Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite side dish: maple roasted brussel sprouts with bacon! Every time I make this, I feel like a culinary rockstar. The way those brussel sprouts caramelize in the oven, soaking up the sweet maple syrup and mingling with crispy bacon, is just heavenly. It’s like a party on your plate! I remember the first time I served this at a family gathering. My relatives went from polite nibblers to full-on brussel sprout enthusiasts, and I’m pretty sure I caught my grandma sneaking seconds!
The combination of sweet and savory in this dish is what makes it truly special. You’ve got the earthy, slightly bitter flavor of the brussel sprouts, which gets beautifully balanced by the rich, smoky bacon and the luscious sweetness of maple syrup. It’s like a warm hug for your taste buds. Plus, it’s so simple to whip up! Whether it’s for Thanksgiving dinner or a cozy weeknight meal, this dish never fails to impress. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!
Ingredients List
Alright, let’s gather everything we need to make these delicious maple roasted brussel sprouts with bacon! Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
- 1 pound brussel sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure your brussel sprouts are nice and fresh—this really makes a difference! And don’t skimp on the bacon; you want that crispy goodness to shine through. The maple syrup adds just the right amount of sweetness, so I always measure out exactly 2 tablespoons. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later when that perfect flavor balance comes together!
How to Prepare Maple Roasted Brussel Sprouts with Bacon
Now let’s dive into the magic of making these maple roasted brussel sprouts with bacon! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a dish that’s not just tasty but also a feast for the eyes. Ready? Let’s go!
Prepping the Oven and Ingredients
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is super important because a hot oven helps those brussel sprouts caramelize beautifully. While that’s heating up, take a moment to gather and prep all your ingredients. Chop your bacon, trim and halve the brussel sprouts, and measure out your maple syrup and olive oil. Having everything ready to go makes the process so much smoother!
Combining Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the brussel sprouts, chopped bacon, maple syrup, olive oil, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This is where the fun begins! Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything together until those brussel sprouts are well-coated in that sweet and savory goodness. Trust me, the more evenly coated they are, the better they’ll turn out!
Roasting the Mixture
Next, spread your brussel sprout mixture out on a baking sheet in a single layer. This helps them roast evenly instead of steaming each other. Pop that baking sheet in the oven and roast for about 20-25 minutes. Don’t forget to check on them halfway through! Give them a little shake or stir to ensure they’re getting that gorgeous golden color all over. You want the brussel sprouts to be tender and the bacon to be nice and crispy!
Serving the Dish
Once they’re done roasting, take them out of the oven and let that delicious aroma fill your kitchen! Serve these warm, either as a side dish or even as a topping for your favorite main course. They’re so versatile! I love to pair them with chicken or even toss them into a salad for an extra pop of flavor. Enjoy every bite—you’ll be back for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation time—ready in just 35 minutes!
- Perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors that will wow your taste buds.
- Gluten-free, making it a great option for various dietary needs.
- Simple ingredients you probably already have on hand.
- Versatile enough to serve as a side dish or a delightful topping for mains.
- Brussels sprouts become tender and caramelized, while bacon adds an irresistible crunch.
- Impressive enough for gatherings, but easy enough for weeknight dinners.
Tips for Success
Want to make sure your maple roasted brussel sprouts with bacon turn out perfectly every time? I’ve got some pro tips that will elevate your dish to a whole new level of yum!
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you love a little more sweetness, don’t hesitate to add a touch more maple syrup! Just remember to keep it balanced so the flavors don’t get too cloying.
- Check for Doneness: About halfway through roasting, take a peek! Give the brussel sprouts a shake or stir to ensure they’re cooking evenly. You’ll want them tender with a beautiful golden-brown color.
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: Spread those brussel sprouts out in a single layer! If they’re too crowded, they’ll steam instead of roast, and we want that crispy goodness!
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to get creative! Adding a sprinkle of garlic powder or a dash of red pepper flakes can bring an extra punch of flavor to the dish.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh brussel sprouts and high-quality bacon will make a world of difference. The fresher your ingredients, the tastier your dish!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to impressing everyone at your table with these delightful brussel sprouts. Happy cooking!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to switch things up a bit, there are so many fun ways to customize your maple roasted brussel sprouts with bacon! Here are some delightful variations that I love:
- Nutty Crunch: Add a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts during the last 5 minutes of roasting for a wonderful crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet and savory elements.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or drizzle a touch of sriracha over the sprouts before serving. It’ll elevate your dish with a spicy twist!
- Herb Infusion: Toss in some fresh rosemary or thyme along with the brussel sprouts for an aromatic touch. Just a little goes a long way in adding depth to the flavor profile.
- Maple Mustard Glaze: Mix in a tablespoon of Dijon mustard with the maple syrup for a zesty kick that complements the sweetness of the syrup. It’s a game-changer!
