Crispy, sweet, and smoky—these Maple Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts bring warmth to any table. Every bite blends caramelized sprouts, savory bacon, and a silky bourbon-maple glaze that transforms this humble vegetable into something unforgettable. Whether you’re searching for Brussels Sprout Recipes With Bacon Maple or simply want to upgrade your usual Roasted Brussels Sprouts, this recipe delivers the perfect balance of flavor. Infused with a touch of bourbon for depth, it’s equally suited to Sunday dinners or festive holiday feasts. Let’s begin with the story behind this cozy kitchen favorite.
A Cozy Kitchen Memory That Started It All
It all began on a crisp fall evening—one of those nights when the leaves had just started to turn golden, and comfort food was calling. I had a bag of fresh Brussels sprouts, an open bottle of maple syrup from weekend pancakes, and a few slices of thick-cut bacon waiting to be used. On a whim, I decided to roast them together, creating what would soon become my most requested side dish: Maple Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts.
That first batch was magic—caramelized, sticky, smoky, and just the right amount of sweet. My family hovered around the sheet pan before it even hit the table, every fork fighting for the last crispy piece. The next time I made it, I added a splash of bourbon to the maple glaze, and everything changed. That bourbon glaze twist introduced a depth of flavor that made these Bourbon Maple Brussels Sprouts taste as though they’d been perfected by a seasoned chef.
Since then, this recipe has been a staple at Thanksgiving, cozy winter dinners, and anytime I need a reliable crowd-pleaser. It’s proof that simple ingredients—Brussels sprouts, bacon, maple syrup, and a touch of bourbon—can create culinary magic with minimal effort. For me, Maple Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts are more than just a side dish; they’re nostalgia, connection, and comfort in one golden-brown bite.
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Maple Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts with a Bourbon Glaze Twist
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
These Brussels sprouts are roasted with bacon and finished with a silky bourbon maple glaze, offering a perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors. Ideal as a cozy weeknight side or a standout holiday dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
1. Trim ends and halve sprouts then toss in olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Preheat oven to 400°F and arrange sprouts cut side down on a rimmed baking sheet with bacon.
3. Roast until sprouts are tender and edges are golden, 20 to 25 minutes, stirring halfway through.
4. Meanwhile, combine maple syrup, bourbon, and butter in a saucepan and simmer until slightly thickened.
5. Drizzle glaze over hot sprouts and bacon and toss to coat evenly.
6. Season with additional salt or red pepper flakes if desired and top with toasted pecans.
7. Serve immediately alongside your favorite main dishes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: side dish
- Method: roasting
- Cuisine: american
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 8
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 14
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Unsaturated Fat: 7
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 22
- Fiber: 5
- Protein: 6
- Cholesterol: 25
Keywords: maple bacon brussels sprouts, bourbon glaze, holiday side dish, roasted brussels sprouts, bacon brussels sprouts, maple bourbon sprouts, sweet savory side
Why These Bourbon Maple Brussels Sprouts Are So Irresistible
What makes these Bourbon Maple Brussels Sprouts so special isn’t just the ingredients—it’s the harmony of flavors and textures. Roasting brings out the sprouts’ natural sweetness, while the bacon adds smoky richness and crisp texture. Then the star appears: a luscious glaze of pure maple syrup gently simmered with a splash of bourbon. The glaze coats every leaf, creating that coveted glossy finish and irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen.
Compared to other Brussels Sprout Recipes With Bacon Maple, this version elevates things with its balanced sophistication. The bourbon’s oaky notes round out the maple’s sweetness, and together, they transform into something both rustic and refined. These sprouts pair beautifully with roasted chicken or glazed ham during weeknight dinners, yet they also shine on a holiday spread beside turkey or prime rib.
Whether you’re introducing diners to their new favorite way to enjoy Bacon Brussels Sprouts or reviving the classic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with an elevated glaze, this recipe stands out for its crowd-pleasing charm and consistent results. It’s comforting, elegant, and deeply satisfying—the kind of side dish people remember long after the meal is over.
