Tangy Maple Brussels Sprouts & Butternut Squash Bacon Recipe

Crisp autumn nights call for comfort dishes that warm the soul, and these maple-glazed brussels sprouts and butternut squash with bacon deliver pure culinary magic.

Sweet maple syrup weaves its enchantment through caramelized vegetables and smoky bacon bits.

The combination promises a side dish that dances between savory and sweet sensations.

Roasted to golden perfection, each bite offers a delightful textural contrast of tender squash and crisp brussels sprouts.

Bacon adds a rich, salty punch that elevates the entire dish.

This recipe transforms humble vegetables into a show-stopping side that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Dive into this delectable creation and experience a symphony of flavors that celebrate seasonal produce.

Essentials For Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts And Butternut Squash With Bacon

• Brussels Sprouts: Earthy vegetable that caramelizes beautifully, choose firm and bright green sprouts without yellow leaves.
• Butternut Squash: Sweet autumn vegetable that adds creamy texture, select squash with smooth, uniform color and heavy for its size.
• Olive Oil: Helps vegetables roast evenly and develop golden edges, choose extra virgin for best flavor.

Olive Oil, Garlic Powder, Salt, Pepper: Essential seasoning blend that enhances vegetable’s natural flavors, use freshly ground black pepper for maximum taste.

• Bacon: Adds smoky richness and crispy texture, select thick-cut bacon for best results.
• Pecans, Walnuts: Provides delightful crunch and nutty undertone, toast briefly to intensify flavor.

• Maple Syrup: Creates sweet caramelized coating, choose pure maple syrup for authentic flavor.
• Balsamic Vinegar: Adds tangy depth to balance sweetness, select aged balsamic for richer taste.
• Dijon Mustard: Provides subtle sharp note and helps emulsify glaze, use smooth variety.
• Cinnamon: Optional warmth-enhancing spice that complements maple's sweetness, use freshly ground if possible.

Cooking Tools For Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts And Butternut Squash With Bacon

• Baking Sheet: Large, lined with parchment paper for roasting vegetables and bacon.
• Large Mixing Bowl: For tossing vegetables with oil and seasonings.
• Small Bowl: Used for whisking maple glaze ingredients.
• Whisk: To combine maple glaze ingredients smoothly.
• Cutting Board: For chopping bacon and preparing vegetables.
• Sharp Knife: To chop bacon and prep vegetables.
• Measuring Spoons: For accurately measuring spices and oil.
• Measuring Cups: To measure maple syrup and other liquid ingredients.
• Spatula or Tongs: For stirring and turning vegetables during roasting.

How To Make Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts And Butternut Squash With Bacon

• Oven Preparation

Set the oven to a toasty 400 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

• Veggie and Bacon Arrangement

Combine Brussels sprouts and butternut squash in a large bowl, coating them with olive oil and seasonings. Spread the mix on the baking sheet and sprinkle chopped bacon across the top.

• First Roasting Stage

Slide the pan into the oven and let everything roast for 25-30 minutes. Midway through, give the vegetables a quick stir to ensure even cooking and crispy bacon.

• Maple Magic

While veggies roast, whip up a stunning glaze by mixing maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a hint of cinnamon in a small bowl.

• Glazing Transformation

Pull the pan out and drizzle the maple mixture over the roasted vegetables and bacon. Gently toss to create a beautiful, glossy coating.

• Final Caramelization

Return the pan to the oven for 5-7 minutes, allowing the glaze to create a gorgeous, slightly sticky caramelized finish.

• Serving Flourish

Transfer the glistening vegetables to a serving dish. Sprinkle with toasted nuts and fresh parsley for a pop of color and crunch.

