Maple Bacon Glazed Brussels Sprouts

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Transform ordinary Brussels sprouts into an irresistible side dish with this perfect combination of crispy bacon, pure maple syrup, and tangy balsamic glaze. This easy roasted Brussels sprouts recipe converts even the most dedicated vegetable skeptics with its sweet and savory flavor profile.

Why This Bacon Brussels Sprouts Recipe Stands Out

These Maple Bacon Glazed Brussels Sprouts elevate a humble vegetable into the star of any meal. Unlike basic roasted Brussels sprouts recipes, this version creates the perfect balance of flavors: smoky bacon, sweet maple syrup, tangy balsamic vinegar, and a hint of Dijon mustard combine to counteract the natural bitterness of Brussels sprouts.

What makes this Brussels sprouts with bacon recipe exceptional is how it transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality side dish that pairs perfectly with everything from holiday turkey to weeknight chicken dinners. The caramelized maple-balsamic glaze creates an irresistible coating that makes these Brussels sprouts disappear quickly from any table.

The Perfect Brussels Sprouts Preparation Technique

Achieving the ideal texture—crispy outside, tender inside—starts with proper Brussels sprouts preparation:

Trimming and Halving for Even Cooking

1. Remove any yellow or damaged outer leaves
2. Trim the tough stem end without cutting through the core
3. Halve sprouts through the stem for even cooking and maximum caramelization
4. Dry thoroughly after washing to ensure proper browning

For the best roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon, consistent sizing is key. If some sprouts are significantly larger than others, quarter them to ensure all pieces cook at the same rate.

The Bacon Advantage: Flavor Infusion Throughout

What distinguishes this maple glazed Brussels sprouts recipe is the technique of cooking Brussels sprouts in bacon fat:

Using Rendered Bacon Fat as a Flavor Foundation

Rather than discarding the flavorful fat rendered from the bacon, this recipe uses it to:

• Pre-cook the Brussels sprouts before roasting, infusing bacon flavor into each piece
• Create a flavor base for the aromatic garlic and paprika
• Ensure maximum caramelization during the sautéing process

This bacon fat infusion method ensures that every bite delivers the perfect balance of vegetable and savory bacon flavor, unlike recipes that simply mix the ingredients before roasting.

Creating the Ultimate Sweet and Savory Glaze

The maple-balsamic glaze transforms these Brussels sprouts with bacon from good to unforgettable:

The Perfect Balance of Sweet, Tangy, and Savory

This signature glaze combines:

• Pure maple syrup (not pancake syrup) for authentic sweetness
• Aged balsamic vinegar for complex tanginess
• Dijon mustard for depth and subtle spice
• A touch of paprika for smoky warmth

When these ingredients reduce during roasting, they create a sticky, caramelized coating that perfectly balances the natural bitterness of Brussels sprouts while complementing the salty bacon.

Roasting Techniques for Maximum Flavor Development

The final roasting process is crucial for developing the complex flavors in this bacon Brussels sprouts recipe:

High-Heat Roasting for Perfect Caramelization

Roasting at 400°F (205°C) accomplishes several important functions:

• Creates crispy, caramelized edges on the Brussels sprouts
• Allows the maple-balsamic glaze to reduce to a sticky coating
• Renders any remaining fat in the bacon pieces for maximum crispness
• Develops deeper flavor through Maillard reaction (browning)

Tossing the Brussels sprouts halfway through cooking ensures even browning and helps the glaze adhere uniformly to each piece.

Versatile Pairings for Any Meal

These maple bacon Brussels sprouts complement a wide variety of main dishes:

• Holiday meals alongside turkey, ham, or prime rib
• Weeknight dinners with roasted chicken or pork chops
• Sunday brunch alongside eggs and hash browns
• Casual dinners with grilled steak or fish

The sweet-savory profile makes this side dish uniquely versatile across different cuisines and occasions.

Easy Customizations to Make It Your Own

This adaptable recipe welcomes personal touches:

• Add nuts: Toasted pecans or walnuts add delightful crunch
• Increase heat: Red pepper flakes create a sweet-spicy flavor profile
• Make it tangier: Additional balsamic vinegar intensifies the glaze
• Add freshness: Lemon zest brightens the finished dish
• Enhance the sweetness: A drizzle of honey creates additional caramelization

Each variation maintains the essential character of the dish while allowing for personalization based on preference or menu pairing.

Make-Ahead Tips for Entertaining

For stress-free entertaining, portions of this recipe can be prepared in advance:

• Trim and halve Brussels sprouts up to 2 days ahead (store in refrigerator)
• Cook bacon and reserve rendered fat the day before
• Prepare glaze ingredients and store separately
• Complete final cooking just before serving for optimal texture and flavor

These preparations make this impressive side dish manageable even for busy holiday meals.

This Maple Bacon Glazed Brussels Sprouts recipe proves that vegetables can be the highlight of any meal with the right combination of flavors and techniques. The balance of sweet maple syrup, smoky bacon, tangy balsamic, and perfectly roasted Brussels sprouts creates a side dish that disappears quickly and converts even the most dedicated Brussels sprouts skeptics into believers.

SUGGESTED RECIPE: Garlic Butter Shrimp and Brussels Sprouts Salad

Ready for a fresh take on Brussels sprouts? After the rich, savory flavors of Maple Bacon Glazed Brussels Sprouts, lighten things up with this Garlic Butter Shrimp and Brussels Sprouts Salad. It’s buttery, bright, and packed with flavor.