Tired of bland veggies at dinner? Elevate your meal with Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts, a crispy, caramelized dish that brings the perfect balance of sweet and savory to the table. This recipe is guaranteed to win over even the pickiest eaters. Let’s dive into how you can make this mouth-watering side at home!
Why You’ll Love Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
This recipe offers a delicious twist on traditional Brussels sprouts, combining the smoky flavor of crispy bacon with the natural sweetness of maple syrup. The addition of caramelized onions and a touch of garlic elevates the dish into something truly irresistible.
Whether you’re preparing a holiday feast or simply want to amp up a weeknight dinner, Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts are the perfect side dish. They pair wonderfully with roast meats, but are also hearty enough to stand alone for a quick, satisfying bite.
Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a list of the simple yet flavorful ingredients you’ll need to make Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts:
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts (halved)
- 6 strips of bacon (thick-cut preferred)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 tbsp garlic paste
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup (use high-quality for best results)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, if needed)
Step-by-Step Recipe for Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
1. Cook the Bacon
Start by cooking your bacon over medium heat in a large skillet. You want it crispy but not burnt. As the fat renders, the bacon will start to become golden and crunchy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain, but don’t discard the bacon fat. This is key to infusing flavor into your Brussels sprouts.
2. Sauté the Brussels Sprouts
In the same skillet, with the bacon fat still hot, add your halved Brussels sprouts, cut side down. This will allow them to caramelize and get that beautiful golden-brown color. Let them cook undisturbed for about 5-7 minutes, or until they develop a crispy outer layer.
3. Add the Onions
Once the Brussels sprouts have a nice sear, toss in your diced onions. Sauté until they become soft and caramelized, about 3-4 minutes. The onions will pick up the flavors from the bacon fat, adding depth to the dish.
4. Incorporate the Garlic Paste
Next, stir in the garlic paste. Cook for an additional minute until the garlic becomes fragrant, making sure it doesn’t burn. The garlic will add a subtle kick that complements the sweetness of the maple syrup.
5. Sweeten with Maple Syrup
Now for the star ingredient—maple syrup. Drizzle it over the Brussels sprouts and onions, stirring well to coat everything evenly. The syrup will begin to caramelize, creating a glossy finish that clings to each sprout.
6. Add the Cooked Bacon
Crumble your cooked bacon back into the skillet. Stir everything together so the bacon bits are evenly distributed throughout the Brussels sprouts. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Cook Until Tender
Let the Brussels sprouts cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. The combination of the bacon fat and maple syrup will give the sprouts a crispy yet sticky texture, with every bite bursting with flavor.
Tips for the Best Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
- Use fresh Brussels sprouts for the best texture. Frozen ones tend to become mushy.
- Make sure to halve the sprouts so they caramelize properly when seared.
- Don’t rush the cooking process! Let the Brussels sprouts sit in the pan without stirring too often, so they can develop that delicious crispy edge.
- For added crunch, you can toss in some toasted pecans or walnuts before serving.
Variations to Try
Want to switch things up a bit? Here are some fun variations to keep the dish exciting:
- Spicy Maple Brussels Sprouts: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha when you add the maple syrup for a spicy-sweet combo.
- Brussels Sprouts with Turkey Bacon: If you prefer a lighter option, swap out the regular bacon for turkey bacon. Just remember, turkey bacon doesn’t have the same fat content, so you may need to add a bit of olive oil to get the sprouts crispy.
- Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Replace the maple syrup with a thick balsamic glaze for a tangy twist. The acidity will cut through the richness of the bacon beautifully.
What to Serve with Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
This dish works as a side for many main courses, but here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Roast Chicken: The sweet and salty flavor of the Brussels sprouts complements the savory richness of roast chicken.
- Grilled Steak: Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts add a touch of sweetness that balances out the bold flavors of a well-seasoned steak.
- Thanksgiving Turkey: This recipe is perfect for holiday feasts, adding a fresh take to the classic sides typically served at Thanksgiving.
Storage and Reheating
If you happen to have leftovers (though that’s unlikely!), you can store your Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat to restore the crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the sprouts soggy.
The Perfect Side for Any Occasion
Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts are the perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can be transformed into something extraordinary. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or just want a quick side for your weeknight meal, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
Now that you know how to make these delicious Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts, it’s your turn to try them out. This crowd-pleasing dish is sure to become a favorite, with its crispy bacon, tender sprouts, and irresistible maple glaze. So what are you waiting for? Let’s get cooking!
