Name: Sweet and Savory Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved; 4 slices Bacon, chopped; 2 tablespoons Olive oil; 2 tablespoons Honey; 1 tablespoon Balsamic vinegar; to taste Salt and pepper; 1/4 teaspoon Red pepper flakes (optional)

Jump to Recipe

Brussels sprouts may once have been the underdog of the vegetable world, but with this Sweet and Savory Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Bacon recipe, they become a show-stopping side dish your family will beg you to make again! Crispy bacon, sticky honey, and tangy balsamic all team up to transform humble sprouts into golden, caramelized bites bursting with flavor. Did you know Brussels sprouts are part of the same family as cabbage and broccoli? That means they’re as nutritious as they are delicious! If you’ve tried my popular Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli recipe, you’ll love how these Brussels sprouts deliver big taste with minimal effort. With a prep time of under 35 minutes, this is the perfect recipe to win over even the pickiest eaters. Ready to bring everyone to the table with a dish so good, even the kids will ask for seconds? Grab an apron – you’re about to make your new favorite side!

What is Sweet and Savory Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Bacon?

With a name like Sweet and Savory Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, could there be a more delightful combination? Who decided that Brussels sprouts had to be, well, boring? Not us! This recipe gets its fun title thanks to the magical mix of sticky-sweet honey, crispy-salty bacon, and caramelized, nutty Brussels sprouts. It’s proof that the way to a person’s heart is definitely through their stomach! Why settle for plain veggies when you can toss in a little love (and bacon)? If you’ve ever wondered how to make Brussels sprouts irresistible, this recipe is your answer. Roll up your sleeves and give it a try – you won’t regret it!

Why You’ll Love This

This recipe brings together the unbeatable duo of crispy bacon and caramelized Brussels sprouts, all tossed in a lip-smacking honey-balsamic glaze. The main highlight is the perfect harmony of flavors: smoky, salty bacon meets golden roasted sprouts with a sweet, tangy finish. Plus, making this at home saves you dollars compared to restaurant side dishes, letting you serve a gourmet plate at a fraction of the price. The honey glaze and red pepper flakes add dimension, while roasting delivers plenty of texture—tender insides, crisp edges, and bites of bacon in every forkful. Compared to my Cheesy Roasted Cauliflower Gratin, this one is even quicker—no need to fuss with a roux! Feeling inspired? Try this recipe tonight and discover why Brussels sprouts have finally earned a spot in your weekly dinner lineup.

How to Make

Quick Overview

This Sweet and Savory Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Bacon dish is as easy as it is delicious. With only about 10 minutes of active prep and 25 minutes in the oven, you’ll have a winning side that looks and tastes like it took all day. The combination of a sticky-sweet glaze and smoky bacon leaves everyone scraping the baking sheet for more. Even better, there are no fussy techniques or long ingredient lists—just straightforward roasting and a simple toss in the flavorful sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or a holiday dinner!

Ingredients

1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
4 slices bacon, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for that perfect, crispy roast.
Arrange the halved Brussels sprouts on a large baking sheet in a single layer. Drizzle with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper. Toss everything together until the sprouts are glossy and well-coated.
Sprinkle the chopped bacon over the Brussels sprouts, distributing it evenly so every bite gets some bacon love.
Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through to promote even caramelization. The sprouts are ready when the edges are golden-brown and bacon is crispy.
While the sprouts are roasting, whisk together honey, balsamic vinegar, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl to create your sticky, sweet glaze.
When the Brussels sprouts come out of the oven, immediately drizzle them with the honey-balsamic mixture. Toss well to coat each sprout and bacon bit in the glaze before serving.
Serve hot as a side dish—or straight from the baking sheet if you can’t wait!

What to Serve With

Sweet and Savory Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Bacon pair beautifully with a variety of main courses. Try them alongside a juicy roasted chicken, seared pork chops, or your favorite steak for a complete meal. They also complement Thanksgiving turkey or holiday ham, adding color and flavor to special feasts. For a cozy vegetarian option, serve beside creamy mashed potatoes or a hearty grain bowl. A simple green salad and a glass of crisp white wine make this dish shine at any dinner table.

Top Tips for Perfecting

For extra-crispy bacon, use thick-cut slices and scatter them evenly so every piece roasts, not steams.
If you love more caramelization, add a few minutes of broiling at the end—but keep an eye out to prevent burning!
No honey? Maple syrup makes a tasty substitute that brings its own twist.
Feel free to add a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and a nutty aroma.
Make sure the sprouts are cut uniformly, so they roast evenly and get those beautifully browned edges.
Avoid overcrowding the pan; use two trays if doubling the recipe for a crowd.

Storing and Reheating Tips

To store leftovers, let the Brussels sprouts cool completely. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to reheat, spread them out on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes—you’ll retain much of the original texture and crispiness. In a pinch, microwave in short bursts, but the bacon and sprouts may soften a bit. While freezing is possible, it can make the sprouts mushy when thawed, so it’s best to enjoy this dish fresh or use leftovers within a few days for best taste.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon or substitute it with plant-based bacon alternatives for a vegetarian version.

Do I have to use fresh Brussels sprouts, or can I use frozen?
Fresh Brussels sprouts roast better, but if using frozen, thaw and dry them thoroughly to avoid extra moisture and sogginess.

What honey works best for the glaze?
Use any good-quality honey you love. Pure, floral honey adds a delicate sweetness, but even regular clover honey tastes wonderful in this recipe.

How spicy is this dish with red pepper flakes?
Adding 1/4 teaspoon gives a gentle warmth. Skip or reduce it if you’re sensitive to spice, or add more for extra heat!

Can I prep this ahead?
You can trim and halve the Brussels sprouts, chop bacon, and mix the glaze in advance. Roast and glaze just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Sweet and Savory Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Bacon is the recipe that finally gives Brussels sprouts the spotlight they deserve! It’s a quick, unforgettable side featuring golden caramelized sprouts, crispy bacon, and a kiss of honey-balsamic glaze—perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or a simple weeknight treat. With easy steps and kitchen staples, you’ll be surprised how often you crave this sweet-and-salty creation. Don’t forget to check out other veggie-forward recipes on the blog for more inspiration and hearty, flavorful sides. Give this dish a try tonight, and prepare to make room for Brussels sprouts in your regular meal rotation!