There’s something absolutely magical about the combination of savory and sweet, and that’s exactly what you get with my maple glazed Brussels sprouts and butternut squash with bacon. The first time I made this dish for a family gathering, I was amazed at how quickly it disappeared! The crispy bacon mingling with the caramelized sweetness of maple syrup creates such a delightful contrast that it’s hard to resist going back for seconds (or thirds!). I love how the Brussels sprouts bring a bit of earthiness while the butternut squash adds a lovely creaminess. Ever since that day, this recipe has become a staple in my kitchen. It’s not just a side dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings warmth and joy to the table, perfect for any occasion. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this one in your back pocket!
Ingredients List
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1 lb butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
How to Prepare *Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash with Bacon*
Getting this delicious side dish on your table is easier than you might think! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying the sweet and savory goodness of *maple glazed Brussels sprouts and butternut squash with bacon* in no time. Let’s dive right into the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is crucial for getting that perfect caramelization on your veggies and bacon.
- While the oven heats up, grab a large bowl and toss in your trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts, cubed butternut squash, and chopped bacon. It’s like throwing a party in a bowl!
- Now, drizzle everything with the olive oil and maple syrup, then sprinkle in some salt and pepper to taste. Go ahead and mix it all up until everything is nicely coated. Trust me, the aroma will already have you dreaming of the final dish!
- Next, spread the mixture out on a baking sheet in a single layer. This ensures that everything cooks evenly and gets that gorgeous golden color.
- Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and let it bake for 25-30 minutes. Be sure to stir it halfway through—this is where the magic happens! You’ll want the veggies to be tender and the bacon to be crispy.
- Once it’s done, take it out of the oven and let it cool for just a minute. Then, serve it warm, and watch it disappear from the table!
And there you have it! A delicious combination that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy every savory, sweet, and crispy bite!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying my *maple glazed Brussels sprouts and butternut squash with bacon*, it’s good to know what you’re fueling your body with! Just a quick note: nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose, so these numbers are approximate.
For one serving (which is about a quarter of the recipe), you can expect the following typical nutritional values:
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugar: 8g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sodium: 400mg
Keep in mind that if you adjust the amount of maple syrup or bacon, these numbers will change a bit. But regardless, this dish is a deliciously wholesome option that brings both flavor and nutrition to your table!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a quick and easy side dish that comes together in just 45 minutes!
- The combination of sweet maple syrup and savory bacon creates an irresistible flavor profile.
- It’s packed with nutrients from Brussels sprouts and butternut squash, making it a healthy choice.
- Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weekday dinner or a festive gathering.
- The crispy bacon adds a delightful crunch that perfectly complements the tender veggies.
- It’s naturally gluten-free, so it works well for various dietary preferences.
- You can easily adjust the sweetness to suit your taste by adding more or less maple syrup.
- This dish pairs beautifully with a range of main courses, making it a versatile addition to your meal rotation.
Tips for Success
To ensure your *maple glazed Brussels sprouts and butternut squash with bacon* turns out perfectly every time, I’ve gathered some of my best tips. Trust me, a few small adjustments can make a world of difference!
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: It’s tempting to pile everything on, but giving each piece space allows for better caramelization. If necessary, use two baking sheets!
- Choose the right bacon: I love using thick-cut bacon for this recipe because it adds more texture and flavor. Just be mindful of cooking times as different bacon types vary in crispiness.
- Cut uniform pieces: Make sure your Brussels sprouts and butternut squash are cut to similar sizes. This ensures even cooking—no one likes having mushy veggies alongside crunchy ones!
- Experiment with maple syrup: If you prefer a stronger maple flavor, feel free to add a bit more syrup. Just remember to balance it with a touch more salt to keep the flavors in check.
- Watch the oven: Every oven is a bit different, so keep an eye on your veggies as they bake. If they’re browning too quickly, you can cover them loosely with foil to prevent burning while they finish cooking.
- Let it cool slightly: I know it’s hard to wait, but allowing the dish to cool for a couple of minutes before serving helps the flavors meld even more beautifully!
- Don’t skip the stirring: Stirring halfway through not only promotes even cooking but also helps the bacon crisp up nicely. It’s worth the extra step!
