Balsamic Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon is a delightful dish that brings together rich flavors and wholesome ingredients. The combination of crispy bacon and caramelized Brussels sprouts drizzled with a sweet balsamic and maple syrup glaze makes for an irresistible side.
This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. Perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings, it offers a balance of sweet and savory that pleases everyone at the table. If you’ve been looking for a way to make Brussels sprouts appealing, this recipe is a great choice.
Why Make This Recipe
Balsamic Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon is the perfect blend of flavors that transform a simple vegetable into an unforgettable dish. The sweetness of maple syrup complements the earthy taste of Brussels sprouts, while the bacon adds a crispy, savory twist that elevates the overall taste profile.
Making this recipe is not just about serving a delicious side. It’s an opportunity to enjoy a healthier vegetable by preparing it in a way that everyone in your family will love. This recipe is straightforward and quick, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the meal rather than preparing it.
Equipment Needed for Balsamic Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
To prepare this dish, you will need a few basic kitchen tools that make the cooking process seamless.
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowl
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Cooking spatula
These tools will certainly make your cooking experience quick and enjoyable, setting you up for success in this delicious endeavor.
What You Need to Make Balsamic Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
To create this tasty dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds Brussels sprouts (trimmed and halved)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste
- 4 slices of bacon (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
With these simple ingredients, you are well on your way to creating a mouth-watering dish that everyone will rave about.
How to Cook Balsamic Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Step by Step
Begin by preheating your oven to 425° F. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect roasted flavor. It sets the stage for the Brussels sprouts to become crisp and caramelized.
Next, place the halved Brussels sprouts onto the baking sheet. Make sure to spread them out evenly. Drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil across them, allowing the sprouts to absorb that delicious fat. The olive oil not only adds flavor but also helps in the cooking process, allowing your vegetables to roast beautifully.
Now, season the Brussels sprouts with kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste. Don’t skimp on the seasoning; it brings out the natural flavors of the sprouts. Use your hands to toss everything together. You want to ensure each sprout is coated with oil and seasoning.
Chop up the bacon into bite-size pieces. Add the chopped bacon to the sheet pan, mixing it in with the Brussels sprouts. This is where the magic happens! As it roasts, the bacon fat will render and flavor the sprouts. Ensure everything is in a single layer for even cooking.
Roast the Brussels sprouts in the preheated oven for about 12 minutes. It’s time to check on them! Remove the baking sheet from the oven, and using a spatula, toss them around so that the other side gets some crisp too. This step is important to guarantee that each sprout gets maximum caramelization.
After tossing, return the sheet to the oven and roast for another 10-12 minutes. You’re looking for a beautiful golden-brown color with crispy edges. The smell should be heavenly! Once they are done, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a moment.
Now it’s time to finish the dish. Toss together the Brussels sprouts and bacon with the maple syrup and balsamic vinegar. Make sure every piece is well coated with the glaze that brings sweet and tangy notes to your dish. After mixing, carefully pour everything into a serving bowl.
To elevate the presentation, garnish with flaky sea salt and an extra drizzle of balsamic vinegar. The finishing touches make it look restaurant-quality, turning your kitchen into a place of culinary delight.
How to Make Balsamic Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Making Balsamic Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon is easy and quick. The key is in the preparation and roasting process. Start with fresh Brussels sprouts. Make sure to rinse them well. Trim the ends and cut them in half.
Preheat your oven properly. Using high heat cooks the sprouts quickly, leading to that desirable roasted flavor while keeping them tender inside. Use a good-quality olive oil that enhances the taste of the vegetables.
Don’t forget to season generously. Salt and pepper are your friends in this recipe. They are essential to balance the sweetness of the maple syrup and the acidity of balsamic vinegar.
Including bacon adds depth to the dish. As the bacon cooks, it not only infuses flavors but also creates that satisfying crispy texture. By tossing everything halfway through the cooking time, you ensure that all components are cooked evenly.
Once everything is finished cooking and properly glazed, serve them immediately or let them sit for a few moments. The flavors meld beautifully, making it a dish that tastes even better as it cools a bit.
How to Serve Balsamic Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Serving Balsamic Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon is as delightful as making them. The warm, crisp sprouts topped with bacon are a visually appealing treat on any dining table.
When plated, ensure to drizzle some extra balsamic glaze on top for an added touch of flavor and elegance. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt brightens the dish. These small details enhance both the taste and presentation, making your dish look gourmet.
You can serve these roasted Brussels sprouts as a side dish along with any main course. They pair excellently with chicken, pork, or even a hearty vegetarian meal. Feel free to serve them family-style in a large bowl, allowing guests to help themselves.
