As I stirred my bubbling honey-mustard glaze one afternoon, I could hardly wait to transform the humble Brussels sprouts I had on hand into something spectacular. The recipe for Sweet Smoky Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Honey-Mustard Glaze is my secret weapon for turning skepticism into delight, even among the pickiest of eaters. With just a handful of ingredients, not only are these roasted sprouts quick to prepare, but the addition of crispy bacon provides a savory touch that will have everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re sharing this dish at a festive gathering or looking for an easy weeknight side, the combination of sweet and smoky flavors ensures it will steal the show. Curious how to achieve that perfect balance of crunch and glaze? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Why Are These Brussels Sprouts Irresistible?
Mouthwatering Combination: The marriage of crispy bacon and sweet honey-mustard glaze offers an unforgettable flavor explosion.
Quick Prep Time: You can whip up this vibrant side dish in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether at holiday gatherings or casual dinners, these Sweet Smoky Brussels Sprouts are sure to impress even the fussiest eaters.
Vegan Twist: Easily swap bacon for smoked tofu to make this dish plant-based without sacrificing taste. Check out Rhubarb Crisp Sweet for another delightful recipe!
Versatile Pairing: These roasted sprouts complement a variety of main dishes, from meats to salads, making them a versatile addition to any meal.
Sweet Smoky Brussels Sprouts Ingredients
For the Brussels Sprouts
• Brussels Sprouts – Choose small to medium, firm sprouts for optimal sweetness and even cooking.
• Olive Oil – Helps achieve crispiness during roasting, enhancing the texture.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Essential seasonings to elevate flavor.
For the Bacon and Glaze
• Bacon – Adds a savory punch; swap with smoked tofu for a plant-based option.
• Honey – Provides a touch of sweetness; adjust the quantity based on your preference.
• Maple Syrup – Enhances the glaze’s sweetness and depth for a delightful finish.
• Dijon Mustard – Essential for balancing the glaze’s tanginess with sweetness.
• Balsamic Vinegar – Brings acidity and richness to the overall flavor profile.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Add for a hint of heat; adjust to taste for your desired spice level.
These Sweet Smoky Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Honey-Mustard Glaze will always be a standout on your table!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sweet Smoky Brussels Sprouts
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is essential for achieving beautifully caramelized Sweet Smoky Brussels Sprouts. While the oven heats up, gather your baking trays and line them with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Trim the ends off the Brussels sprouts and remove any yellowed leaves. In a large bowl, toss the cleaned sprouts with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and black pepper until they’re well-coated. This ensures each sprout gets a delicious flavor boost, ready for roasting.
Step 3: Arrange for Roasting
Spread the seasoned Brussels sprouts out on one of the prepared baking trays in a single layer. Make sure they aren’t crowded to allow for even roasting. This will help create that crispy texture you’ll love in your Sweet Smoky Brussels Sprouts, enhancing their natural sweetness as they cook.
Step 4: Prepare the Bacon
On the second baking tray, lay out the bacon pieces in a single layer. The bacon will cook alongside the Brussels sprouts, releasing savory, smoky flavors that will meld beautifully with the sweet honey-mustard glaze later.
Step 5: Roast the Sprouts and Bacon
Once your oven is ready, place both trays inside. Roast for 20-25 minutes, turning the Brussels sprouts halfway through to ensure they brown evenly. You’ll know they’re done when they’re tender and crispy, while the bacon should be perfectly crispy, adding that rich depth to your dish.
Step 6: Whisk the Glaze
In the meantime, prepare the honey-mustard glaze. In a medium bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. This mixture will bring a delightful balance of sweet and tangy to your Sweet Smoky Brussels Sprouts, adding an irresistible finish to your dish.
Step 7: Combine and Serve
Once the Brussels sprouts and bacon are roasted to perfection, remove them from the oven and carefully combine them in a large serving bowl. Drizzle the honey-mustard glaze over the top, tossing them gently to ensure everything is coated. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful flavors of your Sweet Smoky Brussels Sprouts!
Make Ahead Options
These Sweet Smoky Brussels Sprouts are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time during busy weeknights! You can clean and trim the Brussels sprouts up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. You can also prepare the honey-mustard glaze and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just toss the sprouts in olive oil, season, and roast alongside the bacon as directed. Don’t forget to drizzle the glaze over them just before serving—this ensures they remain just as delicious and vibrant!
How to Store and Freeze Sweet Smoky Brussels Sprouts
Fridge: Store leftover Sweet Smoky Brussels Sprouts in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze roasted Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to restore that delicious crispiness. Avoid the microwave to keep the texture intact.
Prep Ahead: Consider preparing the Brussels sprouts and glaze ahead of time. Combine just before serving to keep the sprouts crunchy and the glaze vibrant.
Expert Tips for Sweet Smoky Brussels Sprouts
• Choose Fresh Sprouts: Look for firm, tightly closed sprouts. Avoid any that are yellowing or have blemishes to ensure the best flavor.
• Optimal Spacing: When roasting, give the Brussels sprouts room on the tray. Crowding leads to steaming rather than roasting, preventing that crispy texture you’re craving.
