I wouldn’t say brussels sprouts have a great reputation in our house. They’re generally considered a ho-hum vegetable that nobody clamors for me to make with any great urgency. However, once I starting making Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts for my kids they definitely got a lot more popular around here and this dish now appears slightly more frequently on our menu.
The proof of the great flavor of this dish is in the name. I mean, we could slather just about anything in bacon and maple syrup and it would taste supreme. In this case, however, we’re bathing delicious roasted sprouts in this savory and sweet concoction and it tastes absolutely incredible.
I even have served this at holidays before, knowing it would make it more popular with the younger set. I’m all about the kids digging in for the season, even when it comes to the vegetable portion of the meal!
Making this takes time and a little patience, but you’re guaranteed to be thrilled with the results. I even always save a little extra for the next day because the leftovers are absolutely delicious. I can confidently say this has become a really popular way for our household to eat our sprouts and I’m sure it will be the same in yours! Enjoy!
Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
This is a great way to eat Brussels sprouts because they’re so covered in savory and sweet flavors you won’t even remember you’re eating a vegetable!
Ingredients:
1 ½ pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
6 slices of bacon, chopped
3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 tsp Salt
½ tsp pepper
Instructions:
Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
Cook the bacon: In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the skillet for later use.
Prepare Brussels sprouts: While the bacon is cooking, trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and slice them in half. Toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
Roast Brussels sprouts: Spread the Brussels sprouts on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until they are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Toss them halfway through roasting to ensure even cooking.
Glaze with maple syrup: While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, whisk together the maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of the reserved bacon grease in a small bowl.
Combine & finish: Once the Brussels sprouts are done roasting, transfer them back to the skillet. Drizzle the maple syrup glaze over the Brussels sprouts, then toss to coat. Add the crispy bacon and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on medium heat until everything is caramelized.
Serve & enjoy: Transfer the Brussels sprouts to a serving dish, and sprinkle with chopped pecans if using. Serve immediately and enjoy the sweet and savory flavors!
Nikki Glekas is the owner of Nikki Glekas Events, a full-service catering and events company located in Stamford, CT.. To discuss further please contact team@nikkiglekascollective.com or call 203.658.8659.
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