This Crispy Bacon Brussels Sprouts Recipe with Honey Glaze is a wonderful mix of crunch and sweetness. The Brussels sprouts get perfectly crispy from roasting, and the bacon adds that smoky, salty punch we all love. Then, a drizzle of honey glaze brings just the right touch of sweetness to bring everything together.
I love making this recipe when I want a side dish that feels special but is super easy to pull together. The bacon and honey combo always makes the Brussels sprouts disappear quickly at the table. My tip? Don’t skip on crisping the bacon well – it adds so much flavor and texture that really makes the dish stand out.
For serving, I usually enjoy these warm right out of the oven alongside simple grilled chicken or roasted pork. They also work great as a tasty snack or appetizer when friends come over. Every time I make this, it gets lots of compliments and a few requests for seconds, so I always make extra!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brussels Sprouts: Fresh and firm ones are best for roasting. Trim and halve them for even cooking. If you can’t find Brussels sprouts, try using baby broccoli or broccolini for a similar texture.
Bacon: Choose thick-cut bacon for extra crispiness and smoky flavor. For a vegetarian twist, try smoked tempeh or coconut bacon as a substitute.
Honey: This adds the perfect touch of sweetness to balance the savory flavors. Maple syrup or agave work well as substitutes if you want a vegan option.
Olive Oil: Helps crisp the sprouts and bacon. You can swap it with avocado oil or any neutral oil that tolerates high heat.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Optional but recommended for a slight tang that cuts through the sweetness. Lemon juice can be used instead.
How Do You Get Perfectly Crispy Brussels Sprouts and Bacon?
Crispiness is key here. To get those crunchy edges:
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Give Brussels sprouts room to roast so they get crisp, not steamed.
- Use high heat (about 400°F). This caramelizes the sprouts and crisps the bacon nicely.
- Stir halfway through roasting for even browning.
- Cook the bacon with the sprouts from the start. As the bacon crisps, it releases flavorful fat that helps roast the sprouts.
Once roasted, toss immediately with the honey glaze so it coats every piece while still warm. This helps the glaze stick without making the sprouts soggy.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – I use a large one to spread the Brussels sprouts and bacon out so they crisp up evenly.
- Mixing bowl – for tossing the Brussels sprouts with oil, salt, and pepper before roasting.
- Whisk – helps you stir together the honey and vinegar smoothly for the glaze.
- Skillet (optional) – if toasting breadcrumbs or crisping extra bacon pieces for topping.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use balsamic vinegar instead of apple cider for a richer, tangy flavor. Perfect for a more sophisticated taste.
- Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts on top for extra crunch and a nutty flavor.
- Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne for some spicy heat that balances the sweet glaze.
- Try crumbling blue cheese or feta over the finished dish for a salty, tangy twist.
Crispy Bacon Brussels Sprouts Recipe with Honey Glaze
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 6-8 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (optional)
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs (optional for extra crunch)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20-25 minutes to roast the Brussels sprouts and bacon until crispy and golden. Plus a few minutes to mix the honey glaze and toast breadcrumbs if you use them. In total, around 35-40 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. This will make cleanup easier later.
2. Season the Brussels Sprouts
In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they’re evenly coated.
3. Arrange for Roasting
Spread the Brussels sprouts evenly on the baking sheet. Scatter the chopped bacon pieces over and around them.
4. Roast Until Crispy
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 20-25 minutes. Stir halfway through so everything browns evenly. The Brussels sprouts should be tender with crispy, golden edges, and the bacon should be nice and crisp.
5. Make the Honey Glaze
While the veggies roast, whisk together honey and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl until smooth. This glaze will add a lovely balance of sweet and tangy flavor.
6. Toast Breadcrumbs (Optional)
If you like extra crunch, toast breadcrumbs in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy. Set aside.
7. Toss and Serve
When the Brussels sprouts and bacon are done, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Drizzle the honey glaze over everything and gently toss to coat well. Transfer to a serving bowl and sprinkle the toasted breadcrumbs on top if you have them. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious crispy bacon Brussels sprouts with honey glaze!
Can I Use Frozen Brussels Sprouts?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw and pat them dry before roasting to avoid extra moisture, which can prevent crispiness.
How Do I Store Leftover Brussels Sprouts?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or a skillet to keep them crispy.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! Replace bacon with smoked tempeh or coconut bacon, and use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly dish.
What’s the Best Way to Reheat Without Losing Crispiness?
Reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-10 minutes instead of the microwave to keep the Brussels sprouts and bacon crispy.