Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon – Sweet, Savory & Crispy

These Honey-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon are one of those side dishes that disappear the second they hit the table. They’re crispy, savory, and sweet in all the best ways—basically everything you want in a holiday (or anytime!) veggie. With golden brown Brussels sprouts, crispy bacon bits, caramelized onion, and a honey-soy glaze, it’s the kind of recipe that turns sprout skeptics into believers.

Why You’ll Love These Honey Glazed Brussels Sprouts

• Crispy edges + sweet glaze = addictive flavor
• Bacon adds smoky depth to every bite
• Easy to scale for holidays or weeknight meals
• Fancy enough for guests, simple enough for family
• Optional add-ins for texture: raisins, pine nuts, sesame seeds

I first made this for Thanksgiving, and now it’s my go-to every time I’m asked to “just bring a veggie.” It’s that good.

Ingredients for Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

• 1 cube chicken bouillon
• 1 (16 oz) bag frozen Brussels sprouts (or use fresh if you prefer!)
• ½ pound smoked bacon, diced
• 1 large onion, minced
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• ½ cup raisins (optional)
• 3 tablespoons pine nuts (optional)
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds, for garnish

Using frozen sprouts? No problem—they roast up beautifully with a little prep.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Step 1: Parboil the Brussels Sprouts

1. Bring a pot of water to a boil.
2. Dissolve chicken bouillon cube in the boiling water.
3. Add Brussels sprouts and cook for about 10 minutes, until tender.
4. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon and Onion

5. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium-high heat until crispy (about 10 minutes).
6. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate, but keep the bacon drippings in the skillet.
7. Add minced onion to the skillet and sauté until translucent and tender (about 10 minutes).

For Step 3: Glaze and Combine

8. Add honey and soy sauce to the skillet.
9. Stir until it begins to bubble (1–2 minutes).
10. Return the Brussels sprouts and bacon to the pan.
11. Stir in raisins and pine nuts, if using.
12. Cook for another 3–5 minutes, until the sprouts are glazed and everything is heated through.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

13. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds.

Serve warm—and don’t expect leftovers. People will fight for the crispy bits.

Pro Tips & Variations

• Fresh vs. Frozen: You can absolutely use fresh Brussels sprouts. Just halve them before boiling.
• Add Balsamic: A drizzle of balsamic vinegar adds tangy depth.
• Make It Vegetarian: Skip the bacon and use olive oil for sautéing. Add smoked paprika for depth.
• Nut-Free Option: Omit pine nuts and sesame seeds.
• Want it spicier? A pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot honey works wonders.

What to Serve with Honey Glazed Brussels Sprouts

These go great with just about any main, but here are a few perfect pairings:

• Deviled Eggs with Bacon – bacon lovers rejoice!
• Creamy Bacon Tomato Pasta – hearty, rich, and full of flavor
• Winter Salad with Roasted Butternut Squash – veggie-forward and seasonal

FAQ: Cooking Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Honey

How do you make Brussels sprouts crispy?

Use high heat and don’t overcrowd the pan. Browning = flavor.

Should I boil Brussels sprouts before roasting?

Parboiling helps soften them before sautéing or roasting, especially if using frozen.

Can I use maple syrup instead of honey?

Totally. Maple gives a deeper, more autumnal flavor.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Not really. Brussels sprouts don’t reheat well from frozen once glazed. Best served fresh.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes! Cook everything but wait to add honey + soy glaze until reheating just before serving.

What’s the best oil for roasting sprouts?

Avocado oil, olive oil, or bacon drippings are all great choices.

Storage & Reheating

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm in a skillet to restore crispiness, or microwave if you’re short on time.

Tip: Add a fresh splash of soy sauce or a drizzle of honey to re-glaze when reheating.

Save & Share It on Pinterest!

Made this Honey Glazed Brussels Sprouts recipe? I’d love to see your version! Tag me on Pinterest @RitzyRecipes and share your sprouts success!

These Brussels sprouts are the perfect combo of crispy, salty, and sweet—and they’ll win over even your pickiest eaters.

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