A sweet, savory, and slightly tangy side dish you’ll want to make again and again.
If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing side dish that brings together bold flavor and satisfying crunch, these honey-glazed Brussels sprouts with crispy bacon are exactly what you need. Whether you’re prepping for a holiday feast or just upgrading a weeknight meal, this recipe delivers big on taste with minimal effort.
What You’ll Need
For the Brussels Sprouts
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and sliced in half
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Bacon
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped into 1-inch pieces
For the Glaze
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven gives you perfectly caramelized Brussels sprouts and extra crispy bacon.
2. Prep the Brussels Sprouts
In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper. Make sure they’re evenly coated, then spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. Arrange the Bacon
Place the cut bacon pieces on a separate baking sheet, spaced out so they cook evenly.
4. Roast Everything
Put both trays in the oven. Roast for 20–25 minutes, stirring the Brussels sprouts halfway through to ensure they brown evenly. The sprouts should be golden and fork-tender, and the bacon should be crisp.
5. Mix Up the Glaze
While everything’s roasting, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl. This glaze is what brings the sweet and tangy magic.
6. Combine and Finish
Once everything is roasted, transfer the Brussels sprouts and bacon into a serving bowl. Pour the glaze over the top and toss well to coat.
Serve immediately while warm.
Tips and Variations
- Want more spice? Add a pinch more red pepper flakes to the glaze or a dash of cayenne.
- No bacon? Try pancetta or thin strips of prosciutto instead.
- Serving ideas: Pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, steak, turkey, or even a hearty grain bowl.
Why You’ll Love It
This dish is more than just a side—it’s a flavor bomb. The sweetness of honey and maple syrup balances the savory crunch of bacon and the slight bitterness of Brussels sprouts. The balsamic glaze pulls it all together with just enough acidity to cut through the richness.
Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or seasoned food lovers, this one wins every time.
Make it tonight and see for yourself why this dish might just steal the spotlight at your table. Want more simple, flavor-packed recipes? Bookmark this one and explore more meal ideas on our site.
Let me know if you’d like this recipe turned into a printable card or adapted for air fryer or stovetop use!
