Introduction:
Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon is a delicious and easy-to-make side dish that combines the earthy flavors of Brussels sprouts with the savory goodness of crispy bacon, all topped off with a sweet honey glaze. The roasting process enhances the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts, while the bacon adds a smoky, salty richness. This dish is perfect for holiday meals, weeknight dinners, or anytime you’re craving a flavorful and nutritious vegetable side.
Ingredients:
1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
6 slices of bacon, chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
1/4 cup honey
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Prepare Brussels Sprouts: Trim the ends off the Brussels sprouts and slice them in half. Place them in a large bowl.
Cook Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel to drain the excess fat. Leave a little bacon grease in the skillet for flavor.
Toss Brussels Sprouts: Add olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the Brussels sprouts. Toss them well to ensure they are evenly coated.
Roast Brussels Sprouts: Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the edges, stirring halfway through.
Make Honey Glaze: While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, combine honey and balsamic vinegar in the skillet used for bacon. Stir over medium heat until the mixture slightly thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
Combine: Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted, transfer them to a large bowl. Drizzle the honey glaze over the Brussels sprouts and toss to coat evenly.
Add Bacon: Sprinkle the cooked bacon on top of the Brussels sprouts and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy!
Description:
This dish is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and smoky. The honey glaze elevates the Brussels sprouts, making them caramelized and irresistible, while the bacon adds crunch and depth of flavor. The balsamic vinegar adds a touch of acidity, ensuring the dish isn’t overly sweet, and the garlic powder enhances the savory profile. The crispy Brussels sprouts bring a satisfying texture, making this side dish both flavorful and visually appealing.
Tips:
Crispier Brussels Sprouts: If you like your Brussels sprouts extra crispy, increase the roasting time by 5 minutes or broil them for the last 2-3 minutes.
Make Ahead: You can prep the Brussels sprouts and bacon in advance, then roast and glaze them right before serving.
Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter glaze, you can add a little more honey. For a tangier taste, increase the balsamic vinegar slightly.
Bacon Variations: For an even smokier flavor, try using smoked bacon or pancetta instead of regular bacon.
Add Heat: If you like a little spice, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on the Brussels sprouts before roasting.
Variations:
Maple Glaze: Replace honey with maple syrup for a different sweet flavor.
Vegan Version: Skip the bacon and use olive oil or coconut oil to roast the Brussels sprouts. Use a maple or agave glaze for sweetness.
Nuts and Seeds: Add toasted pecans, walnuts, or sunflower seeds for added crunch and flavor.
Cheese: Sprinkle some Parmesan or goat cheese on top after roasting for a creamy, salty finish.
Corrections:
Make sure to remove any yellow or damaged outer leaves of the Brussels sprouts before roasting to avoid any bitterness.
Don’t overcrowd the Brussels sprouts on the baking sheet; they need space to roast evenly and crisp up.
Enjoy:
These Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon will quickly become a family favorite with their combination of flavors and textures. Perfect for pairing with a variety of mains, or even enjoyed on their own as a satisfying snack. Enjoy!