Description
Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Maple Bacon Glaze is the perfect side dish to convert even the biggest Brussels sprouts skeptics. Roasted to golden perfection with a sweet and savory maple syrup glaze combined with crispy bacon, this dish offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures that enhance the naturally nutty taste of Brussels sprouts.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped into 1/4-inch pieces
- 2–3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional
- 1 small shallot, diced
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Glaze and Toss: In a large bowl, combine maple syrup, olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts along with the chopped bacon. Toss everything together until the Brussels sprouts and bacon are thoroughly coated with the maple glaze mixture.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the coated Brussels sprouts and bacon in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to place the Brussels sprouts cut-side down to promote even roasting and browning.
- Roast Until Crispy: Roast in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes. About halfway through cooking, stir the mixture gently to ensure even roasting. The Brussels sprouts should be golden brown and crispy on the edges, and the bacon should be fully cooked and crisp.
- Serve Hot: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and, if desired, drizzle extra maple syrup over the roasted Brussels sprouts and bacon for an added touch of sweetness. Serve immediately while hot and crispy for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- To ensure maximum crispiness, give the Brussels sprouts plenty of space on the baking sheet—overcrowding can cause steaming rather than roasting.
- Adjust roasting time slightly if your oven heats unevenly; check for a deep golden color and crisp edges as indicators of doneness.
- The optional diced shallot can be added before roasting for a mild onion flavor that complements the bacon and maple glaze.
