These Maple Balsamic Brussels Sprouts with Bacon are a perfect mix of sweet and savory. The crispy bacon adds a delicious crunch, and the maple syrup makes the sprouts taste amazing!
Honestly, I can’t resist these little green gems. They’re a great side dish for any meal, and your friends will be asking for the recipe! Just toss them in a pan, and you’ve got magic! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brussels Sprouts: Fresh Brussels sprouts are key for this dish. If you can’t find them, try using broccoli florets or green beans for a similar texture, but they’ll change the overall flavor.
Bacon: I love the smoky flavor that bacon brings. If you want a healthier option, turkey bacon or pancetta is a great substitute. Even a plant-based bacon can work for non-meat eaters.
Balsamic Vinegar: Quality balsamic vinegar can elevate this dish. If you’re out, red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar mixed with a bit of sugar can do the trick!
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup gives that perfect sweetness. Honey or agave syrup can be used as alternatives, just note they change the flavor a little bit.
How Do You Get Crispy Brussels Sprouts?
Getting those Brussels sprouts crispy is all about the cooking technique. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a hot skillet to sear the sprouts cut side down. This step is crucial for a nice brown color.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Leaving space allows for better browning and crispiness.
- Give them time – resist the urge to stir too often. Let them sit for 5 minutes to develop that golden crust.
Following these tips will ensure your Brussels sprouts are crispy and delicious, making this dish even more enjoyable!
Maple Balsamic Brussels Sprouts With Bacon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (if needed)
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious side dish will take about 20-25 minutes to prepare and cook. There’s only a little bit of prep work at the beginning, and then it’s simply cooking in the skillet. Perfect for a quick yet tasty addition to your meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s warm, add in the chopped bacon. Cook the bacon for about 5-7 minutes until it gets nice and crispy. When it’s done, use a slotted spoon to move the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate. This will leave the bacon fat in the skillet, which adds great flavor to the Brussels sprouts!
2. Prepare the Sprouts:
If you find there isn’t enough bacon fat to cover the sprouts, feel free to add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the skillet. Next, place the halved Brussels sprouts cut side down in the skillet in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes. This allows them to get golden brown and crispy on the cut side.
3. Continue Cooking:
After the sprouts have browned, stir them gently and keep cooking for another 6-8 minutes. Keep stirring occasionally until they’re tender and nicely browned in different spots.
4. Mix the Sauce:
While the sprouts are cooking, take a small bowl and whisk together the balsamic vinegar and maple syrup until well combined. This combination will give a sweet and tangy glaze that pairs wonderfully with the Brussels sprouts!
5. Combine and Glaze:
Once the sprouts are cooked, pour the balsamic-maple mixture over them in the skillet. Give everything a good stir to coat the sprouts evenly, and allow it to cook for another 2-3 minutes. The sauce will thicken and glaze the sprouts perfectly.
6. Finish with Bacon:
Finally, return the crispy bacon to the skillet and toss everything together. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste. You want to ensure every bite is seasoned just right!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
These delightful Maple Balsamic Brussels Sprouts with Bacon are best served warm. Enjoy them as a side dish at dinner or even as part of a holiday feast. They’re full of flavor and sure to impress!
Enjoy your savory, sweet, and tangy Brussels sprouts with the irresistible crunch of bacon!
Can I Use Frozen Brussels Sprouts for This Recipe?
While fresh Brussels sprouts are preferred for their texture and flavor, you can use frozen ones if that’s what you have on hand. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
How Do I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and use olive oil instead of bacon fat. You can substitute the bacon with smoked tempeh or mushrooms for a hint of umami flavor. For an extra layer of tastiness, add a sprinkle of smoked paprika!
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can roast the Brussels sprouts and cook the bacon in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat in a skillet with the glaze mixture until warmed through.
What Can I Serve With Maple Balsamic Brussels Sprouts?
These Brussels sprouts make a perfect side for many dishes! They pair beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a hearty grain bowl. For a vegetarian option, serve them alongside quinoa or brown rice for a satisfying meal.
