Autumn whispers in every flavor of this Spicy Maple Bacon Brussels and Butternut Bake, setting the scene for cozy gatherings and warm memories. I remember the skeptical looks when I first suggested Brussels sprouts at the table, but this dish changes everything. The crispy bacon melds perfectly with tender, roasted butternut squash, drizzled in a spicy maple glaze that dances on your palate. Not only is it a delightful side dish for Thanksgiving, but it’s also a wonderfully adaptable recipe—perfect for anyone craving a make-ahead, family-friendly meal. Plus, who can resist a dish that makes vegetables the star? Ready to transform your dinner table with a comforting autumn classic? Let’s dive in!
Why is this dish a fall favorite?
Seasonal Ingredients: Brussels sprouts and butternut squash capture the essence of autumn, making it a delightful addition to any fall gathering.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of spicy maple glaze and crispy bacon creates a rich flavor profile that will wow your guests.
Versatile Options: Easily swap ingredients for a vegetarian option or try using sweet potatoes for a unique twist.
Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep everything in advance for an easy, stress-free meal on busy days.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether served alongside a roast or as a standalone, this dish is a guaranteed hit at your dinner table. For another delicious side, check out this Bbq Bacon Ranch or a hearty Lemon Garlic Butter option!
Maple Butternut Brussels Bacon Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need for this delightful recipe!
For the Bake
- Brussels Sprouts – Adds crunch and flavor; trim and halve for even cooking.
- Butternut Squash – Provides sweetness and texture; can be bought pre-cut for easier preparation.
- Bacon – Adds saltiness and crispiness; substitute with pancetta or prosciutto for similar flavor.
- Minced Garlic – Adds depth of flavor; fresh is best, though powdered can work in a pinch.
- Red Onion – Provides sweetness and color; substitute with yellow onion if needed.
For the Glaze
- Maple Syrup – Brings sweetness and a caramelized glaze; honey or agave syrup make great alternatives.
- Olive Oil – Necessary for roasting; can substitute with another neutral oil if desired.
- Red Pepper Flakes – Offers spiciness; omit or reduce for a milder dish.
- Smoked Paprika – Contributes a smoky depth; regular paprika can be used for a milder flavor.
- Cinnamon – Adds warmth and sweetness; optional but enhances complexity.
- Balsamic Vinegar – Enhances flavor with acidity; can use red wine vinegar as a suitable alternative.
- Salt and Pepper – Basic seasoning for balance; adjust according to taste.
Optional Add-Ins
- Nuts (e.g., pecans) – Adds crunch; omit or use seeds for a nut-free version.
- Dried Cranberries – For sweetness and tartness; raisins also work well in this recipe.
This Maple Butternut Brussels Bacon will transform your fall gatherings with its irresistible flavors!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Maple Butternut Brussels Bacon
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect caramelization. While the oven heats, line one or two sheet pans with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make for easier cleanup later.
Step 2: Chop and Trim
Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts, ensuring uniform size for even cooking. Next, peel and cube the butternut squash; you can use pre-cut options for convenience. Finally, chop the bacon into bite-sized pieces, preparing all your ingredients for a seamless cooking experience that will make the Maple Butternut Brussels Bacon shine.
Step 3: Make the Glaze
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together maple syrup, olive oil, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and balsamic vinegar. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to elevate the flavors. This glaze will add a sweet and spicy layer to your dish, perfectly complementing the roasted vegetables.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts, cubed butternut squash, chopped red onion, and bacon pieces. Pour the homemade maple glaze over the mixture, tossing gently to ensure every piece is well-coated. This step is key to infusing all the ingredients with that delicious flavor in your Maple Butternut Brussels Bacon.
Step 5: Spread and Roast
Transfer the coated mixture onto the lined sheet pan(s), spreading it out into a single layer. This is essential; overcrowding will lead to steaming instead of roasting. Place in the preheated oven and roast for 20 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and the bacon to crisp up.
Step 6: Stir for Even Cooking
After the initial roasting time, take the sheet pan out and give the mixture a good stir to ensure even baking. This will help redistribute the ingredients and allow for a better caramelization. Pop it back in the oven for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and the bacon is wonderfully crispy.
Step 7: Add Finishing Touches
In the last 5 minutes of roasting, sprinkle in the optional nuts and dried cranberries. This addition adds a delightful crunch and sweetness that complements the dish beautifully. Keep an eye on it so everything gets nicely toasted while finishing up.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once your Maple Butternut Brussels Bacon is perfectly caramelized and crispy, take it out of the oven and let it sit for a couple of minutes. For an extra touch, sprinkle fresh thyme or grated cheese on top before serving. Your cozy, autumn-inspired dish is ready to impress!
What to Serve with Spicy Maple Bacon Brussels and Butternut Bake
What could enhance the cozy flavors of your autumn spread?
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Velvety and buttery, these potatoes provide a comforting contrast to the crispy Brussels and sweet squash.
- Savory Roast Chicken: Juicy and tender, a herb-roasted chicken brings a hearty protein to the table, creating a well-rounded meal.
- Quinoa Salad: A light and nutty quinoa salad with fresh herbs pairs wonderfully, adding a refreshing crunch to your plate.
- Apple Cider Glazed Carrots: The natural sweetness of carrots glazed with apple cider complements the maple bacon flavors beautifully.
- Toasted Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery, and infused with garlic, this bread is perfect for mopping up any delicious glaze left behind.
- Cranberry Sauce: Bright and tart, this classic condiment provides a lovely contrast to the richness of the bake, enhancing autumnal flavors.
- Warm Spiced Cider: Mulling spices in warm cider deliver cozy warmth and aromatic notes, perfect for sipping alongside your meal.
