Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts

Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts is the kind of side dish that instantly steals attention at the table. With caramelized Brussels sprouts, crispy bacon, and a glossy maple glaze, this recipe delivers bold flavor while staying simple and approachable. Each bite offers a perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and savory, making it just as ideal for weeknight dinners as it is for holiday spreads.

Brussels sprouts have long been roasted across European kitchens, but pairing them with maple syrup and bacon became popular as American cooking leaned into sweet-and-savory combinations. The result is a dish that feels comforting yet modern, rustic yet refined. As the sprouts roast, their natural sugars caramelize, while the bacon adds richness and depth.

Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, baked salmon, or holiday turkey. It’s a reliable crowd-pleaser that turns a simple vegetable into something truly memorable.

Recipe Yield: 4 servings

INGREDIENTS

1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
4 strips thick-cut bacon, chopped
3 tbsp maple syrup
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp melted butter
1 tsp Dijon mustard
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp smoked paprika
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Prep and heat:
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure even roasting and easy cleanup.

2. Toss and coat:
In a large bowl, combine the Brussels sprouts, olive oil, melted butter, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Toss well until the sprouts are evenly coated and glossy.

3. Add bacon:
Transfer the Brussels sprouts to the prepared baking sheet and spread them into a single layer. Sprinkle the chopped bacon evenly over the top to ensure consistent crisping.

4. Roast and caramelize:
Roast for 22–25 minutes, tossing halfway through, until the Brussels sprouts are deeply caramelized and the bacon is crisp and golden.

5. Finish and balance:
Remove from the oven and immediately drizzle with apple cider vinegar. Toss gently to balance the sweet maple flavor and enhance brightness before serving warm.

Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe

• Create perfect caramelization: Always roast Brussels sprouts cut-side down and spaced apart. This allows direct contact with the pan, creating deeply golden edges while keeping the centers tender.
• Balance sweet and savory flavors: Maple syrup adds richness, but the apple cider vinegar at the end is essential. It cuts through the sweetness, enhances the bacon, and keeps the dish vibrant and crave-worthy.
• Choose thick-cut bacon: Thick-cut bacon crisps slowly and renders flavorful fat without burning. This ensures the bacon stays meaty and perfectly textured throughout roasting.