Sweet Crispy Brussels Sprouts

Transform brussels sprouts into a crowd-pleasing side dish by roasting them with bacon until crispy, then finishing with a sweet honey glaze. Simple ingredients create an amazing flavor combo.

I used to push Brussels sprouts around my plate as a kid but everything changed when I discovered roasting them. Now these little green gems are the star of my dinner table. My honey bacon Brussels sprouts recipe transforms these humble vegetables into crispy, caramelized bites of heaven. The secret? High heat roasting and a perfect balance of sweet honey with smoky bacon. This recipe turned my veggie-hating husband into a Brussels sprouts convert.

The Magic of Roasting

Something amazing happens in the oven when you roast Brussels sprouts. Those outer leaves get incredibly crispy while the centers turn tender and sweet. I love watching them transform from bright green to golden brown with crispy edges. The honey creates this gorgeous glaze and the bacon well bacon just makes everything better. Even my pickiest dinner guests ask for seconds.

What You Need

Brussels Sprouts: Look for bright green firm ones. I grab them on the stalk when my farmers market has them they stay fresh longer.
Olive Oil: Just enough to coat every sprout and help them get crispy.
Honey: Local honey adds the perfect touch of sweetness.
Cider Vinegar: This cuts through the richness and makes all the flavors pop.
Streaky Bacon: The backbone of this dish. I sometimes splurge on pancetta for special occasions.
Salt and Thyme: Fresh thyme if you have it but dried works too.

Kitchen Time Together

Sprouts Prep: First slice those sprouts in half. I love watching the tiny leaves scatter on my cutting board. Mix them in a bowl with olive oil salt thyme and your chopped bacon until every piece is coated in goodness.
Into the Hot Oven: Spread everything on your biggest baking sheet. My oven sweet spot is 200°C. Give them 15 minutes to start getting golden and crispy.
Time for Sweet Magic: Pull them out and drizzle with honey and that splash of vinegar. I love this part watching the honey melt into all the nooks and crannies.
Final Crisp Up: Back in they go for about 10 more minutes. Your kitchen will smell incredible. Watch for those crispy edges that’s when you know they’re perfect.