Tips And Flavor Swaps For Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts And Butternut Squash With Bacon

• Bacon Swap Magic: Skip pork bacon for turkey bacon or coconut bacon bits to make the dish lighter and more adaptable for different dietary preferences.
• Veggie Lover's Twist: Replace bacon with smoked paprika or liquid smoke to maintain that rich, savory depth without using meat, creating a delicious vegetarian option.
• Gluten-Free Guarantee: Confirm all ingredients, especially Dijon mustard and maple syrup, are certified gluten-free to make this recipe safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Spice Control Station: Adjust the maple glaze heat by adding red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for those who enjoy a subtle kick, transforming the dish from sweet to sweet-and-spicy.

Ways To Share Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts And Butternut Squash With Bacon

• Festive Holiday Centerpiece: Arrange the glazed Brussels sprouts and butternut squash on a beautiful wooden serving platter, creating an elegant display that showcases the caramelized vegetables and crispy bacon for a stunning holiday side dish.
• Hearty Meal Companion: Pair this dish with roasted chicken, grilled pork tenderloin, or a juicy steak to create a complete and satisfying dinner that balances sweet, savory, and smoky flavors perfectly.
• Brunch Sensation: Serve alongside scrambled eggs or as a topping for a rustic breakfast frittata, adding depth and richness to your morning meal with the maple-glazed vegetables and crispy bacon.
• Meal Prep Champion: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, making it an excellent option for quick lunches or as a ready-to-eat side dish throughout the week.

Meal Prep And Storage For Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts And Butternut Squash With Bacon

Keep leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, ensuring maximum flavor retention.

• Quick Reheating Hack: Warm in the oven at 350F for 10-12 minutes to maintain crispy bacon and vegetable texture, avoiding microwave mushiness.
• Meal Prep Magic: Chop vegetables and bacon a day ahead, storing separately in sealed containers to streamline cooking process and save time during busy weeknights.
• Freezer-Friendly Tip: Portion cooled glazed vegetables into freezer-safe containers, lasting up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator and reheat gently for best results.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Calories: 220 kcal

Servings: 3

Sweet Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts And Butternut Squash With Bacon Recipe

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4.7 from 8 reviews

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 3 1x

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Description

Maple-glazed brussels sprouts and butternut squash with bacon combines roasted vegetables caramelized with sweet maple syrup and crispy bacon. Rich flavors from New England inspire this simple seasonal side dish perfect for holiday gatherings.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb (454 g) brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 1 lb (454 g) butternut squash, peeled and cubed (about 1-inch pieces)
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• ¼ cup (30 g) pecans or walnuts, toasted
• 2 tbsps olive oil
• 3 tbsps pure maple syrup
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp dijon mustard
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

1. Preparation: Preheat oven to 400F (200C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for efficient roasting.
2. Chopping: Slice Brussels sprouts and butternut squash into consistent pieces, and cut bacon into small fragments to ensure crisp texture.
3. Seasoning: Toss vegetables with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl, then spread evenly across the prepared baking sheet, interspersing bacon pieces throughout.
4. Initial Roasting: Place baking sheet in preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, rotating midway to promote even caramelization and golden-brown edges.
5. Glaze Creation: Whisk maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and cinnamon in a small bowl to craft a rich, complex coating.
6. Glazing: Remove roasted vegetables from oven, drizzle with prepared maple mixture, and gently toss to ensure thorough coverage.
7. Final Caramelization: Return glazed dish to oven for 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to intensify and create a glossy, deeply flavored finish.
8. Serving: Transfer to a serving platter, garnish with toasted nuts and chopped parsley, presenting a vibrant and aromatic side dish ready to delight.

Notes

• Chop Uniformly: Cut Brussels sprouts and butternut squash into similar-sized pieces to guarantee even roasting and consistent texture throughout the dish.
• Control Bacon Crispness: Slice bacon into small pieces and distribute sparingly to prevent overwhelming the vegetables while maintaining perfect crispiness.
• Watch Glaze Caramelization: Monitor maple glaze closely during final roasting to prevent burning, ensuring a rich caramelized finish without scorching.
• Customize Dietary Needs: Substitute bacon with smoked tempeh for vegetarian version or use turkey bacon for lower-fat alternative without compromising flavor profile.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 3
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 8 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 23 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 15 mg