Looking for a side dish that will steal the spotlight at your dinner table? Honey Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon is the ultimate combination of sweet, savory, and crispy goodness. These tender Brussels sprouts are roasted to perfection, tossed in a sticky honey glaze, and paired with crispy, smoky bacon. It’s a flavor-packed dish that’s simple to make but tastes like it came straight from a gourmet kitchen!
Whether you’re preparing a holiday feast, a weeknight meal, or just want to add some greens to your plate, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Even Brussels sprout skeptics will find it hard to resist the caramelized glaze and irresistible bacon crunch!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Perfect Flavor Combo: Sweet honey, savory bacon, and roasted Brussels sprouts – a match made in food heaven.
✔ Easy to Make: Minimal prep, simple ingredients, and just one sheet pan!
✔ Nutrient-Rich: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, plus the satisfying crunch of bacon.
✔ Great for Any Occasion: Works as a side dish for family dinners, Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a quick veggie upgrade.
Ingredients for Honey Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 4-5 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Honey Glaze:
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for tangy flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (for added depth)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Optional Toppings:
- Chopped pecans or walnuts, for added crunch
- Dried cranberries, for a festive twist
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
How to Make Honey Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
1️⃣ Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2️⃣ Trim the Brussels Sprouts: Wash the Brussels sprouts, trim the ends, and cut them in half.
Step 2: Roast the Brussels Sprouts and Bacon
1️⃣ Toss the Sprouts: In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out evenly on the baking sheet.
2️⃣ Add the Bacon: Sprinkle the diced bacon over the Brussels sprouts.
3️⃣ Roast: Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the Brussels sprouts are tender and caramelized, and the bacon is crispy.
Step 3: Make the Honey Glaze
1️⃣ Whisk the Glaze: While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, whisk together honey, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic in a small bowl.
2️⃣ Heat the Glaze: For a deeper flavor, gently heat the glaze in a saucepan over low heat for 1-2 minutes.
Step 4: Toss and Serve
1️⃣ Glaze the Sprouts: Remove the Brussels sprouts and bacon from the oven and drizzle the honey glaze over them. Toss gently to coat.
2️⃣ Add Toppings: Sprinkle with chopped pecans, dried cranberries, or fresh parsley if desired.
3️⃣ Serve Warm: Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Tips for Perfect Roasted Brussels Sprouts
✔ Cut Evenly: Halve the Brussels sprouts evenly so they cook at the same rate.
✔ Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Spread the Brussels sprouts out in a single layer to ensure they roast, not steam.
✔ Flip Halfway Through: Toss the sprouts halfway through roasting to get an even caramelization on all sides.
✔ Use Thick-Cut Bacon: It holds its texture better during roasting and adds a satisfying crunch.
Recipe Variations
🌶 Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the honey glaze for a sweet and spicy kick.
🍋 Zesty Flavor: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the roasted sprouts for a bright, tangy finish.
🥓 Maple Bacon Swap: Swap honey for maple syrup for a slightly different but equally delicious flavor.
🧄 Extra Garlic: Add more minced garlic to the glaze for a stronger garlicky punch.
Health Benefits of Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts aren’t just tasty – they’re packed with essential nutrients that make them a superfood:
- Rich in Fiber: Helps with digestion and keeps you feeling full.
- Loaded with Vitamins: High in vitamin C, vitamin K, and antioxidants.
- Heart-Healthy: Can support heart health and reduce inflammation.
Even bacon lovers can enjoy this dish guilt-free, thanks to the balance of greens and healthy ingredients!
Serving Suggestions
This Honey Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon recipe pairs well with a variety of main dishes:
🍗 Roasted Chicken: A classic pairing for a hearty, comforting meal.
🥩 Steak: Serve alongside a juicy steak for a steakhouse-style dinner at home.
🦃 Holiday Meals: Perfect as a side dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter.
🍠 Sweet Potato Mash: Pair with sweet potato mash or roasted potatoes for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness.
- Freezer (Not Recommended): Brussels sprouts tend to get mushy after freezing, so fresh is best.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I Use Frozen Brussels Sprouts?
Yes, but fresh Brussels sprouts will give you the best texture. If using frozen, thaw and pat them dry before roasting.
2. Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can prep the Brussels sprouts and bacon ahead of time, but for the best flavor and texture, roast them just before serving.
3. What’s the Best Way to Reheat Roasted Brussels Sprouts?
Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to bring back the crispy texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
A Sweet and Savory Side Dish You’ll Love
Honey Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon is everything you want in a side dish – crispy, caramelized, savory, and just the right amount of sweetness. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner and impressive enough for a holiday feast.
So, grab your sheet pan, toss those sprouts, and get ready for a dish that will turn Brussels sprout skeptics into true fans. This recipe might just become the most requested side dish at your table! 🥓🌿🍯
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