✨ Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts ✨
Okay besties… if you’ve been looking for the holiday side that’s equal parts cozy, crispy, sweet, and savory — this is it. My maple bacon Brussels are always the first thing gone at family dinners, potlucks, and honestly… weekday lunches because I “accidentally” make too much. 😌
Here’s how to make this magic:
Ingredients
• 3 lbs fresh Brussels sprouts, halved or quartered
• Olive oil (just a drizzle!)
• Seasoned salt + pepper to taste
• 1 lb thick-cut bacon
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (I used walnuts)
• Drizzle of real maple syrup
• Optional: blue cheese crumbles if you want that fancy tangy finish 🧀
Directions
1. Wash + cut your Brussels. Toss with olive oil, seasoned salt, and pepper.
2. Roast at 350°F for 1 hour on a parchment-lined baking sheet until caramelized and golden.
3. While they roast, slice bacon into 1/2-inch pieces and fry until crisp. Drain on paper towels (try not to eat it all).
4. Toss your roasted brussies with the bacon, cranberries, nuts, and a drizzle of maple syrup.
5. Optional but highly recommended: top with a sprinkle of blue cheese. Absolute chef’s kiss. 👩🍳✨
I served mine in Pampered Chef’s Stoneware Pie Plate and it is GORGEOUS — plus it holds heat so well. If you want one for your holiday table, click the link in my bio to snag your own! 🍽️🍁
Save this post for Thanksgiving prep + share with someone who loves a good cozy side dish! 💛
#thanksandgivingrecipe #holidaydishes #holidayrecipe #thanksgivingrecipeideas #holidaysidedishes
If you're looking to elevate your holiday and everyday meals, this maple bacon Brussels sprouts recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors that guests will love. Brussels sprouts, often undervalued, shine when roasted to caramelized perfection, boasting a tender yet slightly crispy texture. The addition of thick-cut bacon provides a smoky and savory contrast that complements the natural earthiness of the sprouts. Incorporating dried cranberries and chopped walnuts adds a delightful burst of sweetness and crunch, enhancing the overall mouthfeel and complexity of the dish. The final drizzle of real maple syrup ties these elements together, injecting a subtle, natural sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with the savory ingredients. For those wanting to bring a rich, tangy dimension, topping the dish with blue cheese crumbles is highly recommended. The sharpness of the cheese offers a sophisticated finish and balances the sweetness perfectly, making it an irresistible holiday side. To make the cooking process seamless, roasting Brussels sprouts at 350°F for an hour allows them to become golden and caramelized without the risk of burning. Using a parchment-lined baking sheet ensures easy cleanup while keeping the sprouts intact. While the sprouts roast, frying the bacon until crisp and draining excess fat on paper towels helps maintain the right texture and prevents greasiness. This recipe is versatile and can be adapted with different nuts, like pecans or almonds, to suit personal preferences. You can also experiment by adding other dried fruits or swapping blue cheese for feta or goat cheese for a milder tang. Serving this warm, flavorful dish on a heat-retentive stoneware pie plate not only keeps it hot longer but also elevates presentation, making it perfect for family dinners and festive gatherings. Whether you're prepping for Thanksgiving or looking for a satisfying weekday lunch, this maple bacon Brussels sprouts dish is a crowd-pleaser that offers comfort, flavor, and a touch of elegance. Try prepping a double batch to have delicious leftovers or to share with friends and family. It pairs excellently with roasted turkey, ham, or even as a stand-alone vegetarian meal without bacon for a lighter option.