One crisp autumn evening, I found myself staring at a mountain of butternut squash and a lone bag of Brussels sprouts. My usual go-to recipes felt a little uninspiring that night. I craved something comforting, vibrant, and a touch exciting.
That’s when inspiration struck: a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and spicy. I started experimenting, and what emerged from my kitchen was truly a revelation. The aroma filled the house, a perfect mix of caramelized sweetness and smoky richness.
This creation, my friends, became my celebrated Spicy Maple Butternut Squash with Brussels and Bacon. It’s now a staple, a dish that effortlessly brings warmth and incredible flavor to any table. Every bite of this Spicy Maple Butternut Squash with Brussels and Bacon instantly transports you to a cozy, happy place.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Spicy Maple Butternut Squash with Brussels and Bacon offers a symphony of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds. It’s incredibly versatile, perfect as a hearty side or a light main. You get the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash, caramelized to perfection, forming the delicious base.
Then, Brussels sprouts acquire a delightful char and tender interior, providing a slight bitterness that balances the sweetness. Crucially, crispy, savory beef bacon bits add irresistible smoky depth and fantastic textural contrast. Finally, a touch of maple syrup and a hint of chili flakes bring it all together, creating a perfectly balanced profile: sweet, salty, savory, and just the right amount of heat.
You’ll love how straightforward the preparation is, despite the gourmet results. This dish truly transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Furthermore, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate seasonal vegetables deliciously.
This Spicy Maple Butternut Squash with Brussels and Bacon makes healthy eating exciting and deeply satisfying. The combination truly makes this Spicy Maple Butternut Squash with Brussels and Bacon an unforgettable culinary experience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients marks the first step towards creating this unforgettable Spicy Maple Butternut Squash with Brussels and Bacon. Each component plays a vital role in building the layered flavors that define this dish. Ensure you select fresh, high-quality produce for the best results.
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 2-2.5 pounds), peeled, deseeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 8 ounces beef bacon, diced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to your spice preference)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
This precise combination of ingredients guarantees a harmonious and incredibly flavorful Spicy Maple Butternut Squash with Brussels and Bacon every single time you prepare it.
Substitutions & Variations
You can easily adapt this Spicy Maple Butternut Squash with Brussels and Bacon recipe to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. Feel free to get creative!
* For the Squash: Acorn squash, sweet potatoes, or even pumpkin make excellent substitutes. They roast beautifully with similar sweetness and texture.
* For the Brussels Sprouts: Kale or broccoli florets can replace Brussels sprouts.
Roast them until tender-crisp for an earthy flavor.
* For the Bacon: While beef bacon provides fantastic savory punch, turkey bacon offers a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, use smoked tempeh or crumbled smoked tofu, sautéed until crispy, for umami depth.
* Spice Level: Adjust chili flakes to your liking. Reduce for less heat, or add cayenne pepper for more kick.
* Sweetness: Reduce maple syrup for less sweetness, or add more for a pronounced sweet flavor.
Honey is also a fine alternative.
* Herbs & Nuts: Experiment with fresh thyme, rosemary, or sage. Toasted pecans or walnuts add crunch.
* Citrus Brightness: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving can brighten the entire dish, cutting through the richness. This small addition truly elevates the overall experience of the Spicy Maple Butternut Squash with Brussels and Bacon.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating your own delicious batch of Spicy Maple Butternut Squash with Brussels and Bacon is a straightforward process. Follow these steps for perfect results every time.
1. Prepare Ingredients: First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment for easy cleanup.
Peel, deseed, and cut butternut squash into uniform 1-inch cubes. Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half. Dice the beef bacon into small pieces.
Uniform cutting ensures even cooking for the Spicy Maple Butternut Squash with Brussels and Bacon.
2. Cook Bacon: Next, place the diced beef bacon in a cold skillet over medium heat.
Cook the bacon until it turns crispy and golden brown. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Remove the crispy bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a paper-towel-lined plate to drain excess fat.
Reserve about 1 tablespoon of the rendered bacon fat in the skillet. This flavorful fat will enhance the roasted vegetables, providing a crucial base for our Spicy Maple Butternut Squash with Brussels and Bacon.
3.Season Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed butternut squash and halved Brussels sprouts. Drizzle them with olive oil and the reserved bacon fat. Add the maple syrup, chili flakes, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Toss everything together thoroughly until the vegetables are evenly coated in the seasoning mixture. Make sure every piece gets some love for the best Spicy Maple Butternut Squash with Brussels and Bacon.
4. Roast Vegetables: Spread the seasoned butternut squash and Brussels sprouts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the sheet; use two sheets if necessary to ensure the vegetables roast rather than steam. Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through.
The vegetables should become tender and slightly caramelized with some golden-brown edges. This roasting step is key to developing the deep flavors in the Spicy Maple Butternut Squash with Brussels and Bacon.
5. Combine & Serve: Once the vegetables are perfectly roasted, remove them from the oven. Transfer them back to the large mixing bowl. Add the reserved crispy bacon pieces.
Toss gently to combine all the delicious components. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired. Serve your magnificent Spicy Maple Butternut Squash with Brussels and Bacon immediately and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success
Elevate your Spicy Maple Butternut Squash with Brussels and Bacon from great to absolutely phenomenal with these expert tips.