- Sweet and Savory Combo: Consider adding some dried cranberries or raisins right before serving. Their sweetness and chewiness create a lovely contrast with the crispy bacon and roasted sprouts.
- Cheesy Finish: For a creamy touch, sprinkle some grated Parmesan or crumbled feta over the sprouts just before serving. The cheese melts slightly and adds another layer of flavor.
These variations not only keep the dish exciting, but they also let you tailor it to your personal taste or whatever you have on hand. So go ahead, mix and match, and make this recipe your own! Happy experimenting!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about what to do with any leftovers of those delicious maple roasted brussel sprouts with bacon! I promise, they’re just as tasty the next day! Here’s how to store and reheat them properly:
First, let your brussel sprouts cool down to room temperature before storing. Once they’re cool, transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for about 3-4 days, although I doubt they’ll last that long because they’re so good!
When it comes to reheating, the best method is to pop them back in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spread the sprouts out on a baking sheet. Reheat for about 10-15 minutes, just until they’re warmed through. This will help maintain that lovely crispy texture of the bacon and keep the sprouts nice and tender. If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave, but be careful not to overdo it! Just heat them in short bursts, stirring in between, until warmed.
And there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your maple roasted brussel sprouts with bacon even after the main event. Trust me, they’re worth savoring again!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
Just a little heads up: the nutritional information provided for these maple roasted brussel sprouts with bacon can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. Things like the type of bacon or the exact amount of maple syrup can change the numbers a bit. So, while I strive to give you a good estimate, it’s always a good idea to check your packaging for the most accurate information. Enjoy your cooking adventure without stressing too much about the stats—just focus on that delicious flavor!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making these maple roasted brussel sprouts with bacon? No worries, I’m here to help! Here are some common queries I get, along with my best answers to guide you through your cooking journey.
Can I use a different type of bacon?
Absolutely! While I love the classic flavor of regular bacon, you can use turkey bacon or even pancetta for a different twist. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly, so keep an eye on it while roasting!
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
If you’d like to enjoy these brussel sprouts without the bacon, simply leave it out! You can add a drizzle of olive oil and perhaps some smoked paprika for that savory flavor that bacon would typically provide. Another great option is to toss in some crispy roasted chickpeas for a protein boost!
Can I use frozen brussel sprouts?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them first and pat them dry to remove excess moisture. Frozen sprouts can sometimes be a bit softer, but they’ll still taste great with that maple and bacon combo!
What can I serve with this dish?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! These brussel sprouts make a fantastic side for roasted chicken, pork chops, or even as a topping for a hearty grain salad. I’ve even enjoyed them as part of a veggie bowl with quinoa and avocado. Yum!
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Sure! You can prep everything ahead of time and store the mixture in the fridge until you’re ready to roast. Just make sure to take it out and let it come to room temperature before popping it in the oven. This way, you’ll still get that perfect roast!
How do I know when the brussel sprouts are done?
Great question! You’ll know they’re done when they’re fork-tender and beautifully caramelized. The bacon should be crispy, and the sprouts will have a lovely golden-brown color. If you’re unsure, just take a taste test—that’s the best way to check!
Hopefully, these FAQs help clarify any cooking curiosities you might have about my beloved maple roasted brussel sprouts with bacon. If you have more questions, feel free to reach out. Happy cooking!
Z nadrukami
Maple Roasted Brussel Sprouts with Bacon: Pure Bliss for Dinner
- Całkowity Czas: 35 minutes
- Ustępować: 4 servings 1x
- Dieta: Bez Glutenu
Opis
A savory dish featuring brussel sprouts roasted with maple syrup and crispy bacon.
Składniki
- 1 pound brussel sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instrukcje
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, combine brussel sprouts, chopped bacon, maple syrup, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Toss to coat the brussel sprouts evenly.
- Spread the mixture on a baking sheet.
- Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until brussel sprouts are tender and bacon is crispy.
- Remove from oven and serve warm.
Uwagi
- Adjust maple syrup for desired sweetness.
- Check brussel sprouts halfway through roasting for even cooking.
- Serve as a side dish or a main course topping.
- Czas Przygotowania: 10 minutes
- Czas gotowania: 25 minutes
- Kategoria: Side Dish
- Sposób: Roasting
- Kuchnia: American
Zasilanie
- Wielkość porcji: 1 serving
- Kalorie: 180
- Cukier: 4g
- Sód: 250mg
- Kwasy: 10g
- Nasycony tłuszcz: 3g
- Tłuszcze Nienasycone: 7g
- Tłuszcze trans: 0g
- Węglowodany: 15g
- Włókno: 4g
- Białko: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Słowa kluczowe: maple roasted brussel sprouts with bacon
