Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts Recipe – Sweet, Savory, and Perfectly Crispy

Brussels sprouts often get a bad rap, but with this Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts recipe, they become irresistible. Crispy on the edges, tender on the inside, and coated with a sweet and savory maple glaze, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday feasts, or anytime you want a side dish that feels both comforting and gourmet. The combination of smoky bacon and natural maple sweetness transforms these humble vegetables into a crowd-pleaser, even for those who usually skip Brussels sprouts.

What’s great about this recipe is how simple it is. You only need a handful of ingredients, minimal prep, and a single sheet pan. In about 30 minutes, you’ll have a side that looks fancy but comes together quickly. This recipe uses a few kitchen tricks to maximize flavor and crispiness without adding extra fat or calories. It’s perfect for beginner cooks or anyone short on time but craving bold, satisfying flavors.

Whether you’re serving it alongside roasted chicken, pork tenderloin, or as part of a holiday spread, these Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts never disappoint. The sweet and salty contrast, combined with perfectly roasted sprouts, makes every bite memorable.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Difficulty: Easy | Servings: 4

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What Makes This Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts Special?

• Sweet and Savory Flavor: Maple syrup perfectly balances the smoky richness of bacon, creating a crowd-pleasing combination.

• Crispy on the Outside, Tender Inside: Roasting at high heat ensures caramelized edges and soft centers without mushy sprouts.

• Quick and Easy: Minimal prep, one sheet pan, and just 30 minutes from start to finish.

• Holiday and Everyday Friendly: Works for festive dinners or a simple weeknight side.

• Simple Technique for Maximum Flavor: Tossing Brussels sprouts in a light maple glaze before roasting enhances caramelization and depth without extra effort.

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Ingredient Notes

• Brussels Sprouts: Choose small to medium sprouts for even roasting. Trim ends and halve for quicker cooking.

• Bacon: Thick-cut bacon adds smokiness and crunch. Substitute with turkey bacon for a lighter version.

• Maple Syrup: Provides natural sweetness that balances the bacon’s saltiness. Can use honey as an alternative.

• Olive Oil: Helps sprouts crisp up. Can substitute with avocado or grapeseed oil.

• Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning. Optional: a pinch of smoked paprika adds depth.

• Optional Garnish: Crushed pecans or a drizzle of balsamic glaze can add texture and extra flavor.

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How To Make Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts

1. Preheat the Oven: Set oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven ensures crispy edges.

2. Prepare Brussels Sprouts: Trim ends, remove yellow leaves, and halve the sprouts.

   • Tip: Smaller pieces roast more evenly.

3. Cook the Bacon: Chop bacon into 1-inch pieces. Pan-fry over medium heat until slightly crisp but not fully cooked (they finish in the oven).

4. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine Brussels sprouts, bacon, 1–2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, pepper, and 2 tablespoons maple syrup. Toss to coat evenly.

5. Roast: Spread sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through.

   • Look for edges that are browned and caramelized. Sprouts should be tender inside but crisp outside.

6. Glaze and Serve: Drizzle with an additional tablespoon of maple syrup if desired. Serve immediately for best texture.

   • Optional: Top with chopped pecans or a splash of balsamic glaze.

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Storage Options

• Room Temperature: Serve fresh. Best eaten immediately.

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 400°F oven for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness.

• Freezing: Not recommended; roasted Brussels sprouts lose texture when frozen.

• Reheating Tips: Skillet or oven reheating preserves crispiness better than microwave.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Vegan Version: Omit bacon; roast sprouts with olive oil and maple syrup, then add toasted nuts for crunch.

• Spicy Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts: Add red pepper flakes or drizzle with sriracha for heat.

• Holiday Twist: Sprinkle with dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds for a festive look.

• Cheesy Addition: Top with grated Parmesan or crumbled feta after roasting.

• Different Sweeteners: Substitute maple syrup with honey, agave, or brown sugar.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prep the Brussels sprouts and bacon in advance, but roast them just before serving for maximum crispiness.

2. Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Fresh is best, but if using frozen, thaw and pat dry to avoid soggy results.

3. How do I keep the sprouts crispy?
High-heat roasting and not overcrowding the pan are key. Toss halfway through cooking.

4. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Ensure bacon is gluten-free if using store-bought.

5. Can I use pancetta instead of bacon?
Absolutely. Pancetta adds a slightly different but equally delicious flavor.

6. How can I adjust sweetness?
Increase or decrease maple syrup to taste. A light drizzle at the end enhances sweetness without making sprouts soggy.

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Conclusion

This Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts recipe proves that Brussels sprouts can be a show-stopping side dish. Sweet, smoky, and perfectly crispy, it’s a recipe that’s simple enough for weeknights but elegant enough for holidays. Try it, tweak it with your favorite variations, and enjoy a vegetable dish that everyone will love. Don’t forget to share your results—your friends and family will be asking for seconds!

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