Irresistible Sweet and Spicy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe

Crispy bacon transforms these sweet and spicy roasted brussels sprouts into a mouthwatering side dish that defies vegetable stereotypes.

Salty pork pieces create an irresistible crunch against tender green leaves.

Maple syrup and chili flakes dance together, building complex layers of flavor.

Caramelized edges hint at the magic waiting on your plate.

Kitchen novices and seasoned cooks alike will fall in love with this simple yet impressive recipe.

Minimal ingredients promise maximum satisfaction.

You can whip up this crowd-pleasing dish in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.

Why Sweet And Spicy Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Crispy Bacon Are A Hit

• Elevate Your Side Dish: Transform ordinary Brussels sprouts into a mouthwatering sensation with a perfect blend of sweet and spicy flavors that'll make everyone at the table crave more.
• Quick and Hassle-Free Cooking: Minimal prep work and simple ingredients mean you can create a gourmet-style side dish in just a few easy steps, perfect for busy home cooks.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor Combo: The crispy bacon adds irresistible crunch, while hot honey brings a tantalizing sweet-and-spicy kick that turns even veggie skeptics into fans.
• Versatile Culinary Creation: Equally stunning as a holiday side dish, weeknight dinner companion, or party appetizer that impresses without requiring professional chef skills.

What’s In Sweet And Spicy Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Crispy Bacon

• Brussels Sprouts: Fresh green vegetables with a nutty flavor that become crispy and caramelized when roasted.

• Bacon: Adds a smoky, salty crunch that complements the Brussels sprouts perfectly.

• Olive Oil: Helps coat the Brussels sprouts and promotes even roasting and browning.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Classic seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the dish.
• Smoked Paprika: Provides a deep, smoky flavor that adds complexity to the roasted vegetables.
• Hot Honey, Honey: Sweet condiments that create a delightful sweet and spicy glaze for the roasted Brussels sprouts.

How To Make Sweet And Spicy Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Crispy Bacon

Step 1: Crank Up the Oven

Heat your oven to a blazing 400°F (200°C) to get ready for some serious roasting action.

Step 2: Prep the Brussels Sprouts

• Olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Smoked paprika

Massage these ingredients until every single sprout is completely coated and looking fabulous.

Step 3: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Spread the seasoned Brussels sprouts onto a baking sheet in a single layer, making sure they’re not overcrowded. Sprinkle chopped bacon pieces evenly across the top.

Step 4: Roast to Perfection

Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes. Halfway through cooking, give everything a quick stir to ensure even browning.

You’re looking for tender Brussels sprouts and super crispy bacon.

Step 5: Add the Sweet Heat

Pull the baking sheet out of the oven and drizzle hot honey all over the roasted veggies.

If you want a milder version, mix in some regular honey too. Gently toss to coat everything in that delicious sticky goodness.

Step 6: Serve and Devour

Transfer to a serving dish while still warm. These make an incredible side dish or crowd-pleasing appetizer that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Smart Cooking Tips For Sweet And Spicy Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Crispy Bacon

• Ensure Brussels sprouts are similar in size for even roasting, which helps achieve a perfectly crispy texture.
• Pat Brussels sprouts dry before seasoning to prevent steaming and promote better caramelization.
• Use thick-cut bacon for extra crunch and robust flavor that complements the sprouts' natural earthiness.
• Adjust honey quantity based on personal heat preference, starting with a light drizzle and adding more if desired.
• For a vegetarian version, replace bacon with smoked almonds or crispy chickpeas to maintain a crunchy element.

Fun Ways To Switch Sweet And Spicy Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Crispy Bacon

• Maple Glazed Version: Replace hot honey with pure maple syrup for a sweeter, caramelized flavor profile. Sprinkle chopped pecans on top for added crunch and nutty undertones.
• Asian-Inspired Kick: Swap smoked paprika with sriracha and add soy sauce. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions for an umami-rich experience.
• Mediterranean Herb Blend: Mix in dried oregano, thyme, and crumbled feta cheese. Use olive oil infused with garlic for an extra Mediterranean touch.
• Balsamic Reduction Approach: Drizzle aged balsamic reduction instead of honey. Add crispy prosciutto bits and fresh rosemary for a sophisticated spin.

