Say goodbye to boring Brussels sprouts and hello to this irresistible side dish: Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon. Perfectly caramelized sprouts pair beautifully with crispy, smoky bacon, all drizzled with a sweet and savory honey glaze. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a holiday spread, or simply looking to elevate your weeknight meals, this dish will steal the spotlight. Easy to prepare and packed with bold flavors, it’s the ultimate way to convert even the pickiest eaters into Brussels sprouts lovers!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Trim the ends off the Brussels sprouts and remove any outer leaves that look wilted. Cut the sprouts in half lengthwise for even roasting.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
- In a large oven-safe skillet or sheet pan, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5–7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the rendered bacon grease in the pan.
Step 3: Season and Roast the Brussels Sprouts
- Place the halved Brussels sprouts in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Spread the sprouts in a single layer on a sheet pan or in the skillet with the reserved bacon grease. Arrange them cut-side down for maximum caramelization.
- Roast for 20–25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the sprouts are golden brown and tender.
Step 4: Make the Honey Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey and balsamic vinegar. Set aside.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
- Remove the roasted Brussels sprouts from the oven and drizzle with the honey glaze. Toss to coat evenly.
- Add the crispy bacon back to the pan and mix gently.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately while warm.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Pick sprouts that are firm, bright green, and free of yellowing or blemishes for the best flavor and texture.
- Use Thick-Cut Bacon: For an extra crunch and smoky flavor, thick-cut bacon works best.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Ensure the Brussels sprouts have enough space to roast properly. Overcrowding can cause them to steam instead of caramelize.
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the honey or swap it for maple syrup for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Crispier Texture: Roast the sprouts for an additional 5 minutes for extra crispiness.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a 375°F oven or air fryer for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness. The microwave works in a pinch but may soften the sprouts.
- Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as roasted Brussels sprouts may lose their texture when thawed.
Variations
- Add Nuts: Sprinkle toasted pecans, almonds, or walnuts over the dish for added crunch and flavor.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or drizzle with spicy honey for a sweet-heat combo.
- Cheese Lover’s Twist: Finish the dish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or crumbled goat cheese for an extra layer of richness.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon and use smoked paprika or a touch of liquid smoke to mimic the smoky flavor.
- Citrus Zing: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving to brighten the flavors.
Nutrition Details (Per Serving)
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 330mg
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 8g
FAQ
1. Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
While fresh Brussels sprouts yield the best results, you can use frozen ones. Just make sure to thaw and pat them dry thoroughly to remove excess moisture before roasting.
2. What other sweeteners can I use besides honey?
Maple syrup or agave nectar work well as substitutes for honey, offering a slightly different flavor profile.
3. How do I make this dish dairy-free?
This recipe is already dairy-free, but ensure your balsamic vinegar and other ingredients are labeled as such if needed.
4. Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep the Brussels sprouts and bacon in advance, but it’s best to roast them fresh for optimal crispiness. If making ahead, reheat in the oven for the best texture.
5. What main dishes pair well with this recipe?
Honey-glazed roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon complement roasted chicken, baked salmon, pork tenderloin, or a hearty vegetarian dish like lentil loaf.
