Who knew roasted Brussels sprouts could be transformed into something unforgettable? Topped with honey butter and crispy bacon, this simple vegetable becomes a crowd-pleasing side that balances sweet, salty, and smoky flavors in every bite.
Why This Recipe Works
Every bite delivers buttery sweetness from the honey butter, smoky roasted flavor from the sprouts, and a satisfying salty crunch from the bacon. The combination is simple but powerful, turning an everyday side into something special.
If you’ve been lukewarm about Brussels sprouts in the past, this version may change your mind. Roasting develops a deep, slightly charred flavor while the honey butter adds richness and a gentle sweetness that pairs perfectly with bacon.
Ingredients Needed
Minimal ingredients and straightforward steps make this dish easy and rewarding.
- 1 1/2 – 2 lbs Brussels sprouts
- 6 slices bacon (thick or regular)
- 2 tbsp butter, room temperature
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
How To Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Honey Butter And Bacon
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the bacon using your preferred method (pan-fried, baked, or air-fried). Reserve 2 tablespoons of the bacon grease and set the cooked bacon aside to cool, then crumble it.
3. Trim and halve about 24 medium Brussels sprouts. Remove any damaged outer leaves and place the halves in a bowl.
4. Pour the reserved bacon grease over the sprouts and season with 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Toss gently so they’re evenly coated.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the sprouts cut-side down. Roast for about 30 minutes, turning once partway through, until they have a slight char and are tender.
6. While the sprouts roast, whisk together 2 tablespoons room-temperature butter and 2 tablespoons honey until smooth to make the honey butter.
7. When the sprouts are done and slightly charred, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the honey butter over the hot sprouts and toss until they are fully coated.
8. Stir in the crumbled bacon. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve warm.
This side is quick, approachable, and a great way to get even picky eaters to enjoy vegetables. The honey butter brings a glossy finish and mild sweetness while the bacon adds texture and savory contrast.
Serve these sprouts alongside roasted meats, holiday turkey, or any main course that benefits from a slightly sweet, savory side.
FAQ
If they aren’t crisping, the oven temperature may be too low. Roast at 375°F or higher and arrange the sprouts cut-side down so they caramelize properly.
Yes. Halving increases the surface area exposed to the heat and fat, helping them brown and cook evenly.
This recipe doesn’t require boiling for medium-sized sprouts. If your sprouts are very large, a brief parboil can help ensure they’re tender inside before roasting.
Other Delicious Sides
Baked Macaroni And Cheese
Fast And Delicious Mashed Potatoes
Roasted Green Beans and Mushrooms
Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Bacon Honey Butter Recipe
Ingredients
- 6 slices bacon (thick cut or regular)
- 1.5 lbs Brussels sprouts
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp butter, room temperature
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper, freshly ground
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook 6 pieces of bacon and reserve 2 tablespoons of bacon grease.
- Crumble the cooked bacon and set aside.
- Trim and halve about 24 medium Brussels sprouts, removing any bruised outer leaves.
- Pour the reserved bacon grease over the sprouts and season with 1/2 tsp kosher salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper; toss to coat.
- Place sprouts cut-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast 30 minutes, turning once, until slightly charred and tender.
- While roasting, whisk 2 tbsp room-temperature butter with 2 tbsp honey until combined.
- Transfer roasted sprouts to a bowl, toss with the honey butter, then stir in the crumbled bacon.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed and serve warm.
Nutrition
| Carbohydrates: 24 g
| Protein: 10 g
| Fat: 19 g
| Sugar: 12 g
These roasted Brussels sprouts with honey butter and bacon are an easy, flavorful side that elevates any meal. Try them at your next dinner — they might just become a new favorite.