Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Beef Bacon is a deliciously balanced side dish that offers a wonderful combination of sweetness, savoriness, and crunch. The Brussels sprouts are roasted to perfection, tender on the inside with a crispy exterior, and then drizzled with a rich honey glaze. The addition of crispy beef bacon takes this dish to the next level, adding an irresistible smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the honey. This recipe is not only easy to make, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser, perfect for holiday meals, family dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress with a unique twist on a classic vegetable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Perfect Balance of Sweet and Savory

The honey glaze offers a delightful sweetness, while the beef bacon adds a savory, smoky flavor, creating a perfect balance in every bite.

2. Simple Ingredients

With only a few simple ingredients, including Brussels sprouts, beef bacon, honey, and olive oil, you can create a flavorful side dish with ease.

3. Crispy and Tender Texture

The Brussels sprouts become crispy on the outside while staying tender on the inside when roasted, providing a satisfying texture that pairs beautifully with the crispy bacon.

4. Quick and Easy to Make

This dish requires minimal preparation, and most of the cooking is done in the oven, making it a hassle-free side dish to add to any meal.

5. Versatile Side Dish

Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Beef Bacon works well as a side dish to a variety of main courses, including roasted meats, grilled fish, or even as part of a vegetarian meal.

Ingredients

Brussels sprouts
Beef bacon
Olive oil
Honey
Salt and pepper

Variations

1. Add Nuts

For added texture and flavor, sprinkle some roasted almonds or pecans over the Brussels sprouts before serving.

2. Spicy Kick

If you like a little heat, drizzle some chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce along with the honey for a sweet and spicy combination.

3. Use Different Bacon

If beef bacon isn’t your choice, try using regular pork bacon or turkey bacon for a lighter version.

4. Add Garlic

Add minced garlic to the olive oil before tossing it with the Brussels sprouts for an extra burst of flavor.

5. Add Parmesan

Top the roasted Brussels sprouts with freshly grated Parmesan cheese just before serving for a savory finish.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for roasting the Brussels sprouts.

Step 2: Toss the Brussels Sprouts

In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

Step 3: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the sprouts are tender on the inside and slightly crispy on the outside, turning halfway through for even cooking.

Step 4: Cook the Beef Bacon

While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, cook the chopped beef bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 5: Drizzle with Honey

Once the Brussels sprouts are done, remove them from the oven and drizzle honey over them. Toss the sprouts to coat evenly in the glaze.

Step 6: Top with Beef Bacon

Sprinkle the crispy beef bacon over the top of the honey-glazed Brussels sprouts for a smoky, savory crunch.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: For the Brussels sprouts to roast evenly and crisp up, make sure they are spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet.
Use Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Fresh Brussels sprouts will give the best flavor and texture. Avoid using frozen Brussels sprouts, as they tend to become mushy when roasted.
Check for Doneness: Test the Brussels sprouts with a fork to ensure they are tender. If you like them crispier, you can leave them in the oven for a few extra minutes.
Use High-Quality Honey: The quality of honey can greatly impact the flavor of the dish. Opt for pure, natural honey for the best results.

How to Serve

Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Beef Bacon makes a fantastic side dish for roasted meats like chicken, pork, or beef. It also pairs well with grilled fish or a hearty vegetarian main course, such as quinoa or lentil salad. For a complete meal, serve this dish alongside mashed potatoes or rice. For a more festive touch, add some roasted nuts or a sprinkle of cheese.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sprouts will still be flavorful, though the texture might soften slightly after storage.

Freezing

While you can freeze the Brussels sprouts after roasting, the texture may not be as crisp once reheated. If you plan to freeze, store them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to an airtight container. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Reheating

To reheat the Brussels sprouts, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. For a crispier finish, you can broil them for 2-3 minutes after reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular pork bacon instead of beef bacon?

Yes, you can substitute regular pork bacon or turkey bacon if you prefer, though beef bacon adds a unique flavor to the dish.

2. Can I make this dish without honey?

Yes, you can omit the honey for a savory version of the roasted Brussels sprouts, or substitute it with maple syrup for a slightly different sweetness.

3. Can I roast Brussels sprouts at a lower temperature?

While 400°F works best for crispy Brussels sprouts, you can roast them at a lower temperature like 375°F. Just be sure to check for tenderness and crispiness.

4. How do I prevent the Brussels sprouts from burning?

To avoid burning, check on the Brussels sprouts every 15 minutes during roasting and stir them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly.

5. Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, for a vegan version, omit the beef bacon and use a plant-based substitute or simply enjoy the honey-glazed Brussels sprouts on their own.

6. How do I know when the Brussels sprouts are done?

The Brussels sprouts should be golden brown on the edges and tender when pierced with a fork. If you prefer them crispier, leave them in the oven for a few more minutes.

7. Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Yes, feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, or parsnips. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed for different vegetables.

8. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can roast the Brussels sprouts ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Drizzle with honey and top with bacon just before serving.

9. Can I use a different type of sweetener?

Yes, you can substitute honey with maple syrup, agave nectar, or a sugar-free sweetener if you prefer.

10. Can I make this dish on the stovetop instead of roasting it?

While roasting is the best method for crispy Brussels sprouts, you can sauté them in a pan for a quicker version. Just be sure to cook them in batches to ensure they get crispy.

Conclusion

Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Beef Bacon is a flavorful and satisfying side dish that brings together the best of sweet and savory. With crispy Brussels sprouts, a sweet honey glaze, and the smoky crunch of beef bacon, this dish is sure to impress. Whether you’re serving it alongside a holiday feast or as a weeknight dinner, it’s a perfect addition to any table. Simple to make and delicious to eat, it’s a recipe you’ll want to add to your regular rotation.