These Maple Balsamic Brussels Sprouts are a tasty mix of sweet and tangy flavors, all thanks to the maple syrup and balsamic vinegar. Plus, crispy bacon adds a yummy crunch!
Honestly, who knew Brussels sprouts could taste so good? I always sneak some extra pieces when no one is watching. They make a perfect side dish or even a snack—so delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brussels Sprouts: Fresh Brussels sprouts are key for this recipe. They should be bright green and firm. If they’re not available, you can use frozen sprouts, just adjust cooking time as needed.
Bacon: I love the salty crunch of bacon here, but you can use turkey bacon or even a plant-based bacon alternative if you’re looking for a lighter or vegetarian option.
Olive Oil: This helps the sprouts roast nicely. You could substitute with avocado oil or melted coconut oil for a different flavor.
Balsamic Vinegar: The tanginess is essential! If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar would work, but the flavor will change slightly.
Maple Syrup: For a true maple flavor, go for pure maple syrup. Honey or agave syrup can replace it if necessary, but the flavor profile will shift.
How Do I Get My Brussels Sprouts Crispy?
To achieve that perfect crispy texture, it’s crucial to roast the Brussels sprouts at a high temperature. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts for even cooking. Use a sharp knife for clean cuts.
- Make sure they are spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet, giving them space to crisp up.
- Stir them halfway through roasting to ensure even browning and to prevent steaming.
- Don’t rush it! Let them roast until they’re golden brown and tender, usually around 20-25 minutes.
Maple Balsamic Brussels Sprouts With Bacon
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 4 slices bacon, cut into small pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
- Optional garnish: freshly chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus 20-25 minutes of roasting time. You’ll spend just a tad over half an hour from start to finish for a savory, sweet side dish that everyone will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Get it nice and hot while you prepare your ingredients. This high temperature will help the Brussels sprouts get crispy!
2. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:
In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure they are evenly coated, as this will help them roast beautifully.
3. Spread on a Baking Sheet:
Spread the seasoned Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer. This is key—crowding the pan can cause them to steam instead of roast!
4. Add the Bacon:
Scatter the cut-up bacon pieces over the Brussels sprouts. As they roast, the bacon will become crispy and add delicious flavor to the dish.
5. Roast in the Oven:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for about 20-25 minutes. Make sure to stir them halfway through cooking so they get nice and brown all over.
6. Make the Balsamic-Maple Sauce:
While your Brussels sprouts and bacon are roasting, whisk together the balsamic vinegar and maple syrup in a small bowl. This mixture is what brings everything together with its sweet and tangy flavor!
7. Combine After Roasting:
Once the Brussels sprouts are tender and the bacon is crispy, remove them from the oven. Immediately drizzle the balsamic-maple mixture over the hot sprouts and bacon.
8. Toss to Coat:
Gently toss everything together in the baking sheet to combine the flavors evenly, making sure every piece gets a delicious coating.
9. Final Touches:
Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Taste a sprout – if it needs a little more flavor, add it!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the Brussels sprouts warm, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if you like. Enjoy this delightful blend of flavors!
These Maple Balsamic Brussels Sprouts With Bacon make a great side dish for any meal. The sweet maple pairs perfectly with the savory bacon and the crunch of the sprouts. Dig in and enjoy!
Can I Use Different Types of Vinegar?
Absolutely! While balsamic vinegar gives the best flavor for this recipe, you can substitute it with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar. Just remember that the taste will vary slightly, with red wine vinegar being more tangy and less sweet.
What If I Don’t Have Maple Syrup?
If you’re out of maple syrup, honey or agave syrup can work as a substitute. Keep in mind, though, that honey will impart a slightly different flavor, so adjust to your taste!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat until heated through.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! You can easily make this dish vegan by omitting the bacon or replacing it with a plant-based bacon alternative. Additionally, use maple syrup to keep that lovely sweetness without any animal products!
