These Maple Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts are a delightful blend of sweet and savory, making them the perfect side dish for any meal. The crispy, caramelized Brussels sprouts are roasted with smoky bacon and a touch of maple syrup, giving them a rich flavor that’s hard to resist. The natural sweetness of the maple syrup balances the slight bitterness of the Brussels sprouts, while the bacon adds a delicious crunch. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also brings a touch of gourmet flair to your table. Whether you’re serving them with a holiday meal or a casual weeknight dinner, these Brussels sprouts are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 4 slices of bacon, diced
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil.
- Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Cook the Bacon: In a skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy. Remove the bacon pieces with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Reserve the bacon fat.
- Season the Sprouts: Add olive oil, 2 tablespoons of the reserved bacon fat, maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper to the bowl with the Brussels sprouts. Toss until the Brussels sprouts are evenly coated.
- Roast: Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast them in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
- Add the Bacon: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and sprinkle the crispy bacon pieces over the roasted Brussels sprouts. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Serve: Once done, remove from the oven and, if desired, sprinkle with a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Serve hot as a side dish.
Tip: For an extra touch, drizzle a little more maple syrup over the top just before serving for added sweetness and shine.
