When it comes to side dishes, there are few that can compare to the bold flavors and textures of Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Turkey Bacon. This dish has quickly become one of my go-to recipes when I want something that’s both comforting and a little fancy—perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike. The Brussels sprouts take on a beautiful caramelized sweetness from the honey and maple syrup, while the turkey bacon adds a crisp, savory crunch that’s truly irresistible.
As much as I love a good classic Brussels sprout, sometimes you need to elevate them to the next level, right? That’s exactly what this recipe does. The balance of the honey and maple glaze is just divine, and the addition of turkey bacon means you get that delicious, smoky flavor without all the heaviness of traditional bacon. Plus, the roasting process does wonders for the sprouts, giving them that perfect crispy edge while keeping the inside tender and full of flavor.
I’ve been making this dish for years, and I’m always surprised at how it can turn even the most skeptical veggie eaters into believers. Whether you’re serving it up alongside roasted chicken, a juicy steak, or just want a standout dish for your vegetarian friends, these honey-glazed Brussels sprouts will steal the show. Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!
Steps to Make Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Turkey Bacon
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is key to getting those Brussels sprouts roasted to golden perfection. The oven should be nice and hot to help crisp up both the sprouts and the turkey bacon.
Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
While the oven is heating up, grab a large bowl and start prepping your Brussels sprouts. Trim the ends of each sprout and slice them in half. This helps them cook evenly and ensures they absorb all the goodness from the honey and olive oil. Add the halved sprouts to the bowl and drizzle with olive oil and honey. Season with salt and black pepper, and toss everything together until the sprouts are fully coated. Don’t be afraid to get in there with your hands—this is where the magic happens!
Once the Brussels sprouts are ready, spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet. The key here is not to overcrowd the sprouts. If they’re too packed together, they won’t roast properly, and you’ll miss out on that crispy texture we’re aiming for. Give them a little space so each sprout gets that golden, caramelized finish.
Cook the Bacon
While the Brussels sprouts are getting ready, it’s time to prep the turkey bacon. Cut your slices into 1-inch pieces. These little bacon bits will crisp up nicely and give the dish that savory, smoky punch. Spread the bacon pieces on a separate baking sheet. This will allow them to cook evenly without getting soggy from the Brussels sprouts’ moisture.
You’ll want to keep the bacon on a separate sheet because the fat from the bacon can sometimes make the Brussels sprouts soggy if they’re too close. Plus, you’ll have more control over how crispy everything gets when cooked separately.
Roast to Perfection
Now, it’s time to pop everything into the oven. Place both the Brussels sprouts and the turkey bacon on separate racks, and roast them for about 20-25 minutes. About halfway through the cooking time, flip the Brussels sprouts to ensure they cook evenly on both sides. You’ll know everything is done when the Brussels sprouts are golden brown, slightly crispy on the edges, and the turkey bacon is fully cooked and crisp. The aroma in your kitchen during this step is just heavenly!
Make the Glaze
While the Brussels sprouts and bacon are roasting, this is the perfect time to make the maple glaze that ties everything together. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat). The combination of the sweet maple syrup, tangy mustard, and vinegar creates a glaze that’s rich in flavor but not overwhelming. The red pepper flakes are optional, but they add a nice kick if you’re into that.
Set the glaze aside while the Brussels sprouts and bacon finish cooking. Don’t skip this step—this glaze is what really elevates the dish and brings all the flavors together.
Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Turkey Bacon: Final Steps and Tips for Perfection
Now that your Brussels sprouts and turkey bacon are well on their way to becoming the most delicious side dish, it’s time to bring everything together. In this part, we’ll go over the final steps of combining the crispy bacon, sweet and savory glaze, and perfectly roasted Brussels sprouts. This is where the magic happens, and trust me, the results are worth every minute of effort. Let’s finish this off and make sure your Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Turkey Bacon are truly irresistible!
