Name: Maple Butternut Brussels Bacon: A Sweet & Savory Fall Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 8 oz Bacon (Can substitute with pancetta or toasted pine nuts for vegetarian); 1 lb Brussels Sprouts (Fresh and trimmed); 1 lb Butternut Squash (Cubed; fresh preferred); 1/4 cup Maple Syrup (Honey can be a substitute for sweetness); 2 tbsp Olive Oil (Can use avocado oil); 3 cloves Garlic (Minced); 1 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (Omit for milder flavor); 1 tsp Smoked Paprika (No substitutes suggested); 1 tsp Cinnamon (Essential for autumn flavor); 2 tbsp Balsamic Vinegar (Basic vinaigrette can work in a pinch); to taste Salt & Pepper; 1/2 cup Nuts (Walnuts or pecans recommended); 1/2 cup Dried Cranberries; to taste Fresh Thyme (For garnish); 1/2 cup Cheese (if using) (Feta or goat cheese for creaminess)

“Is it just me, or does the arrival of autumn instantly spark cravings for comforting, hearty dishes?” That’s exactly what inspired me to whip up this Spicy Maple Bacon Brussels and Butternut Roast. With its delightful combination of crispy bacon, sweet butternut squash, and a spicy maple glaze, this dish not only converts Brussels sprouts skeptics but also brings everyone to the table for a serious feast. You’ll love how it strikes the perfect balance between delicious comfort food and a simple assembly, making it an ideal choice for holiday gatherings or an easy weeknight dinner. Plus, it can easily be adapted for vegetarian friends who may enjoy a nutty twist instead. Are you ready to discover this autumn favorite? Let’s dive in!

Why is this dish a fall favorite?

Irresistible Flavor: The harmonious mix of sweet maple, savory bacon, and earthy Brussels transforms every bite into a celebration of fall.

Simple Preparation: Toss everything together on a sheet pan for a no-fuss dinner, making it perfect for busy weeknights or holiday feasts.

Versatile Options: Easily customize it for your guests—swap bacon for toasted nuts or add chickpeas for a protein-packed vegetarian version.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether you’re serving it alongside turkey or grilling chicken, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Effortless Cleanup: Using parchment paper means fewer dishes to wash, letting you enjoy your meal and the company that comes with it! For even more amazing meal prep ideas, check out our post on Easy Sheet Pan Dinners.

Maple Butternut Brussels Bacon Ingredients

For the Bake

Bacon – Adds a delicious saltiness and crunch; substitute with pancetta for a similar flavor, or use toasted pine nuts for a vegetarian option.
Brussels Sprouts – Provides a lovely texture; ensure they’re fresh and trimmed to avoid any bitterness in the dish.
Butternut Squash – Contributes natural sweetness and creaminess; fresh is preferred, but thawed frozen can be used if needed.
Maple Syrup – Sweetens the dish beautifully; it’s best not to substitute, but honey can be a close alternative for sweetness.
Olive Oil – Essential for roasting; you can use avocado oil if you prefer.
Garlic – Adds aromatic depth and flavor; fresh minced garlic is highly recommended.
Red Pepper Flakes – Introduces a touch of spice; feel free to omit if you want a milder flavor for the kiddos.
Smoked Paprika – Enhances warmth; no substitutions are suggested to maintain the smoke flavor.
Cinnamon – Adds a lovely warmth to the dish; essential for that autumn feel!
Balsamic Vinegar – Balances the sweetness; a basic vinaigrette can work in a pinch.
Salt & Pepper – Key for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.

For the Toppings

Nuts – For added crunch towards the end; walnuts or pecans would be amazing!
Dried Cranberries – Introduce a sweet-tart element for contrast; perfect for that autumn vibe.
Fresh Thyme – Use as a garnish for a fragrant finish; adds a touch of freshness to the dish.
Cheese (if using) – Choose your favorite, such as feta or goat cheese, to sprinkle on top for extra creaminess.