What to Serve with Balsamic Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
This dish can complement many main courses. For meat lovers, consider serving it alongside roasted chicken or grilled pork chops. The savory elements of the meat heighten the rich flavors of the Brussels sprouts.
For vegetarian options, these roasted sprouts pair well with quinoa bowls or a lentil salad. The combination creates a wholesome meal packed with nutrients.
A light salad with mixed greens, nuts, and a citrus vinaigrette can also balance the richness of the dish. Pairing your Brussels sprouts with various menus can cater to diverse dietary preferences, making sure nobody leaves the table unsatisfied.
How to Store Balsamic Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
If you happen to have leftovers, storing them properly is essential for maintaining freshness. Allow the dish to cool completely at room temperature.
Once cool, transfer the Brussels sprouts and bacon into an airtight container. Make sure to seal it tightly to prevent moisture from affecting the texture.
You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheating in the oven will recapture that crispy texture. Simply place them in a preheated oven at 350° F for about 10-15 minutes.
Tips to Make Balsamic Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
To ensure the best results when making this recipe, consider these helpful tips. First, choose Brussels sprouts that are bright green and firm. Avoid those that are yellowing or showing signs of wilting.
Cut the sprouts evenly so they cook uniformly. If you have larger Brussels sprouts, consider halving them again for consistent cooking.
Be generous with the salt and pepper, as these spices enhance flavors. The bacon should be cut into small pieces for more even cooking, ensuring that you get a bit of bacon with every bite of sprouts.
When tossing the mixture halfway through roasting, be gentle to preserve the sprout’s halved shape, which adds to the final presentation. Keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid burning; every oven is slightly different.
Variation
If you want to experiment with flavors, consider adding garlic. A few minced cloves tossed in during the roasting phase can provide a delightful aromatic quality.
For a spicy kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes before roasting. The heat complements the sweetness of the syrup and vinegar nicely.
Including different vegetables, like carrots or sweet potatoes, can add variety to the dish. They will roast well together, adding colorful appeal and textural contrast.
Best Time to Make Balsamic Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
This recipe shines during the fall and winter months when Brussels sprouts are in season. The cooler weather makes comfort foods like this especially appealing.
However, you can enjoy this dish year-round. It is perfect for holiday meals like Thanksgiving or Christmas, where special side dishes make all the difference.
Even a simple weeknight dinner can be elevated with this recipe, helping you create hearty, delicious meals without a lot of effort.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To achieve the best flavors, avoid overcooking the Brussels sprouts. This can lead to mushy textures instead of the desired crispy and tender result.
Also, don’t overlook the importance of spacing on the baking sheet. If the sprouts are crowded or piled on top of one another, they may steam instead of roast, which affects the final texture.
Make sure to use fresh ingredients. Higher-quality maple syrup and balsamic vinegar will greatly enhance the dish’s flavor. Don’t skip the steps in the recipe; each contributes to bringing out the best in the ingredients.
Nutritional Notes
This dish is naturally vegetarian if you skip the bacon. It contains healthy components like fiber-rich Brussels sprouts and a good balance of fats from bacon and olive oil.
Maple syrup, while a sugar, also provides nutrients compared to refined sugars, making this a balanced side dish. Enjoying vegetables in flavorful preparations encourages healthy eating habits, making this dish both satisfying and nutritious.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the Brussels sprouts and bacon and store them in the fridge until ready to roast. Just remember to toss them with the syrup and vinegar right before serving.
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
While fresh is best, frozen Brussels sprouts can be used in a pinch. Just ensure to thaw and drain them well before roasting.
How do I make this dish vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, simply replace the bacon with a plant-based bacon alternative or omit it entirely. You can add nuts or seeds for extra texture and flavor.
Conclusion
Balsamic Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon is a winning recipe that balances sweet and savory flavors beautifully. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward cooking steps, you can create a delicious side dish that impresses family and friends alike.
This dish is versatile enough to accompany a variety of main courses and can be tailored to suit different tastes. Whether making it for a holiday gathering or a casual dinner, these roasted Brussels sprouts are sure to be a hit. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful recipe, knowing it brings joy and flavor to your dinner table.
Balsamic Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Place the halved Brussels sprouts onto the baking sheet, spreading them out evenly.
- Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly.
- Season with Kosher salt and black pepper to taste.
- Add chopped bacon to the baking sheet and mix with the Brussels sprouts in a single layer.
- Roast the Brussels sprouts and bacon in the preheated oven for about 12 minutes.
- Toss the mixture once and return to the oven to roast for an additional 10-12 minutes or until golden-brown and crispy.
- Toss the roasted Brussels sprouts and bacon with maple syrup and balsamic vinegar until well coated.
- Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with flaky sea salt and an extra drizzle of balsamic vinegar.
