Get ready to transform your dinner table with a mind-blowing side dish that'll make even veggie skeptics beg for seconds! Our Cayenne Maple Roasted Bacon Brussels Sprouts Squash is not just a recipe—it's a flavor explosion that perfectly balances sweet, spicy, and savory in every single bite. Imagine crispy bacon, caramelized Brussels sprouts, and tender butternut squash dancing together with a tantalizing maple-cayenne glaze that will make your taste buds do a happy dance!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, halved
- 2 cups butternut squash, diced
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and slice them in half lengthwise. Cut the butternut squash into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure even roasting.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts and diced butternut squash. Chop the bacon into small, roughly 1/2-inch pieces.
- Sprinkle the chopped bacon over the vegetables. Drizzle maple syrup evenly across the mixture, then dust with cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything thoroughly to ensure even coating.
- Spread the seasoned vegetables and bacon in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure the ingredients are not overcrowded to allow proper caramelization and roasting.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, stirring once halfway through cooking. The vegetables should be tender and edges crispy, with the bacon becoming golden and slightly crisp.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with additional fresh cracked pepper if desired.
- Serve hot as a side dish, enjoying the perfect balance of sweet maple, spicy cayenne, and crispy bacon with roasted vegetables.
Tips
- Use a rimmed baking sheet to catch any delicious drippings and prevent oven mess.
- Cut vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure even roasting and consistent cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet - give ingredients space to caramelize and crisp up.
- Stir halfway through cooking to promote even browning and prevent burning.
- Choose thick-cut bacon for maximum flavor and crispiness.
- Adjust cayenne pepper quantity based on your spice tolerance.
- For extra crispiness, consider patting Brussels sprouts and squash dry before seasoning.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and temperature.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 25mg
