Introduction to Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Ah, the joy of cooking! There’s something magical about preparing a dish that pleases everyone. Today, I’m thrilled to share my favorite recipe for Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon. Trust me, this dish isn’t just good; it’s a secret weapon for busy moms and professional women like us! It’s a quick solution for a chaotic weeknight dinner and a perfect way to impress guests. Plus, the combination of sweet honey, bacon’s savory crunch, and the nutty flavor of Brussels sprouts is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
This Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon recipe is a delightful triumph in your kitchen. It’s incredibly easy, taking just 35 minutes from start to finish. The flavors dance together so beautifully, with the honey’s sweetness playing perfectly against the rich, crispy bacon. Plus, it’s a dish that even the pickiest eaters might enjoy. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be making it on repeat!
Ingredients Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Gather these amazing ingredients to whip up your Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon!
- Brussels sprouts: Fresh, vibrant, and packed with nutrients. They add crunch and a slight bitterness, balancing the sweetness of the honey.
- Olive oil: A must-have for roasting. It helps everything crisp up beautifully while bringing a subtle fruity flavor.
- Honey: This is the star ingredient! It caramelizes the Brussels sprouts, giving them a sweet glaze that pairs perfectly with bacon.
- Salt: A bit of seasoning enhances the natural flavors. It’s a simple yet crucial ingredient!
- Black pepper: Adds a touch of heat that complements the honey’s sweetness. A dash goes a long way!
- Bacon: Thick-cut bacon is sinful indulgence in this dish. It brings a savory crunch that’s hard to resist.
- Maple syrup: This optional addition deepens the sweetness and adds a lovely depth of flavor. Perfect for those with a sweet tooth!
- Dijon mustard: Just a spoonful brings tanginess to the dish, cutting through the richness of the bacon.
- Balsamic vinegar: This optional but delicious ingredient adds brightness and acidity, elevating the dish even more.
- Red pepper flakes: For those who love a kick, this optional spice provides a nice heat to the dish, balancing the sweetness.
Don’t worry about measurements; they’re detailed at the bottom of the article for printing.
How to Make Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Let’s move on to the fun part: making this delicious Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon! Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a dish that sings with flavor and looks gorgeous on the plate.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first—preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This hot temperature is key for roasting, ensuring that your Brussels sprouts become tender on the inside while crispy on the outside. A good preheat makes all the difference!
Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Now, let’s tackle those Brussels sprouts. Toss them with olive oil, honey, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Make sure each sprout gets a good coating. This step ensures that the honey caramelizes beautifully as they roast, creating that mouthwatering glaze. Trust me, if they’re not well coated, you might miss out on that sweet, crispy goodness!
Step 3: Arrange the Bacon
Next, grab your thick-cut bacon. Lay it out on a separate baking sheet in a single layer for even cooking. If you crowd the bacon, it won’t get that delightful crispiness we all crave. Plus, separating it allows the grease to render off, adding to the flavor of your Brussels sprouts!
Step 4: Roast Both Ingredients
Time to roll! Place both the baking sheet of Brussels sprouts and the bacon in your preheated oven. Roast them for about 20 to 25 minutes. Check on them halfway through and give the sprouts a gentle shake to ensure they roast evenly. You’ll know they’re ready when the Brussels sprouts are tender with crispy edges, and the bacon is beautifully browned.
When they’re all done, the combination of caramelized veggies and crispy bacon will have your kitchen smelling divine! Get ready for some serious compliments!
Tips for Success
- Don’t skip the preheating step; it’s crucial for that perfect roast.
- Ensure your Brussels sprouts are similar in size for even cooking.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of parmesan cheese just before serving.
- Label your leftovers; they make for a delicious lunch the next day!
- Experiment with your spices; a little garlic powder goes a long way!
Equipment Needed
- Baking sheets: Use two for even cooking; lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Large mixing bowl: A big one for tossing those Brussels sprouts nicely.
- Tongs: Handy for flipping the bacon or stirring the sprouts.
- Measuring spoons: Essential for precise ingredient amounts if you’re measuring!
Variations
- Maple Twist: Swap out honey for maple syrup for a different sweet flavor that caramelizes beautifully.
- Vegan Delight: Omit the bacon and grill Brussels sprouts. Use olive oil for a rich flavor and add smoked paprika for a smoky kick.
- Nutty Goodness: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts just before serving to add a delightful crunch.
- Extra Veggie: Mix in some diced sweet potatoes to add a pop of color, sweetness, and nutrients.
- Herby Fresh: Enhance the dish with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor and aroma.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon alongside roasted chicken or grilled steak for a hearty meal.
- For a light lunch, serve them on a bed of arugula with a simple vinaigrette.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving for an elegant touch.
- Enjoy with a crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, to balance the flavors.
FAQs about Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw and drain them first. Frozen Brussels sprouts might need a bit longer to roast, so keep an eye on them.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon in an airtight container in the fridge. They should stay fresh for about 3 days. Reheat them in the oven to keep them crispy!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Brussels sprouts and bacon ahead of time. Just toss them together and refrigerate until you’re ready to roast. It’s a great time-saver.
What can I serve with Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon?
These delicious sprouts pair wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or even as a side dish for a festive dinner. Their sweet and savory flavor complements many main courses!
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Simply leave out the bacon and consider adding chickpeas or mushrooms for a savory twist. You’ll still enjoy the delightful sweetness of the honey-glazed Brussels sprouts!
Final Thoughts
This Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon recipe is more than just a side dish; it’s a delightful culinary experience. The combination of flavors creates a sweet and savory melody that dances on your taste buds. Picture the smiles around your dinner table as everyone savors each bite!
Whether you’re serving it for a busy weeknight meal or a special gathering, this dish brings warmth and joy to every occasion. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the magic of cooking, and treat your family to this scrumptious dish. You’ll be glad you did!
Print
Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Delight!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delightful dish featuring Brussels sprouts caramelized in honey and served with crispy bacon.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet.
- Place bacon on a separate baking sheet.
- Roast Brussels sprouts and bacon in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until Brussels sprouts are tender and bacon is crispy.
Notes
- For added heat, include red pepper flakes.
- Make sure to toss the Brussels sprouts well to ensure even coating.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
