As I stood in my kitchen, the toasty aroma of crispy bacon teased my senses, beckoning me to create something truly special. This is precisely the moment I decided to whip up my Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts. This dish marries tender Brussels sprouts with savory bacon and crunchy pecans, drizzled in a luscious maple syrup glaze that dances between sweet and savory. Not only do these sprouts come together in just 30 minutes, but they also offer an effortless prep that makes them an instant crowd-pleaser, perfect for your next family gathering or weeknight dinner. With stunning flavors and textures, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your home. Curious about how to elevate this classic side dish with just a few simple ingredients? Let’s dive in!
How Can You Elevate Brussels Sprouts?
Simplicity, with just one pan required, this recipe allows you to enjoy hassle-free cooking. Rich, Sweet-Savory Flavor is achieved through the perfect caramelization of maple syrup and bacon, ensuring every bite is a delight. Quick Assembly means you can have this side dish ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Versatile Serving Options allow it to beautifully complement roasted turkey or grilled meats, making it a perfect side for any occasion. Looking for more veggie inspiration? Check out these delicious ideas like Maple Roasted Sweet and German Potato Salad. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal ensures that even skeptics of Brussels sprouts will be asking for seconds!
Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts Ingredients
If you're ready to create a side dish that will steal the show, look no further!
For the Brussels Sprouts
- Brussels Sprouts – Use uniform-sized sprouts for even cooking and a tender crunch.
- Kosher Salt – Adjust to taste for perfectly enhanced flavors.
For the Bacon
- Bacon – Provides delightful savory richness; turkey bacon can be used for a lighter option.
For the Crunch
- Pecans – Their nuttiness adds crunch; feel free to substitute walnuts if desired.
For the Flavor
- Ground Mustard – Offers a tangy contrast to sweetness; Dijon mustard makes a great replacement.
- Bourbon – Optional for an added depth of flavor, but apple cider vinegar works as a non-alcoholic substitute.
- Maple Syrup – The star ingredient that brings sweet harmony; agave syrup or honey serves as a lovely alternative.
For the Finish
- Ground Pepper – Adds seasoning; adjust according to your personal taste.
Embrace the magic of these ingredients, and prepare to savor the wonderful balance of flavors in your Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Step 1: Blanch the Sprouts
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Trim and halve your Brussels sprouts, then carefully add them to the boiling water. Blanch for 4-5 minutes until they turn bright green and are tender, yet still firm. Once done, quickly drain them and plunge into an ice bath to stop the cooking process, ensuring they maintain their vibrant color.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet, place diced bacon over medium heat. Cook the bacon for about 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes crispy and golden brown. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon, allowing the grease to drain on a plate lined with paper towels. Keep the flavorful bacon fat in the skillet for added richness.
Step 3: Sauté Brussels Sprouts
Increase the heat to medium-high in the same skillet, now infused with bacon fat. Add the blanched Brussels sprouts and chopped pecans, sautéing for 4-5 minutes. Stir frequently until the sprouts are golden and crisp around the edges. The aroma will be enticing as the pecans toast and the sprouts gain color, creating a delightful base for your Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts.
Step 4: Season and Deglaze
Sprinkle ground mustard over the sautéed Brussels sprouts and pecans, mixing well to ensure each piece gets coated. Carefully add bourbon or apple cider vinegar to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom with a wooden spoon. Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes until the liquid reduces slightly, deepening the flavors of the dish.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Now, return the crispy bacon to the skillet and pour in the rich maple syrup, tossing everything together to coat thoroughly. Allow the mixture to cook for an additional minute, just until the syrup thickens slightly and clings to the sprouts. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed, then serve immediately for a mouthwatering side dish that highlights your Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts beautifully.
Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts Variations
Let your creativity shine by customizing this recipe to suit your flavor palate!
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Turkey Bacon: Swap traditional bacon for turkey bacon; it's a lighter alternative that maintains great flavor.
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Nut-Free: Remove the pecans for a nut-free dish. The Brussels sprouts will still shine without that added crunch.
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Balsamic Glaze: Instead of maple syrup, drizzle with balsamic reduction for a tangy flavor twist that pairs beautifully with the sprouts.
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Dried Fruit: Add a handful of dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds towards the end for a sweet and fruity burst that brightens the dish.
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Spicy Kick: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or sliced fresh jalapeños while sautéing for a bit of heat that perfectly complements the sweetness.
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Cauliflower Crumble: For a unique texture, mix in or substitute with cauliflower florets; this twist adds a heartiness while keeping it low-carb.
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Herb Infusion: Sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary before serving, inviting an aromatic freshness that elevates the entire dish.
For more exciting flavor combinations, don’t miss out on the lovely variations offered in our other recipes, like Maple Roasted Sweet or the delightful German Potato Salad. Each offers its own unique twist and inspiration for your next culinary adventure!
