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Crispy Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts

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These crispy maple bacon Brussels sprouts are the perfect balance of savory and sweet, with a crunch that rivals any caramel treat. Ready in about 35 minutes, this easy recipe uses simple ingredients and a special technique for caramelized, smoky-sweet sprouts that even Brussels sprout haters will love.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
  • 4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped into small pieces
  • 3 tablespoons real maple syrup (Grade A dark amber)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Cook the bacon: In a small skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until crispy and the fat has rendered. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate. Reserve the bacon fat in a small bowl.
  3. Prep the Brussels sprouts: Rinse the sprouts and pat them completely dry. Trim off the tough ends and remove any yellow or damaged outer leaves. Cut each sprout in half lengthwise through the stem. Cut any large ones into quarters so everything roasts evenly.
  4. Toss the sprouts: In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts, 1 tablespoon of the reserved bacon fat (or olive oil if needed), olive oil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Toss well until every sprout is coated.
  5. Arrange on the baking sheet: Spread the sprouts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, cut-side down as much as possible. Do not overcrowd the pan.
  6. Roast for 15 minutes: Roast the sprouts for 15 minutes, then flip them with tongs or a spatula.
  7. Add the maple syrup and bacon: Drizzle the maple syrup over the sprouts and sprinkle the cooked bacon pieces on top. Toss gently to coat evenly, then spread back into a single layer.
  8. Roast for another 10-12 minutes: Return the pan to the oven and roast until the sprouts are tender and caramelized, with dark, crispy edges. Watch closely toward the end to prevent burning.
  9. Let them rest for 2 minutes: Remove from the oven and let the sprouts rest on the pan for 2 minutes. Transfer to a serving dish and serve warm.

Notes

Don’t add the maple syrup at the beginning or it will burn. Adding it halfway through gives perfect caramelization. For best results, use fresh Brussels sprouts, not frozen or pre-shredded. Make sure sprouts are dry before roasting to ensure crispiness. If you need to use two pans, do so to avoid overcrowding.

Nutrition

Keywords: Brussels sprouts, bacon, maple syrup, roasted vegetables, holiday side dish, easy side dish, crispy Brussels sprouts

Find it online: https://coracooks.com/crispy-maple-bacon-brussels-sprouts-easy-best-recipe/