Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts

Note from Ana

Let me tell you a little secret: I used to be that person who turned their nose up at Brussels sprouts. I just couldn’t get on board with the whole “mini cabbage” thing—until one magical day, I decided to bake them. And wow. Let me tell you, roasted Brussels sprouts are an absolute game-changer! Add crispy bacon, a drizzle of maple syrup, and a touch of balsamic vinegar? Now you’ve got a side dish that’s downright irresistible. Sweet, smoky, crispy—it’s everything you didn’t know you needed on your plate.

These Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts have become a staple in my kitchen, especially around the holidays. They’re quick to throw together, bursting with flavor, and pair beautifully with just about anything. Speaking of holiday side dishes, here are a few more favorites that never disappoint: Croatian Mashed Potatoes, which are full of nostalgic comfort; Creamy Mashed Potatoes for that silky, buttery goodness; Roasted Potatoes with Parmesan, Garlic, and Herbs when you want crispy and savory perfection; and Cajun Green Bean Casserole for a little spicy twist. Honestly, any of these dishes will have your table looking (and tasting) incredible.

So, whether you’re hosting Christmas dinner or just want to elevate a regular weeknight meal, give these Brussels sprouts a try. Trust me, you might just convert another Brussels sprout skeptic in your family—just like I did!

All the best,
— Ana

How to Serve

Serve these Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts warm, fresh from the oven, so the edges stay crisp and the glaze feels rich and glossy. A little fresh parsley on top adds a lovely pop of colour and makes the dish feel extra special on the table.

This side dish goes beautifully with roast chicken, baked ham, roast turkey, or even a simple weeknight roast. You can also serve it with Croatian mashed potatoes, stuffing, glazed carrots, or a fresh green salad to round out the meal.

At Christmas time, these Brussels sprouts make a wonderful addition to a festive spread. I love serving them alongside holiday mains and classic sides, because the mix of crispy bacon, sweet maple, and roasted sprouts feels cozy, celebratory, and just a little bit irresistible.

Tips for Success

• Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts evenly. This helps them roast at the same rate and gives you those beautiful crispy edges.

• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Giving the Brussels sprouts enough space helps them roast properly instead of steaming.

• Cook the bacon until crisp. It adds the best texture and stays nicely crunchy when tossed through at the end.

• Roast the Brussels sprouts until golden brown. That extra colour brings out their natural sweetness and gives the dish much deeper flavour.

• Add the maple syrup and balsamic after roasting. This helps prevent the glaze from burning and keeps the flavours bright and balanced.

• Serve straight away for the best texture. The sprouts are at their best when they are hot, caramelized, and still a little crisp around the edges.

Substitutions & Variations

• Use pancetta instead of bacon for a slightly different savory flavour and a more delicate texture.

• Swap the maple syrup for honey if that is what you have on hand. The dish will still be delicious, with a slightly different kind of sweetness.

• Add pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and a festive feel, especially if serving this for Christmas lunch or dinner.

• Sprinkle with grated Parmesan before serving for a salty, rich finish that pairs beautifully with the roasted Brussels sprouts.

• Use turkey bacon for a lighter version, though the flavour will be a little less rich and smoky.

• Add dried cranberries after roasting for a sweet pop of flavour that makes the dish feel even more holiday-ready.

• Finish with a pinch of chili flakes if you would like a little heat to balance the sweetness of the maple syrup.

• Make it vegetarian by skipping the bacon and adding toasted nuts or sunflower seeds for crunch and flavour.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The Brussels sprouts will soften a little as they sit, but they will still taste delicious.

To reheat, spread them on a baking sheet and warm them in a hot oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 8–10 minutes, or until heated through. This is the best way to bring back some of their crisp edges.

You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, stirring gently, until warmed through. I would avoid the microwave if possible, as it makes the Brussels sprouts softer and the bacon less crisp.