Maple Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts: A Comforting Family Favorite
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of crispy bacon mingling with the sweet, and slightly caramelized scent of Brussels sprouts wafting through your kitchen. It’s a smell that brings back memories of cozy family dinners and festive gatherings. These Maple Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts have officially earned a cherished spot in our family’s recipe book, and I can hardly wait to share this delightful dish with you. Imagine serving up pecan-sized Brussels sprouts, perfectly crisped, glistening with a golden glaze of maple syrup while hints of smoky bacon tickle your taste buds. Grab your apron, because we’re about to embark on a cooking adventure that transforms a humble vegetable into a crowd-pleaser!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe isn’t just delicious; it comes with a plethora of reasons you’ll want to embrace its warm embrace:
- Quick Prep: In under 10 minutes, you can have everything ready to pop in the oven.
- Cozy Flavors: The sweet and savory combo of maple syrup and bacon is irresistibly comforting.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a simple weeknight dinner, these sprouts are guaranteed to disappear quickly.
- Versatile Ingredients: Simple pantry staples that you might already have on hand make this dish an easy meal idea for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather the following ingredients to make your delicious homemade dish:
- Brussels sprouts (1 pound): Look for firm, compact sprouts. The smaller, the better!
- Bacon (6 slices): Use thick-cut for extra flavor; it adds richness and crunch.
- Maple syrup (1/4 cup): Opt for pure maple syrup; the flavor is truly unmatched.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): A bit of oil helps achieve that crispy texture.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Just a sprinkle to elevate the natural flavors.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic will bring a wonderful savory depth.
Substitution Note: If you’re in a pinch, turkey bacon works great for a lighter version, and you can happily swap in honey for maple syrup if needed.
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Total Time: About 40 minutes
This recipe is quick enough for a simple dinner, but its flavors are worth the little wait in the oven!
How to Make Maple Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). The warm air will help get those sprouts nice and crispy.
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Prep the Brussels: Trim the ends off the Brussels sprouts and slice them in half. Rinse and pat dry. As you cut, let those bright green insides inspire you!
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Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, fry the bacon slices until they’re crispy. This usually takes about 5–7 minutes. As the bacon sizzles, the aroma will fill your kitchen and make your mouth water.
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Mix Ingredients: Remove the bacon and let it cool on a paper towel while reserving about 2 tablespoons of the drippings. In a large bowl, combine the Brussels sprouts with the drippings, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss well until every sprout is nicely coated.
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Add Maple Syrup: Drizzle the maple syrup over the Brussels sprouts and toss lightly, ensuring each one is glistening with sweetness.
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Combine with Bacon: Crumble the crispy bacon and mix it in with the Brussels sprouts.
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Roast: Spread the mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for about 25–30 minutes, or until the sprouts are golden and crispy, stirring halfway through.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once done, let them cool slightly before digging in. The contrast between the sweet maple glaze and the smoky bacon is truly magical.
Tips and Creative Variations
- Add Nuts: For a lovely crunch, toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts before roasting.
- Dried Fruit Twist: Sprinkle in some dried cranberries for a pop of sweetness and color.
- Spices: Enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a slight kick.
- Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle some balsamic glaze after roasting for an extra layer of flavor and a touch of acidity.
Serving Ideas
Picture this: you and your loved ones gathered around the table, steam rising from bowls of homemade comfort food. Paired with roasted chicken or a hearty vegetarian casserole, these Maple Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts shine. Perhaps there’s a light, crisp white wine or some sparkling cider flowing, and you’re all sharing stories while savoring each delectable bite. This dish is perfect for a festive gathering or an ordinary Tuesday night; it always brings a sense of joy to the table.
Storing and Reheating
For easy storage, simply place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze the sprouts before roasting. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake from frozen at 400°F for 30 minutes, adding a few extra minutes if needed. Reheating leftovers can be done in the oven or air fryer to retain that incredible texture.
Pro Tips for Success
- Prep Ahead: Clean and cut the Brussels sprouts a day in advance for an even quicker prep.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Ensure the sprouts are in a single layer on the baking sheet for optimal roasting and crispiness.
- Taste Test: Don’t hesitate to taste the mixture before baking to adjust seasonings to your liking.
FAQs
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Can I freeze this recipe?
Yes! Just freeze the uncooked Brussels sprouts before roasting. -
What’s the best substitute for maple syrup?
Honey works well, although it will give a slightly different flavor. -
Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Skip the bacon and add smoked paprika for a similar smoky flavor.
Conclusion
As you gather around the table with friends and family, savoring the sweet and savory delight of Maple Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts, you create not just a meal but memories. This recipe’s simple yet comforting nature is bound to become a family favorite in your home, just as it has in mine. Remember, food has an incredible way of bringing people together, so invite your loved ones into the kitchen, share the joy of cooking, and let these sprouts make their way into your hearts and homes. Happy cooking!
Contents
Maple Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts Look for firm, compact sprouts; the smaller, the better!
- 6 slices Bacon Use thick-cut for extra flavor.
- 1/4 cup Maple syrup Opt for pure maple syrup for best flavor.
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil Helps achieve crispy texture.
- to taste Salt and pepper Just a sprinkle to elevate the natural flavors.
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced Brings a wonderful savory depth.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Trim the ends off the Brussels sprouts and slice them in half. Rinse and pat dry.
Cooking
- In a large skillet over medium heat, fry the bacon slices until they're crispy, about 5–7 minutes.
- Remove the bacon and let it cool on a paper towel while reserving about 2 tablespoons of the drippings.
- In a large bowl, combine the Brussels sprouts with the drippings, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss well until every sprout is nicely coated.
- Drizzle the maple syrup over the Brussels sprouts and toss lightly.
- Crumble the crispy bacon and mix it in with the Brussels sprouts.
- Spread the mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for about 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Let them cool slightly before serving.