Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: A Sweet and Savory Side Dish

These Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon will transform even the most skeptical vegetable eater into a Brussels sprouts fan. The combination of crispy roasted Brussels sprouts, smoky bacon, and a sweet honey glaze creates a perfect balance of flavors that will have everyone reaching for seconds. This easy side dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday feasts.

The magic happens in the oven, where the Brussels sprouts caramelize and develop deep, nutty flavors while the bacon adds its signature smoky richness. A drizzle of honey glaze at the end brings everything together with just the right amount of sweetness. This recipe proves that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring – these Brussels sprouts are packed with flavor and texture that will make them the star of your meal.

Quick Recipe Highlights

• Flavor Profile: A perfect balance of sweet honey, smoky bacon, and earthy Brussels sprouts with a hint of garlic and black pepper.
• Texture: Crispy outer leaves with tender centers, complemented by crunchy bacon bits.
• Aroma: The irresistible smell of roasting bacon and caramelizing vegetables will fill your kitchen.
• Visual Appeal: Golden-brown Brussels sprouts glistening with honey glaze, flecked with crispy bacon pieces.
• Skill Level Needed: Beginner-friendly with simple techniques anyone can master.
• Special Equipment: Just a baking sheet and mixing bowl – no fancy tools required.

Recipe Overview

• Difficulty Level: This recipe is perfect for beginners with straightforward steps and minimal prep work. The roasting technique is forgiving, making it hard to mess up.
• Category: A versatile side dish that pairs well with roasted meats, holiday meals, or as part of a vegetarian spread.
• Cuisine: While Brussels sprouts have European origins, this preparation with honey and bacon has become an American favorite.
• Cost: Budget-friendly using affordable ingredients, with Brussels sprouts and bacon being the main investments.
• Season: Perfect for fall and winter when Brussels sprouts are at their peak, but great year-round.
• Occasion: Equally at home on a weeknight dinner table or as part of an elegant holiday spread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The combination of flavors in these Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon is simply irresistible. The natural sweetness of the honey complements the slight bitterness of the Brussels sprouts, while the bacon adds depth and smokiness. Unlike boiled Brussels sprouts that can turn mushy, roasting gives them a wonderful texture contrast between crispy outer leaves and tender centers.

This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare with minimal hands-on time. After a quick prep, the oven does most of the work, freeing you up to focus on other dishes. The simple ingredient list means you can whip this up without a special grocery trip, using pantry staples you likely already have on hand.

Nutritionally, this dish packs a powerful punch. Brussels sprouts are loaded with vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. While the bacon adds some fat, it’s used in moderation to provide flavor without overwhelming the dish. The honey glaze adds just enough sweetness to balance the flavors without making the dish overly sugary.

For entertaining, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that looks impressive on the table. The golden-brown sprouts glistening with honey make for beautiful presentation, and the aroma will have guests eagerly awaiting dinner. It’s a great conversation starter that might just convert Brussels sprouts skeptics.

Cost-wise, this recipe makes the most of affordable ingredients. Brussels sprouts are relatively inexpensive, especially in season, and a little bacon goes a long way in adding flavor. The honey glaze uses just a small amount of honey mixed with pantry staples, making this a budget-friendly side that tastes far more luxurious than its price tag.

The Recipe