Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: A Perfectly Sweet and Savory Side Dish
If you’re looking for a side dish that’s both savory and sweet, Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon is the perfect recipe for you. These Brussels sprouts are roasted to perfection, caramelized with a touch of honey, and paired with crispy bacon for a flavor-packed, irresistible side that’s sure to become a family favorite. This easy-to-make dish is ideal for holiday meals, weeknight dinners, or whenever you want to elevate your vegetable game.
Why You’ll Love Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: This recipe combines the best of both worlds: the earthy flavor of Brussels sprouts, the smokiness of crispy bacon, and the natural sweetness of honey. Roasting brings out the Brussels sprouts’ natural sweetness while the honey glaze enhances the flavor profile. The addition of bacon provides a satisfying crunch and smoky richness, making this dish a showstopper at any table.
Ingredients for Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon:
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional for extra depth of flavor)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Trim the Brussels sprouts by cutting off the tough ends and removing any yellow or damaged leaves. Cut each sprout in half for even roasting.
- Cook the Bacon:
- In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Reserve the bacon fat in the skillet.
- Roast the Brussels Sprouts:
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast the Brussels sprouts in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the edges, stirring halfway through for even roasting.
- Glaze the Brussels Sprouts:
- While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, in a small saucepan, combine the honey and balsamic vinegar (if using). Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the honey has melted and the glaze has thickened slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
- Combine the Bacon and Glaze:
- Once the Brussels sprouts are done roasting, remove them from the oven. Drizzle the honey glaze over the Brussels sprouts and toss to coat evenly.Homemade Samoas Girl Scout Cookies
- Add the crispy bacon to the Brussels sprouts and give everything a final toss.
- Serve:
- Transfer the honey-glazed Brussels sprouts to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired, and serve immediately.
Why This Recipe is Perfect: This dish takes Brussels sprouts from bland to brilliant. The roasting process caramelizes the sprouts, bringing out their natural sweetness and enhancing the flavor, while the honey glaze gives them a perfect touch of sweetness. The crispy bacon adds savory depth, creating a balanced flavor profile that will have even the pickiest eaters coming back for more. Whether served alongside a holiday feast or as a simple side dish for a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.
Customization Tips:
- Add Nuts: For extra crunch and flavor, add toasted nuts like walnuts or pecans to the Brussels sprouts just before serving.
- Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or drizzle a bit of sriracha over the roasted Brussels sprouts for a spicy-sweet combo.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the Brussels sprouts for a smoky flavor.
- Lemon Zest: For a fresh citrus twist, garnish with lemon zest right before serving.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon is a versatile side dish that can be served for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner, holiday gathering, or a casual weeknight meal. The sweet and savory balance makes it a crowd-pleasing dish that will have your guests raving about your cooking. This recipe is not only delicious but also quick and easy to make, making it a great addition to your regular recipe rotation.Potsticker Soup with Mushrooms Bok Choy