Combine the Brussels Sprouts and Bacon
Once the Brussels sprouts are golden brown and the bacon is crisp, it’s time to bring them together. Carefully transfer the roasted Brussels sprouts to a large serving dish. You want to make sure they stay crisp, so use a spatula or tongs to gently move them into the dish, being careful not to break them apart. Next, take the crispy turkey bacon bits and sprinkle them over the Brussels sprouts. The bacon adds such a satisfying crunch and smoky flavor that really completes the dish.
Toss everything gently to ensure the bacon and Brussels sprouts are well combined. This step helps distribute the flavor evenly, making every bite a delicious balance of crispy bacon, tender Brussels sprouts, and that irresistible glaze.
Drizzle with the Maple Glaze
Here’s where the magic truly happens! Now that your Brussels sprouts and bacon are combined, it’s time to drizzle them with that glorious maple glaze you made earlier. Using a spoon or a small pourer, drizzle the glaze over the Brussels sprouts and bacon. The warmth of the sprouts will allow the glaze to soak in just enough, adding that sweet-savory coating that makes each bite so tasty.
Be sure to coat the Brussels sprouts generously with the glaze, but don’t overdo it. The goal is to enhance the natural flavors without overpowering them. The glaze should be a complement, not the star of the show!
Serve Immediately
Once the sprouts are glazed and all the flavors are melded together, serve them immediately. This dish is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while the sprouts are still warm, crispy, and full of flavor. I recommend serving it alongside roasted meats like chicken or steak, or even as part of a hearty grain bowl. The Brussels sprouts are filling and flavorful enough to stand alone, but they also work beautifully as a side dish that complements your main course.
Tips for the Perfect Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Turkey Bacon
While this recipe is simple and straightforward, there are a few tips and tricks to ensure your Brussels sprouts turn out perfectly every time.
Don’t overcrowd the Brussels Sprouts – This is crucial for getting that crispy texture. If the Brussels sprouts are too packed together on the baking sheet, they’ll steam instead of roast. Give them plenty of room to crisp up and caramelize.
Use thick-cut turkey bacon – Using thicker slices of turkey bacon ensures that the bacon crisps up nicely and holds its shape when added to the Brussels sprouts. Thin-cut bacon can become overly crispy and burnt, so go for a heartier slice for the best results.
Adjust the glaze to your taste – The maple glaze can easily be adjusted to suit your preferences. If you like things on the sweeter side, add a bit more maple syrup. For a tangier kick, increase the amount of Dijon mustard or balsamic vinegar. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a bit more red pepper flakes for an extra burst of heat.
Add nuts for texture – If you want to add even more texture to this dish, consider sprinkling some chopped toasted nuts, like pecans or walnuts, on top of the Brussels sprouts just before serving. The crunch from the nuts pairs perfectly with the caramelized Brussels sprouts and crispy bacon.
Make it a meal – If you’re looking to turn this side dish into a main course, try serving the glazed Brussels sprouts over a bed of quinoa, farro, or even rice. This adds some extra substance and makes for a hearty, filling meal.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (though I doubt it!), you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, simply place the Brussels sprouts and bacon in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. The texture won’t be quite as crispy as when they’re fresh, but they’ll still taste great!
This dish doesn’t freeze well due to the crispy texture of the Brussels sprouts and bacon, so I recommend making it fresh whenever possible. However, if you do need to store it for longer, you can freeze the Brussels sprouts and bacon separately and then reheat them when you’re ready to enjoy.
Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Turkey Bacon: FAQ and Conclusion
Now that you’ve mastered the recipe for Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Turkey Bacon, you might have a few questions lingering in your mind. Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! In this section, we’ll go over some common FAQs and offer some final tips to ensure that your dish turns out perfectly every time.
FAQ
Can I use regular bacon instead of turkey bacon?
