Description

Picture the irresistible aroma of crispy bacon blending with the sweetness of honey and the caramelized goodness of roasted Brussels sprouts. This dish is the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavors, making it an excellent choice for a special dinner or a holiday side dish. The touch of a maple syrup glaze with Dijon mustard elevates these simple ingredients to a gourmet level, while the crunchy texture and smoky flavor of the bacon ensure an unforgettable bite. Plus, it’s an easy recipe that delivers both flavor and visual appeal.

Ingredients

• For the Brussels sprouts:
• 1 pound (about 450 g) 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 pure maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Preparation Method

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven heats up, prepare the Brussels sprouts. Wash them thoroughly and cut them in half. In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper. Ensure each piece is evenly coated to promote uniform roasting. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet, leaving space between each piece for proper browning.

On a separate baking sheet, lay out the bacon pieces in a single layer. Keeping them separate ensures they become perfectly crispy without adding excess grease to the Brussels sprouts.

Place both baking sheets in the preheated oven. Roast the Brussels sprouts for 20–25 minutes, flipping them halfway through to achieve even caramelization. The bacon will cook in the same timeframe, becoming golden and crisp. Keep an eye on both to prevent overcooking.

While everything roasts, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, and red pepper flakes if desired. Stir until the glaze is smooth and glossy. This simple mixture is the secret to transforming the dish.

Once the Brussels sprouts are tender and golden brown, and the bacon is crispy, remove both from the oven. In a large bowl—or directly on the Brussels sprouts baking sheet—combine the roasted Brussels sprouts with the bacon pieces. Drizzle the glaze over the top and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.

Tips and Conclusion

For an extra layer of flavor and crunch, sprinkle toasted walnuts or almonds on top just before serving. They pair beautifully with the sweetness of the glaze and the smokiness of the bacon. For a vegetarian twist, swap out the bacon for smoked tofu cubes or caramelized mushrooms.
Honey-glazed roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon is a dish that transforms a humble vegetable into a star of the table. It’s a crowd-pleasing option that works well as a side dish or even a warm appetizer. Perfect for family dinners or festive gatherings, this recipe is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and textures. Once you’ve tried it, explore more recipes on our site to discover how small tweaks can make a big difference in your cooking. Give it a try, and let us know how it turned out!