Maple bacon Brussels sprouts are the crispy, caramelized, sweet-and-smoky side dish that turns skeptics into believers. Halved sprouts roast at high heat until the edges are deeply browned and crisp, then get tossed with salty bacon and a glossy drizzle of real maple syrup.
This easy maple bacon Brussels sprouts recipe uses a single sheet pan and just a few ingredients. Roasting the bacon right alongside the sprouts renders its fat, which seasons the vegetables as they cook, and a little balsamic vinegar at the end adds a bright tang that balances the sweetness.
They are a showstopper on Thanksgiving and Christmas tables and an easy weeknight side with pork chops, chicken, or steak. The recipe takes about 35 minutes and makes a big batch, so you will want to double it if you are feeding a crowd.
Recipe at a Glance
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Category: Side Dish / Vegetable
Why You’ll Love These Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
- Crispy, caramelized edges and tender centers
- Sweet maple and smoky bacon flavor
- Made on one sheet pan in 35 minutes
- A perfect holiday side dish
- Even picky eaters ask for seconds
Ingredients You’ll Need for Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
- 1 1/2 pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
- 1/4 cup chopped toasted pecans, optional
How to Make Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
- Preheat the oven to 425°F and place a large rimmed baking sheet in the oven to heat.
- Toss the halved Brussels sprouts with the olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
- Carefully remove the hot pan from the oven and spread the sprouts on it cut side down in a single layer.
- Scatter the chopped bacon over the sprouts.
- Roast for 15 minutes, then stir and roast another 8 to 10 minutes until the sprouts are deeply browned and the bacon is crisp.
- Whisk the maple syrup and balsamic vinegar together.
- Drizzle the mixture over the hot sprouts and toss to coat.
- Roast for 2 more minutes so the glaze sticks, then top with red pepper flakes and pecans if using, and serve right away.
Tips for the Best Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
- Roast cut side down. The flat surface touches the hot pan and caramelizes into a deep golden crust.
- Dry the sprouts well after washing. Wet sprouts steam instead of roast, so they turn soft instead of crisp.
- Don’t crowd the pan. Use two sheet pans if needed so the sprouts have space to brown.
- Add the maple syrup at the end. The sugar burns easily, so it needs just a couple of minutes in the oven.
- Use thick-cut bacon. It stays meaty and crisp instead of burning in the high heat.
Variations to Try
- Add dried cranberries for a festive touch
- Sprinkle with shaved Parmesan at the end
- Use honey in place of maple syrup
- Make it in an air fryer at 380°F for 12 to 15 minutes
- Skip the bacon and use smoked paprika for a vegetarian version
How to Store It
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a hot oven or air fryer for 5 to 8 minutes to bring back the crisp edges.
These are best fresh, but you can trim and halve the sprouts a day ahead and keep them in a sealed container in the refrigerator.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I keep Brussels sprouts from getting bitter?
Roast them at high heat until browned and caramelized. Overcooking by boiling or steaming makes them more bitter and sulfurous.
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Yes, but they will be softer. Roast them straight from frozen at 425°F for 25 to 30 minutes without thawing.
Can I make these ahead of time?
You can roast them ahead and reheat in a hot oven, though they are crispiest when served right away.
Why are my Brussels sprouts soggy?
The pan was probably crowded or the sprouts were wet. Dry them well, use high heat, and spread them in a single layer.
Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 425°F with a baking sheet inside.
- Toss the sprouts with the oil, salt, and pepper and spread cut side down on the hot pan.
- Tip: Cut side down gives the best caramelization.
- Add the bacon and roast 15 minutes, then stir and roast 8 to 10 minutes more.
- Drizzle with the maple and balsamic mixture and roast 2 minutes more.
- Top with pecans and serve.
Notes
Reheat in a hot oven or air fryer to re-crisp.