Balsamic Maple Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
- Angela
- Dec 6, 2025
- 1 min read
Crispy, caramelized, and the side dish that finally converted my kids.
If you’ve ever wondered how to get Brussels sprouts that don’t make your kids say “ewww”... this is the method. A hot oven, a little maple, a splash of balsamic, and suddenly these cute little sprouts go from “ignored on the plate” to “wait… these are actually good?”
My girls used to turn their noses up at Brussels sprouts, but once I started making them like this (and another version with an aioli drizzle), they were hooked. I swear it’s that sweet maple glaze mixed with the salty bacon that wins everyone over. Crispy on the outside, tender inside, and completely snackable... like eat-them-straight-off-the-pan snackable.
Serve them with pork tenderloin, chicken, salmon... or just stand at the counter and eat them with your fingers like I do.
If you want to make the version my girls actually eat without complaining... here’s the recipe.
1
Angela’s Recipe Tips
* Put the flat sides down... that’s how you get the pretty crispy edges.
* Give them space... crowded Brussels = mushy Brussels.
* Maple or honey... both work, use whatever is open.
* Bacon and Parmesan just make life better.
Notes
1
Prep:
Preheat oven to 425°F. Trim Brussels sprouts and slice in half. Pat dry.
2
Roast:
Toss sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread cut-side down on a baking sheet.
Roast for 20–25 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through.
3
Make the Glaze:
In a small saucepan, heat maple syrup (or honey), balsamic vinegar, and minced garlic over low heat until warm and combined.
Pour the glaze over the roasted sprouts and toss to coat.
Return to the oven for 5 minutes to caramelize.
4
Finish:
Top with bacon and Parmesan. Add red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
Instructions
1½ lbs Brussels sprouts
2–3 tbsp olive oil
½–1 tsp kosher salt
½ tsp black pepper
2 tbsp maple syrup (or honey)
1–2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
2 cloves garlic
3–4 slices cooked bacon
Red pepper flakes
Shaved Parmesan
Balsamic Maple Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Angela
Crispy, caramelized Brussels sprouts tossed in a maple-balsamic glaze and finished with bacon and Parmesan. A simple, cozy side dish that pairs perfectly with weeknight dinners and looks beautiful on the table.
Servings :
4 Servings
Calories:
Prep Time
10 min
Cooking Time
20-25
Rest Time
0
Total Time
30-35 min.
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