It was a chilly evening when I first discovered the joy of Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts, a dish that perfectly marries the sweetness of maple syrup with the crispy indulgence of smoky bacon. As I sautéed the blanched sprouts, the savory aroma filled my kitchen, drawing family members like moths to a flame. This recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights or festive gatherings, requiring just 30 minutes from start to finish—perfect for those who crave homemade goodness without the fuss. Plus, these flavorful Brussels sprouts are incredibly versatile, allowing for easy substitutions to accommodate dietary needs. Imagine serving up this stunning side dish that not only elevates your meal but also brightens the table with its caramelized allure! Ready to learn how to whip up this delightful treat? Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Irresistible Flavor Combination: The blend of sweet maple and savory bacon creates a culinary masterpiece that tantalizes the taste buds.
Quick & Easy: In just 30 minutes, you can impress your guests and family alike with minimal prep work—perfect for busy weeknights!
Crowd-Pleasing Side: These Brussels sprouts add a delicious twist to any meal and are sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Health-Conscious Choice: Gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly with simple substitutions, they fit a variety of dietary needs.
Versatile Pairing: Enjoy these alongside roasted meats or as part of a colorful holiday spread—adaptable to any occasion! For more exciting side ideas, try these Cucumber Salad Bacon or explore the delightful flavors of Chicken Bacon Ranch.
Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts Ingredients
For the Brussels Sprouts
• Brussels sprouts – Ensure they’re uniform in size for even cooking.
• Kosher salt – Enhances flavor during the blanching process; adjust to your taste.
For the Flavor Base
• Bacon – Adds savory richness and crispy texture; cut using kitchen shears for convenience.
• Pecans – Provide delightful crunch and nuttiness; can be swapped with walnuts if desired.
• Ground mustard – Introduces a tangy depth that complements the sweetness beautifully.
• Bourbon – Infuses a complex sweetness; use apple cider vinegar for a non-alcoholic option.
• Maple syrup – The star flavor, giving that sweet glaze; opt for real maple syrup for the best results.
• Ground pepper – Adds seasoning and warmth; adjust quantity according to your palate.
Transforming the simple Brussels sprouts into a delectable holiday side dish is just a step away with these ingredients!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Step 1: Blanch Brussels Sprouts
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the Brussels sprouts and cook for 4-5 minutes until they are bright green and just tender when pierced with a fork. Carefully drain the sprouts in a colander and immediately plunge them into an ice bath to stop the cooking process and retain their vibrant color.
Step 2: Cook Bacon
In a large skillet, add diced bacon and heat over medium. Sauté the bacon for about 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it achieves a deep golden crispness. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the skillet using a slotted spoon and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess grease, keeping the flavorful drippings in the pan.
Step 3: Sauté Sprouts
Increase the heat on the skillet to medium-high and add the blanched Brussels sprouts along with the pecans. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sprouts are golden brown and crisp on the outside. The goal is to achieve a delightful crunch while allowing the inner layers to remain tender and flavorful.
Step 4: Add Flavor
Sprinkle ground mustard over the sautéed Brussels sprouts and pecans. Then, carefully pour in the bourbon (or apple cider vinegar) to deglaze the pan, stirring to lift those tasty browned bits from the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce slightly and infuse the sprouts with a rich, tangy flavor.
Step 5: Combine
Return the crispy bacon to the skillet, followed by a generous drizzle of maple syrup. Toss everything together gently, ensuring the sprouts and bacon are well coated in the sweet glaze. Continue to cook for about one more minute so the sauce thickens slightly, clinging beautifully to every morsel before serving immediately.
Make Ahead Options
These Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts are a fantastic choice for meal prep, helping you save valuable time during busy weeks or gatherings! You can blanch the Brussels sprouts up to 24 hours in advance; simply cook them as directed, cool in an ice bath, and refrigerate in an airtight container. The bacon can also be cooked ahead of time and stored separately, keeping its crispiness. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sprouts in a skillet for a few minutes while adding the pecans and seasoning. Finally, finish the dish by incorporating the cooked bacon and maple syrup, ensuring they’re just as delicious as when freshly made!
Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts: Customization Ideas
Feel free to make these delicious Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts your own with a few fun swaps and twists!
- Bourbon-Free: Substitute bourbon with apple cider vinegar for a tangy kick that still packs flavor. It’s a fantastic choice for non-drinkers.
- Nutty Options: Swap pecans for walnuts or hazelnuts to mix up the crunch factor and introduce new flavor notes. Whatever you choose, make sure to toast the nuts beforehand for extra depth.
- Sweetness Boost: For an extra burst of sweetness, sprinkle with dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds right after cooking. This adds a vibrant color contrast and a lovely fruity element.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: Omit bacon altogether and add smoky paprika or liquid smoke to keep that savory flavor alive while enjoying a vegetarian twist. A sprinkle of nutritional yeast can also enhance that umami taste.
