Why You'll Love This Recipe:
- Perfect Sweet & Savory Balance: The honey glaze brings sweetness, while the bacon adds a smoky, salty crunch.
- Crispy Texture: Roasting gives these sprouts a tender inside with a crispy outside.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal effort.
- Versatile: A great side, appetizer, or even snack.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Even those who aren’t fans of Brussels sprouts will love this dish.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
For the Brussels Sprouts:
- 1 ½ lbs Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Honey Glaze:
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 3 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for depth)
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh chopped parsley or thyme
Step-by-Step Instructions
-
Preheat & Prep
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. -
Roast the Brussels Sprouts
Toss the halved Brussels sprouts in a bowl with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Spread them in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, cut-side down. Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden brown and crispy. -
Cook the Bacon
While the sprouts roast, cook the chopped bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the rendered bacon fat in the pan. -
Make the Honey Glaze
In the same skillet with the bacon fat, whisk together the honey, vinegar, Dijon mustard (if using), and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the glaze thickens slightly. -
Combine & Finish
Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted, transfer them to a large bowl. Drizzle the honey glaze over the sprouts and toss gently to coat. Stir in the crispy bacon bits, reserving some for garnish if desired. -
Serve
Transfer to a serving platter or bowl. Garnish with reserved bacon bits and fresh parsley or thyme for a fresh, herbaceous finish.
Why This Recipe Works:
- Roasting Magic: High heat caramelizes the natural sugars in Brussels sprouts, creating a crispy exterior and tender interior.
- Bacon Fat Base: The rendered bacon fat adds a rich, smoky flavor to the glaze.
- Sweet & Tangy Glaze: Honey and vinegar provide a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity.
Variations to Try:
- Add Nuts: Toss in toasted pecans, almonds, or walnuts for extra crunch.
- Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper for heat.
- Gluten-Free Option: Naturally gluten-free—just make sure your bacon doesn’t contain gluten.
- Vegan Twist: Replace the bacon with smoked paprika or coconut bacon, and use maple syrup instead of honey.
- Cheesy Finish: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or crumbled feta over the finished dish.
Tips for Success:
- Dry the Sprouts: Pat the Brussels sprouts dry after washing them to ensure they crisp up in the oven.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Spread the sprouts in a single layer on the baking sheet to ensure proper roasting.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions:
- Holiday Side Dish: Pair with roasted turkey, ham, or prime rib for a festive meal.
- Weeknight Dinner: Serve alongside grilled chicken, pork chops, or salmon.
- Romantic Touch: Plate with a drizzle of extra honey and fresh herbs for an elegant look.
- Party Platter: Arrange on a charcuterie board with other roasted veggies for a shareable spread.
Final Thoughts: These Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon are a game-changer! They’re sweet, savory, and irresistibly crispy, making them the perfect way to transform Brussels sprouts into a star dish. Whether it’s for a holiday feast or a weeknight treat, this recipe is sure to impress.
How do you like to prepare Brussels sprouts? Share your favorite recipes or variations below!
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