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Best Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts Recipe

maple bacon brussels sprouts - featured image

This Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts recipe is the perfect side dish for any gathering. Sweet maple syrup, salty bacon, and caramelized Brussels sprouts come together in under 30 minutes for a dish that will convert even the biggest skeptics.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs (about 680 g) Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
  • 6 slices (about 150 g) thick-cut bacon, chopped
  • 3 tablespoons (60 ml) pure maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon (3 g) fine sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon (1 g) freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon (2 g) garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) balsamic vinegar (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
  2. Rinse the Brussels sprouts under cold water and pat them completely dry. Trim off the tough stem ends (about ¼ inch) and remove any yellow or damaged outer leaves. Cut each sprout in half lengthwise through the stem. Quarter any large sprouts.
  3. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it’s about halfway done (about 3 to 4 minutes). Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate. Reserve 2 tablespoons of the rendered bacon fat.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts, reserved bacon fat, olive oil, maple syrup, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Toss until every sprout is evenly coated.
  5. Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, cut-side down as much as possible. Do not overcrowd the pan.
  6. Roast for 20 minutes. The sprouts should start to brown on the edges.
  7. Remove the pan from the oven and use tongs to flip each sprout over. Sprinkle the partially cooked bacon pieces evenly over the sprouts. Return to the oven and roast for another 10 to 15 minutes, until the sprouts are tender and deeply caramelized and the bacon is crispy.
  8. If using balsamic vinegar, drizzle it over the hot sprouts immediately after removing from the oven. Toss gently to distribute.
  9. Let the Brussels sprouts rest on the pan for about 2 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter and serve warm.

Notes

Dry the sprouts thoroughly to ensure crispy edges. Do not overcrowd the pan. Arrange sprouts cut-side down for best caramelization. For a vegetarian version, omit bacon and use 2 tablespoons coconut oil or butter plus ½ teaspoon smoked paprika. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; reheat in a 375°F oven or air fryer for best results.

Nutrition

Keywords: maple bacon Brussels sprouts, roasted Brussels sprouts, bacon Brussels sprouts, maple syrup Brussels sprouts, easy side dish, holiday side dish