Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the deliciousness of maple glazed brussels sprouts and butternut squash with bacon! This dish is not only a feast for the taste buds, but it also fills your kitchen with the most mouthwatering aroma. I remember the first time I made it for a family gathering; everyone was raving about how the sweet maple syrup perfectly complements the earthy brussels sprouts and creamy butternut squash, all while the bacon adds that irresistible crunch. The best part? It’s super easy to whip up, making it the perfect side dish for any occasion. Trust me, you’ll want to make this again and again!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to create these amazing maple glazed brussels sprouts and butternut squash with bacon. I promise, it’s simple and straightforward!
- 1 pound brussels sprouts, halved: Look for fresh, bright green sprouts. Halving them helps them cook evenly and soak up all that delicious flavor!
- 1 pound butternut squash, peeled and cubed: Choose a firm squash—this will add a lovely creaminess to the dish. Be careful when peeling; a sharp peeler works best!
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped: I love using thick-cut bacon for extra crunch. Make sure to chop it into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- 1/4 cup maple syrup: This is where the magic happens! Feel free to adjust the amount based on how sweet you want it.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: A drizzle of good quality olive oil helps everything roast beautifully.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t forget to season well! A little salt and pepper can elevate the flavors tremendously.
How to Prepare *Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash with Bacon*
Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s get that oven preheating! Set it to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is super important because it helps to get that lovely caramelization going on your veggies and bacon. Trust me, you want that crispy goodness!
Combine Ingredients
Now, grab a large bowl and toss in your halved brussels sprouts, cubed butternut squash, and chopped bacon. Make sure everything is mixed together nicely. You want the bacon pieces to be evenly distributed throughout, so every bite has that delightful crunch.
Add Flavor
Next, it’s time to drizzle! Pour the olive oil and maple syrup over the veggie and bacon mixture. Oh wow, the smell is already amazing! Feel free to adjust the maple syrup based on how sweet you like it. A little more for the sweet-tooths, and a touch less if you prefer a more savory flavor!
Season and Toss
Now, let’s add some salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be shy! Seasoning is key to bringing out all those fabulous flavors. Once you’ve added your salt and pepper, toss everything together really well. You want each piece to be coated in that glorious mixture.
Bake the Mixture
Grab a baking sheet and spread your mixture out evenly. Make sure not to overcrowd the sheet; if it’s too packed, the veggies won’t roast properly. If you need to, use two sheets! Bake for 25-30 minutes, and don’t forget to stir halfway through to ensure even cooking and that perfect crispiness.
Cooling and Serving
Once your kitchen is filled with that heavenly aroma, take the baking sheet out of the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving—trust me, it’s worth the wait! You can serve this dish as a stunning side for any meal, or even as a delightful main for a light dinner. Enjoy every bite!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional data for maple glazed brussels sprouts and butternut squash with bacon. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, so it’s always a good idea to check labels if you’re watching your intake!
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Sugar: 10g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Cholesterol: 15mg
This dish is not only delicious but also packed with good-for-you ingredients! Enjoy your tasty creation without the guilt!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have this delicious dish ready in no time!
- Easy Cleanup: One baking sheet is all you need! Less mess means more time to enjoy your meal.
- Flavorful Combination: The sweet maple glaze perfectly balances with the savory bacon and the earthy brussels sprouts and butternut squash.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients and fiber, this dish is a great addition to your diet.
- Gluten-Free: Enjoy this dish worry-free, as all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free!
Tips for Success
To make sure your maple glazed brussels sprouts and butternut squash with bacon turns out absolutely perfect, I’ve got some handy tips for you!
- Even Crisping: For that irresistible crunchy bacon, make sure it’s evenly distributed across the baking sheet. If it’s piled up, some pieces might get soggy instead of crispy. Spread it out and let that heat work its magic!
- Adjust Cooking Time: Every oven is a little different. Keep an eye on your dish as it bakes! If you notice that your veggies are still a bit firm after 30 minutes, feel free to pop them back in for a few more minutes. You want them tender but not mushy.
- Check for Doneness: When the brussels sprouts are nicely browned and the bacon is crispy, you’re good to go! A little caramelization adds so much flavor, so don’t rush this step.
- Mix It Up: If you want to add your own twist, consider mixing in different veggies or even nuts for an extra crunch. Just keep an eye on cooking times as they might vary!
- Toss Halfway: Remember to stir the mixture halfway through baking. This helps everything cook evenly and helps those flavors meld beautifully!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be a pro at making this delightful dish! Enjoy cooking and savoring every bite!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to switch things up a bit with your maple glazed brussels sprouts and butternut squash with bacon, I’ve got some fun ideas for you! These variations keep the essence of the dish while adding a unique twist.
- Different Vegetables: You can easily replace the butternut squash with sweet potatoes or carrots for a different flavor profile. Both add a lovely sweetness that complements the brussels sprouts and bacon beautifully!
- Add Nuts: For an extra crunch, consider tossing in some chopped walnuts or pecans just before baking. They’ll add a delightful texture and nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the maple syrup.
- Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the mixture before baking. It gives a nice contrast to the sweetness and makes your taste buds dance!
- Herbs and Spices: Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can bring a wonderful aroma and flavor. Just chop them finely and toss them in with the other ingredients. You could also add a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika for an added depth of flavor.
- Maple Mustard Glaze: For a tangy twist, mix a tablespoon of Dijon mustard with the maple syrup before drizzling it on. This adds a zesty flavor that balances out the sweetness perfectly!
Feel free to experiment with these variations and make the dish your own. Cooking is all about having fun and discovering new flavors, so don’t be afraid to get creative!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got some leftovers of your delicious maple glazed brussels sprouts and butternut squash with bacon? Don’t worry, they store beautifully! Here’s how to keep them fresh and tasty for your next meal.
- Storing Leftovers: Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent any moisture from making your veggies soggy. You can keep them in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: If you want to save it for longer, you can freeze the leftovers! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. It should stay good for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Now, let’s talk about reheating! You want to make sure those flavors are just as vibrant when you heat them up again.
- Reheating in the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the leftovers on a baking sheet and cover with aluminum foil to help retain moisture. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until everything is warmed through. This method helps keep that lovely crispy texture!
- Reheating in the Microwave: If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave. Place your portion in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to keep the moisture in. Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between, until hot. Just be careful not to overdo it, as the veggies can get a bit mushy!
With these easy storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your tasty creation again without losing any of that delicious flavor and texture. Enjoy your leftovers!
Share Your Thoughts
I’d absolutely love to hear what you think about this maple glazed brussels sprouts and butternut squash with bacon recipe! Did you try it out? What did you enjoy most about it? Maybe you put your own twist on it—tell me all about it! Your feedback means the world to me and helps others discover this delicious dish too.
If you’ve got questions or need tips, don’t hesitate to drop a comment below! And if you’re on social media, snap a pic of your creation and tag me. I can’t wait to see your beautiful dishes and share in the joy of cooking together!
Print
Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash Delight
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious dish featuring maple glazed brussels sprouts and butternut squash with crispy bacon.
Ingredients
- 1 pound brussels sprouts, halved
- 1 pound butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine brussels sprouts, butternut squash, and bacon.
- Drizzle olive oil and maple syrup over the mixture.
- Add salt and pepper, then toss everything until well coated.
- Spread the mixture evenly on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the vegetables are tender and bacon is crispy.
- Stir halfway through for even cooking.
- Remove from oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the bacon is evenly distributed for even crisping.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; use two sheets if necessary.
- Adjust maple syrup based on your sweetness preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: maple glazed brussels sprouts, butternut squash, bacon, side dish
