Description
Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts feature tender, caramelized Brussels sprouts tossed with crispy bacon, smoked paprika, and a touch of sweet maple syrup. This easy oven-baked side dish balances smoky, sweet, and savory flavors, perfect for a comforting dinner or hearty holiday meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb brussels sprouts ends trimmed and sprouts cut in half lengthwise
- 4 strips bacon cut into small pieces
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- ¼ heaping teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil to make cleanup easier.
- Prepare the glaze and coat sprouts: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the halved Brussels sprouts and chopped bacon, stirring well to ensure everything is evenly coated with the glaze.
- Arrange and bake: Spread the coated Brussels sprouts and bacon mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Place it on the center rack of the preheated oven.
- Cook and stir: Bake for 25 minutes total, stirring the mixture at the 10-minute and 20-minute marks to encourage even cooking and caramelization.
- Check doneness and serve: The dish is ready when the bacon is crisp, and the Brussels sprouts are caramelized and tender when pierced with a fork. If needed, bake a bit longer but watch closely to avoid burning. Serve warm.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the maple syrup mixture.
- Use thick-cut bacon for a meatier bite and better crispiness.
- Trim Brussels sprouts thoroughly to remove any tough outer leaves for better texture.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in a skillet or oven to restore crispness.
- Can substitute maple syrup with honey for a slightly different flavor profile.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