With these tips in hand, you’ll be well on your way to creating a stunning side dish that’s bound to impress everyone at the table. Enjoy the cooking adventure!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to mix up my *maple glazed Brussels sprouts and butternut squash with bacon*! Here are some tasty variations to consider that can add a unique twist to this already delightful dish:
- Herb Infusion: Try adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the mix for an aromatic boost. Just sprinkle them in with the olive oil and maple syrup!
- Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper. The spice pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the maple syrup.
- Nuts for Crunch: For an added layer of texture, throw in some chopped pecans or walnuts during the last 10 minutes of baking. They’ll get nicely toasted and add a lovely crunch!
- Sweet Potato Swap: Swap out the butternut squash for sweet potatoes for a slightly different flavor and a boost of sweetness. They’re just as delicious!
- Maple-Balsamic Glaze: Mix a little balsamic vinegar with the maple syrup for a tangy twist that complements the sweetness and adds depth to the dish.
- Maple Mustard Glaze: Combine maple syrup with a bit of Dijon mustard for a sweet and tangy glaze that’ll take your veggies to the next level!
- Cheesy Delight: Just before serving, sprinkle some grated Parmesan or feta cheese on top. The saltiness of the cheese perfectly balances the sweetness of the dish.
Feel free to experiment with these variations to find your perfect flavor combo. Each twist brings a new dimension to the dish, making it a fun staple that never gets boring!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying my *maple glazed Brussels sprouts and butternut squash with bacon*, the right pairing can truly elevate the entire meal experience! I love serving this dish alongside a variety of proteins and grains that complement its delightful sweet and savory flavors. Here are some of my favorite pairings:
- Roasted Chicken: A perfectly roasted chicken, seasoned simply with herbs, allows the flavors of the Brussels sprouts and squash to shine. The juicy chicken drippings complement the dish beautifully!
- Grilled Pork Chops: The smoky flavor of grilled pork chops pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the maple glaze. It’s a match made in heaven!
- Beef Tenderloin: For a special occasion, serve this side with a juicy beef tenderloin. The richness of the beef balances out the dish’s sweetness, creating a harmonious plate.
- Quinoa or Farro: If you’re looking for a hearty vegetarian option, serve the Brussels sprouts and squash over a bed of fluffy quinoa or farro. The grains soak up the maple glaze, making every bite delightful!
- Stuffed Acorn Squash: For a beautiful fall-inspired feast, pair this dish with stuffed acorn squash filled with grains, nuts, and cranberries. The flavors will complement each other perfectly!
- Simple Green Salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the bacon and maple syrup. It’s a great way to balance the meal.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes or a garlic-infused potato purée can serve as a comforting base that pairs beautifully with the sweet and savory Brussels sprouts.
With these serving suggestions, you can create a delightful meal that highlights the deliciousness of *maple glazed Brussels sprouts and butternut squash with bacon*. Enjoy the flavors, and don’t forget to share your favorites with family and friends!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about how to keep those delicious *maple glazed Brussels sprouts and butternut squash with bacon* fresh for later! If you happen to have leftovers (which I doubt, but just in case!), storing them properly will help maintain that wonderful flavor and texture.
First things first, make sure the dish has cooled to room temperature before you store it. This helps prevent condensation, which can make everything soggy. Once cooled, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. I usually prefer glass containers because they’re great for reheating and don’t retain odors.
Stored properly, your leftovers will be good in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Just remember to label your container with the date so you know when to dive back in!
Now, when it comes time to reheat, I recommend using the oven for the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spread the leftovers on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, stirring halfway through, until everything is heated through and that crispy bacon is back in action! If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave them, but be sure to cover the container to keep moisture in—just heat in short intervals to avoid overcooking.
With these storage and reheating tips, you’ll be able to enjoy the sweet and savory goodness of this dish even after the first serving. Happy cooking (and reheating)!
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Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash Bliss
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Maple glazed Brussels sprouts and butternut squash with bacon is a delicious side dish that combines savory and sweet flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1 lb butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine Brussels sprouts, butternut squash, and bacon.
- Drizzle with olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
- Spread the mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until vegetables are tender and bacon is crispy.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- This dish pairs well with roasted chicken or pork.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup.
- For a vegetarian option, omit bacon.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: maple glazed Brussels sprouts, butternut squash, bacon
