Balsamic Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: The Perfect Sweet and Savory Side Dish

Imagine pulling a baking sheet out of the oven, the aroma of roasted Brussels sprouts mingling with the smoky goodness of crispy bacon, all glazed in a luscious balsamic maple sauce. This isn’t just a side dish; it’s a showstopper that’s guaranteed to elevate your meal.

Balsamic maple roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon perfectly balance sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. Whether you’re making a weeknight dinner special, hosting a holiday feast, or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe will leave you (and your guests) reaching for seconds.

Let’s dive into everything you need to know about creating this irresistible dish, including step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and ways to customize it to suit your taste.

What Are Balsamic Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon?

This dish takes classic roasted Brussels sprouts to the next level by adding crispy bacon and a flavorful glaze made of balsamic vinegar and maple syrup. The result is a caramelized, crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside side dish that’s bursting with flavor.

Brussels sprouts often get a bad rap, but roasting them with a touch of sweetness and savory bacon transforms them into a dish that even skeptics can’t resist. The balsamic maple glaze adds depth, while the bacon provides a smoky crunch that complements the natural earthiness of the sprouts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Minimal ingredients and simple preparation make this recipe beginner-friendly.
• Perfect Flavor Balance: Sweet maple syrup, tangy balsamic vinegar, smoky bacon, and earthy Brussels sprouts come together beautifully.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A dish that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings.
• Healthy and Hearty: Packed with nutrients from Brussels sprouts and protein from bacon.
• Customizable: Easily adapted for different flavors or dietary needs.

Ingredients for Balsamic Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Ingredient	Quantity
Brussels sprouts	1½ pounds
Olive oil	2 tablespoons
Bacon (chopped)	6 slices
Maple syrup	2 tablespoons
Balsamic vinegar	1 tablespoon

How to Make Balsamic Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prep the Brussels Sprouts

1. Rinse the Brussels sprouts under cold water, trim off the tough stems, and remove any outer leaves that look discolored.
2. Slice each sprout in half lengthwise for even roasting. If they’re large, cut them into quarters.

Step 3: Toss with Olive Oil and Seasoning

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
2. Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them for even roasting.

Step 4: Add the Bacon

1. Scatter the chopped bacon pieces evenly over the Brussels sprouts. The bacon will render its fat as it cooks, adding flavor to the sprouts.

Step 5: Roast in the Oven

1. Roast the Brussels sprouts and bacon in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even browning.
2. While the sprouts are roasting, prepare the balsamic maple glaze.

Step 6: Make the Balsamic Maple Glaze

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup and balsamic vinegar.
2. If you prefer a thicker glaze, simmer the mixture in a small saucepan over low heat for 3–5 minutes, until slightly reduced.

Step 7: Glaze and Finish Roasting

1. After 20 minutes of roasting, drizzle the balsamic maple glaze over the Brussels sprouts and bacon.
2. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
3. Return the pan to the oven and roast for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the sprouts are caramelized and the bacon is crispy.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove the roasted Brussels sprouts from the oven and transfer them to a serving dish.
2. Serve warm and enjoy the perfect combination of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors!

Tips for the Best Roasted Brussels Sprouts

1. Use Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Fresh, firm sprouts yield the best texture and flavor.
2. Cut Evenly: Cutting the sprouts into similar sizes ensures they cook evenly.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Leave space between the sprouts so they roast instead of steaming.
4. Adjust Sweetness: Add more or less maple syrup depending on your taste preference.
5. Crisp Up the Bacon: Broil the dish for 1–2 minutes at the end for extra crispy bacon.

Flavor Variations and Additions

• Add Nuts: Toss in toasted pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
• Cranberry Twist: Sprinkle dried cranberries over the sprouts before serving for a festive touch.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot honey for some heat.
• Cheesy Finish: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or crumbled goat cheese over the dish before serving.
• Vegan Option: Substitute the bacon with coconut bacon or omit it entirely for a plant-based version.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 190
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 13g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 8g

Serving Suggestions

• Holiday Feast: Serve as a side dish alongside turkey, ham, or roast beef for Thanksgiving or Christmas.
• Weeknight Dinner: Pair with roasted chicken or grilled salmon for an easy, balanced meal.
• Light Lunch: Serve over a bed of greens with a drizzle of extra balsamic glaze.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not Trimming the Sprouts: Remove tough stems and outer leaves for a better texture.
2. Skipping the Stirring: Toss the sprouts halfway through roasting to ensure even caramelization.
3. Overcrowding the Pan: Use a second baking sheet if needed to prevent steaming.
4. Using Low-Quality Maple Syrup: Opt for pure maple syrup for the best flavor.
5. Burning the Glaze: Keep an eye on the sprouts after adding the glaze to avoid burning.

FAQs About Balsamic Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Q1: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Roast the Brussels sprouts and bacon ahead of time, then reheat and add the glaze just before serving.

Q2: How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q3: Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Fresh sprouts are best, but you can use frozen ones. Thaw and pat them dry before roasting.

Q4: What can I substitute for bacon?
Try pancetta, turkey bacon, or a plant-based alternative like coconut bacon.

Q5: Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes! Skip the bacon and use vegan substitutes for the same smoky flavor.

Q6: How do I reheat the dish?
Reheat in a 375°F oven for 10 minutes or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Final Thoughts: A Side Dish Worth Savoring

Balsamic maple roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon are more than just a side dish—they’re a celebration of bold, balanced flavors that complement any meal. With minimal effort, you can create a dish that’s crispy, caramelized, and irresistibly delicious.

So grab your Brussels sprouts, bacon, and a bottle of maple syrup, and get ready to elevate your dinner game. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress!

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