Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon – A Sweet & Savory Delight

When it comes to flavorful, easy side dishes, few recipes can compete with the perfect balance of sweet and savory found in honey-glazed roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon. This dish combines the crispy, caramelized texture of Brussels sprouts with the smoky richness of bacon and the natural sweetness of honey, making it an ideal addition to any meal. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday feast or a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔️ Easy to make – Requires minimal prep and ingredients
✔️ Packed with flavor – A combination of sweet, salty, and smoky goodness
✔️ Healthy yet indulgent – Loaded with vitamins while still crispy and satisfying
✔️ Perfect for any occasion – Works as a holiday dish or an everyday side

To create the best honey-glazed Brussels sprouts, you’ll need just a handful of simple ingredients:

Ingredients for the Perfect Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts

Main Ingredients

1 lb Brussels sprouts – Trimmed and halved
6 slices thick-cut bacon – Cut into small pieces
3 tbsp honey – For natural sweetness
2 tbsp olive oil – Helps with caramelization
1/2 tsp salt – Enhances all the flavors
1/2 tsp garlic powder – Adds a savory depth
️ 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional) – For a subtle kick

Optional Additions

1 tbsp balsamic vinegar – Adds a tangy twist
2 tbsp grated Parmesan – A cheesy finishing touch

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

1. Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2. Prep the Brussels Sprouts and Bacon

Wash and trim the Brussels sprouts, then cut them in half.
Toss them in a bowl with olive oil, salt, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes.
Arrange them on the baking sheet in a single layer.
Sprinkle the chopped bacon pieces evenly over the sprouts.

3. Roast to Perfection

Bake for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through. Drizzle honey over the Brussels sprouts and bacon, then roast for another 10 minutes until caramelized and crispy.

4. Serve and Enjoy!

Remove from the oven and drizzle with balsamic vinegar or Parmesan for extra flavor. Serve immediately while warm and crispy!

Expert Tips for the Best Brussels Sprouts

✔️ Use fresh Brussels sprouts – Frozen ones contain too much moisture.
✔️ Don’t overcrowd the pan – Space them out to ensure crispiness.
✔️ Roast at high heat – 400°F is the perfect temperature for caramelization.
✔️ Toss in honey at the right time – Adding honey too early can cause burning.

Want to learn more about the best roasting techniques? Check out this guide on How to Perfectly Roast Brussels Sprouts.

Variations & Flavor Enhancements

Looking to switch things up? Here are a few delicious variations to try:

Spicy Honey Brussels Sprouts – Add 1 tsp sriracha or hot honey for a spicy twist.
Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts – Swap out honey for pure maple syrup.
Air Fryer Version – Cook at 375°F for 15 minutes for extra crispiness.

Curious about the health benefits of Brussels sprouts? Read this in-depth article on The Benefits of Eating Brussels Sprouts.

Best Dishes to Serve With Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts

This dish pairs well with both casual and elegant meals. Try serving it with:

Roast Chicken – The crispy, golden Brussels sprouts complement a juicy chicken.
Grilled Steak – The smoky bacon enhances the steak’s bold flavors.
Mashed Potatoes – A creamy contrast to the crispy, roasted sprouts.
Citrus Salad – A refreshing side to balance the dish’s richness.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Got leftovers? Here’s how to keep them fresh:

Store: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Use a skillet or oven at 350°F to retain crispiness. Avoid microwaving!

Looking for the best honey for this dish? Check out The Best Types of Honey for Cooking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcrowding the pan – This leads to steamed instead of crispy Brussels sprouts.
Skipping the preheat – The oven must be hot before roasting!
Using too much honey – Too much can make the dish overly sweet or cause burning.
Not stirring halfway through – Ensures even caramelization.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the Brussels sprouts and bacon a day ahead. Roast them fresh when ready to serve.
Can I use turkey bacon instead of pork bacon?
Absolutely! Turkey bacon works well but won’t be as crispy or flavorful as pork bacon.
How do I make Brussels sprouts extra crispy?
Roast at high heat (400°F or higher).
Use a large baking sheet to avoid overcrowding.
Toss in honey towards the end of roasting.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Simply omit the bacon and use maple syrup instead of honey.

Final Thoughts: The Ultimate Sweet & Savory Side Dish

Honey-glazed roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon are the perfect balance of flavors, making them a must-have for any dinner table. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, this dish is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.