Get ready to change your mind about Brussels sprouts with this deliciously sweet and savory Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts recipe! Picture perfectly roasted sprouts, caramelized with maple syrup and paired with crispy, crunchy bacon. It’s a fantastic dish that’s easy to make and even easier to love!
Budget Information
The total cost for this Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts recipe is approximately $10.00. With four servings, that breaks down to about $2.50 per serving. Here’s a quick cost breakdown for each ingredient:
- Brussels sprouts (1 lb) – $3.00
- Bacon (4 slices) – $2.50
- Olive oil (2 tbsp) – $0.25
- Maple syrup (2 tbsp) – $0.75
- Garlic powder (1 tsp) – $0.10
- Salt & pepper – $0.20
Why This Recipe Works
This Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts recipe brings balance to the table by combining the natural bitterness of the Brussels sprouts with the rich, smokiness of bacon and the sweet warmth of maple syrup. The result? A dish that manages to be both healthy and indulgent! Whether it’s as a side for your holiday feast or a flavorful addition to a weeknight dinner, this recipe promises to win over even the most Brussels sprouts-averse diners. You’ll be surprised at how quickly they disappear!
Ingredients + Optional Substitutions
Here’s what you’ll need for this scrumptious dish, along with some tasty substitutions:
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts ($3.00) – Feel free to use trimmed green beans for a different twist.
- 4 slices of bacon ($2.50) – Turkey bacon works well for a healthier option!
- 2 tbsp olive oil ($0.25) – Avocado oil is a great substitute for a higher smoke point.
- 2 tbsp maple syrup ($0.75) – Honey could be an alternative if you’re not vegan.
- 1 tsp garlic powder ($0.10) – Fresh minced garlic can add an extra punch.
- Salt and pepper to taste ($0.20) – Season to your heart’s content!
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). While that lovely warmth builds up, take a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This will not only make cleanup a breeze but also help the sprouts crisp up evenly!
Step 2: Grab a large mixing bowl and toss in the washed and trimmed Brussels sprouts. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then sprinkle on the salt, pepper, and garlic powder. With your hands, mix it all together until every sprout is coated in the zesty goodness, making sure to get those little nooks and crannies!
Step 3: Spread the Brussels sprouts evenly on the prepared baking sheet and pop them in the oven. Bake for about 25 to 30 minutes until they are fork-tender and their edges start to brown beautifully—this caramelization is where the magic happens!
Step 4: While your sprouts are roasting, take the opportunity to fry up the bacon. In a large sauté pan over medium heat, cook the bacon until it’s perfectly crispy. Once cooked, transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess fat. Once it’s cool, crumble it into smaller bits and set it aside for later.
Step 5: As soon as your Brussels sprouts finish baking, return the sauté pan (with a little bit of bacon fat still in it for flavor!) to medium heat, adding the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the roasted Brussels sprouts to the pan and get ready for the delicious aroma!
Step 6: Take that gorgeous maple syrup and drizzle it over the Brussels sprouts, then gently toss everything together with a wooden spoon, ensuring the syrup glazes the sprouts evenly. Let them cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the syrup begins to caramelize and gives the sprouts a lovely sweet sheen.
Step 7: Remove from the heat, scatter the crispy bacon bits over your glazed sprouts, and give one final stir to marry all the flavors together. Taste your masterpiece and adjust seasoning with extra salt or another drizzle of maple syrup if desired. Serve immediately and bask in the compliments!
Nutritional Facts
Here’s what you can expect in each serving:
- Calories: 221
- Protein: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Total Fats: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Fiber: 9g
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 719mg
Storage and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? No problem! You can store these Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When it comes time to reheat, just pop them in the microwave for a minute or so, or toss them into a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. If you just can’t get enough of that caramelization, a quick fry in a hot pan will do the trick!
Serving Suggestions
These Brussels sprouts make a fantastic side dish for everything from roasted meats to grilled fish. They’re perfect alongside holiday favorites like glazed ham or turkey. For a vegetarian twist, pair them with a hearty quinoa salad or some creamy mashed potatoes. They’re not just a side; they could also shine as a main event when served over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa!
Reader Tips or Helpful Notes
Don’t be afraid to play around with this recipe! Try adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, or toss in some sliced almonds for crunch. For a fresh touch, a drizzle of balsamic glaze right before serving elevates the dish even further. And remember, the key to delicious Brussels sprouts is all in the roasting—let those little green gems get a good char!
Recipe FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the bacon for crispy tempeh or mushrooms cooked until golden brown for a savory kick.
2. What’s a good way to prepare Brussels sprouts if I can’t roast them?
You can also steam or sauté them! Just make sure to season well and maybe finish with a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
3. How can I tell if Brussels sprouts are fresh?
Look for firm, compact heads with bright green leaves. Avoid any that are yellowing or have brown spots.
4. Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Yes, but fresh will give you the best texture! If using frozen, be sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before cooking.
5. What other toppings work well with this dish?
Parmesan cheese or toasted nuts are fantastic additions! They add depth and richness to the dish.
