Brussels sprouts roast until crispy, then get tossed with bacon and a maple glaze that balances the sprouts' natural bitterness with smoky sweetness. A hot oven and about 25 minutes are all it takes to turn this into a side dish worth repeating well beyond the holiday table.
In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Lay the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast them in the oven for about 15 minutes until they start to brown and caramelize.
While the sprouts are roasting, cook the bacon in a pan over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and let it drain on paper towels, then cut into small pieces.
Once the Brussels sprouts are done, sprinkle the bacon pieces over them. Drizzle with maple syrup and gently mix with tongs to coat evenly.
Return the baking sheet to the oven for another 5 minutes, until the maple syrup caramelizes slightly, enhancing the flavors.
Notes
Jen’s Tips:
For a smoky twist, consider using smoked bacon.
If you're vegetarian, you can skip the bacon and add a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a similar depth of flavor.