Go Back
Brussels sprouts have made a remarkable comeback in the culinary world, transforming from a dreaded side dish of the past into a beloved staple on modern dinner tables. Among the myriad ways to prepare these nutritious mini cabbages, one recipe stands out for its delightful combination of flavors: Sweet & Savory Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts. This dish harmoniously blends the earthy richness of Brussels sprouts with the irresistible crispiness of bacon and the natural sweetness of maple syrup, creating a flavor profile that appeals to a wide range of palates.

Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts

Discover the delicious transformation of Brussels sprouts with this Sweet & Savory Maple Bacon recipe. Combining the earthy richness of the sprouts, the crispiness of bacon, and the natural sweetness of maple syrup, this dish creates a delightful balance of flavors. Perfect for holiday gatherings or dinner parties, these nutritious mini cabbages are elevated with hints of garlic and balsamic vinegar, making them a versatile and impressive addition to any meal. Enjoy the crispy, caramelized goodness in every bite!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved

4 slices of thick-cut bacon, chopped into bite-sized pieces

1/4 cup pure maple syrup

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

2 cloves garlic, minced

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)

Fresh parsley, finely chopped for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven will help the Brussels sprouts to brown beautifully while becoming tender.

    Cook the Bacon: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook for approximately 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is crispy and golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess fat. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the skillet—this will infuse the Brussels sprouts with added flavor.

      Mix the Brussels Sprouts: In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts, crispy bacon, olive oil, maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss the ingredients thoroughly until the Brussels sprouts are well coated with the sweet and savory dressing.

        Roast the Sprouts: Spread the Brussels sprouts mixture in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking and caramelization. You'll know they're ready when they're tender and have a nice, golden-brown color.

          Serve and Garnish: Once cooked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the sprouts cool for a few minutes. Carefully transfer them to a serving platter and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle a bit more maple syrup over the top before serving.

            Enjoy: Serve hot as a tantalizing side dish or a unique appetizer that will surely delight your guests. The combination of sweet maple and savory bacon will make this dish a favorite!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 30 minutes | Serves 4