Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon – Sweet, Smoky, and Irresistible
Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon is a mouthwatering side dish that perfectly balances sweet, smoky, and savory flavors. The caramelization from roasting enhances the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts, while crispy bacon adds texture and rich, salty goodness. A drizzle of honey ties everything together, making this dish an irresistible combination of crunchy, tender, and flavorful bites.
Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or impressing guests at a holiday gathering, this Brussels sprouts with bacon and honey recipe is sure to be a hit. It’s incredibly easy to prepare with minimal ingredients, making it a fantastic addition to both everyday meals and festive occasions. The depth of flavors achieved with simple roasting techniques will turn even Brussels sprouts skeptics into fans.
Quick Recipe Highlights
- Flavor Profile: A perfect balance of sweet honey, smoky bacon, and nutty roasted Brussels sprouts.
- Texture: Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, with crunchy bacon for added contrast.
- Aroma: A delightful mix of caramelized edges, smoky bacon, and warm honey notes.
- Visual Appeal: Golden-brown crispy edges contrast beautifully with deep green sprouts and rich bacon hues.
- Skill Level Needed: Simple, beginner-friendly cooking techniques with minimal prep work.
- Special Equipment: A good quality baking sheet and parchment paper for even roasting.
Why You’ll Love This Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
This dish is the ultimate comfort food with a gourmet twist. The combination of savory bacon with a touch of natural sweetness from the honey creates a harmony of flavors that makes each bite unforgettable. The caramelized edges of the Brussels sprouts add a depth of flavor that feels indulgent yet wholesome.
Not only is this recipe easy to prepare, but it also requires minimal cleanup. With just one pan and simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious side dish in under 40 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights but also elegant enough to grace a holiday dinner table.
Brussels sprouts are packed with nutrients, offering a fantastic dose of fiber, vitamins C and K, and powerful antioxidants. Adding honey provides a natural source of sweetness while keeping the dish free from processed sugars, making it a healthier indulgence.
This recipe is a showstopper at dinner parties. The perfect balance of textures and flavors makes it a great conversation starter, and its versatility allows it to pair well with a variety of main courses, from roasted meats to vegetarian entrees.
Lastly, it’s a budget-friendly dish that allows you to serve up a restaurant-quality side without breaking the bank. Using simple pantry staples, it’s an accessible yet elevated way to enjoy Brussels sprouts year-round.
The Recipe
Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Serves: 4
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowl
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Wooden spoon
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 4 strips bacon, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp balsamic vinegar (optional, for added depth)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Spread the Brussels sprouts evenly across the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are cut side down for optimal caramelization.
- Sprinkle the chopped bacon evenly over the Brussels sprouts.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even crisping.
- In the last 5 minutes of roasting, drizzle honey over the sprouts and bacon, stirring gently to coat.
- Remove from the oven and drizzle with balsamic vinegar (if using) for an extra layer of flavor.
- Serve immediately while warm, garnished with extra honey if desired.
Recipe Notes
- For extra crispiness, broil the Brussels sprouts for the last 2-3 minutes of roasting.
- Swap honey for maple syrup for a slightly different sweetness.
- For a smoky twist, add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne for heat.
- Pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or a hearty quinoa salad.
This Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon recipe is a game changer for any Brussels sprouts skeptic. The perfect blend of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors makes it a must-try dish for dinners, holidays, or anytime you crave a bold and flavorful vegetable side. Let us know how you enjoyed this recipe in the comments!
