I’ve got to tell you, Brussels sprouts have come a long way from those mushy, bitter orbs that haunted my childhood dinner table. When you pair these little green gems with crispy bacon and a sweet maple glaze, something magical happens. The sprouts caramelize at the edges, the bacon adds that irresistible savory crunch, and the maple syrup brings everything together in perfect harmony. Ready to transform the humble Brussels sprout into the star of your next meal? The secret’s in the technique.
Why You’ll Love these Sweet & Smoky Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
The magic of transformation happens when humble Brussels sprouts meet crispy bacon and sweet maple syrup. Trust me, even veggie skeptics can’t resist this combination.
I’m talking about perfectly caramelized sprouts with crispy edges, smoky bacon bits adding savory depth, and that drizzle of maple syrup creating the perfect sweet-savory balance. Heaven on a plate.
What’s not to love? They’re quick to prepare, impressive enough for holiday tables, yet simple enough for weeknight dinners. The contrasting textures and flavors dance together beautifully.
Bonus: they pair wonderfully with virtually any protein. Ready to convert some Brussels sprout haters?
What Ingredients are in Sweet & Smoky Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts?
You’ll need just a handful of simple ingredients to create this irresistible side dish that perfectly balances sweet, smoky, and savory flavors.
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, halved
- 6 slices of bacon, diced
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (real maple syrup works best)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
For the best results, look for fresh, firm Brussels sprouts with tightly packed leaves, and consider using thick-cut bacon for extra texture and a higher-quality pure maple syrup to really elevate the flavor profile.
How to Make these Sweet & Smoky Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Making these maple bacon Brussels sprouts couldn’t be simpler, and the results are absolutely worth the minimal effort. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F—the perfect temperature for getting those caramelized edges we’re after. Take your 1 pound of Brussels sprouts, trim the ends, and slice them in half (cutting through the stem end keeps them from falling apart). Toss these halved sprouts with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of black pepper in a bowl until evenly coated.
Spread your seasoned Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them—this is the secret to getting that beautiful roast rather than steaming them. Pop them into your preheated oven and roast until they’re tender on the inside with crispy, golden edges, which typically takes about 20-25 minutes.
While the sprouts are roasting, cook your 6 slices of diced bacon in a premium cast iron skillet for even heat distribution and that perfect crispy texture. Who doesn’t love that satisfying bacon sizzle in the kitchen?
For the final flourish, transfer your roasted Brussels sprouts to a serving bowl and drizzle with 2 tablespoons of maple syrup. Add the crispy bacon pieces, and gently toss everything together so the sprouts get evenly coated with that sweet maple goodness and smoky bacon flavor. The heat from the sprouts will help the maple syrup create a light glaze that brings everything together. And voilà—a side dish that might just steal the spotlight from your main course. Those little charred bits, combined with the sweet maple and salty bacon? It’s the kind of vegetable dish that converts Brussels sprouts skeptics into true believers.
What to Serve with Sweet & Smoky Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Now that you’ve mastered the art of these irresistible Brussels sprouts, let’s talk about what goes well with them on your dinner table.
These sweet and smoky sprouts pair beautifully with a juicy grilled steak—the maple flavor complements the beef’s richness perfectly. Roasted chicken is another fantastic option, as the bacon echoes the poultry’s savory notes.
Need something lighter? Try serving alongside a baked salmon fillet.
For a complete meal, I’d add a starchy side like creamy mashed potatoes or wild rice pilaf. The neutral base balances the bold flavors of your Brussels sprouts.
What’s your favorite pairing? The possibilities are endless.
Leftovers and Storage for these Sweet & Smoky Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Leftover Brussels sprouts deserve just as much love as when they first come out of the oven. I store mine in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll keep beautifully for up to 3 days.
To reheat, I prefer using a skillet over medium heat rather than the microwave. Why? The microwave can make them soggy, and who wants that texture? The skillet crisps them right back up in just a few minutes.
The flavors actually deepen overnight, with the maple and bacon mingling into something even more magical. Sometimes I’ll chop cold leftovers for a quick salad topping, too.
Sweet & Smoky Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts Substitutions and Variations
Why limit yourself to just one version of these delicious Brussels sprouts when there are so many tasty twists you can try? For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha. Not a bacon fan? Swap in pancetta or even coconut bacon for vegetarians.
Can’t find maple syrup? Honey or brown sugar works beautifully too. I’m always amazed at how versatile these little green gems can be. Try adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch. Or toss in dried cranberries for a sweet-tart contrast. So many options, so little time.
Final Thoughts
These maple bacon Brussels sprouts have become one of my favorite side dishes to whip up when I want to impress dinner guests without breaking a sweat. The magical combination of smoky bacon, sweet maple syrup, and perfectly roasted sprouts creates a flavor profile that even veggie-skeptics can’t resist.
Trust me, there’s something utterly satisfying about the contrast between crispy, caramelized edges and tender centers. And that bacon? Game-changer.
Why not try them this weekend? They’re simple enough for a casual family dinner, yet sophisticated enough for holiday gatherings. Versatile, delicious, and guaranteed to disappear from plates. For another easy yet impressive side dish option, consider corn on the cob brushed with garlic feta butter for a tangy, creamy twist on a summer classic.