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Crispy Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts with Candied Pecans & Bacon

crispy honey balsamic brussels sprouts - featured image

These Brussels sprouts are roasted until golden and crispy, then tossed with a sweet honey-balsamic glaze, smoky bacon, and crunchy candied pecans. It’s a crowd-pleasing side dish perfect for holidays, potlucks, or cozy dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 4 slices bacon, chopped
  • 3/4 cup pecans, roughly chopped
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Trim stem ends from Brussels sprouts, remove yellow leaves, and halve lengthwise. Quarter any large sprouts.
  2. Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
  3. In a large bowl, toss halved sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly on the sheet pan, cut side down.
  4. Sprinkle chopped bacon evenly over the sprouts.
  5. Roast in the oven for 18-22 minutes, flipping sprouts and bacon halfway through. Roast until edges are deep golden and bacon is crisp.
  6. While sprouts roast, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped pecans and brown sugar, stirring constantly for 3-4 minutes until sugar melts and pecans are coated. Spread pecans on a plate to cool.
  7. In a small bowl, mix honey and balsamic vinegar.
  8. Remove sprouts and bacon from oven. Drizzle honey-balsamic mixture evenly over hot sprouts. Top with candied pecans and optional red pepper flakes.
  9. Transfer to a serving platter and serve immediately for best texture.

Notes

For vegetarian, skip bacon and add smoked paprika. Don’t overcrowd the pan for crispiness. Broil finished sprouts for 1-2 minutes for extra crunch. Make candied pecans ahead for convenience. Use fresh sprouts for best results; frozen may be mushy. Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 3 days, reheating in the oven for best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: Brussels sprouts, honey balsamic, candied pecans, bacon, roasted vegetables, holiday side, gluten-free, easy recipe, crispy sprouts, Thanksgiving