The aroma of smoky maple-glazed Brussels sprouts wafts through the air, tantalizing your taste buds and beckoning you closer. Each sprout, caramelized to perfection with a touch of sweetness and a hint of smokiness, offers a delightful crunch that dances on your palate. try with a sweet quinoa dish.
Picture this: it’s Thanksgiving dinner, and I’m standing in the kitchen, trying to impress my relatives with my culinary prowess. The moment I pulled these smoky maple-glazed Brussels sprouts from the oven, my cousin leaned in for a taste, eyes widening in delight. This dish is perfect for holiday feasts or any gathering where you want to wow your guests with minimal fuss while delivering maximum flavor. For more inspiration, check out this Honey Garlic Soy Sauce Chicken recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The preparation is quick and straightforward, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions
- The balance of sweet maple syrup and savory bacon or tempeh creates an incredible flavor profile
- Visually stunning with vibrant greens and crispy edges, it’s a crowd-pleaser at any table
- Versatile enough to serve as a side dish or a main attraction for vegetarians and meat-lovers alike
I remember the first time I made these smoky maple-glazed Brussels sprouts. My family devoured them before I could even get a second helping!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: For more inspiration, check out this Delicious Avocado Chicken Salad recipe.
- Brussels Sprouts: Choose fresh, firm sprouts for optimal texture; smaller ones are often more tender.
- Bacon or Tempeh: Use thick-cut bacon for richness or tempeh for a hearty vegetarian option; both add amazing flavor.
- Maple Syrup: Opt for pure maple syrup to enhance the dish’s sweetness; avoid imitation syrup for best results.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances roasting; it also helps the flavors meld beautifully.
- Salt and Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper brings out the flavors; sea salt adds a lovely seasoning touch.
- Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder amplifies the savory notes; it’s essential for depth of flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help achieve that perfect roast on your Brussels sprouts.
Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: Rinse the Brussels sprouts under cold water, then trim the ends and cut them in half. Look for any yellow leaves and remove them—it’s like giving them a little spa treatment.
Crispy Bacon or Tempeh Time!: If using bacon, chop it into small pieces and cook in a skillet until crispy. add some fajitas for variety For tempeh, slice it into bite-sized cubes and sauté until golden brown. Both options will bring delightful texture.
Toss with Maple Goodness: In a large bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts with cooked bacon or tempeh. Drizzle in olive oil, maple syrup, garlic powder, salt, and pepper; toss until everything is well-coated and happy.
Roast Until Perfect: Spread the mixture evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast in your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes until crispy and caramelized, tossing halfway through to ensure even roasting.
Serve and Enjoy!: Once out of the oven, let them cool slightly before serving. These smoky maple-glazed Brussels sprouts are best enjoyed warm—watch out for sneaky hands reaching for seconds! enjoy with a warm chickpea soup.
Now you have not only mastered how to make smoky maple-glazed Brussels sprouts but also created an unforgettable dish that will impress family and friends alike!
You Must Know
- Smoky Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts are not just delicious; they elevate any meal with their sweet, savory, and smoky flavors
- These little green orbs are the perfect side dish for gatherings, adding a pop of color and taste that impresses everyone at the table
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by roasting your Brussels sprouts at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes. This ensures they get crispy while you prepare the smoky maple glaze.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap bacon for tempeh for a plant-based twist. Add chili flakes for extra heat or pecans for crunch!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly glazed Brussels sprouts, ensure they are evenly coated with maple syrup before roasting
- Avoid overcrowding the pan to achieve that coveted crispy texture
- Try using fresh herbs like thyme to enhance flavor without overpowering sweetness
Cooking these Smoky Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts always reminds me of the first family holiday dinner I hosted. Everyone raved about them, and now they’re a must-have at every gathering!
FAQ
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Yes, but thaw them first to avoid sogginess when roasting.
How do I know when they’re done?
Look for a golden-brown color and crispy edges after roasting.
What can I serve with these sprouts?
They pair well with roasted meats or as part of a vegetarian spread. pair with steak for a hearty meal.
Smoky Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Smoky maple-glazed Brussels sprouts are a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors that will elevate any meal. With their crispy edges and tender centers, these roasted sprouts are dressed in a rich glaze of maple syrup and your choice of bacon or tempeh, making them a perfect side dish for holiday gatherings or busy weeknights. Quick to prepare and visually stunning, they are sure to impress guests and family alike.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
- 4 oz thick-cut bacon or 8 oz tempeh, chopped
- 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Rinse the Brussels sprouts, trim the ends, and cut them in half.
- If using bacon, cook it in a skillet until crispy; if using tempeh, sauté until golden brown.
- In a large bowl, combine the Brussels sprouts with bacon or tempeh. Add olive oil, maple syrup, garlic powder, salt, and pepper; toss well.
- Spread evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, tossing halfway through.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving warm.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: For a plant-based version, substitute bacon with tempeh. Add chili flakes for extra heat or pecans for added crunch. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat in the oven for best results.