Every time I make these Honey Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Turkey Bacon my kitchen fills with the most amazing sweet and savory aromas. It's become my favorite way to transform humble Brussels sprouts into something absolutely crave worthy. The way they caramelize in the oven and get tossed with that sticky sweet glaze and crispy turkey bacon is pure magic.
What Makes This Dish Special
I love how this recipe takes simple ingredients and turns them into something extraordinary. That honey glaze brings out the natural sweetness of the sprouts while the turkey bacon adds just the right savory crunch. It's become my go to side dish whether I'm cooking for a quiet dinner or hosting a holiday feast.
Let's Gather Our Ingredients
- Brussels Sprouts: A fresh pound halved just right.
- Olive Oil: Two tablespoons for that perfect roast.
- Honey: Just a tablespoon adds lovely sweetness.
- Seasonings: Salt and pepper make everything pop.
- Turkey Bacon: Six slices cut into perfect bites.
- Maple Syrup: A quarter cup makes the glaze incredible.
- Dijon Mustard: One tablespoon adds amazing tang.
- Balsamic: Brings that perfect balance.
- Red Pepper: Optional but adds such nice heat.
Let's Get Cooking
- Get that oven ready:
- Nice and hot at 425 makes everything perfectly caramelized.
- Prep those sprouts:
- Toss them with oil honey and seasonings until they're well coated.
- Bacon time:
- Spread those pieces out they'll get nice and crispy.
- Into the oven:
- Watch the magic happen as everything roasts to perfection.
- Make it shine:
- Whisk up that gorgeous glaze while everything's roasting.
- Bring it all together:
- Toss everything with the warm glaze and watch eyes light up.
Make It Your Own
Sometimes I'll toss in some toasted nuts for extra crunch. You can even make it vegan with plant based bacon. Playing with different spices keeps it interesting try some garlic powder or smoked paprika. Adding grains turns it into a hearty main dish.
Serving It Up Right
This dish pairs beautifully with so many mains from roasted chicken to grilled steaks. A sprinkle of fresh herbs makes it look extra special. Leftovers keep well just warm them in the oven to bring back that lovely crispiness.
Quick Answers
- Make ahead? Prep everything then roast just before serving.
- Switch the bacon? Regular bacon or plant based works great.
- Want them crispy? Give them plenty of space on that pan.
- Saving extras? They freeze beautifully just add the glaze fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I prepare Brussels sprouts ahead of time?
You can trim and halve the Brussels sprouts up to 2 days ahead. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge. For best results, roast them just before serving to maintain their crispy texture.
- → Why are my Brussels sprouts not getting crispy?
Overcrowding the pan prevents proper browning. Make sure to spread them in a single layer with space between each piece. Also, ensure your oven is fully preheated to 425°F before roasting.
- → Can I substitute regular bacon for turkey bacon?
Regular bacon works perfectly in this recipe. Keep in mind it will release more fat while cooking, so you might want to reduce the olive oil slightly. The cooking time might also be shorter.
- → How do I know when the Brussels sprouts are done?
They should be fork-tender and golden brown on the outside. You should be able to easily pierce them with a fork, and the outer leaves should be crispy and dark golden.
- → Can I make this recipe without the honey and maple syrup?
You can skip the sweet elements for a savory version. Try adding extra balsamic vinegar and some garlic powder instead. The Brussels sprouts will still be delicious with just the mustard and vinegar coating.