* Uniformity is Key: Cut squash and Brussels sprouts into equal-sized pieces for even cooking. Uneven pieces compromise texture.
* Don’t Overcrowd: Give vegetables space on the baking sheet to roast, not steam.
This ensures delicious caramelization and crisp edges. Use two sheets if necessary for your Spicy Maple Butternut Squash with Brussels and Bacon.
* Render Bacon Fat Fully: Cook bacon until very crispy.
The rendered fat provides an incredible flavor base for roasting. Don’t skip using a bit of this fat; it adds savory depth. This is crucial for the overall flavor of the Spicy Maple Butternut Squash with Brussels and Bacon.
* Balance Flavors: Taste before serving. Adjust salt, chili flakes, or a squeeze of lemon juice. Perfect balance ensures every bite of Spicy Maple Butternut Squash with Brussels and Bacon is sensational.
* High Heat Roasting: Roasting at 400°F (200°C) is ideal for tender interiors and caramelized exteriors. High heat encourages browning and brings out natural sweetness, making your Spicy Maple Butternut Squash with Brussels and Bacon truly shine.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Properly storing and reheating your Spicy Maple Butternut Squash with Brussels and Bacon ensures you enjoy its deliciousness for days.
* Storage: Cool leftovers completely. Transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing is possible, but texture may soften upon thawing.
* Reheating (Oven): For best results, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven on a baking sheet for 10-15 minutes, until warmed and bacon crisps slightly.
* Reheating (Stovetop): Sauté in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water/broth for 5-7 minutes.
* Reheating (Microwave): Quickest, but may soften vegetables. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes. Enjoy your reheated Spicy Maple Butternut Squash with Brussels and Bacon!
What to Serve With This Recipe
The versatility of Spicy Maple Butternut Squash with Brussels and Bacon means it pairs beautifully with many dishes.
* Roasted Chicken or Turkey: The smoky, sweet, and savory notes complement poultry perfectly. A simple roasted chicken makes an excellent main course.
* Grilled Salmon or White Fish: For a lighter meal, serve with flaky grilled salmon or pan-seared white fish.
* Pork Tenderloin: The richness of pork tenderloin finds a perfect partner in the sweet and spicy elements of this side.
* Grain Bowls: Transform into a fulfilling grain bowl over quinoa or brown rice. Add crumbled feta or a balsamic glaze.
* Simple Salad: A fresh green salad with vinaigrette cuts through the richness, creating a balanced plate.
* Eggs: This dish makes a fantastic breakfast or brunch item alongside scrambled or fried eggs. The savory bacon and sweet squash are superb. Serve your Spicy Maple Butternut Squash with Brussels and Bacon with your favorite protein.
FAQs
Can I prepare the ingredients ahead of time for Spicy Maple Butternut Squash with Brussels and Bacon?
Yes, absolutely! Peel and cube the squash and trim Brussels sprouts a day or two in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
You can also cook the beef bacon ahead. This speeds up assembly of your Spicy Maple Butternut Squash with Brussels and Bacon.
What if I don’t have maple syrup?
Honey is a direct substitute, offering similar sweetness and helping caramelize vegetables. Agave nectar also works well. The resulting Spicy Maple Butternut Squash with Brussels and Bacon will still be delicious.
How do I ensure the Brussels sprouts get crispy?
High heat and avoiding overcrowding are key. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and spread sprouts in a single layer. Flipping halfway through ensures even browning and crispness, vital for the perfect texture in your Spicy Maple Butternut Squash with Brussels and Bacon.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, this Spicy Maple Butternut Squash with Brussels and Bacon recipe is excellent for meal prepping. It keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Make a larger batch and portion it out for convenient, flavorful meals throughout the week.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can easily adapt this dish to be vegetarian. Simply omit the beef bacon. To retain a smoky, savory element, use smoked tempeh, smoked tofu, or roasted mushrooms. Add a touch more smoked paprika for extra flavor.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
This Spicy Maple Butternut Squash with Brussels and Bacon recipe offers a wholesome and flavorful meal. Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 6 servings). Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Total Fat | 18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 6 g |
| Cholesterol | 25 mg |
| Sodium | 450 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 7 g |
| Total Sugars | 15 g |
| Protein | 10 g |
| Vitamin A | 400% DV |
| Vitamin C | 100% DV |
| Calcium | 10% DV |
| Iron | 15% DV |
This dish provides a good source of vitamins, fiber, and protein, making your Spicy Maple Butternut Squash with Brussels and Bacon a wholesome addition to any meal plan.
Print
Spicy Maple Butternut Squash with Brussels and Bacon
- Total Time: 50 mins
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and spicy, this Spicy Maple Butternut Squash with Brussels and Bacon offers a symphony of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds, making it a comforting and vibrant dish.
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 2–2.5 pounds), peeled, deseeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 8 ounces beef bacon, diced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to your spice preference)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment
- In a skillet, cook the diced beef bacon over medium heat until crispy, then remove and set aside, reserving some bacon fat
- In a large bowl, combine cubed butternut squash and halved Brussels sprouts, then drizzle with olive oil, reserved bacon fat, maple syrup, chili flakes, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper
- Spread the vegetables in a single layer on the baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through
- Combine the roasted vegetables with the reserved crispy bacon in a bowl, adjust seasoning if needed, garnish with parsley, and serve
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 15 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 7 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg