Name: Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts for a Irresistibly Sweet Side
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Brussels Sprouts (Fresh and vibrant, uniform in size for even cooking.); 6 ounces Bacon (Diced into ½" lardons.); 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (Adjust to taste.); 1 teaspoon Ground Mustard (For tanginess.); 1 teaspoon Ground Pepper (For seasoning.); 1/4 cup Maple Syrup (For sweetness.); 2 tablespoons Bourbon (Or substitute with apple cider vinegar.); 1/2 cup Pecans (Coarsely chopped.)

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Every time I take a whiff of sizzling bacon mingled with sweet maple syrup, I’m transported to cozy gatherings filled with laughter and delicious food. That’s the magic behind these Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts with Pecans—a vibrant side dish that not only dazzles your taste buds but also takes less than 30 minutes to prepare. Perfect for Thanksgiving or simply a weeknight dinner, this gluten-free delight transforms even the Brussels sprout skeptics into fans. The savory richness of bacon, paired with the sweet embrace of maple, creates an irresistible balance, while the pecans provide delightful crunch. Plus, it’s make-ahead friendly, alleviating some stress when you’re entertaining. Are you ready to impress your friends and family with this delightful dish? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why are Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts a Must-Try?

Flavor Explosion: This dish is a delicious fusion of sweet and savory that transforms Brussels sprouts from bland to brilliant.

Quick and Easy: You’ll love how fast this comes together; just 30 minutes from start to finish!

Versatile Delight: Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual weeknight dinner.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep your Brussels in advance to reduce hassle during busy meal times.

Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Even Brussels sprout skeptics will be converted after one bite of this scrumptious combo!

Enjoy these alongside any of your favorite main dishes, ensuring a delightful dining experience. For more great sides, check out our quick and easy recipes for weeknight inspiration!

Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts Ingredients

For the Brussels Sprouts
• Brussels Sprouts – The star of the dish; fresh and vibrant sprouts bring a pop of color and flavor. Ensure they’re uniform in size for even cooking.

For the Flavoring
• Bacon – Essential for adding savory richness; dice into ½” lardons for crispy bites.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances the flavor during blanching; you can add more to taste after cooking.
• Ground Mustard – Adds a subtle tang that deepens the flavor profile of your dish.
• Ground Pepper – A sprinkle for seasoning and a hint of heat.

For the Sweetness
• Maple Syrup – The sweet embrace that elevates the dish, creating a perfect balance with the savory bacon.
• Bourbon (or Apple Cider Vinegar) – Offers a rich note; bourbon is optional but adds depth. Substitute with 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar for a tangy twist.

For the Crunch
• Pecans – Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor; coarsely chop for best results.

These Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts ingredients come together to create a dish that’s not just quick and easy but packed with flavor and texture. Now, let’s get cooking!

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 boil over high heat. Add the Brussels sprouts and let them cook for 4-5 minutes until they become tender yet bright green. Once done, drain the sprouts and immediately transfer them to an ice bath to halt the cooking process. This will help retain their vibrant color and crunch, making your Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts visually appealing.

Step 2: Cook Bacon
In a spacious skillet, place diced bacon and heat over medium heat. Sauté the bacon for about 7-8 minutes or until it turns crispy and golden brown. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning, stirring occasionally. Once crispy, remove the bacon from the skillet and let it drain on paper towels to absorb excess grease, leaving the flavorful fat in the pan to enhance your dish.

Step 3: Sauté Brussels Sprouts
Increase the heat to medium-high in the same skillet and add the blanched Brussels sprouts along with the coarsely chopped pecans. Sauté them in the remaining bacon fat for about 4-5 minutes until they develop a delicious crisp on the outside. You’ll know they’re ready when they begin to brown slightly, giving your Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts an extra layer of texture and flavor.

Step 4: Add Flavoring
Stir in the ground mustard with the Brussels sprouts and pecans, allowing it to cook for about 1 minute to release its wonderful flavor. Next, pour in the bourbon (or apple cider vinegar) to deglaze the skillet. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the liquid is mostly absorbed, infusing your Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts with a rich, savory note.

Step 5: Combine
Return the crispy bacon to the skillet and pour in the maple syrup, tossing everything together to coat evenly. Allow the mixture to cook for an additional minute until the syrup thickens slightly and clings to the sprouts. Make sure to adjust the seasoning with ground pepper and more salt if desired, then serve your scrumptious Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with these delicious Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts—the possibilities are endless!