• Perfect Timing: Check your sprouts and bacon after 20 minutes. Depending on your oven, roasting time may vary, so stay vigilant to avoid overcooking.
• Glaze Adjustments: Feel free to modify the honey and maple syrup amounts according to your sweetness preference, but don’t skimp on the Dijon mustard for balance.
• Crisp Reheating: Reheat leftover Brussels sprouts in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes for a warm and crispy texture, steering clear of the microwave.
With these expert tips, your Sweet Smoky Brussels Sprouts will shine on any table!
What to Serve with Sweet Smoky Brussels Sprouts
Elevate your dining experience by pairing these delightful roasted sprouts with complementary sides that enhance their sweet and savory profile.
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Savory Herb Roast Chicken: Juicy herbs infuse tender chicken, making it a perfect contrast to the crunch of the Brussels sprouts.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their velvety texture balances the crispy sprouts while soaking up the honey-mustard glaze beautifully.
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Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette: This light and refreshing salad provides a zesty contrast, adding an extra layer of flavor and texture. Toss in some nuts for a delightful crunch!
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Garlic Butter Shrimp: The juicy, garlicky shrimp add a touch of elegance, perfectly complementing the smoky, sweet flavors enveloping the Brussels.
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Braised Short Ribs: Rich and tender, these succulent ribs pair wonderfully with the bright notes of honey-mustard glaze while harmonizing with the sprouts’ savory notes.
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Roasted Butternut Squash: Sweet, caramelized squash amplifies the sweetness of the Brussels, creating stunning visual appeal and a delightful taste experience.
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Sautéed Greens with Lemon: Fresh sautéed greens add a vibrant, earthy component, brightening the plate and enhancing your meal’s nutritional value.
Sweet Smoky Brussels Sprouts Variations
Feel free to make these Brussels sprouts your own by trying out some exciting twists and substitutions!
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Vegan Option: Replace bacon with smoked tofu for a delightful plant-based version.
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Nutty Crunch: Add crushed pecans or walnuts for a satisfying crunch and additional layer of flavor.
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Spice It Up: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to elevate the heat level. A little kick can transform the sweet glaze into something truly exciting!
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Herbaceous Delight: Toss in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary before roasting for an aromatic experience. These herbs complement the savory and sweet notes wonderfully.
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Sweet & Savory: Swap honey for agave syrup or maple syrup for a vegan-friendly sweetener option while still keeping the glaze rich and delicious.
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Different Veggies: Roast with a mix of vegetables, such as carrots or broccoli, to create a colorful and festive side dish. The same technique works for these veggies and adds variety to your meal.
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Glaze Variations: Experiment with different mustards like whole grain or spicy brown for a different flavor profile. Each variation can bring a unique twist to the traditional glaze.
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Citrus Zing: A splash of fresh lemon or orange juice in the glaze adds a refreshing brightness that perfectly complements the sweet smokiness.
For more delicious ideas, don’t miss out on discovering how to make a delightful Chicken Roasted Sweet or indulge in a tasty Rhubarb Crisp Sweet. Happy cooking!
Sweet Smoky Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Honey-Mustard Glaze Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best Brussels sprouts?
Absolutely! Opt for small to medium-sized Brussels sprouts that are firm and tightly closed. Avoid any that are yellowing or have dark spots, as these indicate over-ripeness and can affect the flavor. Fresh sprouts will yield the sweetest, most delightful results in your dish.
How should I store leftovers?
Very simple! Store your leftover Sweet Smoky Brussels Sprouts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. This helps maintain their freshness and flavor. Just remember that they are best when eaten fresh, so try to finish them off within that timeframe.
Can I freeze roasted Brussels sprouts?
Yes, you can! To freeze, lay your roasted Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid. Once frozen, transfer them into a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. This way, you can enjoy them later with that deliciously distinct sweet and smoky profile!
What should I do if my Brussels sprouts turn out soggy?
If your Brussels sprouts end up soggy, it’s often due to overcrowding on the baking tray or insufficient roasting time. Ensure they’re spread out in a single layer for optimal roasting. If this happens, reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to help them regain their original crispiness.
Is this recipe suitable for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! This Sweet Smoky Brussels Sprouts recipe is both gluten-free and dairy-free. Plus, you can easily substitute bacon with smoked tofu or tempeh for a delightful plant-based twist! It’s a versatile dish that can cater to various dietary needs while still being delicious.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
For the best results, reheat your Sweet Smoky Brussels Sprouts in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes. This method keeps them crispy, as the microwave can make them soggy. I often do this to enjoy them almost as fresh as the first time!
Sweet Smoky Brussels Sprouts with Glaze You'll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and prepare baking trays lined with parchment paper.
- Trim the Brussels sprouts and toss with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
- Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking tray in a single layer for roasting.
- Lay out the bacon pieces on the second baking tray.
- Roast both trays for 20-25 minutes, turning Brussels sprouts halfway through.
- In the meantime, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, and red pepper flakes to make the glaze.
- Combine roasted Brussels sprouts and bacon in a serving bowl, drizzle the glaze, and toss gently.