If you’ve ever struggled to get people excited about vegetables, this dish changes everything.
Roasting Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness while giving them irresistibly crispy edges.
Add smoky bacon and a drizzle of maple syrup, and suddenly you have a side dish that tastes indulgent enough to steal the spotlight from the main course.
This recipe is incredibly simple yet delivers bold, balanced flavor—sweet, salty, and savory in every bite.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday spreads, these caramelized Brussels sprouts are guaranteed to convert even the most skeptical veggie eaters into fans.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved if large
- 4 slices bacon, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Place the prepared Brussels sprouts in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the bacon pieces, salt, and pepper. Drizzle with olive oil and maple syrup, then toss everything together until evenly coated.
- Spread the mixture out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet to ensure even roasting.
- Roast for 20 to 30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and the Brussels sprouts are golden brown and caramelized on the edges.
Chefs Notes
- For extra crispiness, make sure the sprouts are not overcrowded on the pan.
- If you prefer a deeper caramelized flavor, roast a few minutes longer but watch closely to prevent burning.
- A splash of balsamic glaze after roasting adds another layer of flavor.
- Thicker-cut bacon provides a meatier bite and holds up well during roasting.