Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts Recipe – Easy & Delicious

Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts combine the savory goodness of crispy bacon, the sweetness of maple syrup, and the earthy richness of Brussels sprouts. This easy-to-make dish transforms a simple vegetable into a flavorful, irresistible side that will have even the most skeptical Brussels sprouts eaters coming back for more. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast, these maple bacon Brussels sprouts are sure to impress.

Why Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts are a Must-Try

This Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts recipe stands out because it perfectly balances sweet, salty, and smoky flavors. The Brussels sprouts are tender on the inside with crispy edges, thanks to the method of blanching and sautéing. The addition of maple syrup and bacon elevates the dish, making it a crowd-pleasing favorite for any occasion. It’s quick, healthy, and full of flavor—making it the perfect choice for a family meal or special gathering.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts:

• Brussels Sprouts: Fresh and vibrant Brussels sprouts are essential for the best flavor and texture. They provide a slightly nutty taste and tender texture when cooked.
• Bacon: Adds a savory crunch and richness to the dish. Use thick-cut bacon for extra crispy bits.
• Pecans: These bring a nutty flavor and crunchy texture to complement the Brussels sprouts and bacon.

• Ground Mustard: Adds a subtle tang and mild heat, balancing the sweetness of the maple syrup.
• Bourbon: Used to deglaze the pan, bourbon gives the dish a smoky depth. If you prefer not to use alcohol, apple cider vinegar is a great substitute.
• Maple Syrup: This is the star ingredient, offering sweetness that beautifully contrasts with the salty bacon and earthy Brussels sprouts.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you prefer a different flavor profile, consider these substitutions:
• Bacon: You can use turkey bacon or pancetta for a lighter or slightly different flavor.
• Pecans: Walnuts or almonds can be swapped if you prefer a different nutty flavor.
• Bourbon: If you don’t use alcohol, opt for apple cider vinegar to add acidity without the bourbon’s smoky taste.
• Maple Syrup: While real maple syrup is recommended, a pure agave syrup can be used as a vegan alternative.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Blanch the Brussels Sprouts: Bring a large pot of water to a boil, adding 1 tablespoon of kosher salt. Add the Brussels sprouts and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until tender yet still bright green. Drain and transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Pat them dry with a kitchen towel.
2. Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy, about 7-8 minutes. Remove the bacon using a slotted spoon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
3. Sauté Brussels Sprouts and Pecans: Increase the skillet heat to medium-high and add the Brussels sprouts and chopped pecans to the bacon fat. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the Brussels sprouts have crispy edges.
4. Add Mustard: Sprinkle the ground mustard over the Brussels sprouts and pecans, stirring for 1-2 minutes.
5. Deglaze with Bourbon: Add the bourbon (or apple cider vinegar) to the pan and stir constantly until it has been absorbed, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Finish with Maple Syrup: Pour in the maple syrup and cook for another minute or until the syrup has slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Add the crispy bacon back into the pan and toss everything together. Serve immediately and enjoy the delicious, savory-sweet flavors!

Tips & Tricks

• Use Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Choose Brussels sprouts that are firm and bright green for the best texture and flavor. Avoid any that have yellowed or cracked leaves.
• Don’t Overcook: When blanching, make sure not to overcook the Brussels sprouts—4-5 minutes is the perfect time to keep them tender yet crisp.
• Crisp Bacon Properly: Ensure your bacon is crispy, as this will add texture to the dish. Don’t skip this step!
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to retain crispiness.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts pair wonderfully with a variety of dishes. For a complete meal, serve them alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or a hearty vegetarian dish like quinoa salad. These Brussels sprouts also make an excellent side for holiday dinners, like Thanksgiving or Christmas.

You can easily adjust the recipe for dietary preferences:
• Vegan: Omit the bacon and substitute with vegan bacon or additional nuts for the crunch.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so no adjustments are needed.

Why Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts Are a Showstopper

These Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts not only taste incredible, but they also bring beautiful color and texture to the table. The combination of crispy Brussels sprouts, savory bacon, crunchy pecans, and the sweetness of maple syrup creates a perfect balance of flavors that will keep your guests coming back for more. Whether you’re preparing them for a weeknight dinner or a festive occasion, this dish will always be a crowd favorite. Try this simple yet delicious recipe today and turn even the most skeptical Brussels sprouts eater into a fan!

Conclusion

Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts are a delightful fusion of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors that transform a humble vegetable into an extraordinary dish. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish for a weeknight dinner or as the star of your holiday table, these Brussels sprouts are sure to be a hit with family and friends. The crispy bacon, tender Brussels sprouts, and the richness of maple syrup come together in perfect harmony, offering a taste that everyone will love. Easy to make and full of flavor, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their vegetable game.

FAQ

More Relevant Recipes

• Maple Mustard Roasted Chicken: This recipe combines the sweet richness of maple syrup with tangy mustard, similar to the flavors in the Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts. Roasted chicken absorbs these flavors, making it a perfect match for a hearty, fall-inspired dinner.
• Apple Cider Chicken with Butternut Squash: This dish brings together the sweet and savory flavors of apple cider and roasted butternut squash, offering a warm, autumn-inspired combination of flavors. If you enjoy maple and savory pairings, this recipe will be a great addition to your table.
• Roasted Butternut Squash Salad: Roasted butternut squash pairs beautifully with a maple vinaigrette, bringing a balance of sweetness and earthiness, similar to the maple syrup in the Brussels sprouts recipe. This salad makes a perfect side dish for any fall or holiday meal.

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