This Maple Butternut Brussels Bacon bake is easily adaptable to suit everyone at your table. Enjoy the delightful balance of flavors and watch as even the toughest Brussels sprouts skeptics become fans!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Maple Butternut Brussels Bacon

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C), setting the stage for that perfect roasting temperature. While it heats, line a large sheet pan with parchment paper for effortless cleanup later. This ensures that your Maple Butternut Brussels Bacon roast won’t stick and will come out crispy and delicious.

Step 2: Chop the Bacon and Vegetables
Grab your bacon and cut it into 1-inch pieces, letting it become the star of this dish. Next, take fresh Brussels sprouts, rinse them, trim the ends, and halve them for even cooking. Also, peel and cut your butternut squash into 1-inch cubes, ready to mix with the other ingredients for that sweet, caramelized flavor.

Step 3: Make the Maple Mixture
In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, olive oil, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, cinnamon, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. This flavorful glaze is the heart of the Maple Butternut Brussels Bacon dish, enhancing every bite with its sweet and spicy notes. Make sure to combine it well for even coverage.

Step 4: Toss and Coat
In a large mixing bowl, combine the Brussels sprouts, butternut squash, and bacon. Drizzle the maple mixture over the top and toss everything together until all the vegetables and bacon are beautifully coated. This coating will caramelize as it roasts, creating a mouthwatering finish.

Step 5: Spread and Roast
Pour the combined ingredients onto the prepared sheet pan, spreading them evenly in a single layer. This step is crucial for roasting your Maple Butternut Brussels Bacon to perfection without steaming. Place the pan in the preheated oven and roast for 20 minutes until everything begins to soften and brown.

Step 6: Stir and Continue Roasting
After 20 minutes, take the pan out and give everything a good stir, allowing for even cooking. Return the pan to the oven and roast for an additional 15-20 minutes, watching closely until the Brussels sprouts are crispy and caramelized, and the butternut squash is fork-tender with golden edges.

Step 7: Add Nuts and Cranberries
In the last 5 minutes of roasting, sprinkle your choice of nuts and dried cranberries over the top. This addition not only enhances the texture but also brings a delightful sweetness to the Maple Butternut Brussels Bacon. Continue roasting until the nuts are lightly toasted and fragrant.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once finished, remove your sheet pan from the oven and let it cool slightly. If desired, sprinkle fresh thyme over the top for a fragrant garnish and add cheese if you’re using it. The resulting dish will be an inviting mix of crispy bacon, sweet butternut squash, and savory Brussels sprouts, all ready to delight your guests.

Make Ahead Options

These Spicy Maple Bacon Brussels and Butternut Bake ingredients are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save valuable time during busy weeknights. You can chop and prepare the Brussels sprouts and butternut squash up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness and prevent browning. Additionally, you can whisk together the maple glaze ahead of time and refrigerate it, ensuring all the flavors meld beautifully. When you’re ready to enjoy your dish, toss everything together and roast according to the recipe’s instructions, achieving that same delicious, caramelized result with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Maple Butternut Brussels Bacon

Fridge: Store leftover Maple Butternut Brussels Bacon in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This ensures the flavors remain vibrant and fresh, ready to delight your taste buds again.

Freezer: If you want to save some for later, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing to prevent ice crystals.

Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes. This way, you’ll maintain that crispy texture and delicious balance of flavors.

Make-Ahead: Prepare the vegetables and maple glaze a day ahead, keeping them stored separately in the fridge. This allows you to assemble and bake your Maple Butternut Brussels Bacon with ease at mealtime.

What to Serve with Spicy Maple Bacon Brussels and Butternut Bake

Imagine a beautifully arranged table where every dish complements the sweet and savory feast that is waiting for your guests.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture of mashed potatoes pairs perfectly with the crispy elements of the bake, providing a comforting balance.
Roasted Pork Tenderloin: Juicy, herb-seasoned pork adds depth to the meal while the flavors meld effortlessly with the sweet maple glaze of the bake.
Apple Cranberry Salad: Crisp, fresh apples and tart cranberries introduce a bright, refreshing note, enhancing the rich flavors of the roasted dish.
Maple-Glazed Carrots: These sweet, tender carrots create a delightful harmony with the maple tones in your dish, amplifying the autumn atmosphere.
Smoky Grilled Chicken: The smokiness of grilled chicken provides an inviting contrast. It will allow the flavors of the vegetables to really shine.
Homemade Bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delectable juices and complements the bake’s heartiness.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Finish the meal with this cozy drink, perfectly capturing the essence of autumn and providing a sweet, spiced end to your dining experience.
Cheesecake Brownies: The rich chocolate flavor of brownies layered with creamy cheesecake makes for a satisfying dessert following a delectable roast.