Expert Tips for Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
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Consistent Size: Ensure Brussels sprouts are cut into similar sizes for even cooking, avoiding any that are overly crunchy or mushy.
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Crispy Bacon: Let the bacon cool on paper towels to achieve maximum crispiness. Soft bacon won't hold up in texture when mixed with the sprouts.
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Prep Ahead: Blanch and store the Brussels sprouts in the fridge up to 24 hours ahead. This little trick speeds up dinner prep when making your Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts.
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Adjust Sweetness: Taste the maple syrup before adding; if it's too sweet, you can balance it with a splash more vinegar or mustard for a delightful contrast.
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Keep It Simple: Don’t overcrowd the skillet when sautéing. Work in batches if necessary to ensure everything gets that beautiful caramelization.
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Experiment with Nuts: Try sunflower seeds or pine nuts instead of pecans for a different crunch, making your dish unique yet still irresistible!
How to Store and Freeze Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to preserve texture and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the sautéed Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can last up to 2 months.
Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Warm them in a skillet with a little olive oil or bacon fat to regain crispiness.
Make-Ahead: You can blanch and prepare the Brussels sprouts in advance, storing them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before finishing the cooking process for your Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts.
Make Ahead Options
These Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can blanch and cool the Brussels sprouts up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their vibrant color. Additionally, you can cook the bacon and store it separately for up to 3 days for maximum freshness. To serve, simply heat the bacon fat in a skillet, add the blanched sprouts and pecans, and sauté as directed; then season, deglaze with bourbon or cider vinegar, and finish with maple syrup. This way, you’ll have a delicious and impressive side dish ready in just 15 minutes, saving precious time in your busy week!
What to Serve with Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Pair your vibrant, sweet-and-savory Brussels sprouts with delightful sides and drinks that will elevate your meal experience.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their velvety texture and buttery flavor complement the crispy bacon, making each bite a creamy delight.
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Roast Chicken: Simple and elegant, a juicy roast chicken provides a comforting contrast to the sweet glaze of the sprouts.
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Garlic Bread: Crispy, aromatic, and warm, garlic bread brings a crunchy texture that pairs beautifully with the tender Brussels sprouts.
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Fresh Spinach Salad: A bright salad with zesty vinaigrette adds freshness and cuts through the richness, balancing the overall meal.
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Honey-Glazed Carrots: These natural sugars and soft textures coexist perfectly with the maple flavor, creating a harmonious veggie medley.
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Cranberry Sauce: A splash of tartness brightens the rich sweetness of the sprouts, making this classic condiment the perfect companion.
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Sparkling Water with Lime: A refreshing drink option, the citrusy zest cleanses the palate and enhances the flavors of every dish on your table.
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Apple Crisp: For dessert, warm apple crisp enhances the sweet notes of your Brussels sprouts, merging savory and sweet in a delightful way.
Feel free to mix and match these suggestions to create a full, flavor-packed meal that will impress your family and friends!
Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my Brussels sprouts are ripe?
Absolutely! Look for Brussels sprouts that are firm and tightly closed, without any dark spots or yellowing leaves. Smaller sprouts tend to be sweeter and more tender, while larger ones can have a more bitter flavor. Choose uniform-sized sprouts for even cooking.
What’s the best way to store leftover Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts?
Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat in a skillet to retain their wonderful texture and flavor. Adding a splash of olive oil can help bring them back to life!
Can I freeze Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts?
Absolutely! To freeze, spread the sautéed Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, where they’ll last up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge, and reheat in a skillet for the best results.
What if my bacon doesn’t get crispy?
No worries! For crispier bacon, make sure it’s cut into smaller pieces for more surface area exposure when cooking. Additionally, ensure that your skillet is preheated and that you're using medium heat; cooking too slowly can lead to chewy bacon. If it is still soft after cooking, allow it to drain on paper towels, which helps absorb excess grease.
Are Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes! This recipe is inherently gluten-free when prepared with the ingredients listed, including gluten-free bacon options. Always double-check your bacon brand for any hidden gluten ingredients, and you’re good to go!
Can I make Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts ahead of time?
Definitely! I often find it helpful to blanch the Brussels sprouts a day in advance and store them in the fridge. This way, when it's time for dinner, you can just finish the cooking process in about 15 minutes for a quick, delicious side dish!
Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts with a Sweet Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Blanch the Brussels sprouts in a large pot of boiling salted water for 4-5 minutes until bright green and tender, then drain and plunge into an ice bath.
- Cook diced bacon in a large skillet over medium heat for 7-8 minutes until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and let drain on paper towels, retaining the bacon fat in the skillet.
- Sauté the blanched Brussels sprouts and chopped pecans in the bacon fat over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes until golden and crisp around the edges.
- Sprinkle ground mustard over the sprouts and pecans, deglaze with bourbon or apple cider vinegar, and cook for 2-3 minutes until the liquid reduces.
- Combine the crispy bacon with the sautéed mixture, add maple syrup, and cook for an additional minute until thickened. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
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