Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon:
A Sweet & Savory Side Dish
Looking for a unique and flavorful way to prepare Brussels sprouts? These Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon combine the crispy, caramelized flavors of Brussels sprouts with the smoky richness of bacon, all glazed with a touch of honey. It’s the perfect balance of savory and sweet that’s sure to impress your family and friends!
Why You’ll Love Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon:
- Sweet & Savory Flavor: The crispy bacon and sweet honey glaze make this dish irresistible.
- Simple to Make: With only a few ingredients, you can create an amazing side dish that packs a punch.
- Healthy: Brussels sprouts are loaded with nutrients, and when paired with bacon, they become a balanced and satisfying dish.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weekday dinner or a holiday feast, this dish adds the perfect touch to your table.
Ingredients
for Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon:
To make Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, you will need:
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 6 strips of bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional for added depth)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon:
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Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Homemade Samoas Girl Scout Cookies
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Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:
- Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half. If some of the leaves fall off during trimming, save them to roast with the sprouts for added crispiness!
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Cook the Bacon:
- In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy and browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain the excess fat. Leave a little bacon grease in the skillet to roast the Brussels sprouts.
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Toss Brussels Sprouts with Oil & Seasoning:
- In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Ensure the sprouts are evenly coated.
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Roast the Brussels Sprouts:
- Spread the seasoned Brussels sprouts evenly on the prepared baking sheet, cut side down. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the Brussels sprouts are golden brown and crispy on the edges. Make sure to toss them halfway through to ensure even roasting.
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Prepare the Honey Glaze:
- While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, combine the honey and balsamic vinegar (if using) in a small saucepan. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 2-3 minutes, until it thickens slightly. Stir occasionally to avoid burning. Remove from heat and set aside.
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Toss Brussels Sprouts with Bacon & Glaze:
- Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted to perfection, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a large bowl. Add the crispy bacon and pour the honey glaze over the sprouts. Toss everything together gently to coat the Brussels sprouts and bacon evenly with the sweet and savory glaze.
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Serve:
- Transfer the Brussels sprouts to a serving platter and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color (optional). Serve immediately while the Brussels sprouts are still warm and crispy. Potsticker Soup with Mushrooms Bok Choy
Tips for the Best Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon:
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter glaze, add more honey. For a tangier flavor, increase the amount of balsamic vinegar.
- Crispier Bacon: For extra crispy bacon, cook it on a separate baking sheet in the oven while the Brussels sprouts are roasting. This saves time and ensures both the bacon and sprouts are perfectly crispy.
- Add Nuts: For extra texture, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans when tossing the Brussels sprouts with the glaze.
- Other Seasonings: Experiment with adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat or fresh thyme for an herbal note.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use pre-cooked bacon for this recipe?
A1: Yes, you can use pre-cooked bacon for a quicker version of this dish. Just chop it up and add it to the Brussels sprouts after roasting them, and drizzle with the honey glaze.
Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A2: You can prepare the Brussels sprouts and bacon in advance, then store them separately in the refrigerator. To serve, reheat the Brussels sprouts in the oven and toss them with the glaze and bacon just before serving.
Q3: Can I make this dish without bacon?
A3: Yes, if you want a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon. You can add toasted nuts or crispy chickpeas for some extra crunch and flavor. Garlic Butter Steak with Cheesy Herb Pasta
Q4: Can I use other vegetables?
A4: Absolutely! This honey glaze works wonderfully with roasted carrots, sweet potatoes, or cauliflower. Feel free to get creative with your vegetables.
Conclusion: A Perfect Sweet and Savory Side Dish
These Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon are the ideal balance of sweet, savory, and crispy, making them the perfect side dish for any meal. The combination of honey, bacon, and roasted Brussels sprouts is simply irresistible. Whether served for a casual dinner or a holiday feast, this dish is sure to become a favorite!