Nut Swap: Try walnuts instead of pecans for a richer, earthier crunch. Their robust flavor pairs beautifully with the sweetness of maple.
Bacon Alternative: Use turkey bacon for a lighter version that still keeps the savory flavor and delightful crispy texture.
Fruity Twist: Add dried cranberries or cherries for a burst of tartness, enhancing the overall complexity and color of the dish.
Vegan Delight: Go plant-based by swapping bacon for smoked tempeh and use maple syrup without the bourbon for a perfectly sweet and savory combo.
Heat It Up: Toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne if you enjoy a spicy kick; it creates a thrilling contrast with the sweetness.
Herb Infusion: Fresh thyme or rosemary can add vibrant herbal notes, making the dish even more aromatic and flavorful.
Citrus Zing: A splash of lemon juice or orange zest will brighten the dish, balancing the richness of the bacon and syrup beautifully.
Creamy Version: Stir in a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream just before serving for a creamy texture that complements the flavors perfectly.

Don’t hesitate to mix and match based on your pantry or taste preferences! For more inspiring sides, check out our quick and easy recipes that turn any meal into a celebration.

Make Ahead Options

These Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can blanch the Brussels sprouts up to 24 hours in advance and store them in a sealed container in the refrigerator to maintain their vibrant color and crunch. This step reduces prep time significantly on busy nights. Additionally, chop the pecans and dice the bacon ahead of time for even more convenience. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the prepared sprouts and pecans in the reserved bacon fat, stir in the ground mustard and bourbon (or vinegar), and combine with maple syrup until heated through. This way, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort, making mealtime stress-free!

What to Serve with Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts

Enhance your dining experience with perfectly paired dishes that complement the sweet and savory allure of these Brussels sprouts.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich, buttery texture balances the crispy, caramelized sprouts beautifully.
Herbed Grilled Chicken: The freshness of herbs on grilled chicken provides a lovely contrast to the deep, smoky flavors.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Their sweetness mirrors the maple while adding a tender crunch for delightful variety.
Quinoa Salad with Cranberries: This hearty salad introduces a refreshing element coupled with chewy sweetness, harmonizing well with the dish.
Apple Cider Mule: A refreshing cocktail that pairs zingy ginger with sweet apple flavors, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Pecan Pie: An indulgent dessert that echoes the nutty undertones from the Brussels sprouts, creating a delightful end to the meal.

These pairings ensure a delightful celebration of flavors, making your meal unforgettable!

Expert Tips for Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts

Uniform Size Matters: Ensure your Brussels sprouts are similar in size to promote even cooking, preventing some from becoming mushy while others remain undercooked.
Bacon Cutting Hack: Using kitchen shears to cut your bacon can save time and reduce mess, making the process smoother for your Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts.
Make-Ahead Magic: Blanch Brussels sprouts a day prior and store them in the fridge; this way, you just need to sauté and mix everything when you’re ready to serve.
Adjusting the Sweetness: Feel free to tweak the amount of maple syrup based on your preference; starting with less and adding more after cooking can help you find the perfect balance.
Texture Tips: For extra crunch, toast the pecans in the skillet for a minute before adding the Brussels sprouts; it elevates the nutty flavor and texture in your dish.
Substitution Savvy: If you’re short on bacon, turkey bacon is a great alternative that still delivers delicious flavor while being a lighter option for your Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts.

How to Store and Freeze Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts

Fridge: Store leftover Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to maintain their texture.

Freezer: You can freeze the dish for up to 2 months; however, it’s best to freeze the sprouts without the bacon and syrup to prevent mushiness. Cool completely, then place in a freezer-safe container.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of maple syrup for freshness.

Make-Ahead: Blanch Brussels sprouts a day in advance for easier prep. Store them in the fridge until you’re ready to sauté and combine for serving.

Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe Brussels sprouts?
Absolutely! When selecting Brussels sprouts, look for those that are firm, compact, and bright green. Avoid any that have yellowing leaves or dark spots all over, as these can indicate overripeness. The sprouts should feel heavy for their size—this is a good indication of freshness!

What is the best way to store leftovers?
Very good question! Leftover Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I recommend using a skillet over medium heat or a microwave to avoid a rubbery texture. Just cover them with a lid or a damp paper towel in the microwave to keep them moist.

Can I freeze Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts?
Sure! However, I suggest freezing the dish without the bacon and syrup to maintain the best texture. To freeze, cool the blanched Brussels sprouts completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw in the fridge overnight, then sauté with the bacon and syrup fresh for delightful results.

What if my bacon doesn’t get crispy?
If your bacon is turning out chewy instead of crispy, ensure you’re cooking it at a medium heat. Cooking on too high of heat can burn it, while low heat won’t render enough fat. I recommend using a non-stick skillet, as it helps evenly distribute heat. If you need to, cook the bacon in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Excellent point! This recipe is gluten-free, but if you’re allergic to nuts, you can substitute pecans with sunflower seeds for a similar crunch. If you’re making the dish for pets, remember that bacon isn’t suitable for dogs, so it’s best to set aside a portion of the Brussels sprouts before adding the bacon for a pet-friendly option.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! One simple way to prep ahead is to blanch the Brussels sprouts a day before, storing them in a sealed container in the fridge. This step makes the final cooking process quicker and allows you to throw together this Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts dish in no time when you’re ready to serve. Just sauté them when you’re ready to feast!