprouts: Place the baking sheet in the oven while it preheats to ensure the sprouts sizzle as soon as they hit the pan.
- Adjusting the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the honey or maple syrup slightly. Alternatively, you can use agave nectar or brown sugar as substitutes.
- Bacon Alternatives: For a leaner option, try pancetta or prosciutto, which also provide a wonderful salty, smoky flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon are incredibly versatile. Pair them with roasted chicken, steak, or even grilled salmon for a well-rounded meal. They’re also a perfect accompaniment to festive holiday dishes like turkey or ham. Serve them in a rustic bowl, garnished with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional content of this dish:
- Calories: 220 per serving
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Protein: 7g
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
- Sodium: 480mg
- Potassium: 350mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 10g
- Vitamin A: 15%
- Vitamin C: 50%
- Calcium: 4%
- Iron: 6%
Storage and Leftovers
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Reheat the Brussels sprouts and bacon in a skillet over medium heat to maintain their crispiness. Alternatively, use the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Leftovers can also be repurposed into delicious dishes. Toss them into a salad, or use them as a topping for pizza or flatbread for a creative twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the bacon and add a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the glaze for a smoky flavor without the meat.
What can I substitute for honey?
Agave nectar, maple syrup, or even a drizzle of molasses can be used as a substitute for honey.
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
While fresh is best for this recipe, frozen Brussels sprouts can work in a pinch. Thaw them completely and pat them dry before roasting.
What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?
Regular yellow mustard or whole-grain mustard can be used as substitutes, though the flavor may differ slightly.
Related Recipes
If you loved this recipe, here are a few more ideas to try:
- Maple-Glazed Carrots
- Balsamic Roasted Asparagus
- Loaded Sweet Potato Skins
- Garlic Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower
Conclusion
There you have it—the ultimate recipe for Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon. This side dish is a wonderful balance of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors, making it the perfect addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday feast or a casual dinner, these Brussels sprouts are sure to become a new favorite. Try it today and enjoy the incredible combination of crispy bacon, tender sprouts, and a delectable maple glaze.