These Maple Bacon Brussel Sprouts are a tasty treat! The crispy bacon and sweet maple syrup balance perfectly with the earthy sprouts, making every bite delicious.
Honestly, it’s hard to resist sneaking some while cooking! I like to serve them alongside dinner for a fun twist. They’ll make your taste buds sing! 🎶
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brussels Sprouts: Look for fresh Brussels sprouts that are bright green and firm. If you’re short on fresh ones, frozen Brussels sprouts work in a pinch, just adjust cooking time as needed.
Bacon: I recommend using a good quality bacon for the best flavor. If you want a lighter option, turkey bacon can substitute, but the taste will be less rich. Veggie bacon is another option for plant-based eaters.
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup truly enhances the dish’s flavor. If you’re out, you can use honey or agave syrup, though the flavor will differ slightly. However, maple syrup is hard to beat!
Olive Oil/Bacon Drippings: Use the fat left from cooking bacon for added flavor. Otherwise, olive oil works well too. You could also try coconut oil for a different taste.
Garlic: This is optional but adds great depth. If you’re not a garlic fan, feel free to skip it or reduce the amount.
How Do I Get My Brussels Sprouts Perfectly Crispy?
Crispy Brussels sprouts are all about the cooking technique. Start by cutting them in half to expose the flat side, which gets nicely caramelized when cooked. Here’s how to achieve that perfect crispiness:
- Heat the skillet until it’s at medium-high temperature before adding the sprouts. This sets them up for that lovely browning.
- Make sure to place each sprout cut side down in a single layer. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of crisping!
- Once they’re down, let them cook without stirring for at least 5-7 minutes. This is key to getting that golden, crispy surface.
These steps will yield Brussels sprouts that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Brussels Sprouts:
- 1 1/2 pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or bacon drippings
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 25-30 minutes in total. You’ll need around 10 minutes for prep work, which includes rinsing and cutting your Brussels sprouts, and about 15-20 minutes for cooking. Once you start, it all comes together quickly!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:
Begin by rinsing the Brussels sprouts under cool water. Once clean, trim off the stem ends and slice each sprout in half lengthwise. This will help them cook evenly and get crispy.
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook until the bacon is crispy and the fat has rendered out, about 5-7 minutes. After the bacon is done, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon pieces from the skillet and set them aside. Keep the bacon fat in the pan; it adds great flavor to the sprouts!
3. Sauté the Brussels Sprouts:
If you’re using olive oil instead of bacon drippings, add it to the skillet now and heat over medium-high. Place the halved Brussels sprouts cut side down in a single layer in the skillet. If needed, work in batches to avoid overcrowding, which helps them brown properly.
4. Caramelize and Cook:
Let the Brussels sprouts cook without stirring for about 5-7 minutes. You want the cut sides to be nicely browned and caramelized. After that, stir the sprouts and cook for an additional 5 minutes until they are tender but still have a bit of crunch.
5. Add Flavor:
If you’re using garlic, stir it in now and let it cook for another minute until fragrant. Then, drizzle the maple syrup over the Brussels sprouts, mixing well to ensure all sprouts are coated.
6. Combine Everything:
Return the crispy bacon pieces back to the pan, and give everything a good mix to combine all the flavors. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the Brussels sprouts to a serving bowl and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve them warm as a delicious side dish that balances smokiness, sweetness, and savory flavors.
Enjoy these Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts; they’re sure to impress your family and friends!
Can I Use Frozen Brussels Sprouts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts! Just make sure to thaw them first and pat them dry to remove excess moisture. This will help achieve that crispy texture you’re looking for.
How Can I Store Leftover Brussels Sprouts?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! To make it vegan, substitute the bacon with chopped mushrooms or tempeh for a similar umami flavor. Use maple syrup and olive oil as specified, and skip the garlic if desired!
What Can I Serve with Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts?
These Brussels sprouts make a fantastic side dish! They pair well with roasted meats, like chicken or pork, or even a hearty grain dish, like quinoa or farro, for a lighter meal!