- Spicy Kick: If you crave heat, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha during the final cooking stages. It’ll turn up the taste and surprise your guests!
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during the sauté for a fragrant touch that complements the sweet and savory flavors perfectly. A little goes a long way!
- Parmesan Finish: For a cheesy flair, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the sprouts just before serving. It melts slightly and adds a luxurious touch to your dish.
For more delightful side ideas, how about pairing these with a refreshing Cucumber Salad Bacon or the rich flavors found in Chicken Bacon Ranch? Enjoy getting creative in the kitchen!
Expert Tips for Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
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Uniform Blanching: Ensure Brussels sprouts are similar in size to achieve even blanching. Overly large or small pieces can result in mushiness or undercooking.
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Bacon Prep Simplified: Use kitchen shears to easily cut bacon into lardons instead of a knife, which makes for quicker prep and less mess.
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Make-Ahead Magic: Blanch the sprouts up to 24 hours in advance, cool them, and store in the fridge. Finish cooking right before serving for a fresh taste.
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Flavorful Substitutions: If bourbon isn’t your style, apple cider vinegar can add a tangy kick without alcohol, keeping the Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts lively and flavorful.
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Extra Crunch: For more texture, consider tossing in different nuts like walnuts or hazelnuts, or sprinkle with dried cranberries for a sweet twist!
What to Serve with Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Elevate your meals even further by pairing these sweet and savory delights with complementary dishes that showcase their flavors.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich and buttery texture of mashed potatoes provides a smooth contrast to the crispy Brussels sprouts and smoky bacon.
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Roasted Chicken: A simple herb-infused roasted chicken brings out the savory notes in the Brussels sprouts, creating a balanced and satisfying plate.
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Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with citrus dressing adds a bright, zesty element that perfectly offsets the hearty flavors of the dish.
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Apple Cider: The crisp, sweet taste of apple cider harmonizes beautifully, enhancing the maple notes and offering a delightful beverage option.
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Savory Herb Stuffing: The aromatic flavors of herb stuffing make a comforting side that pairs excellently with the complex sweetness of the maple bacon.
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Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread adds a satisfying crunch, perfect for soaking up any delicious maple glaze left on the plate.
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Walnut Pie: For dessert, indulge in a rich walnut pie; its nutty sweetness complements the Brussels sprouts’ layers of flavor seamlessly.
Craft a festive spread with these pairings, and watch as your table comes alive with memories of laughter and joy over good food!
How to Store and Freeze Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. They can be easily reheated in a skillet to regain their crispy texture.
Freezer: Freeze cooked Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a sealed bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: For the best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until warm and crisp. Avoid microwave reheating as it can make the Brussels sprouts soggy.
Make-Ahead Tip: Blanch the Brussels sprouts a day ahead and store them in the fridge. This way, you can sauté them quickly before serving, keeping the flavor fresh and vibrant!
Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe Brussels sprouts?
When choosing Brussels sprouts, look for firm, tightly packed, and bright green sprouts. Avoid any that have dark spots or yellowing leaves, which can indicate overripeness or spoilage.
What’s the best way to store leftover Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes to regain their crispiness, ensuring they don’t end up soggy.
Can I freeze Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts?
Absolutely! To freeze them, spread the cooked Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a sealed bag and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in a skillet.
Why are my Brussels sprouts mushy after cooking?
Mushy sprouts can result from uneven blanching. To avoid this, ensure all Brussels sprouts are similar in size before cooking. Additionally, cooking them too long can lead to a soft texture, so keep an eye on the blanching time.
Are Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts pet-safe?
While Brussels sprouts are non-toxic to pets, bacon and certain seasonings from the recipe should be avoided. Always consult with your veterinarian if you’re unsure about feeding your pet any human food.
What if I have a gluten allergy—can I still enjoy this recipe?
Yes! This Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that the bacon and any additional seasonings you use are gluten-free as well, and you can enjoy this delightful dish without worry.
Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts: Sweet, Savory, Simply Irresistible
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the Brussels sprouts and cook for 4-5 minutes until they are bright green and just tender when pierced with a fork.
- Carefully drain the sprouts in a colander and immediately plunge them into an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
- In a large skillet, add diced bacon and heat over medium. Sauté for about 7-8 minutes until it achieves a deep golden crispness.
- Remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a plate lined with paper towels, keeping the flavorful drippings in the pan.
- Increase the heat on the skillet to medium-high and add the blanched Brussels sprouts and pecans. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until golden brown and crisp.
- Sprinkle ground mustard over the sprouts and pecans. Pour in the bourbon (or apple cider vinegar) to deglaze the pan.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce slightly and infuse the sprouts with rich flavor.
- Return the crispy bacon to the skillet and drizzle with maple syrup. Toss together gently, coating everything in the sweet glaze.
- Continue to cook for about one more minute so the sauce thickens slightly before serving.
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