Print

Crispy Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts: Easy 30-Minute Recipe

maple bacon brussels sprouts - featured image

Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts tossed with a sweet and savory maple bacon glaze. This easy 30-minute side dish turns skeptics into believers with its caramelized edges and smoky bacon flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 6 strips thick-cut bacon, chopped into ½-inch pieces
  • 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • Optional: ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
  2. Trim Brussels sprouts: cut off woody ends, remove yellow leaves, and halve lengthwise. Quarter any very large sprouts.
  3. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated.
  4. Spread sprouts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, cut-side down.
  5. Roast for 20 minutes, then flip sprouts. Roast for another 5-10 minutes until deeply golden and crispy on edges (total 25-30 minutes).
  6. While sprouts roast, cook bacon in a cold skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until crispy (6-8 minutes). Transfer bacon to paper towels; reserve 1 tablespoon bacon fat in skillet.
  7. Reduce heat to low. Add maple syrup and balsamic vinegar to the reserved bacon fat. Stir for about 30 seconds until warm and combined.
  8. Transfer roasted sprouts to a serving bowl. Pour warm glaze over top and toss gently. Add crispy bacon and toss again. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Don’t toss sprouts with glaze until right before serving to maintain crispiness. For best results, serve immediately. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat in a hot skillet with a splash of olive oil.

Nutrition

Keywords: Brussels sprouts, maple bacon, roasted vegetables, easy side dish, 30-minute recipe, holiday side, gluten-free