Irresistible Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash with Bacon Recipe

These maple-glazed Brussels sprouts dance with unexpected flavor combinations that spark culinary excitement.

Crispy bacon bits add a savory crunch to the sweet and caramelized vegetables.

Roasting brings out rich, deep notes in both Brussels sprouts and butternut squash.

Seasonal ingredients merge into a delightful side dish that surprises skeptical vegetable eaters.

Maple syrup creates a golden, glossy coating that transforms humble produce into something extraordinary.

Simple ingredients come together quickly for a memorable autumn-inspired dish.

You’ll want seconds of this irresistible vegetable medley that makes eating greens a true pleasure.

Why Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash with Bacon Stands Out

• Flavor Explosion: Combines sweet maple syrup, tangy balsamic vinegar, and savory bacon for a mouthwatering taste experience that dances across your palate.
• Quick and Simple Preparation: Requires minimal chopping, uses one-pan method, and takes less than 45 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
• Nutritional Powerhouse: Packs Brussels sprouts and butternut squash with essential vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, transforming healthy vegetables into an irresistible side dish that even veggie skeptics will love.
• Festive and Versatile: Works beautifully as a holiday side, potluck contribution, or everyday vegetable option that elevates any meal with its rich, caramelized flavors and stunning presentation.

Everything That Goes Into Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash with Bacon

Main Ingredients:

• Brussels Sprouts: Hearty, nutritious vegetable with a slightly bitter flavor that roasts beautifully.
• Butternut Squash: Sweet, creamy winter squash that caramelizes nicely when roasted.

• Bacon: Adds rich, smoky flavor and crispy texture to the dish. Choose thick-cut bacon for best results.

Glaze and Seasoning Ingredients:

• Maple Syrup, Balsamic Vinegar: Create a sweet and tangy glaze that balances the roasted vegetables' flavors.

• Garlic Powder, Salt, Pepper: Classic seasoning blend that enhances the vegetables' natural taste.
• Dijon Mustard: Provides a subtle sharp and tangy kick to the glaze.
• Cinnamon: Optional warm spice that complements the maple sweetness.

Finishing Ingredients:

• Fresh Parsley: Bright, fresh herb for garnish and color.
• Pecans or Walnuts: Toasted nuts add crunch and nutty depth to the dish.

Additional Ingredients:

• Olive Oil: Helps vegetables roast evenly and prevents sticking.
• Parchment Paper: Ensures easy cleanup and prevents burning.

How to Cook Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash with Bacon

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank your oven to a toasty 400F (200C). Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper to prevent any sticky situations.

Step 2: Prep Veggie Mix

• Brussels sprouts
• Butternut squash
• Olive oil
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Pepper

Spread this colorful mixture across the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle chopped bacon generously over the vegetables.

Step 3: First Roasting Round

Slide the baking sheet into the hot oven. Roast for 25-30 minutes, giving everything a quick stir halfway through. You’re looking for tender veggies and crispy bacon perfection.

Step 4: Create Magical Glaze

• Maple syrup
• Balsamic vinegar
• Dijon mustard
• Cinnamon (optional but recommended)

Step 5: Glaze and Coat

Pull the baking sheet out of the oven. Drizzle the maple glaze over the roasted vegetables and bacon. Gently toss to ensure every morsel gets a delicious coating.

Step 6: Final Caramelization

Return the sheet to the oven for another 5-7 minutes. This helps the glaze caramelize and creates a mouth-watering shine.

Step 7: Serve with Flair

• Toasted pecans
• Chopped walnuts
• Fresh parsley (if you're feeling fancy)

Enjoy your sweet and savory masterpiece!

Tips for the Best Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash with Bacon

• Customize Bacon Options: Swap traditional bacon with turkey bacon or omit completely for vegetarian version, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious side dish.
• Maximize Roasting Perfection: Cut vegetables into uniform sizes to guarantee even cooking and prevent some pieces from burning while others remain undercooked.
• Enhance Flavor Depth: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or red pepper flakes to the maple glaze for an extra layer of complexity and subtle heat.
• Prevent Soggy Vegetables: Use a large baking sheet and avoid overcrowding to help Brussels sprouts and squash caramelize instead of steaming.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prep vegetables and glaze separately the night before, then quickly roast before serving to save time during meal preparation.

Store Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash with Bacon Like a Pro

• Refrigeration: Store leftover maple-glazed Brussels sprouts and butternut squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating in Oven: Preheat oven to 350F, spread leftovers on a baking sheet, and warm for 10-12 minutes until heated through, maintaining crispy texture.
• Microwave Option: Reheat in short 30-second intervals, stirring between each to ensure even heating and prevent sogginess.
• Freezing Tip: Freeze in sealed containers for up to 1 month, though the texture might slightly change upon thawing due to moisture from vegetables.