What Tastes Good With Sweet And Spicy Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Crispy Bacon

• Pair with Bold Red Wine: Select a robust Zinfandel or Syrah that complements the smoky bacon and spicy paprika, enhancing the dish's complex flavor profile.
• Serve with Crisp Apple Cider: The sweet-tart apple notes will balance the spiciness and cut through the richness of the bacon, creating a refreshing contrast.
• Match with Creamy Goat Cheese: Crumble tangy goat cheese over the roasted Brussels sprouts to add a creamy texture and bright, acidic undertone that elevates the entire dish.
• Combine with Grilled Protein: Serve alongside a simple grilled chicken breast or pork tenderloin to transform this side dish into a complete, satisfying meal with complementary flavors.

Storing Sweet And Spicy Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Crispy Bacon Right

• Refrigerate: Store leftover Brussels sprouts in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Keep the bacon and sprouts together to maintain their combined flavor.
• Reheating Oven: Spread leftovers on a baking sheet, cover loosely with foil, and warm at 350°F for 10-12 minutes until heated through. Uncover for the last 2-3 minutes to restore crispiness.
• Microwave Quick Option: Place portions on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm. Note that bacon might lose some crispness.
• Freezing Option: Freeze in sealed containers for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve texture and prevent sogginess.

FAQs For Sweet And Spicy Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Crispy Bacon

• Are Brussels sprouts healthy?

Yes, they’re packed with nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber. They’re low in calories and high in antioxidants, making them an excellent addition to a balanced diet.

• How do I choose fresh Brussels sprouts?

Look for bright green, compact sprouts without yellow leaves or brown spots. Smaller sprouts tend to be more tender and sweeter compared to larger ones.

• Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon and replace it with chopped nuts like pecans or almonds for a similar crunchy texture and added protein.

• What does hot honey do to the dish?

Hot honey adds a unique sweet and spicy kick that enhances the roasted Brussels sprouts’ flavor, creating a delicious balance between caramelization and heat.

Sweet and Spicy Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Crispy Bacon Recipe

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4.8 from 31 reviews

• Total Time: 30-35 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Roasted brussels sprouts dance with crispy bacon in this irresistible sweet and spicy side dish that elevates your dinner table. Maple syrup and red pepper flakes create a perfect flavor balance you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Proteins:

• 4 slices bacon, chopped

Main Vegetables:

• 1 pound (454 grams) Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved

Seasonings and Oils:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon hot honey
• 1 tablespoon regular honey
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Warm the oven to 400°F, creating an ideal roasting environment for caramelizing vegetables and rendering bacon fat.
2. Combine Brussels sprouts with olive oil, creating a glossy coating that will help seasonings adhere and promote even browning.
3. Generously season the sprouts with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika, ensuring each piece is thoroughly and uniformly seasoned.
4. Arrange the seasoned Brussels sprouts on a spacious baking sheet, positioning them in a single, uncrowded layer to guarantee maximum crispiness.
5. Distribute crisp bacon pieces across the vegetable surface, allowing the fat to render and infuse additional flavor during roasting.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes, rotating the pan midway to ensure uniform caramelization and prevent uneven cooking.
7. Check doneness by testing sprout tenderness and observing a golden-brown exterior with crispy bacon edges.
8. Immediately drizzle with hot honey and traditional honey, creating a glossy, sweet-spicy glaze that coats each morsel.
9. Gently toss to ensure complete and even honey coverage, preserving the crisp texture of the roasted vegetables.
10. Transfer to a serving platter and present while still warm, highlighting the dish’s dynamic flavor profile and textural contrast.

Notes

• Ensure Brussels sprouts are similar in size for even roasting, which helps achieve a consistent crispy texture and prevents some pieces from burning.
• Pat Brussels sprouts completely dry before seasoning to maximize caramelization and prevent steaming instead of roasting.
• For a vegetarian version, replace bacon with smoked almonds or coconut bacon bits to maintain the smoky, crispy element while keeping the dish plant-based.
• Adjust honey quantity based on heat preference – less for milder flavor, more for intense sweet-spicy combination that complements the smoky bacon and roasted vegetables.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 16 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Protein: 5 g
• Cholesterol: 10 mg