The aroma of caramelized butternut squash mingling with the sweet tang of cranberries is enough to make anyone abandon their diet resolutions. Imagine biting into crispy Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash with turkey beef bacon, cranberries, and feta – it’s a flavor explosion that dances on your taste buds!
This recipe is more than just a side dish; it’s a vibrant celebration on a plate, perfect for adding a touch of autumnal magic to any meal. I remember the first time I made this for Harvest celebration; even my notoriously picky Uncle Jerry went back for seconds (and thirds!). Get ready to unleash a delicious masterpiece that will become a family favorite.
- Effortless elegance: Requires minimal prep time, allowing you to shine as a host without kitchen stress.
- A symphony of flavors: Sweet honey, savory turkey beef bacon, and tangy cranberries create an irresistible blend.
- Visually stunning: The vibrant colors of the vegetables and cranberries make this dish a feast for the eyes.
- Incredibly versatile: Perfect as a side dish, a vegetarian main course, or a delightful addition to salads.
Ingredients for Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash with turkey beef bacon, cranberries, and feta
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash with turkey beef bacon, cranberries, and feta
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prep the Vegetables
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven warms up, trim the Brussels sprouts by cutting off the ends and removing any loose outer leaves. Then, halve or quarter them depending on their size. Peel, seed, and cube the butternut squash into roughly 1-inch pieces.
Step 2: Crisp the turkey beef bacon
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the turkey beef bacon until crispy. Remove the turkey beef bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat. Once cooled, crumble the turkey beef bacon into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Roast the Vegetables
In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts and butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized, flipping halfway through.
Step 4: Prepare the Honey Glaze
While the vegetables are roasting, whisk together the honey, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic in a small bowl. This glaze will add a delightful sweetness and tang to the finished dish.
Step 5: Glaze and Finish
Remove the roasted vegetables from the oven and transfer them back to the large bowl. Pour the honey glaze over the vegetables and toss to coat evenly. Add the crumbled turkey beef bacon and dried cranberries, then gently toss again.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash to a serving dish. Crumble feta cheese over the top just before serving. This dish is best served warm and makes a perfect side for any fall or winter meal.
Perfecting the Cooking Process

To nail this dish, roast the butternut squash and Brussels sprouts first, as they take the longest. Then, while those are softening up, crisp the turkey beef bacon and prepare the honey-Dijon glaze. Toss everything together at the end for maximum flavor fusion.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap pecans or walnuts for cranberries. If you don’t like feta, goat cheese works beautifully. For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the honey glaze. Experiment and make it your own!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet or oven until heated through, but avoid overcooking the sprouts.
Here are some tips for a fantastic dish:
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when roasting; this ensures the vegetables caramelize instead of steaming, leading to a sweeter, more flavorful result.
- Crisp the turkey beef bacon to perfection by cooking it low and slow, rendering the fat and maximizing its smoky flavor without burning it.
- Taste and adjust the honey glaze before tossing, adding more Dijon for tang or honey for sweetness, tailored to your taste preference.
(Personal anecdote)
The first time I made this, my friend swore she hated Brussels sprouts. She ate three servings! It was a total vegetable victory and now it’s a holiday staple.
Conclusion for Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash with turkey beef bacon, cranberries, and feta:
In short, this Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash with turkey beef bacon, cranberries, and feta is a game-changer. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the squash and Brussels sprouts, perfectly complemented by the savory turkey beef bacon, tart cranberries, and creamy feta. The honey glaze ties everything together in a symphony of flavors. It’s easy to make, customizable, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion, bringing a burst of flavor to your table.
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Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash with turkey bacon, cranberries, and feta
Delicious honey-glazed brussels sprouts and butternut squash with turkey bacon, cranberries, and feta recipe with detailed instructions and nutritional information.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Brussels sprouts, halved: 1 pound
- Butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed: 1 pound
- Turkey bacon, chopped: 4 slices
- Dried cranberries: 1/2 cup
- Feta cheese, crumbled: 1/4 cup
- Honey: 2 tablespoons
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Balsamic vinegar: 1 tablespoon
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss Brussels sprouts and butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
- Step 2: Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized, flipping halfway through.
- Step 3: While the vegetables are roasting, cook the chopped turkey bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon from skillet and set aside on a paper towel.
- Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together honey and balsamic vinegar.
- Step 5: Once the Brussels sprouts and butternut squash are done roasting, transfer them to a large bowl. Add the cooked turkey bacon, dried cranberries, and honey-balsamic glaze. Toss gently to combine.
- Step 6: Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese before serving.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, or in the microwave, to prevent the feta from melting too much.
- This dish is delicious served warm as a side, or chilled as a flavorful salad component.
- For extra flavor, roast the butternut squash and Brussels sprouts with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
FAQs:
Can I make Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can roast the butternut squash and Brussels sprouts a day or two in advance. Just store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat them in a skillet or the oven, then add the turkey beef bacon, cranberries, and feta. Finally, drizzle with the honey glaze just before serving to maintain its delicious shine and prevent sogginess. Preparing ahead makes this dish a breeze for busy weeknights or holiday gatherings!
What are good substitutions for turkey beef bacon in this Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash recipe?
If turkey beef bacon isn’t your thing, no problem! You can easily substitute with chopped chicken sausage or even crispy chicken pieces. For a vegetarian option, consider using toasted walnuts or pecans for a similar smoky crunch. Another great alternative is sautéed mushrooms with a dash of smoked paprika to mimic that savory flavor. The key is to add a textural element that complements the sweetness of the honey glaze and the tanginess of the cranberries and feta. Get creative and find what you love!
What’s the best way to store leftover Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash with honey glaze?
Storing leftovers is a cinch! Place the cooled Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash in an airtight container and refrigerate them promptly. They’ll keep well for up to three days. When reheating, a quick toss in a skillet with a little olive oil will help restore their crispness. Alternatively, you can microwave them, but be mindful that they might soften slightly. Enjoy the deliciousness for lunch the next day or as a side with dinner.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the honey glaze to my taste?
Adjusting the honey glaze is super simple. If you prefer a less sweet flavor, reduce the amount of honey slightly and add a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice to balance it out. For those who like it sweeter, add a touch more honey or maple syrup. Taste as you go and adjust until it hits your perfect sweet spot. A pinch of red pepper flakes can also add a surprising and delightful kick to complement the sweetness. Experiment and make it your own!





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