Let me tell you, there’s something truly magical about the combination of maple glazed Brussels sprouts and butternut squash with bacon. It’s like a warm hug on a plate! The savory, crispy bacon and the sweet, caramelized maple syrup work together to create a flavor explosion that will elevate any meal. Imagine the crispy edges of the Brussels sprouts, the tender sweetness of the butternut squash, and that rich, smoky flavor from the bacon—it’s simply irresistible! Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a comforting side dish, this recipe is your go-to. Plus, it’s quick and easy to whip up, making it perfect for any occasion. Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen!
Ingredients List
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved – Look for bright green sprouts that feel firm to the touch. This will ensure they’re fresh and tasty!
- 1 pound butternut squash, peeled and cubed – You want nice, even cubes to help them cook evenly; I always find a sharp peeler makes this job a breeze.
- 4 slices of bacon, diced – I personally love using thick-cut bacon for that extra crunch and smoky flavor, but any kind will do!
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup – Use pure maple syrup if you can; it really enhances the sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – Extra virgin olive oil adds a lovely richness, but regular olive oil works too if that’s what you have.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Don’t skimp on seasoning! It really brings out the flavors of the veggies and bacon.
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar – This adds a nice tangy finish that balances the sweetness perfectly.
How to Prepare Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash with Bacon
Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s get that oven ready! Preheat it to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for roasting, allowing the veggies to caramelize beautifully while getting that nice crispy texture. Trust me, you want those edges to be golden brown!
Prepare the Vegetables
Now, grab a large bowl and toss in the trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts along with the peeled and cubed butternut squash. Make sure they’re all roughly the same size for even cooking—this helps them roast perfectly. Don’t rush this step; it’s all about getting those beautiful pieces ready to shine!
Combine Ingredients
Next, it’s time to add that deliciousness! Throw in the diced bacon, olive oil, maple syrup, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Now, here’s the fun part: toss everything together really well! You want every piece to be coated in that sticky, sweet goodness. This ensures the flavors meld beautifully as they roast.
Spread and Roast
Once everything’s nicely combined, spread the mixture evenly on a baking sheet. Make sure there’s a little space between pieces—crowding can lead to steaming instead of that lovely roasting we aim for. Pop it in the oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes. Don’t forget to stir halfway through! This little flip helps all the veggies get that equally glorious golden brown. Yum!
Finish with Balsamic Vinegar
When the veggies are tender and caramelized, pull them out of the oven and drizzle with balsamic vinegar for that tangy finish. It really ties everything together! Serve them warm, and if you’re feeling a bit indulgent, add a touch more maple syrup on top for an extra sweet twist. Your guests will be begging for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation time – With just 15 minutes of prep, you can have this delicious dish ready to roast while you focus on the main course!
- Unique flavor combination – The sweet maple syrup perfectly balances the savory bacon and hearty vegetables, creating a taste sensation that’s hard to resist.
- Perfect for gatherings – This dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also adds a beautiful splash of color to your table, making it ideal for any celebration or dinner party.
- Gluten-free – Great for those with dietary restrictions, this dish fits right in with gluten-free menus without sacrificing flavor.
- Versatile as a side dish – Pair it with anything from roasted meats to a vegetarian feast; it complements a wide range of flavors.
Tips for Success
- Use smoked bacon for added depth – If you want to take the flavor to another level, opt for smoked bacon. It adds a lovely, rich smokiness that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the maple syrup and the earthiness of the veggies.
- Consider substituting maple syrup with honey – If you’re in the mood for something a little different, try using honey instead of maple syrup. It brings a different kind of sweetness that’s equally delicious, and it’s a fun way to switch things up!
- Experiment with adding nuts for texture – For a delightful crunch, sprinkle in some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts before roasting. They’ll toast up beautifully in the oven and add an extra layer of flavor and texture to the dish.
Variations
- Add different vegetables – Feel free to mix it up! Toss in some carrots or parsnips for an extra layer of sweetness and texture. They roast beautifully alongside the Brussels sprouts and butternut squash, creating a colorful medley on your plate.
- Incorporate herbs – Fresh herbs can elevate this dish even more! Try adding some rosemary or thyme for a fragrant touch that complements the sweet and savory flavors. Just sprinkle them on before roasting for that aromatic finish.
- Adjust sweetness levels – If you prefer a different sweetness profile, experiment with various syrups! You can swap the maple syrup for agave nectar or even honey for a unique twist. Each syrup brings its own flavor, so have fun discovering your favorite combination!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve got some delicious leftovers of this maple glazed Brussels sprouts and butternut squash with bacon? Lucky you! Proper storage is key to keeping those flavors fresh. Start by letting the dish cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It should keep well in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. Just be sure to label it, so you don’t forget about that tasty goodness hiding in the back of your fridge!
When it comes to reheating, I recommend using the oven to maintain that lovely texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spread the leftovers on a baking sheet. Cover them loosely with foil to prevent over-browning and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This method keeps the Brussels sprouts crispy and the butternut squash tender. If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave, but beware! Microwaving can make the veggies a bit soggy, so do it in short bursts and stir in between to keep it even. Enjoy those leftovers—they’re just as delightful the second time around!
Nutritional Information
When you’re whipping up this delicious maple glazed Brussels sprouts and butternut squash with bacon, you might be curious about what’s in it. Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional values per serving (about 1 cup):
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 8g
- Protein: 6g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, like the type of bacon or the exact amount of maple syrup. Always feel free to adjust ingredients based on your dietary needs and preferences. Enjoy this delicious dish without any guilt!
FAQ Section
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and consider adding some extra seasoning or smoked paprika for that desirable smoky flavor. You could also throw in some roasted chickpeas for added protein and texture.
What can I use instead of bacon?
If you’re looking for a bacon substitute, try using tempeh or mushrooms. Both can provide a hearty texture and, when seasoned right, can give you that umami flavor that bacon brings. You might also consider using a plant-based bacon alternative if you want to keep it close to the original.
How do I know when the vegetables are done?
You’ll know the veggies are done when the Brussels sprouts are tender and their edges are beautifully caramelized, while the butternut squash is fork-tender. When you stir halfway through roasting, take a peek and look for that lovely golden brown color. It’s all about that perfect balance of tenderness and crispness!
Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash Bliss
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Maple glazed Brussels sprouts and butternut squash with bacon is a delightful dish that combines savory and sweet flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1 pound butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 4 slices of bacon, diced
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine Brussels sprouts and butternut squash.
- Add diced bacon, olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
- Spread the mixture evenly on a baking sheet.
- Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Remove from the oven and drizzle with balsamic vinegar.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional maple syrup if desired.
Notes
- For added flavor, use smoked bacon.
- You can substitute maple syrup with honey for a different sweetness.
- Experiment with adding nuts for crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Vegetable Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: maple glazed Brussels sprouts, butternut squash, bacon, vegetable side dish
