Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Maple Syrup
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Discover the perfect balance of savory and sweet with these Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Maple Syrup. This dish elevates your everyday vegetable into a gourmet side that everyone will love.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Maple Syrup are not just a side dish; they are a celebration of flavors and textures. The crispy bacon complements the tender sprouts, while the maple syrup adds a delightful sweetness that makes this dish irresistible.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Crispy bacon adds a savory crunch to the tender Brussels sprouts.
- The touch of maple syrup brings a sweet and unique flavor that enhances the dish.
- Easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts.
The Health Benefits of Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. These small cruciferous vegetables are high in vitamins C and K, which are essential for immune function and bone health, respectively. Additionally, they contain antioxidants that help combat free radicals in the body, promoting overall health.
Rich in fiber, Brussels sprouts can aid in digestion and help maintain a healthy weight. Incorporating fiber-rich foods into your diet is crucial for keeping your digestive system running smoothly and can lead to improved satiety, making you feel fuller for longer.
Perfect Pairings for Your Dish
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Maple Syrup make a fantastic side dish, but they can also be paired with a variety of main courses. They complement roasted meats beautifully, such as chicken, pork, or beef, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your meal.
For a vegetarian option, consider serving these Brussels sprouts alongside a hearty grain bowl or a quinoa salad. The combination of flavors and textures will create a satisfying and colorful plate that everyone will enjoy. Don't forget to sprinkle some toasted nuts or seeds for an added crunch!
Tips for the Best Roasted Brussels Sprouts
To achieve the best texture and flavor, make sure to trim and halve your Brussels sprouts properly. This ensures that they cook evenly and allows the delicious bacon and maple syrup to coat each piece effectively. Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, as this can lead to steaming rather than roasting.
Experiment with different types of bacon, such as applewood-smoked or maple bacon, to add unique flavors to your dish. You can also try adding additional seasonings, like garlic powder or red pepper flakes, to customize the taste to your liking.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to create your delicious dish.
Ingredients for Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 4 slices of bacon, diced
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to use fresh Brussels sprouts for the best flavor.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these steps to make your Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Maple Syrup.
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
In a large bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts, diced bacon, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss until everything is well coated.
Roast the Mixture
Spread the Brussels sprouts and bacon mixture onto a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
Add Maple Syrup
After 20 minutes, remove the baking sheet from the oven and drizzle the maple syrup over the Brussels sprouts. Toss gently and return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes.
Serve
Once the Brussels sprouts are crispy and caramelized, remove them from the oven and serve warm.
Enjoy your delicious side dish!
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store the Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Maple Syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be kept for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy this delicious side dish multiple times throughout the week.
When reheating, place the Brussels sprouts in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness. Alternatively, you can use a microwave, but be aware that this may make them a bit softer.
Making It Your Own
Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences! For a spicy kick, add a sprinkle of chili flakes or diced jalapeños to the mixture before roasting. You can also substitute the bacon with a vegetarian alternative, like tempeh or smoked tofu, for a meat-free version.
If you want to experiment further, consider adding other vegetables to the roasting pan, such as carrots or sweet potatoes, for additional flavor and nutrition. This will create a vibrant medley of colors and tastes that will impress your guests.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Yes, but fresh Brussels sprouts yield better texture and flavor.
→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can omit the bacon and use smoked paprika for a similar flavor profile.
→ What can I serve this with?
These Brussels sprouts pair wonderfully with roasted chicken or grilled steak.
→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the Brussels sprouts and bacon in advance and roast them just before serving.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Maple Syrup
Discover the perfect balance of savory and sweet with these Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Maple Syrup. This dish elevates your everyday vegetable into a gourmet side that everyone will love.
Created by: Anna
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 4 slices of bacon, diced
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts, diced bacon, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss until everything is well coated.
Spread the Brussels sprouts and bacon mixture onto a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
After 20 minutes, remove the baking sheet from the oven and drizzle the maple syrup over the Brussels sprouts. Toss gently and return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes.
Once the Brussels sprouts are crispy and caramelized, remove them from the oven and serve warm.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 14g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 5g