This array of pairings will enhance your gathering, creating a well-rounded and memorable meal that celebrates the essence of the season!

Expert Tips for Maple Butternut Brussels Bacon

Freshness Matters: Always choose fresh Brussels sprouts to prevent bitterness. Trim them well for a delightful flavor and texture.
Single Layer Roasting: Avoid overcrowding the pan; spreading ingredients in a single layer ensures that the vegetables roast rather than steam, achieving that crispy finish.
Adjust for Spice: If serving young ones, omit red pepper flakes to keep the dish mild. You want everyone to enjoy this Maple Butternut Brussels Bacon recipe!
Flavor Boost: Taste the maple mixture before coating the veggies. Adjust seasonings if needed for a richer, more satisfying glaze.
Timing is Key: Keep an eye on roasting times, as ovens can vary. Roasting until crispy and caramelized is the secret to deliciousness.

Maple Butternut Brussels Bacon Variations

Feel free to get creative and adapt this hearty dish to your taste; there are so many delicious options to explore!

Dairy-Free: Omit cheese or use a plant-based alternative for a creamy finish without dairy.
Vegetarian: Skip the bacon and toss in roasted chickpeas or toasted pecans for added texture and protein.
Seasonal Veggies: Substitute butternut squash with sweet potatoes or carrots; they’ll bring their own unique sweetness.
Nut-Free: If you need to skip nuts, sunflower seeds make a great crunchy topping without any allergens.
Spicy Kick: Add fresh jalapeño or serrano peppers for an extra punch of heat that’ll tingle your taste buds.
Crispy Topping: Consider adding breadcrumbs or panko mixed with herbs before roasting for a crispy crust on top.
Maple-Free: Replace maple syrup with agave nectar or brown sugar for sweetness; it’ll still charm your palate!

Looking for even more ways to enjoy cozy flavors? Check out my post on Comforting Fall Recipes where you will find more unique dishes to warm your kitchen!

Maple Butternut Brussels Bacon Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe Brussels sprouts?
Absolutely! When selecting Brussels sprouts, look for firm, bright green buds that are compact and free from dark spots or yellowing leaves. The fresher they are, the sweeter and tastier they will be in your Maple Butternut Brussels Bacon dish. Avoid any that appear wilted or have a strong odor.

How can I store leftovers of Maple Butternut Brussels Bacon?
Leftover Maple Butternut Brussels Bacon can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This ensures that the delightful flavors remain intact for your next meal! For the best texture, reheat in the oven rather than the microwave.

Can I freeze Maple Butternut Brussels Bacon?
Certainly! To freeze your Maple Butternut Brussels Bacon, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, reheat from frozen in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy.

What if my Brussels sprouts are overcooked? How can I avoid this?
The key to avoiding overcooked Brussels sprouts, which can turn bitter, is to ensure they are fresh and roasted just until they are crispy and caramelized. I recommend watching the roasting time closely and removing them from the oven once they develop a golden-brown exterior to retain their delightful crunch in your Maple Butternut Brussels Bacon recipe.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very! This recipe can easily be adapted for various dietary needs. For a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and substitute it with toasted pine nuts or chickpeas for added protein. If allergies are a concern, ensure that the nuts used (if any) are safe for your guests, and opt for gluten-free balsamic vinegar to maintain the dish’s integrity.

Can I prepare the Maple Butternut Brussels Bacon ahead of time?
Yes, indeed! You can prepare the vegetables and maple glaze a day ahead. Store them separately in the fridge, then simply toss and bake when you’re ready to serve. This make-ahead tip is perfect for those busy evenings or holiday gatherings, where every minute counts!