Step 1: Introduction

Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon is a side dish that’s perfect for any occasion—whether you’re preparing a casual weeknight dinner or a special holiday meal. Brussels sprouts often get a bad reputation, but when roasted with honey, olive oil, and crispy bacon, they transform into a mouthwatering dish that will have even the pickiest eaters asking for more. The combination of the earthy, slightly bitter Brussels sprouts with the sweetness of honey and the savory, salty bacon creates a beautiful balance of flavors that’s both comforting and satisfying.

The roasted Brussels sprouts have a caramelized exterior and a tender interior, which pairs perfectly with the crispy bacon. The addition of a maple syrup and Dijon mustard glaze gives the dish an extra layer of complexity, bringing in a hint of tanginess and sweetness that elevates the flavors. The dish can be served as a side with a variety of main courses, from roasted chicken to steak or even grilled fish.

What makes this recipe so appealing is its simplicity and versatility. It only takes a few key ingredients, yet the result is a dish that feels indulgent and special. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday feast or a casual weeknight dinner, this Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon will undoubtedly impress your guests or family. The crispy bacon adds texture, while the glaze creates a sticky sweetness that complements the Brussels sprouts perfectly, making it the ultimate comfort food side.

Step 2: Why This Recipe is Perfect

This recipe for Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon stands out for several reasons, making it the perfect side dish for any meal. First and foremost, the dish beautifully combines sweet and savory elements, creating a balance that will appeal to all palates. The natural bitterness of Brussels sprouts is tamed by the sweetness of honey and maple syrup, while the bacon adds a rich, salty crunch that enhances the overall flavor profile.

Another reason this dish is so perfect is its versatility. It pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes, from a simple roasted chicken to a hearty steak or even roasted pork. The combination of textures in this dish—from the crispy bacon to the tender Brussels sprouts—makes it a delight to eat, ensuring every bite is full of flavor.

Additionally, Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon is easy to prepare, making it ideal for both busy weeknights and special occasions. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can quickly put this dish together and let the oven do most of the work. The bacon crisps up while the Brussels sprouts caramelize, resulting in a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Lastly, the option to customize the glaze adds another layer of excitement to the recipe. If you prefer a spicier kick, you can add more red pepper flakes, or if you want to experiment with different flavors, you could even substitute the Dijon mustard for a tangy whole-grain mustard or add a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra depth. This recipe’s adaptability makes it an excellent choice for any culinary occasion.

Step 3: Ingredients List

To make Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Brussels Sprouts:

1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved 🥦
The Brussels sprouts are the star of the dish, providing a naturally earthy flavor that becomes sweet and crispy when roasted.
2 tablespoons olive oil 🫒
Olive oil helps with roasting the Brussels sprouts, ensuring they become golden and tender.
1 tablespoon honey 🍯
Honey adds a natural sweetness that complements the Brussels sprouts and helps to caramelize them in the oven.
1/2 teaspoon salt 🧂
A pinch of salt enhances the natural flavor of the Brussels sprouts and helps balance the sweetness of the honey.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper 🌶️
Black pepper provides a mild heat to balance the sweetness and richness of the dish.

For the Bacon:

6 slices thick-cut bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces 🥓
Thick-cut bacon crisps up beautifully and adds a savory, salty element that contrasts perfectly with the sweetness of the glaze.

For the Glaze:

1/4 cup maple syrup 🍁
Maple syrup brings a warm, deep sweetness to the glaze, which enhances the roasted flavor of the Brussels sprouts.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 🍯
Dijon mustard adds a tangy, sharp contrast to the sweetness of the syrup, creating a balanced flavor profile.
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar 🍇
The balsamic vinegar adds a touch of acidity, which helps cut through the sweetness and brings all the flavors together.
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) 🌶️
Red pepper flakes are optional but can add a spicy kick that complements the sweetness and adds a bit of heat to the dish.

These ingredients come together to create a delicious and balanced dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a festive celebration.

Step 4: Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon:

Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature ensures that the Brussels sprouts roast perfectly, becoming crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:
Trim the Brussels sprouts by cutting off the stems and removing any outer leaves that look damaged. Then, slice them in half to help them cook evenly. In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, honey, salt, and black pepper until they are well-coated.
Cook the Bacon:
Place the bacon pieces on a separate baking sheet, spreading them out in a single layer. Roast the bacon in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until crispy and browned. Remove from the oven and set aside.
Roast the Brussels Sprouts:
Spread the seasoned Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast them in the oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the sprouts are golden brown and crispy around the edges. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t burn.
Make the Glaze:
While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using) in a small bowl. The glaze should be smooth and well combined.
Combine and Serve:
Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted and the bacon is crispy, combine them in a large bowl. Drizzle the glaze over the top, tossing gently to coat everything evenly. Serve the dish immediately, garnished with any extra glaze or fresh herbs if desired.

This Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon is a simple, yet sophisticated side dish that will impress everyone at the table. The caramelized Brussels sprouts, crispy bacon, and sweet and tangy glaze create a flavor combination that’s hard to resist. Perfect for any meal, this dish is sure to become a favorite!

