Name: Crispy Honey Mustard Brussels Sprouts You Can't Resist
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Brussels sprouts (Fresh, trimmed and halved); 2 tablespoons Olive oil (Can substitute with avocado oil); 1 teaspoon Salt (Kosher salt recommended); 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper (Freshly ground preferred); 2 tablespoons Honey (Use agave syrup for a vegan option); 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (Yellow mustard is a substitute); 1 teaspoon Garlic powder (Fresh minced garlic can be used in moderation); 4 slices Bacon (Thick-cut bacon recommended for better texture)

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As I stood in my kitchen, the rich aroma of crispy bacon mingled with sweet honey mustard wafting through the air transformed an ordinary evening into something special. This Crispy Honey Mustard Brussels Sprouts with Bacon recipe has quickly become my go-to side dish, especially during Thanksgiving. It’s not just easy to whip up with just eight ingredients; it offers a delightful mix of crunch and flavor that easily impresses family and friends alike. Besides being a crowd-pleaser, these Brussels sprouts are a healthy option to balance out the holiday feasting. Imagine serving a dish that brings smiles, but also packs a nutritious punch! Ready to elevate your side dish game? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe together!

Why are Honey Mustard Brussels Sprouts a Must-Try?

Bold flavors: The sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce dances harmoniously with the crispy bacon, creating an unforgettable taste experience.
Crowd-pleaser: Your guests will rave about these scrumptious sprouts, making them the star of your Thanksgiving table!
Quick prep: With just eight ingredients and around 50 minutes from start to finish, preparing this dish is a breeze.
Versatile pairing: These Brussels sprouts complement everything from roast turkey to glazed ham—perfect for any festive occasion.
Nutritious choice: Packed with vitamins and fiber, they’re a smart addition to your holiday spread without sacrificing flavor. If you’re looking for more ways to enjoy Brussels sprouts, try out my Cajun Honey Butter recipe for some spicy flair!

Honey Mustard Brussels Sprouts Ingredients

For the Brussels Sprouts
• Brussels sprouts – The star ingredient, offering a hearty texture and nutty flavor; choose fresh ones for the best results.
• Olive oil – Adds moisture and aids in roasting; feel free to substitute with avocado oil for a lighter taste.
• Salt – Enhances flavors; kosher salt is highly recommended for even seasoning.
• Black pepper – Adds a subtle heat and elevated complexity; freshly ground is preferred for the best experience.

For the Honey Mustard Sauce
• Honey – Sweetens the dish while caramelizing beautifully; use agave syrup as a vegan alternative if desired.
• Dijon mustard – Provides that beloved tanginess; yellow mustard can work if you’re looking for a substitution.
• Garlic powder – Elevates the overall flavor; you can swap it for fresh minced garlic, but adjust the quantity accordingly.

For the Crunch
• Bacon – Adds a crispy, salty richness; opt for thick-cut bacon for enhanced texture and taste.

This delightful combo of ingredients ensures that your Honey Mustard Brussels Sprouts will tantalize taste buds all around!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Honey Mustard Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). To prepare your baking sheet, line it with aluminum foil for easy cleanup later. This step is crucial as it will ensure that your Brussels sprouts and bacon roast evenly, leading to perfectly crispy results.

Step 2: Bake the Bacon
Arrange the strips of thick-cut bacon on the lined baking sheet in a single layer. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 14 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown. You’ll know it’s done when it releases a savory aroma and looks tantalizingly crunchy.

Step 3: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
While the bacon cooks, increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) after removing the bacon from the sheet. Rinse the Brussels sprouts under cold water, then pat them dry. Trim the ends and slice each sprout in half, making sure they are evenly prepped for roasting.

Step 4: Make the Honey Mustard Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until they form a smooth, cohesive sauce. This honey mustard mixture will infuse your Brussels sprouts with sweet and tangy flavors, enhancing this delightful side dish.

Step 5: Coat the Brussels Sprouts
Pour the honey mustard mixture over the halved Brussels sprouts in the mixing bowl. Toss them gently until each sprout is well-coated with the sauce. The vibrant greens should glisten with the flavorful glaze, ready to take on the oven and become the star of your meal.

Step 6: Roast the Brussels Sprouts
Remove the bacon from the baking sheet and transfer it to a cutting board to cool. Scatter the honey mustard-coated Brussels sprouts on the same tray, ensuring they are spread out for even roasting—residual bacon grease will add flavor. Roast the sprouts in the oven for about 20 minutes.

Step 7: Increase the Temperature
After the first roasting, increase the oven temperature to 475°F (245°C) and continue roasting the Brussels sprouts for an additional 10 minutes. Look for a tender, caramelized exterior and a deliciously browned surface. The timing ensures they achieve that irresistible crispy texture you desire from this honey mustard Brussels sprouts recipe.

Step 8: Combine and Serve
Once roasted, transfer the Brussels sprouts back to your mixing bowl. Crumble the crispy bacon, adding it to the bowl, and toss everything gently to combine. It’s time to taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as necessary. These Crispy Honey Mustard Brussels Sprouts with Bacon are now ready to delight your family and friends!

Honey Mustard Brussels Sprouts Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize your Honey Mustard Brussels Sprouts to suit your family’s taste buds and dietary preferences!

Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for an extra layer of crunch and a delightful nutty flavor.
Vegan Delight: Omit the bacon and introduce smoked paprika for a subtly smoky flavor—perfect for a plant-based twist.
Fruity Twist: Toss in diced apples or cranberries for a sweet pop of color and flavor, especially charming during fall.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to turn up the heat. This gives the dish an exciting kick that contrasts beautifully with the honey mustard.
Herbaceous Boost: Fresh thyme or rosemary can uplift the dish with aromatic notes; scatter some over the sprouts before roasting.
Garlic Lovers: Swap the garlic powder for roasted garlic for a sweeter, deeper garlic flavor that pairs wonderfully with the honey mustard.
Maple Version: Replace honey with maple syrup for a different but equally delicious sweetening option that adds depth and complexity to your sauce.

If Brussels sprouts are your thing, you might enjoy them roasted in my Hot Honey Fried recipe, where scrumptious flavors shine through! Enjoy experimenting!

What to Serve with Crispy Honey Mustard Brussels Sprouts with Bacon?

Imagine a warm, inviting dinner table surrounded by loved ones, as the delightful aroma of roasted Brussels sprouts fills the air, creating the perfect atmosphere for memorable meals.

Roast Turkey: This classic holiday dish pairs effortlessly with the crispy, sweet-savory flavors, making each bite a festive delight.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, their richness balances the crunch of the Brussels sprouts for a comforting duo.
Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberries provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet honey mustard, invigorating each aspect of your meal.
Grilled Chicken: A simple protein choice that complements the dish’s bold flavors without overpowering them, ensuring a satisfying balance.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness mirrors the honey mustard profile and adds a gorgeous color to your plate for visual appeal.
Balsamic Glazed Salmon: The tangy glaze enhances the Brussels’ flavor while adding an elegant seafood option for a full, harmonious meal.
Spinach Salad: A fresh side with crunchy nuts and tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the Brussels sprouts and bacon.
Chardonnay: A crisp, light wine that brings out the honey mustard’s sweetness and complements the savory notes of the bacon beautifully.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, this rich yet airy treat offers a sweet ending that harmonizes with the savory meal, delighting every palate.
Pumpkin Pie: This seasonal classic rounds out the meal with its warm spices, making it a perfect way to conclude a festive feast.

Expert Tips for Crispy Honey Mustard Brussels Sprouts

Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh Brussels sprouts for the best texture and flavor. Avoid wilted or yellowing ones, which can alter the overall taste.
Spread Evenly: Ensure the Brussels sprouts are spread out on the baking sheet and not overcrowded. This allows them to roast properly and become crispy.
Bacon Grease Magic: Drizzling a bit of reserved bacon grease over the finished Honey Mustard Brussels Sprouts enhances the savory flavor. Just don’t overdo it!
Toss for Flavor: Toss the Brussels sprouts in the sauce right before roasting to ensure they are fully coated, maximizing the flavor in each bite.
Adjust Seasoning: Once combined, taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. This final touch can elevate the dish to perfection!
Crisp Finish: If you like them extra crispy, consider using the broil setting for a minute or two at the end of roasting. Watch closely to avoid burning!

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Honey Mustard Brussels Sprouts with Bacon are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the Brussels sprouts by cleaning and halving them up to 24 hours in advance; just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, whisk together the honey mustard sauce and refrigerate it separately to maintain its vibrant flavor. When you’re ready to cook, simply toss the sprouts in the sauce, roast them according to the recipe, and enjoy just as delicious results with minimal effort. This prep-ahead strategy ensures you’ll have a fantastic side dish ready to impress your family or guests without the last-minute rush!

How to Store and Freeze Honey Mustard Brussels Sprouts

Fridge: Store leftover Honey Mustard Brussels Sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps retain their flavors and moisture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore crispness. You can also microwave them, but they may lose some crunch.

Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the sprouts a day in advance, clean and halve them, store in an airtight container, and toss with the sauce before roasting for a quick meal!

Crispy Honey Mustard Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe FAQs

How do I choose fresh Brussels sprouts?
Absolutely! When selecting Brussels sprouts, look for firm, tightly closed heads without any dark spots. Sizes vary, but uniformity is key for even cooking. Fresh ones will have a vivid green color and feel heavy for their size.

What’s the best way to store leftover Honey Mustard Brussels Sprouts?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to allow them to cool to room temperature before sealing. They can be reheated in the oven to maintain their crunchy texture.

Can I freeze Honey Mustard Brussels Sprouts?
Yes, you can! To freeze, first, spread the roasted Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer. Place them in the freezer until solid (about 1-2 hours), then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. Just remember to reheat them in the oven to restore their crispness!

What should I do if my Brussels sprouts don’t become crispy?
If your sprouts turn out soft, they may have been overcrowded on the baking sheet. Next time, ensure they have enough space to roast evenly. Also, try increasing the roasting temperature toward the end or even using the broil option for a minute or two. This will help achieve that desirable crispy finish!

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
For those with dietary restrictions, this dish is easily adaptable! To make it vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and consider adding smoked paprika for richness. Moreover, ensure that the honey used is suitable for vegans, or substitute it with agave syrup if necessary.

Can I prepare the Honey Mustard Brussels Sprouts in advance?
Definitely! You can prep the Brussels sprouts a day in advance. Simply clean and halve them, then store in an airtight container. Toss them with the honey mustard sauce right before you’re ready to roast, making it an easy and convenient addition to your meal!