Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
This recipe for maple glazed Brussels sprouts transforms just four simple ingredients into a delicious side dish with the perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors.
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1-1/2 lbs fresh Brussels sprouts (see notes)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 4 strips thick-cut bacon cut into 1/2-inch pieces
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1/3 cup maple syrup
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Trim the ends from the Brussels sprouts, remove any loose outer leaves, then wash and pat dry. Cut the sprouts in half lengthwise and place them on the prepared pan, cut side up. Season lightly with salt and pepper and drizzle them with 1/4 cup of water.
- Cover the pan with aluminum foil, seal tightly and roast for 20 minutes. Remove the foil (stand back to avoid steam burns) and test one of the larger sprouts to be sure they're tender. The tip of a sharp knife should easily pierce the center.
- Heat the maple syrup and butter in a microwave-safe mixing bowl for 1 minute on high. Stir and continue heating in 10-second increments until the butter has melted.
- Add the Brussels sprouts to the syrup and butter mixture and toss until well coated. Return them to the baking sheet and spread them in a single layer. Scatter the bacon on top and drizzle with any remaining syrup and butter.
- Reduce the oven temperature to 375°F and continue roasting the sprouts, uncovered until they're nicely caramelized and the bacon is crisp, about 15 minutes. For best results, turn the sprouts at least once, midway through the roasting time.
Notes
ABOUT THE BRUSSELS SPROUTS: Fresh Brussels sprouts are the best choice for this recipe, but frozen can be used in a pinch. Check the package directions for cooking times, cut back slightly (to allow for the additional roasting time), and proceed with the recipe instructions from Step #4.
ABOUT THE BACON: We recommend using thick-cut bacon for its meaty flavor and because it won't get overcooked during roasting.
MAPLE SYRUP: We like the mellow sweetness and subtle earthiness of maple syrup for this dish, but you could substitute brown sugar if needed. Stir 1/4 cup of brown sugar together with 1 tablespoon of water and follow the recipe instructions for combining with the melted butter. You may need to add a little more water to get the right consistency.
Nutrition
Calories: 247 | Total Fat: 16g | Cholesterol: 31mg | Sodium: 331mg | Carbohydrates: 23g | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 13g | Protein: 7g