Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite side dish—*maple roasted brussel sprouts with bacon*! This dish is such a delightful blend of sweet and savory that it practically dances on your taste buds. The first time I made these, I was having friends over for dinner, and I thought, “Why not elevate those little green gems?” I tossed them with crispy bacon and a generous splash of maple syrup, and let me tell you, it was a hit! The way the maple syrup caramelizes in the oven, mingling with the salty bacon—it’s pure magic!
These brussel sprouts are not just a side dish; they’re a star! They bring a warmth to the table that makes everyone want to dive in for seconds (or thirds!). Trust me, even the brussel sprout skeptics will be coming back for more. Plus, they’re super easy to throw together, making them perfect for both a casual family meal and a fancy holiday gathering. I can’t wait for you to try them—get ready for that sweet-salty combination to transform your dinner!
Ingredients for Maple Roasted Brussel Sprouts with Bacon
Alright, let’s gather the ingredients to whip up these scrumptious *maple roasted brussel sprouts with bacon*! You won’t need anything too fancy, just some good-quality ingredients that work beautifully together. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb brussel sprouts – Make sure they’re trimmed and halved for even roasting.
- 4 slices of bacon – Chop these into bite-sized pieces; the crispiness they bring is unbeatable!
- 1/4 cup maple syrup – This is where the magic happens! Adjust according to your sweetness preference, but I say go for it!
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – A good drizzle will help the sprouts roast beautifully.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Don’t be shy! A little seasoning goes a long way in bringing out all those flavors.
That’s it! Simple, right? Let’s get cooking and make something delicious!
How to Prepare Maple Roasted Brussel Sprouts with Bacon
Get ready to create some delicious *maple roasted brussel sprouts with bacon*! Follow these simple steps, and I promise you’ll have a dish that’s both easy to make and utterly delectable. Let’s dive in!
Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s get that oven preheated! Set it to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is super important because it helps the brussel sprouts crisp up beautifully while roasting. You want that heat to be just right when we pop them in!
Prepare the Brussel Sprouts
Now, grab those halved brussel sprouts and toss them into a large bowl. Drizzle in the olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. I like to use my hands for this part; just give them a good toss until everything’s nicely coated. This step is crucial because the olive oil helps them roast evenly and brings out those wonderful flavors!
Combine Ingredients
Time to add the magic! Toss in the chopped bacon and pour over the maple syrup. Give everything a good mix again, ensuring the brussel sprouts are well coated with that sweet syrup and savory bacon. The combination is going to be epic, trust me!
Roast the Mixture
Now, spread the brussel sprout mixture out on a baking sheet in a single layer. This helps them roast evenly without steaming. Pop them in the preheated oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes. Here’s a little tip: stir them halfway through cooking to ensure they caramelize nicely on all sides. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and tender!
Serving Suggestions
Once they’re out of the oven, serve those gorgeous brussel sprouts warm! I love to plate them up family-style in a big bowl so everyone can dig in. If you want to take it up a notch, drizzle a little extra maple syrup on top right before serving—oh wow, it’s heavenly! Enjoy your creation and watch everyone come back for seconds!
Nutritional Information
Before you dive into these delicious *maple roasted brussel sprouts with bacon*, let’s chat about the nutritional side! Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the brands and specific ingredients you use, but here’s a rough estimate per serving:
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Sugar: 8g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 6g
So, there you have it! Not only are these brussel sprouts packed with flavor, but they also bring some nutritional goodness to your table. Enjoy knowing you’re serving up something delicious and wholesome!
Why You’ll Love Maple Roasted Brussel Sprouts with Bacon
Let me tell you why these *maple roasted brussel sprouts with bacon* are going to become your new go-to side dish! Not only do they taste amazing, but they also check off so many boxes when it comes to convenience and health. Here’s why you’ll adore this recipe:
- Quick to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have this dish ready in about 40 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The sweet maple syrup paired with the savory, crispy bacon creates a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible.
- Healthy Option: Brussel sprouts are packed with nutrients, and this dish keeps them wholesome while adding just the right amount of indulgence.
- Versatile Side: Whether you’re serving up a holiday feast or just a casual dinner, these brussel sprouts fit right in with any meal!
- Perfect for Meal Prep: You can make a big batch and enjoy them throughout the week—just warm them up, and you’ve got a tasty side ready to go.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Even those who claim they don’t like brussel sprouts will be coming back for more. Trust me, they’ll be converted!
So, are you ready to fall in love with these brussel sprouts? I know I am, and I can’t wait for you to experience this delightful dish!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your *maple roasted brussel sprouts with bacon* turn out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my favorite pro tips that I’ve learned along the way:
- Adjust the Maple Syrup: If you have a sweet tooth, don’t hesitate to add a bit more maple syrup! Just remember that the balance is key—too much can overpower the savory goodness of the bacon. Start with the recommended amount and adjust to your taste!
