Savor the delicious blend of savory and sweet with these Maple Bacon Brussel Sprouts, featuring tender Brussels sprouts roasted to perfection and caramelized with crispy bacon and a drizzle of maple syrup. This dish makes for an irresistible side that’s perfect for any meal! Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or enjoying a weeknight dinner, this recipe will surely impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The contrast of sweet maple syrup with crispy bacon enhances the natural taste of Brussels sprouts.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, anyone can master this dish in just 40 minutes.
- Versatile Side Dish: This recipe pairs well with various main courses, making it suitable for any occasion.
- Perfect for Any Season: Whether it’s a summer barbecue or winter holiday feast, Maple Bacon Brussel Sprouts are always a hit.
- Healthy Yet Indulgent: Enjoy the nutritional benefits of Brussels sprouts while savoring the rich flavors from bacon and maple syrup.
Tools and Preparation
Gathering the right tools will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare Maple Bacon Brussel Sprouts.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Skillet
- Baking sheet
- Whisk
- Paper towels
Importance of Each Tool
- Large mixing bowl: Essential for tossing Brussels sprouts with olive oil and seasonings evenly.
- Skillet: Ideal for cooking bacon to achieve the perfect crispiness while infusing flavor into the sprouts.
- Baking sheet: Provides ample space for roasting Brussels sprouts in a single layer for even cooking.
Ingredients
For the Maple Bacon Brussel Sprouts
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped pecans (optional)
How to Make Maple Bacon Brussel Sprouts
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
In a large mixing bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated.
Step 3: Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook until crispy. Remove bacon from skillet, leaving drippings behind. Set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
Step 4: Roast the Brussel Sprouts
In the same skillet with bacon drippings, add the Brussels sprouts. Spread them into a single layer. Roast in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized. Stir halfway through roasting.
Step 5: Add the Maple Mixture
In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using). Once Brussels sprouts are roasted, remove them from oven and drizzle maple mixture over them. Toss to combine.
Step 6: Finish with Bacon and Nuts
Stir in crispy bacon and optional chopped pecans if desired. Return to oven for an additional 5 minutes to meld flavors.
Step 7: Serve
Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy your delicious Maple Bacon Brussel Sprouts!
How to Serve Maple Bacon Brussel Sprouts
Serve your Maple Bacon Brussel Sprouts as a delightful addition to any meal. Their sweet and savory flavor profile makes them versatile, complementing a wide range of dishes.
Pair with Grilled Meats
- Steak: The rich flavor of grilled steak balances well with the sweetness of the sprouts.
- Chicken: Roasted or grilled chicken offers a mild taste that pairs nicely with the crispy bacon and maple syrup.
Add to a Salad
- Mixed Greens: Toss them into a mixed greens salad for an exciting crunch and flavor boost.
- Quinoa Salad: Incorporate these sprouts into a quinoa salad for added texture and heartiness.
Serve as an Appetizer
- Skewers: Thread roasted Brussels sprouts onto skewers with bacon for easy finger food.
- Dips: Pair them with creamy dips like ranch or blue cheese for an appetizing starter.
Elevate Your Brunch
- Egg Dishes: Serve them alongside scrambled eggs or an omelet for a hearty brunch option.
- Breakfast Bowls: Add them to breakfast bowls with grains, eggs, and avocado for a nutritious start to your day.
How to Perfect Maple Bacon Brussel Sprouts
To achieve perfect Maple Bacon Brussel Sprouts, follow these tips that enhance their flavor and texture.
- seasoning: Make sure to season your Brussels sprouts generously with salt and pepper before roasting. This enhances their natural flavors.
- Crispy bacon: Cook the bacon until it’s really crispy. This adds great texture and great flavor to the finished dish.
- Even roasting: Spread the sprouts in a single layer on the baking sheet. Crowding can lead to steaming rather than roasting, affecting texture.
- Maple timing: Drizzle the maple mixture over the sprouts only after they are roasted. This prevents burning and allows for better caramelization.
- Optional toppings: Consider adding toppings like chopped nuts or grated cheese after roasting for an extra crunch or richness.
- Taste test: Always taste your dish before serving. Adjust sweetness or seasoning as needed for personal preference.
Best Side Dishes for Maple Bacon Brussel Sprouts
These Brussel Sprouts make a wonderful side dish but can also be paired beautifully with other sides. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort that complements the savory flavors of the sprouts.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with maple bacon flavors.
- Creamed Spinach: A classic side that brings richness and balances out the crunchy Brussels sprouts.
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread offers a lovely contrast to the savory elements in this dish, making it ideal for holiday meals.
- Cranberry Sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce can add brightness and acidity that enhances the overall profile of your meal.
- Macaroni and Cheese: The creaminess of mac and cheese pairs wonderfully with crispy Brussels sprouts, creating a comforting combo.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Maple Bacon Brussel Sprouts can be simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.
- Overcrowding the Pan: When roasting, ensure there is space between the Brussels sprouts. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting, resulting in soggy sprouts.
- Ignoring Freshness: Always choose fresh Brussels sprouts. Stale sprouts can taste bitter and less flavorful. Look for bright green colors and firm textures.
- Skipping Bacon Drippings: The bacon drippings add incredible flavor. Don’t discard them; use them to roast the Brussels sprouts for that savory touch.
- Not Preheating the Oven: Failing to preheat your oven can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat to 400°F (200°C) for optimal roasting.
- Underestimating Maple Syrup: Don’t skimp on maple syrup. It’s essential for the sweet balance with bacon’s saltiness. Adjust the quantity based on your taste preference.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- item Store Maple Bacon Brussel Sprouts in an airtight container.
- item They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Maple Bacon Brussel Sprouts
- item You can freeze cooked Brussels sprouts for up to 2 months.
- item Use freezer-safe containers or bags to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating Maple Bacon Brussel Sprouts
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds at medium power until warm.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Maple Bacon Brussel Sprouts ahead of time?
You can prepare them ahead by cooking the Brussels sprouts and bacon separately. Combine them when you’re ready to serve for best results.
What are some variations of Maple Bacon Brussel Sprouts?
Try adding different nuts like walnuts or almonds, or spice it up with a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Are Maple Bacon Brussel Sprouts suitable for vegetarian diets?
This recipe includes bacon, but you can substitute it with plant-based bacon or omit it entirely for a vegetarian option.
How do I achieve crispy Brussels sprouts?
Make sure they are well spread out on the baking sheet and roast at high heat. Avoid covering them during cooking to maintain crispiness.
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Fresh is best, but if using frozen, thaw and pat dry before roasting to avoid excess moisture.
Final Thoughts
Maple Bacon Brussel Sprouts offer a delightful combination of flavors that many enjoy. This dish not only serves as an irresistible side but also complements various meals beautifully. Feel free to customize with your favorite nuts or spices to enhance its appeal further!
Maple Bacon Brussel Sprouts
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the perfect harmony of sweet and savory with these Maple Bacon Brussel Sprouts. Tender Brussels sprouts are roasted until caramelized and tossed with crispy bacon and a luscious drizzle of maple syrup, creating an irresistible side dish ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re entertaining guests at a holiday feast or looking to elevate a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. With minimal prep time and a straightforward cooking process, you can enjoy this delightful combination of flavors in just 40 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy. Remove bacon but keep drippings.
- In the same skillet, roast Brussels sprouts for 20-25 minutes until tender.
- Whisk together maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Drizzle over roasted sprouts and toss.
- Stir in crispy bacon and optional pecans; return to oven for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately ¾ cup (150g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
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