Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts are a delightful twist on a classic veggie dish, blending sweet, smoky, and savory flavors in every bite. The caramelized edges of the Brussels sprouts pair perfectly with the crispy bacon, while a drizzle of maple syrup adds a touch of natural sweetness. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is as easy to make as it is delicious, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or impressive sides for gatherings.
Each forkful offers a satisfying mix of textures—crunchy bacon, tender sprouts, and a glossy glaze that ties it all together. Packed with nutrients like fiber and vitamin C, this recipe proves that healthy eating can be indulgent and flavorful. Whether you’re a Brussels sprouts skeptic or a longtime fan, this dish is sure to win you over with its irresistible balance of flavors.
Ingredients for Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
- 1 lb (453 g) brussels sprouts (ends trimmed and cut in half lengthwise)
- 4 strips bacon (cut into small pieces)
- ¼ cup (60 ml) maple syrup (use pure maple syrup for best flavor)
- ¼ heaping teaspoon smoked paprika (adds a smoky depth)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add the brussels sprouts and chopped bacon to the bowl. Stir well until everything is evenly coated.
- Spread the mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Place the baking sheet on the center rack of the oven and cook for 25 minutes, stirring at the 10-minute and 20-minute marks.
- The dish is done when the bacon is crisp, the brussels sprouts are caramelized in color, and tender when pierced with a fork. If needed, cook longer, but watch closely to avoid burning.
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions
Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts are a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a hearty vegetarian main like stuffed portobello mushrooms. For a complete meal, serve them alongside mashed sweet potatoes or a fresh arugula salad with a tangy vinaigrette. Pro tip: Sprinkle with toasted pecans or crumbled goat cheese for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Leftovers Made Easy: Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, spread the sprouts on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the bacon soggy and the sprouts lose their crispiness.
Mix It Up: Recipe Variations
Want to switch things up? Try swapping the bacon for pancetta or prosciutto for a different smoky flavor. For a vegetarian twist, omit the bacon and add a handful of roasted chickpeas for crunch. You can also experiment with different syrups, like honey or agave, and spices such as chili powder or cumin for a unique twist on this classic dish.
Time-Saving Tips for Busy Cooks
To save time, prep your Brussels sprouts and bacon the night before and store them separately in the fridge. When ready to cook, simply toss everything together and pop it in the oven. Bonus tip: Use pre-chopped bacon or a food processor to quickly dice it into small pieces.
Essential Equipment for Perfect Results
A sturdy baking sheet and a good pair of tongs are your best friends for this recipe. If you don’t have aluminum foil, parchment paper works just as well for easy cleanup. For even cooking, make sure your Brussels sprouts are spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet—overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting.
Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients
- 1 lb brussels sprouts ends trimmed and sprouts cut in half lengthwise
- 4 strips bacon cut into small pieces
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 heaping teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425F (220C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil (makes cleanup much easier).
- Whisk together maple syrup, paprika, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Add brussels sprouts and chopped bacon and stir together until well coated.
- Pour ingredients evenly onto prepared baking sheet and transfer to center rack of 425F (220C) oven. Cook for 25 minutes, stirring at the 10 minute and 20 minute mark.
- Brussels sprouts are finished when the bacon is cooked and crisp, the sprouts are caramelized in color and tender when pierced with a fork. If yours need more time than indicated, keep a close eye on them as they can go from perfectly baked to burnt fast.