Yes, absolutely! While turkey bacon gives a lighter, less fatty option, you can certainly substitute it with regular bacon if you prefer. Just keep in mind that regular bacon will release more fat as it cooks, so be sure to place the bacon on a separate sheet to avoid the Brussels sprouts getting too greasy. The regular bacon will add a more robust flavor, so it’s a great option if you’re craving that classic bacon taste.
How do I know when the Brussels sprouts are done roasting?
The Brussels sprouts are done when they are golden brown, crispy on the outside, and tender on the inside. After 20-25 minutes of roasting, you should notice some nice browning on the edges, and the sprouts should be easily pierced with a fork. If you like them extra crispy, feel free to leave them in for an additional 5 minutes, but keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, you can definitely make the Brussels sprouts and bacon ahead of time. Prepare the sprouts and bacon, and store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Then, drizzle the maple glaze just before serving to keep everything fresh and flavorful.
Can I make this dish without the glaze?
Yes, you can absolutely skip the glaze if you prefer a simpler version of this dish. The Brussels sprouts and turkey bacon are flavorful enough on their own. However, I highly recommend trying the glaze at least once, as it adds a wonderful depth of flavor that ties everything together with a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy kick.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Brussels sprouts pair beautifully with other roasted vegetables. If you want to mix things up, feel free to add in some sweet potatoes, carrots, or even parsnips. Just be sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces as the Brussels sprouts so everything cooks evenly. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the vegetables you add.
Can I make this dish spicier?
Yes! If you love a bit of heat, feel free to increase the amount of red pepper flakes in the maple glaze. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra spice. The sweetness of the maple syrup balances the heat perfectly, so don’t be afraid to adjust it to your liking.
Conclusion
Whether you’re making this dish for a holiday dinner, a special family meal, or just because you’re craving something delicious, Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Turkey Bacon will surely impress. The combination of sweet, savory, and crispy textures is something you can’t quite find in any other side dish. The crispy turkey bacon gives a smoky crunch, while the maple glaze adds a rich layer of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the earthy Brussels sprouts.
What I love about this dish is that it strikes the perfect balance—crispy, sweet, savory, and just a touch of heat. It’s simple, yet feels like a gourmet treat. And the best part? It’s so easy to make! With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can create a show-stopping side dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab some Brussels sprouts, turkey bacon, and maple syrup, and get ready to create a dish that will steal the spotlight at your next meal. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you, so feel free to leave a comment or share your variations. Happy cooking!
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Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Turkey Bacon
Description
These Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Turkey Bacon bring together the natural sweetness of honey, the savory crispiness of turkey bacon, and a rich maple glaze that perfectly complements the Brussels sprouts. Roasted to golden perfection, this dish is a delightful balance of flavors and textures, making it an ideal side for any dinner. The sweet and savory glaze adds an extra layer of flavor, while the turkey bacon provides a satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
For the Brussels Sprouts:
1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp honey
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
For the Bacon:
6 slices thick-cut turkey bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
For the Glaze:
¼ cup maple syrup
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure a hot, even roast.
Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:
In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, honey, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet, making sure not to overcrowd the sprouts for even roasting.
Cook the Bacon:
Place the bacon pieces on a separate baking sheet to allow them to cook evenly and become crispy without mixing with the Brussels sprouts.
Roast to Perfection:
Roast the Brussels sprouts and bacon in the oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping the Brussels sprouts halfway through, until the Brussels sprouts are golden brown and slightly crispy, and the bacon is fully cooked and crispy.
Make the Glaze:
While the Brussels sprouts and bacon are roasting, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using) in a small bowl. Set the glaze aside to allow the flavors to meld.
Combine & Serve:
Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted and the bacon is crispy, transfer the Brussels sprouts to a serving dish. Toss them gently with the crispy bacon and drizzle with the maple glaze. Serve immediately to enjoy the best flavor and texture.
Notes
For added texture, you can sprinkle some chopped nuts, like toasted pecans or walnuts, over the Brussels sprouts before serving. If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes in the glaze. This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, steak, or even a hearty grain bowl for a balanced meal.
