Delicious Honey Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Are Your Side Dishes Missing a Spark?

Let’s face it, Brussels sprouts often get a bad rap. Many of us remember them as soggy, bitter disappointments from childhood. But what if I told you that with a few simple tricks, you could transform these humble cruciferous vegetables into a dish so incredibly delicious, so irresistibly flavorful, that it becomes the star of your meal? Enter these Honey Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with crispy turkey bacon. Studies have shown that roasting Brussels sprouts significantly sweetens their flavor, reducing bitterness by caramelizing their natural sugars. When combined with the savory crunch of turkey bacon and a touch of sweet honey glaze, you have a side dish that’s both sophisticated and incredibly moreish. Ready to discover your new favorite way to prepare Brussels sprouts?

Ingredients That Sing

The magic of this dish lies in its simplicity and the quality of its ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to create these flavor-packed sprouts:

• 1.5 pounds fresh Brussels sprouts: Look for firm, bright green sprouts. Smaller ones tend to be sweeter and more tender. You can substitute larger ones, but they might take slightly longer to cook.
• 4-6 slices of turkey bacon: Choose good quality turkey bacon for the best flavor and texture. If turkey bacon isn’t your preference, regular bacon or even pancetta can be used, but be mindful of the increased sodium and fat content. Diced and crisped regular bacon will also work beautifully, offering a richer, smokier flavor. For a vegetarian option, omit the bacon entirely or use crispy fried shallots for a similar crunch.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil will give the best flavor. You can also use avocado oil or another neutral high-heat oil.
• 2 tablespoons honey: This is key for that beautiful glaze. Use a good quality liquid honey. Maple syrup is a fantastic vegan substitute that offers a similar caramelization.
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar: Adds a delightful tang that cuts through the sweetness and richness. Red wine vinegar can be used in a pinch, though it will be less complex.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: For a savory depth. Fresh minced garlic can be used, but be careful as it can burn at high temperatures.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste. Don’t skimp on the pepper; it adds a lovely warmth.
• Optional additions: A pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts like slivered almonds or chopped pecans for extra texture.

Timing is Everything

This recipe is slightly longer than the average Brussels sprouts dish, primarily due to the time needed to crisp the bacon and achieve perfectly roasted sprouts. However, the active preparation is minimal, making it quite manageable for a weeknight meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Sprouts

First things first, let’s get those Brussels sprouts ready! Give them a good rinse under cool water. Then, it’s time for the trim and halve. Trim off any dry, tough ends of the sprouts. Next, slice each sprout in half lengthwise. If you notice any loose outer leaves, feel free to peel them away – they often become a bit too crispy or burnt. For larger sprouts, you might want to quarter them to ensure even cooking. You want them to be roughly the same size so they roast uniformly.

Step 2: Crisp Up the Bacon

Now, let’s get that delicious turkey bacon on its way to crispiness. You have a couple of options here. You can chop the turkey bacon into bite-sized pieces and sauté them in a skillet over medium heat until they are nicely browned and crispy, then drain them on a paper towel-lined plate. Alternatively, for a more hands-off approach, you can spread the bacon slices on a baking sheet and roast them in a preheated oven (around 400°F / 200°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until crispy. Once cooked, crumble or chop the bacon into pieces and set aside about half for garnishing later.

Step 3: Roast the Sprouts

In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with the olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper. Make sure each sprout is evenly coated. Spread the seasoned sprouts in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Ideally, use a baking sheet that has the sprouts in a single layer, not piled on top of each other, as this is crucial for achieving those coveted crispy edges. Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven (400°F / 200°C) and roast for about 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for them to be tender on the inside and nicely browned and caramelized on the outside, with some crispy edges. Midway through the roasting time, give them a good shake or stir to ensure even browning.

Step 4: Glaze and Finish

Once the Brussels sprouts are almost perfectly roasted and tender-crisp, it’s time for the glorious glaze. While the sprouts are still in the oven for their final few minutes, in a small bowl, whisk together the honey and balsamic vinegar. Once the sprouts are beautifully caramelized, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Drizzle the honey-balsamic mixture over the hot sprouts. Toss everything gently to coat each sprout evenly with the glaze. Add about half of the crispy turkey bacon pieces back into the bowl with the glazed sprouts and toss again. Return the baking sheet to the oven for another 2-3 minutes, just long enough for the glaze to bubble and thicken slightly, coating the sprouts in a glossy, sticky finish. Be careful not to overcook at this stage, as the honey can burn quickly.

Nutritional Snapshot

While exact nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, here’s a general estimate for a serving of these Honey Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts:

• Calories: Approx. 150-200 per serving (will vary with bacon quantity)
• Protein: Approx. 5-8g
• Fat: Approx. 8-12g
• Carbohydrates: Approx. 15-20g (with about 5-8g being natural sugars)
• Fiber: Approx. 4-6g

Note: These figures are approximate and can change based on the type and amount of bacon and oil used, as well as the size of the Brussels sprouts. Turkey bacon is generally lower in fat and calories than traditional pork bacon.

Healthier Alternatives & Flavor Swaps

Looking to lighten things up or tweak the flavors? Here are some ideas:

• Reduced Fat/Calories: Use less olive oil (1 tablespoon instead of 2) and skip the bacon or use a vegetarian option like crispy chickpeas or smoked tofu for crunch.
• Vegan Option: Substitute the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. Omit the bacon and add toasted nuts or seeds for texture.
• Spicier Kick: Add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the olive oil and seasonings before roasting.
• Umami Boost: A splash of soy sauce or tamari can be added to the glaze for an extra depth of savory flavor.
• Citrus Zest: For a brighter finish, grate some fresh orange or lemon zest over the sprouts just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

These Honey Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts are incredibly versatile. They make a stunning side dish for:

• Roast chicken or turkey
• Pork tenderloin or chops
• Grilled steak or salmon
• Pasta dishes or risotto
• Holiday meals like Thanksgiving or Christmas

They can also be tossed with grains like quinoa or farro to create a hearty salad, or even served as a flavorful appetizer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Brussels sprouts turn out perfectly every time, watch out for these common pitfalls:

• Overcrowding the Pan: This is the biggest culprit for soggy sprouts. They need space to roast and caramelize. Use a large baking sheet and a single layer.
• Not Trimming Properly: Ensure you trim off the tough stem ends, as these can be bitter and fibrous.
• Under-Roasting: Don’t rush the roasting process! They need enough time at a high temperature to develop those delicious crispy edges and tender interiors.
• Burning the Glaze: The honey glaze is glorious, but it can burn quickly. Add it in the last few minutes of cooking and keep a close eye on it.

Storing and Reheating

While these Brussels sprouts are best enjoyed fresh from the oven, leftovers can be stored. Let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in a toaster oven to help restore some of their crispness. Avoid reheating them in the microwave, as this can make them mushy.

The Crispy, Sweet Conclusion

There you have it – a simple yet sensational recipe that will change your perspective on Brussels sprouts forever. These Honey Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with crispy turkey bacon are a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and a touch of tangy, with an irresistible crispy texture. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish is sure to impress! Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out in the comments below. We’d love to hear your variations and serving ideas!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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