🥓 Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Ingredients:
1 ½ lbs Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
2 tbsp olive oil (optional, if needed)
3 tbsp pure maple syrup
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional for tang)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for crunch)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
2. Cook the bacon:
In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy.
Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Reserve about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the skillet (discard the rest or save for later).
3. Prepare the Brussels sprouts:
Toss the halved Brussels sprouts with the reserved bacon grease (or olive oil), salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Spread evenly on the baking sheet, cut side down.
4. Roast:
Roast for 20–25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden brown and caramelized on the edges.
5. Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup and balsamic vinegar.
Drizzle the mixture over the roasted Brussels sprouts and toss to coat.
Return to the oven for another 5–7 minutes, until the glaze thickens slightly.
6. Combine & serve:
Stir in the cooked bacon (and nuts, if using).
Taste and adjust seasoning with a pinch more salt or pepper.
7. Serve warm and enjoy that irresistible sweet-salty crunch!
🍴 Tips:
For extra caramelization, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end.
Substitute honey for maple syrup if desired.
Try adding a sprinkle of Parmesan or crushed red pepper flakes for a flavor twist.