Hey, Shaym here from SoolFood. I’ll admit it. I used to avoid Brussels sprouts at Thanksgiving. Boiled and bland? No thanks. But that changed the year I tossed them in maple syrup and added crispy bacon. The flavor hit me like, “Where has this been all my life?” Now, even the veggie-haters in my family dive in. These maple roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon are sweet, salty, and totally addicting. Every bite brings a little crunch, a little glaze, and a whole lot of “more, please.”
Why You’ll Love Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Brussels sprouts get a bad rap, but this recipe flips the script. Roasting them brings out their nutty, caramelized side. Maple syrup adds warmth and sweetness. And the bacon? It seals the deal. This dish checks every Thanksgiving box: savory, comforting, slightly sweet, and full of texture.
Even better, it plays well with other mains. Pair these sprouts with something juicy like lemon pepper chicken or air fryer drumsticks. Want more veggie sides? Air fryer carrots or sweet potato wedges complement it beautifully.
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 4–6 slices of thick-cut bacon
- 2½ tbsp pure maple syrup
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes or a splash of balsamic vinegar
How to Make Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a large baking sheet with foil or parchment.
2. Cook the bacon:
Chop bacon into 1-inch pieces. In a skillet, cook until just crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels, but save 1 tablespoon of the bacon grease.
3. Prep the sprouts:
In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, bacon grease, maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Spread on the baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast:
Bake for 20–25 minutes, tossing once halfway. The edges should be golden and slightly crisp.
5. Add bacon & finish:
Toss roasted sprouts with the bacon pieces and return to the oven for another 5 minutes. Serve hot!
Variations & Tips
- Add chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
- Use turkey bacon if you’re keeping it lighter.
- Want a tangy twist? Drizzle a bit of balsamic vinegar before serving.
- These reheat well, so you can prep them earlier in the day.
Why They’re a Perfect Thanksgiving Side
Brussels sprouts tend to divide a table, but not this time. The maple glaze caramelizes beautifully in the oven, giving every bite a sweet-savory edge. Plus, you’re getting that crispy bacon payoff with minimal work.
This recipe is also super flexible. Want to double it? Use two baking sheets. Feeding picky eaters? Just hold the bacon until the end and serve some on the side. These maple roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon are your secret weapon for a balanced, flavorful holiday plate.
Pair them with roasted mains, serve next to something cheesy or creamy, and watch how fast they disappear.