- Pumpkin Pie: For dessert, the sweetness of pumpkin pie rounds off the meal, echoing the flavors of your main dish with a comforting touch.
Expert Tips for Maple Butternut Brussels Bacon
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Perfect Pan Spacing: Always spread your ingredients in a single layer on the baking sheet to ensure they roast rather than steam, achieving crispy Maple Butternut Brussels Bacon.
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Trim Brussels Properly: Halve and remove any yellowed or discolored leaves from Brussels sprouts. This helps eliminate bitterness and enhances their flavor.
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Glaze Variation: Don’t hesitate to customize the maple glaze! Try adding a splash of soy sauce for depth or switching the maple syrup for honey to adjust sweetness.
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Cook Time Adjustments: If you’re using a different sized sheet pan, keep an eye on your baking time. Smaller pans may roast quicker, so check for doneness early.
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Leftover Reinvention: Transform any leftovers into a delicious salad by tossing with greens, a dash of vinaigrette, and your favorite grains for a refreshing lunch option.
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Mix it Up: Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables or your favorite herbs to make this recipe your own while still keeping the delightful essence of the Maple Butternut Brussels Bacon.
Maple Butternut Brussels Bacon Variations
Feel free to get creative and tailor this recipe to your taste buds—there’s no wrong way to enjoy this dish!
- Vegetarian Delight: Swap the bacon for chickpeas or tofu, adding a protein-packed twist that’s just as satisfying.
- Sweet Potato Substitute: Use sweet potatoes in place of butternut squash for a different kind of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the glaze.
- Herb Swap: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or sage instead of thyme for a fragrant variation that elevates the dish.
- Nut-Free Option: Omit the nuts or replace them with pumpkin seeds for crunch without the allergens, perfect for nut-free diets.
- Spice Boost: Increase the red pepper flakes if you crave extra heat, creating a delightful spicy kick in every bite.
- Cheesy Addition: Stir in some feta or goat cheese just before serving for a creamy, tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the dish beautifully.
- Balsamic Zing: Try swapping balsamic vinegar for apple cider vinegar for a fruity tang that adds brightness to your glaze.
- Syrup Switch: For a different flavor profile, use honey or agave syrup instead of maple syrup, adding a unique twist to the sweet glaze.
These variations not only bring new life to your Maple Butternut Brussels Bacon but also ensure it’s adaptable to everyone’s tastes. Enjoy mixing and matching! For even more ideas, don’t forget to check out our Bacon Egg Cheese breakfast burrito for a delightful morning option, or perhaps a savory Lemon Garlic Butter dish!
Make Ahead Options
These Spicy Maple Bacon Brussels and Butternut Bake are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can prep your Brussels sprouts and butternut squash up to 24 hours in advance—just trim, halve, and cube them, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, prepare the maple glaze ahead of time and keep it refrigerated. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the prepped ingredients, pour the glaze over, and roast as directed. This ensures that your dish will be just as delicious, with all those cozy autumn flavors ready to shine!
How to Store and Freeze Maple Butternut Brussels Bacon
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through to maintain flavor and texture.
Freezer: While not recommended for best quality, if you must freeze Maple Butternut Brussels Bacon, place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Make-Ahead: You can prep the veggies and glaze a day in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge, then combine and roast when you’re ready to enjoy.
Maple Butternut Brussels Bacon Recipe FAQs
What ripeness of Brussels sprouts and butternut squash should I select?
Absolutely! Look for Brussels sprouts that are firm and compact, with a vibrant green color. Avoid any that have dark spots or yellowing leaves, as they can be bitter. For butternut squash, choose ones that feel heavy for their size with smooth, unblemished skin. A good squash will have a uniform tan color with no soft spots.
How should I store leftovers from this recipe?
Very! Leftovers can be placed in an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or in the microwave until warmed through. This will keep your Maple Butternut Brussels Bacon flavorful and fun.
Can I freeze Maple Butternut Brussels Bacon?
Unfortunately, it’s not recommended to freeze this dish for the best quality due to potential texture changes. However, if you must, pack it into a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven to preserve as much of the dish’s original texture and flavor as possible.
What should I do if my Brussels sprouts come out bitter?
A common issue, but one that’s easily fixed! To avoid bitterness, make sure to trim the Brussels sprouts properly, removing any yellow leaves and cutting them in half to promote even cooking. Overcooking can also lead to bitterness, so keep an eye on them while roasting, aiming for a crispy exterior and tender interior.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! If you’re accommodating specific dietary needs, ensure you’re checking labels for items like bacon and maple syrup. For a vegetarian option, you can substitute bacon with chickpeas or tofu and for nut allergies, feel free to omit nuts and use seeds instead. The versatility of this Maple Butternut Brussels Bacon means you can easily tailor it to fit your family’s preferences.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
Making this Maple Butternut Brussels Bacon ahead of time is a breeze! Prep your Brussels sprouts and butternut squash a day in advance, storing them in the refrigerator after washing and chopping. You can also mix up the spicy maple glaze and keep it in a separate container. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the prepped ingredients, pour on the glaze, and pop them in the oven for a delicious, stress-free meal!
Maple Butternut Brussels Bacon: A Cozy Fall Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line sheet pans with parchment paper.
- Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts, peel and cube the butternut squash, and chop the bacon.
- In a bowl, whisk together maple syrup, olive oil, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and balsamic vinegar.
- In a large bowl, combine Brussels sprouts, butternut squash, red onion, and bacon. Pour the glaze over and toss gently.
- Spread the mixture onto the prepared sheet pans in a single layer and roast for 20 minutes.
- Stir the mixture for even cooking and roast for an additional 15-20 minutes.
- In the last 5 minutes, add optional nuts and dried cranberries.
- Let sit before serving and garnish with thyme or cheese.
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