Perfect Pairings for Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash with Bacon

• Pair with Crisp White Wine: Complement the sweet and savory maple-glazed dish with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, cutting through the richness of bacon and providing a refreshing contrast.
• Match with Hearty Red Protein: Serve alongside roasted chicken or grilled pork tenderloin to create a balanced meal that echoes the caramelized flavors and smoky bacon notes.
• Create Rustic Bread Companion: Enjoy with crusty sourdough or rustic whole grain bread to soak up the delicious maple glaze and add textural variety to the dish.
• Enhance with Nutty Side Salad: Prepare a light arugula salad with toasted almonds and a light vinaigrette to balance the richness and add a crisp, fresh element to the roasted vegetables.

Fresh Variations of Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash with Bacon

• Spicy Kickback: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the olive oil mixture for a fiery flavor boost that transforms the sweet maple glaze into a zesty sensation.
• Mediterranean Magic: Replace bacon with crispy pancetta and sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the roasted vegetables for a Mediterranean-inspired rendition that brings tangy notes to the dish.
• Herb-Infused Fusion: Mix fresh thyme, rosemary, and sage into the maple glaze to create an aromatic herb profile that elevates the roasted vegetables with earthy undertones.
• Nutty Comfort: Swap pecans or walnuts for toasted almonds or pumpkin seeds, and incorporate a dash of smoked paprika to introduce a rich, smoky complexity to the roasted vegetable medley.

FAQs About Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash with Bacon

• What makes the maple glaze special in this recipe?

The maple glaze combines sweet maple syrup with tangy balsamic vinegar and zesty Dijon mustard, creating a complex flavor that perfectly complements the roasted vegetables and crispy bacon.

• Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the bacon and replace it with smoked almonds or coconut bacon for a similar smoky flavor profile that adds crunch and depth to the dish.

• Why roast Brussels sprouts and butternut squash together?

These vegetables have similar roasting times and complement each other beautifully – the squash provides sweetness while Brussels sprouts offer a slightly nutty, caramelized flavor when roasted at high temperature.

• How do I know when the vegetables are perfectly roasted?

Look for golden brown edges, slightly crispy exterior, and tender interior. The vegetables should be easily pierced with a fork but not mushy, with bacon becoming crisp and golden.

Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts And Butternut Squash With Bacon Recipe

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4.7 from 30 reviews

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Maple-glazed brussels sprouts and butternut squash with bacon elevate fall side dishes with rich, caramelized flavors. Crisp bacon, sweet maple syrup, and roasted vegetables create a delightful harmony you’ll crave at every seasonal gathering.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Produce:

• 1 lb (454 g) brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 1 lb (454 g) butternut squash, peeled and cubed (about 1-inch pieces)

Meat and Protein:

• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• ¼ cup (30 g) chopped pecans or walnuts, toasted

Seasoning and Liquid Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

1. Prepare your culinary workspace by heating the oven to 400F (200C) and lining a spacious baking sheet with parchment paper for optimal roasting.
2. Carefully chop Brussels sprouts and butternut squash into uniform pieces, ensuring even cooking. Slice bacon into small, crispy-ready fragments.
3. Combine vegetables in a large mixing vessel, generously coating with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and freshly cracked pepper. Distribute ingredients evenly across the prepared baking sheet.
4. Strategically sprinkle bacon pieces throughout the vegetable landscape, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.
5. Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven, allowing vegetables and bacon to roast for 25-30 minutes. Midway through cooking, gently rotate and redistribute ingredients to encourage uniform caramelization.
6. Meanwhile, craft a luxurious maple glaze by whisking together maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a hint of warming cinnamon in a small mixing bowl.
7. Once vegetables reach a tender consistency and bacon turns delightfully crisp, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Drizzle the prepared maple glaze over the roasted medley.
8. Tenderly toss the ingredients to ensure each morsel receives an equal coating of the sweet and tangy glaze.
9. Return the glazed creation to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to caramelize and intensify the dish’s depth of flavor.
10. Transfer the glistening vegetables and bacon to a serving platter. Enhance the presentation by sprinkling toasted pecans or walnuts and garnishing with freshly chopped parsley for a final touch of elegance.

Notes

• Roast vegetables at a high temperature to achieve crispy edges and caramelized surfaces, enhancing their natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Choose fresh, firm Brussels sprouts and butternut squash for the best texture and maximum nutrient retention during roasting.
• Opt for thick-cut bacon to provide a robust, smoky flavor and crispy texture that complements the sweet maple glaze.
• Customize the dish for dietary preferences by using turkey bacon for a leaner option or omitting bacon completely for a vegetarian version.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 9 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Fat: 16 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Cholesterol: 15 mg