These smoked Brussels sprouts with maple bacon are one of my absolute favorite side dishes to make on the smoker. With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe comes together in a cinch—in just one pan.
The combination of the crispy bacon, sweet maple syrup, and drizzle of the tangy balsamic glaze really elevate these Brussels sprouts to the next level.
WHAT YOU'LL NEED TO MAKE THIS RECIPE
- Brussels sprouts — I used two 12 oz. bags of Brussels, cut in half
- Bacon — I used thick-cut, double smoked applewood bacon
- BBQ rub — Use your favorite rub here, it just adds a hint of flavor to every bite
- Maple syrup — The sweetness of the maple syrup really comments the Brussels well, try to use "pure" maple syrup
- Balsamic glaze — Just a little drizzle over the top to finish things off
HOW TO MAKE SMOKED BRUSSELS SPROUTS WITH MAPLE BACON
1. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
In a bowl, season the Brussels sprouts with the maple syrup and BBQ rub. Make sure to mix well so the Brussels are evenly coated.
2. Cook the Bacon
Add the chopped up bacon to a cast iron pan over medium heat. Cook the bacon for 4-5 minutes until its nice and crispy.
3. Cook the Brussels Sprouts
Add the Brussels sprouts to the same pan with the bacon. Cook the Brussels sprouts for 6-7 minutes, until they turn golden brown.
4. Smoke the Brussels Sprouts
Add the cast iron pan with the Brussels sprouts and the bacon to a 225F smoker. Smoke with your favorite flavored-pellets for about 45 minutes.
5. Finish & Serve
Finish off the Brussels sprouts by drizzling the balsamic glaze over the top, and adding an extra shake of BBQ rub.
PAIRING SUGGESTIONS
These smoked Brussels sprouts pair perfectly with my Smoked Turkey Breast with cCranberry BBQ Glaze, Easy Smoked Turkey Legs, and Smoked Beef Ribs.
PRO TIPS FOR MAKING THIS RECIPE
- Substitutions: While bacon is always best IMO, of course feel free to use turkey bacon instead of remove it altogether.
- Caramelization: For extra caramelization, sear the Brussels in the skillet for a couple of extra minutes before transferring to the smoker.
Smoked Brussels Sprouts with Maple Bacon
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Brussels sprouts trimmed and halved
- 8 slices bacon
- 1 tbsp BBQ rub
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
Instructions
- Toss halved Brussels sprouts with BBQ rub and maple syrup in a large bowl.
- Cook diced bacon in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes until crispy.
- Add seasoned sprouts to skillet, arranging cut-side down. Sear for 4-5 minutes.
- Add skillet to a 225F smoker, cooking sprouts and bacon for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze and sprinkle with extra BBQ rub before serving.
Notes
- Substitutions: While bacon is always best IMO, of course feel free to use turkey bacon instead of remove it altogether.Â
- Caramelization: For extra caramelization, sear the Brussels in the skillet for a couple of extra minutes before transferring to the smoker.
