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Brussels sprouts have had a remarkable journey from their humble origins in Belgium to becoming a beloved side dish across the globe. These small, leafy green vegetables have evolved from a much-maligned food choice to a gourmet staple, gracing tables at family dinners, holiday gatherings, and upscale restaurants alike. The transformation of Brussels sprouts in the culinary world has introduced them to innovative flavors and exciting new preparations, making them a versatile addition to any meal.

Smoky Maple Bacon Brussels

Discover a delicious twist on a classic side dish with this Smoky Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts recipe. Combining the earthy goodness of Brussels sprouts with savory bacon and a hint of sweetness from maple syrup, this dish offers an irresistible flavor balance. Perfect for any occasion, follow simple steps to achieve crispy, caramelized sprouts and crispy bacon. Explore variations and tips to customize this gourmet staple that will wow your family and friends!
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Ingredients
  

1 ½ pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved

6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped into bite-sized pieces

¼ cup pure maple syrup, plus extra for drizzling

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon smoked paprika for a deep, smoky flavor

½ teaspoon garlic powder for aromatic seasoning

½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Sea salt, to taste

¼ cup chopped pecans (optional but recommended for crunch)

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and aid in cleanup.

    Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts with the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and a generous pinch of sea salt. Use your hands or a large spoon to toss the ingredients together until the Brussels sprouts are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.

      Incorporate the Bacon: Spread the chopped bacon pieces evenly over the seasoned Brussels sprouts. Using a gentle motion, stir to combine, ensuring the bacon is well-distributed throughout the sprouts.

        Roasting: Pour the Brussels sprout and bacon mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it out in a single layer for even cooking. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through the cooking time to promote even browning. The Brussels sprouts should be fork-tender and caramelized, while the bacon becomes crispy.

          Drizzle with Maple Syrup: Once roasted, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Drizzle the maple syrup over the Brussels sprouts and bacon. Stir gently to combine, and return the sheet to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the syrup to create a sweet glaze on the caramelized sprouts.

            Toast the Pecans: If using, sprinkle the chopped pecans over the top during the last 2 minutes of roasting. This step will add a delightful crunch and enhance the nutty flavor.

              Serve: After the final roasting step, take the baking sheet from the oven and let the dish cool for a few minutes. Transfer the roasted Brussels sprouts and bacon to a serving platter, ensuring to scrape up any delicious bits from the pan. Garnish generously with fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.

                Enjoy: Serve warm and savor the irresistible blend of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors in every bite!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 40 minutes | Serves 4-6