- Broil for Extra Crunch: If you love a little extra texture, try broiling the brussel sprouts for the last 2 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on them, though! You want them to be crispy and golden, not burnt!
- Use Quality Bacon: The flavor of the bacon really shines through, so go for a good-quality, thick-cut bacon. It adds that delicious, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the sprouts!
- Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Make sure to spread the brussel sprouts out in a single layer on your baking sheet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than roasting, and we want that lovely caramelization!
- Experiment with Seasoning: Feel free to play around with other seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. It’s a fun way to customize this dish to your liking!
- Serve Immediately: These brussel sprouts are best enjoyed fresh from the oven when they’re warm and crispy. If you have leftovers, they can still be delicious, but nothing beats that fresh-out-of-the-oven goodness!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to impress everyone with your perfectly roasted brussel sprouts! Happy cooking!
Variations of Maple Roasted Brussel Sprouts with Bacon
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many delightful ways to mix things up with your *maple roasted brussel sprouts with bacon*! Here are some fun variations that I absolutely love:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the mixture for a little heat. The spice balances beautifully with the sweetness of the maple syrup!
- Nutty Goodness: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans before roasting. They’ll toast up nicely in the oven and add a lovely crunch and nuttiness to the dish.
- Garlic Lovers: If you adore garlic like I do, sprinkle in some minced garlic or garlic powder right before roasting. It infuses the brussel sprouts with a savory depth that’s simply irresistible.
- Maple-Balsamic Glaze: Instead of just maple syrup, try a mix of maple syrup and balsamic vinegar. It adds a tangy twist that pairs wonderfully with the brussel sprouts and bacon!
- Vegetable Medley: Feel free to throw in some other veggies like sweet potatoes, carrots, or even cauliflower. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes so they cook evenly alongside the brussel sprouts.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate the flavor even further. Just chop them up and toss them in before roasting for that fresh, aromatic touch!
With these variations, you’ll never get bored of this delicious dish! Feel free to get creative and tailor it to your taste. Cooking should be fun, so experiment and find your perfect combination!
FAQ About Maple Roasted Brussel Sprouts with Bacon
Got questions about these delightful *maple roasted brussel sprouts with bacon*? I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I get, along with my answers to help you master this recipe:
Can I use frozen brussel sprouts instead of fresh?
You can, but fresh brussel sprouts will give you the best flavor and texture. If you must use frozen, make sure to thaw and drain them well before roasting to avoid excess moisture!
How can I make this recipe vegan-friendly?
To make this dish vegan, you can skip the bacon and replace it with a plant-based bacon alternative or simply roast the brussel sprouts with olive oil and maple syrup. They’ll still be delicious!
What can I serve with these brussel sprouts?
These *maple roasted brussel sprouts with bacon* are super versatile! They pair beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a hearty vegetarian dish like quinoa salad. They’re bound to complement any meal!
How do I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (which is rare, trust me!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to bring back that crispy goodness!
Can I prepare them ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep everything and toss the brussel sprouts with the other ingredients, then cover and refrigerate them for up to a day before roasting. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready!
Why are my brussel sprouts not crispy?
If your sprouts aren’t crispy, it might be due to overcrowding on the baking sheet or not enough oil. Make sure they’re in a single layer and well-coated with oil to achieve that perfect crunch!
Can I use a different sweetener instead of maple syrup?
Sure! Honey or agave nectar can be great alternatives, but they will change the flavor a bit. Maple syrup really brings that unique taste, so if you can, stick with it!
How do I know when the brussel sprouts are done?
They’re done when they’re golden brown and fork-tender. A little caramelization on the edges is a sign of that delicious flavor we’re after!
Feel free to reach out if you have more questions or need tips while preparing your *maple roasted brussel sprouts with bacon*! I’m here to help you make this dish a star on your table!
For more delicious recipes, check out this garlic parmesan roasted brussel sprouts recipe or this roasted maple glazed brussels sprouts recipe!
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Maple Roasted Brussel Sprouts with Bacon: 5 Reasons You’ll Love Them
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Maple roasted brussel sprouts with bacon is a delicious side dish that combines sweet and savory flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 lb brussel sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, mix brussel sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Add chopped bacon and maple syrup to the bowl and mix well.
- Spread the mixture on a baking sheet.
- Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Remove from the oven and serve warm.
Notes
- Adjust maple syrup according to your sweetness preference.
- For extra crunch, broil for the last 2 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: maple roasted brussel sprouts with bacon, brussel sprouts, side dish
