Get ready for a mouthwatering treat made with just three ingredients. This bacon wrapped Brussels sprouts recipe combines smoky, salty bacon with tender, slightly sweet Brussels sprouts for an irresistible appetizer that’s quick to prepare and ideal for parties or holiday gatherings.
If you enjoy the contrast of crispy bacon and tender sprouts, these bites are for you. A light brush of real maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness and helps the bacon caramelize for an extra layer of flavor.
Serve these smoky-sweet morsels warm. They’re easy for guests to pick up with toothpicks and pair well with festive drinks or other small plates.
Ingredients
Simple, pantry-friendly ingredients are all you need to make these bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts.
- Brussels sprouts: Use fresh sprouts for best results; frozen have extra moisture and can prevent crispy bacon. Choose similarly sized sprouts for even cooking.
- Bacon: Any bacon will work, but thinner slices tend to crisp up better.
- Maple syrup: Real maple syrup offers a distinctive flavor; brush lightly to glaze the bacon-wrapped sprouts.
See the recipe card below for exact quantities.
Substitutions and Variations
- Turkey bacon: Swap in turkey bacon if preferred, but expect a leaner result. Lightly spray the pan to prevent sticking.
- Sweet and spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the maple syrup for a sweet-heat variation.
How to Make Bacon Brussels Sprouts
These steps make the recipe easy to follow and quick to assemble.
Preheat the oven and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment for easier cleanup.
- Slice each bacon strip in half.
- Wrap a half strip of bacon around each Brussels sprout, overlapping the edges slightly so it stays secure.
- Brush or spoon a small amount of maple syrup over each wrapped sprout to glaze the bacon.
- Place the wrapped sprouts on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven until the bacon is golden and the sprouts are tender, about 25–30 minutes depending on oven and bacon thickness.
Air Fryer Method
You can make these in an air fryer. After wrapping and glazing, place them in the air fryer basket with space between each piece and lightly spray the basket to prevent sticking. Cook at 400°F (204°C) for about 15–20 minutes, checking for crispness and doneness.
Storage
These are best served fresh. If making ahead, wrap the sprouts in bacon the day before, then brush with maple syrup and bake just before serving.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm on a baking sheet in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–8 minutes or until heated through. Note: reheated sprouts will be softer than freshly made.
How to Serve Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Serve warm as a hand-held appetizer. Arrange them on a platter with a bowl of toothpicks for easy grabbing. They’re delicious on their own or with a dipping sauce—extra maple syrup, ranch, or honey-dijon are all great choices.
- Skewer with toothpicks for a tidy, grab-and-go presentation.
- Pair with festive beverages or other small plates for a party spread.
- Leftovers work well alongside sandwiches or sliders at casual gatherings.
Expert Tips and FAQs
- Use fresh Brussels sprouts: Fresh sprouts yield the best texture and browning. Avoid frozen when aiming for crispy bacon.
- Match sizes: Choose sprouts of similar size or halve large ones so everything cooks evenly.
- Glaze carefully: Brush the maple syrup on a cutting board or plate before placing the wrapped sprouts on the baking sheet—too much syrup on the sheet can burn.
- Thin bacon crisps best: Thinner slices usually yield a crispier finish.
- Enjoy fresh: These are at their best on the day they’re made.
Yes. Halving larger sprouts helps them match smaller ones in size so they cook evenly and finish at the same time.
They are best served warm. They still taste good at room temperature, but serving them chilled from the fridge is not recommended.
More Brussels Sprouts Recipes
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Honey Sriracha Brussels Sprouts
-
Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Sweet Potatoes
-
Brussels Sprout Salad
-
Easy Keto Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
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Bacon Wrapped Brussels Sprouts
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Equipment
- Cutting Board
- Knife
- Baking Sheet
- Pastry brush
Ingredients
- 12 Brussels sprouts – ends trimmed off
- 6 slices bacon (sliced in half)
- 2 Tablespoons maple syrup
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C) and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment.
- Slice bacon strips in half.
- Wrap each Brussels sprout with a half strip of bacon, overlapping the edges.
- Brush or spoon maple syrup over each wrapped sprout and place them on the prepared sheet.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes or until bacon is golden and sprouts are tender. Serve warm.