Step 5: Equipment Needed

To prepare Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, you’ll need just a few essential kitchen tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Baking Sheets:
You’ll need two baking sheets—one for roasting the Brussels sprouts and another for cooking the bacon. The baking sheets should have a raised edge to contain the ingredients and prevent any drippings from spilling over during roasting. Lining them with parchment paper can help with easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
Large Bowl:
A large mixing bowl is essential for tossing the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper. The size ensures that you have enough space to coat the Brussels sprouts evenly without overcrowding them.
Whisk:
A small whisk is needed to make the glaze. It will help combine the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, and red pepper flakes into a smooth, well-blended sauce.
Tongs or Spatula:
Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted, you’ll need tongs or a spatula to toss them gently in the glaze. This helps coat each piece evenly without mashing or breaking apart the Brussels sprouts.
Knife and Cutting Board:
A sharp knife and cutting board are required to trim and halve the Brussels sprouts and to cut the bacon into small pieces. A stable cutting board will also make the process safer and more efficient.
Oven:
The oven is essential for roasting both the Brussels sprouts and bacon. It’s important to preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure that the Brussels sprouts roast properly and the bacon becomes crispy.
Small Bowl for the Glaze:
You’ll need a small bowl to whisk together the glaze ingredients. It should be large enough to allow for easy mixing but not too big to waste space.

Having these simple tools on hand ensures a smooth cooking process and helps you create a perfectly roasted and glazed dish.

Step 6: Tips, Swaps, and Variations

This Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon recipe is highly versatile and can be customized to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some helpful tips, swaps, and variations to consider:

1. Spice Up the Glaze

If you prefer more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the glaze. This will give the dish a spicy kick that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the honey and maple syrup.

2. Swap Bacon for Alternatives

While bacon is a classic choice, you can swap it for pancetta or prosciutto for a slightly different flavor profile. For a vegetarian version, try using smoked tempeh or crispy chickpeas to add a savory element without meat.

3. Add Nuts for Crunch

For an extra layer of texture, try adding toasted nuts, such as chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds, after the Brussels sprouts have been roasted and glazed. The nuts will provide a delightful crunch that complements the tender Brussels sprouts and crispy bacon.

4. Experiment with Mustards

While Dijon mustard works perfectly in the glaze, feel free to experiment with different types of mustard. Spicy brown mustard or whole grain mustard can add a tangy texture and depth of flavor, making the glaze even more interesting.

5. Use Different Sweeteners

Instead of honey and maple syrup, try using agave nectar, brown sugar, or even coconut sugar for a different level of sweetness. Each sweetener will provide a unique taste that changes the overall flavor of the dish.

6. Add Herbs for Extra Flavor

If you want to boost the herbal notes in the dish, sprinkle some fresh thyme, rosemary, or sage over the Brussels sprouts before roasting. These herbs will infuse the vegetables with aromatic flavors that complement the honey glaze.

These tips, swaps, and variations allow you to personalize the recipe, making it adaptable to your taste preferences or dietary needs. Experiment with these ideas to create a truly unique dish that suits your style!

Step 7: Storage and Pairings

Storage

Leftover Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The Brussels sprouts will retain their flavor, though they may lose some of their crispiness. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat and cook for 5-7 minutes until warmed through. If you prefer, you can also heat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes to retain a bit of crispiness.

For longer storage, this dish can be frozen, although the texture may change slightly after thawing. To freeze, place the cooled Brussels sprouts and bacon in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months. To reheat from frozen, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

Food Pairings

This dish makes a perfect side for a variety of main courses. Here are some great pairing ideas:

Roast Chicken: The sweetness of the Brussels sprouts with honey and maple syrup complements the savory flavors of a simple roast chicken. The crispy bacon adds an extra layer of depth to the dish.
Grilled Steak: The richness of grilled steak pairs beautifully with the sweet and savory Brussels sprouts. The caramelized notes in the glaze and the crispy bacon bring an unexpected richness to the meal.
Pork Tenderloin: Honey and maple syrup work wonderfully with pork, making these Brussels sprouts the perfect side for roasted or grilled pork tenderloin.
Baked Salmon: The sweetness of the glaze contrasts nicely with the rich flavor of salmon, creating a balanced meal.

This versatile side dish pairs well with everything from hearty meats to lighter options like grilled fish or tofu.

Step 8: FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Brussels sprouts and bacon in advance. Roast them ahead of time, store them in the refrigerator, and then reheat before serving. For the glaze, it can be made a day or two ahead and stored in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, toss everything together with the glaze and heat through.

2. How can I make this dish vegetarian?

To make this recipe vegetarian, replace the bacon with a plant-based alternative like smoked tempeh or crispy roasted chickpeas. These substitutions will provide the savory crunch without using animal products.

3. Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

Fresh Brussels sprouts are recommended for the best texture, but frozen Brussels sprouts can be used if necessary. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before roasting to avoid excess moisture.

4. Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, or parsnips. Just make sure to adjust the roasting time depending on the size and type of vegetable you add. Roasting vegetables with Brussels sprouts gives a nice variety of flavors and textures.

5. How do I ensure my bacon is crispy?

To get perfectly crispy bacon, be sure to cook it on a separate baking sheet from the Brussels sprouts. This will allow the bacon to crisp up evenly without getting soggy. Additionally, using thick-cut bacon helps achieve a crispier texture.

By following these answers and tips, you can make Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon the perfect side dish for any meal!