These Modern Thanksgiving sides transform humble Brussels sprouts into a show-stopping dish with crispy pancetta and a sweet-tangy maple balsamic glaze. They roast to perfection with caramelized edges while staying tender-crisp inside, creating the ideal balance of textures and flavors. This elegant yet approachable side dish brings contemporary flair to your holiday table without complicating your cooking process.

How to Make Modern Thanksgiving Sides with Roasted Brussels Sprouts

I discovered this preparation during my travels through New England, where maple syrup and balsamic vinegar create magic together. The combination of savory pancetta with the sweet-tangy glaze elevates Brussels sprouts from simple vegetable to memorable centerpiece. I now serve these alongside my perfect Thanksgiving turkey and grandma’s classic stuffing for a complete holiday experience. The aroma of roasting sprouts with maple and pancetta fills my kitchen with the essence of autumn celebration.

Why These Modern Thanksgiving Sides Shine

Elevated Flavor Profile: The maple-balsamic glaze and crispy pancetta create sophisticated sweet-savory balance.
Perfect Texture Contrast: Tender-crisp sprouts with caramelized edges and crunchy pancetta bits delight the palate.
Holiday Ready Elegance: Beautiful presentation that looks restaurant-worthy but remains home-cooked simple.
Adaptable Preparation: Easy to scale for large gatherings and complements all traditional Thanksgiving dishes.

What You’ll Need for Perfect Modern Thanksgiving Sides

Be sure to see the recipe card below for the full listing of ingredients, instructions, notes, and estimated nutritional information.

Brussels sprouts: Choose firm, bright green sprouts with tightly closed leaves for best texture.
Pancetta: Diced pancetta renders beautifully, but you can substitute thick-cut bacon if preferred.
Olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil helps achieve those perfect caramelized edges during roasting.
Balsamic vinegar: Aged balsamic provides deeper flavor, but any quality vinegar works wonderfully.
Maple syrup: Pure maple syrup creates authentic sweetness that complements the savory elements.
Dijon mustard: Adds subtle tang and helps emulsify the glaze for even coating.
Garlic powder: Provides consistent garlic flavor without risking burnt fresh garlic during roasting.
Black pepper: Freshly ground pepper adds warmth and slight spice to balance the sweetness.
Kosher salt: Larger flakes distribute seasoning more evenly than fine table salt.

Modern Thanksgiving Sides: Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pancetta and Maple-Balsamic Glaze

Elevate your holiday table with modern Thanksgiving sides featuring roasted Brussels sprouts with crispy pancetta and a sweet maple-balsamic glaze. Perfect for festive gatherings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 35

Total Time 55

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

oven
baking sheet
skillet
slotted spoon
mixing bowl
whisk
knife
cutting board
measuring spoons

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 pounds Brussels sprouts trimmed and halved
4 ounces pancetta diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

Maple-Balsamic Glaze

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easier cleanup. In a large skillet, cook the diced pancetta over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it becomes golden brown and crispy, which typically takes about 7 to 10 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the crispy pancetta to a plate lined with paper towels, reserving 1 tablespoon of the rendered pancetta fat in the skillet.
Prepare the Brussels sprouts by trimming any tough or discolored outer leaves. Halve each sprout lengthwise. If you have particularly large sprouts, you may quarter them to ensure they cook evenly.
In a small bowl, whisk together the 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. This mixture forms your flavorful maple-balsamic glaze.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts with the 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt. Toss well to ensure that all the sprouts are evenly coated with the oil and seasoning.
Arrange the seasoned Brussels sprouts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure they are not overcrowded, as this helps them roast rather than steam. Roast in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the sprouts are tender-crisp and show appealing caramelization and browning around the edges.
Transfer the roasted Brussels sprouts to a large serving bowl. Add the reserved crispy pancetta and pour the prepared maple-balsamic glaze over the sprouts. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients, ensuring the sprouts are well coated with the glaze and mixed with the crispy pancetta.

Notes

Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if desired. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Keyword Brussels sprouts, modern sides, Thanksgiving

Creative Ways to Customize These Sides

Vegetarian Adaptation: Omit pancetta and add toasted pecans or walnuts for crunch.
Extra Sweet Version: Increase maple syrup to two tablespoons for more pronounced sweetness.
Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes to the glaze for subtle heat that cuts richness.

My Pro Tips for Perfect Results Every Time

Even Sizing: Halve sprouts consistently so they cook at the same rate and achieve uniform browning.
Single Layer Roasting: Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure proper caramelization rather than steaming.
Glaze Timing: Add the glaze just before serving to maintain its vibrant flavor and sheen.
Pancetta Rendering: Cook pancetta until truly crispy as it softens when mixed with warm sprouts.

Cozy Serving of Modern Thanksgiving Sides with Roasted Brussels Sprouts

How to Store Your Modern Thanksgiving Sides

Store: Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days, though best enjoyed within 2 days.
Freeze: Freezing is not recommended as the texture of Brussels sprouts becomes mushy upon thawing.
Reheat: Spread on a baking sheet and warm at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to restore crispness.
Make-Ahead Tip: Prep sprouts and make glaze up to 2 days ahead, but roast just before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Brussels sprouts ahead of time for Thanksgiving?

You can trim and halve Brussels sprouts up to two days in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, I recommend roasting them just before serving to maintain their ideal texture and prevent sogginess. The glaze and pancetta can be prepared ahead and combined with hot sprouts at the last moment.

What can I substitute for pancetta?

Thick-cut bacon works beautifully as a pancetta substitute, providing similar salty richness and crispy texture. For vegetarian options, toasted walnuts or pecans add wonderful crunch and depth. You could also use diced ham or even crispy fried shallots for different but equally delicious results.

How do I prevent Brussels sprouts from becoming mushy?

Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 400°F and arrange sprouts in a single layer without overcrowding. Roast until tender-crisp with browned edges, typically 20-25 minutes. Avoid covering them during or after cooking, as steam makes them soft. Serve immediately after adding the glaze for best texture.

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

While fresh Brussels sprouts yield superior texture, thawed frozen sprouts can work in a pinch. Pat them thoroughly dry before roasting to encourage browning. Expect slightly softer results, but the flavors will still be delightful. I prefer fresh for holiday meals when presentation matters most.

More Thanksgiving Favorites You’ll Love

Why These Modern Thanksgiving Sides Become Instant Tradition

With their perfect balance of sweet maple glaze, savory pancetta, and caramelized Brussels sprouts, these modern Thanksgiving sides bring contemporary elegance to your holiday table. They offer that ideal combination of sophisticated flavors and approachable preparation that makes holiday cooking joyful. I hope they become a new tradition in your home, creating memories around wonderful food shared with loved ones.

Roasted Sprouts Pancetta