Ingredients and Tools for Perfect Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Maple
Gathering Fresh Ingredients for That Signature Flavor
Before diving into the cooking process, setting yourself up with high-quality ingredients ensures your Maple Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts deliver that indulgent balance of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—each element earns its place on the plate. Let’s look at the essentials you’ll need to bring these Bourbon Maple Brussels Sprouts to life.
| Ingredient | Purpose / Notes |
|---|---|
| Fresh Brussels sprouts (1½ lbs) | Choose firm, green sprouts with tightly packed leaves. Trim the ends and halve larger ones for even roasting. |
| Thick-cut bacon (4–6 slices) | Offers crisp texture and smoky depth—center-cut varieties provide meatier bites with less fat. |
| Pure maple syrup (3 tablespoons) | Adds natural sweetness and caramelization. Pure syrup creates a cleaner, richer taste than pancake syrup. |
| Bourbon (2 tablespoons) | Introduces warmth and oaky undertones that elevate the glaze. Optional, but adds signature depth. |
| Olive oil (2 tablespoons) | Helps sprouts roast evenly while enhancing flavor. Use extra-virgin for best results. |
| Salt & freshly cracked pepper | Essential seasonings that balance sweetness and sharpen flavors. |
| Red pepper flakes (optional) | A pinch adds gentle heat, offsetting the maple glaze. |
| Toasted pecans (optional topping) | Add nutty crunch for a holiday-ready finish. |
When it comes to Brussels Sprout Recipes With Bacon Maple, quality is everything. Using fresh Brussels sprouts instead of frozen guarantees they’ll caramelize beautifully rather than steam on the pan. Similarly, pure maple syrup allows the glaze to thicken naturally and coat the sprouts without tasting overly sugary. If you’re making Bacon Brussels Sprouts often, try experimenting with different bacon varieties—applewood-smoked, peppered, or even maple-cured—to tailor the overall profile.
For bourbon, a mid-range brand works perfectly—no need to reach for your top-shelf bottle. Bourbon adds a subtle richness and aroma rather than a strong alcoholic taste, especially once simmered into the glaze. Together, these ingredients fuse into the vibrant flavor harmony that makes these Roasted Brussels Sprouts anything but ordinary.
Tools That Make the Cooking Process Easy and Efficient
Having the right tools ready before you start cooking helps you achieve consistent texture and flavor every time. For these Maple Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts, the goal is crisp edges, evenly distributed glaze, and a flawless finish. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Large rimmed baking sheet: Ensures roasting instead of steaming; a light toss halfway promotes golden caramelization.
- Mixing bowl: Combine sprouts, oil, and seasoning before roasting, then use it again for glazing.
- Measuring spoons and cups: Keep proportions consistent for balanced flavor.
- Small saucepan: Perfect for simmering the maple-bourbon glaze to glossy perfection.
- Tongs or slotted spoon: Transfer hot bacon and sprouts gently without breaking them.
- Parchment paper or foil (optional): Makes cleanup simple and prevents sticking.
A key tip when making Bourbon Maple Brussels Sprouts: preheat your baking sheet while the oven warms up. It helps the sprouts crisp faster. Organize all ingredients and tools before starting, so you glide from roasting to glazing seamlessly. Cooking becomes less a chore and more a relaxing ritual, producing flawless Maple Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts with a Bourbon Glaze Twist every single time.
Step-by-Step Method for Maple Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bourbon Glaze
Roasting the Brussels Sprouts and Bacon to Crispy Perfection
To create perfectly caramelized Maple Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C)—the ideal temperature for even roasting. Trim and halve larger sprouts so they roast uniformly and develop deep golden edges. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated, then arrange cut-side down on a preheated baking sheet.
Sprinkle chopped bacon around the pan so its rendered fat seasons the sprouts as they roast. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. You’re aiming for crisp bacon and amber-colored sprouts with tender interiors. For extra crunch, extend roasting by 3–5 minutes. In an air fryer, cook at 375°F for 15–18 minutes, shaking halfway through. For stovetop lovers, start by crisping bacon in a skillet, then sauté sprouts in the drippings before finishing in the oven.
Once roasted, transfer everything into a large bowl and prepare to coat it all in that star-glow glaze that makes these Bourbon Maple Brussels Sprouts unforgettable.
Crafting the Maple Bourbon Glaze and Combining Flavors
Set a small saucepan over medium-low heat and combine 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup, 2 tablespoons bourbon, and 1 tablespoon butter. Simmer 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens slightly and releases a rich, caramelized aroma. It should be glossy and pourable—thick enough to cling, but not sticky like syrup. The bourbon cooks down, leaving subtle oak and vanilla undertones that beautifully balance the sweetness.
If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, substitute apple cider or balsamic vinegar. Pour the glaze over your freshly roasted sprouts and bacon, then toss slowly until each piece gleams with that signature sheen. Add a pinch of salt or red pepper flakes for contrast, and even fold in toasted pecans for texture and visual appeal.
Serve your glazed Bacon Brussels Sprouts on a platter, scattering crisp bacon bits on top. Their deep caramel tones and fragrant syrupy finish create a show-stopping centerpiece for both weekday meals and holiday spreads. Once you taste the pairing of smoky bacon, roasted vegetables, and maple-bourbon glaze, you’ll know why these Maple Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts with a Bourbon Glaze Twist have become a standout favorite.
Serving Ideas, FAQs, and Conclusion
Serving Suggestions and Perfect Pairings
Your glossy Bourbon Maple Brussels Sprouts deserve worthy companions. Their balance of smoky sweetness complements various proteins and fits any setting—from casual dinners to festive gatherings.
Pair them with roasted poultry or grilled meats; they shine beside turkey or ham during the holidays. Add dried cranberries or toasted nuts for a seasonal note, or drizzle extra glaze and sprinkle sea salt for gourmet presentation.
| Main Dish Pairings | Occasion Ideas |
|---|---|
| Herb-roasted chicken | Cozy weeknight dinners |
| Glazed ham or turkey breast | Thanksgiving or Christmas sides |
| Pan-seared salmon | Special date-night meals |
| Grilled steak or tenderloin | Backyard gatherings |
| Butternut squash soup | Fall brunch or potluck spread |
Serve in a cast-iron dish or ceramic bowl to highlight their rich, golden finish and keep them warm through the meal.
FAQs About Bourbon Maple Brussels Sprouts
Can I skip the bourbon?
Yes! Replace it with apple cider or balsamic vinegar for the same sweet-tangy glaze while keeping it alcohol-free.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
Roast the sprouts and bacon up to a day before. Reheat them at 375°F and toss freshly with glaze before serving to bring back that crisp finish.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a 400°F oven for 8–10 minutes instead of microwaving. The glaze will re-melt while keeping the sprouts firm and slightly crisp.
Can I use turkey bacon instead?
Yes, though it reduces fat for roasting. Add a bit more olive oil to help crisp the leaves.
Are frozen Brussels sprouts okay for this recipe?
Use fresh when possible. If using frozen, thaw and dry them thoroughly for better caramelization and flavor balance.
Conclusion
Every bite of Maple Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts with a Bourbon Glaze Twist captures what comfort food should be—sweet, savory, and satisfying. Perfect for Sunday dinners or special holidays, they prove that even simple ingredients can become something extraordinary.
These Brussels Sprout Recipes With Bacon Maple delight everyone, from picky eaters to gourmet guests. Customize yours with a heat kick, nutty crunch, or lighter spins. Share your version and enjoy the warmth and joy these Bourbon Maple Brussels Sprouts bring to every table.
