If you’re like me and a fan of sweet and savory delights, these Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts are about to become your new favorite side dish. Imagine the crispy, salty goodness of bacon mingling with tender Brussels sprouts, all brought together by a luscious maple glaze that leaves your taste buds dancing. This simple yet impressive recipe not only elevates any dinner table but is also perfect for holiday gatherings, making you the star of the show with minimal effort. Plus, it’s gluten-free to cater to a variety of dietary needs. So, are you ready to whip up a side that will have everyone asking for seconds? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Why Are Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts Irresistible?
Sweet and Savory Harmony: The combination of crispy bacon and tender Brussels sprouts coated in a rich maple glaze creates an unforgettable flavor explosion that pairs perfectly with any meal.
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cooking time, you’ll have this stunning dish ready in under 30 minutes—ideal for busy weeknights or festive gatherings.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a holiday dinner or a casual family meal, these Brussels sprouts are sure to be the star of the table, leaving guests raving about your culinary skills.
Gluten-Free Option: Designed for everyone, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it inclusive for various dietary needs without sacrificing taste.
Make Ahead Convenience: You can easily blanch the Brussels sprouts a day in advance, making mealtime even simpler. Just sauté and glaze when you’re ready!
These delightful Brussels sprouts are not just easy to make but also a versatile dish that can accompany various proteins. If you want to explore more creative side options, don’t forget to check out our article on elevating holiday dishes.
Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts Ingredients
For the Brussels Sprouts
• Brussels Sprouts – These are the star of the dish; choose bright green, uniform-sized ones for even cooking.
• Kosher Salt – A must for enhancing the natural flavors of these veggies while boiling.
For the Bacon Glaze
• Bacon – Crispy and salty, this is what brings depth; feel free to swap it with turkey bacon for a lighter option.
• Ground Mustard – This tangy ingredient cuts through the sweetness of the maple, balancing the flavors perfectly.
• Ground Pepper – Add a dash to taste, giving the dish a little kick.
For the Maple Mixture
• Maple Syrup – This is the key to the sweet glaze; it pairs beautifully with the savory elements.
• Bourbon (or Apple Cider Vinegar) – Used for deglazing, it adds depth; substitute with non-alcoholic vinegar if desired.
For the Crunch
• Pecans – These provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavor; swap for walnuts or almonds if you prefer.
With these simple yet flavorful ingredients, your Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts will impress everyone at the table!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Step 1: Blanch Brussels Sprouts
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the Brussels sprouts and let them cook for 4-5 minutes until they are just tender but still bright green. Once cooked, drain them and immediately transfer them to an ice bath to halt the cooking process. This step ensures they maintain their vibrant color and a slight crunch.
Step 2: Cook Bacon
In a large skillet, over medium heat, add chopped bacon and cook for about 7-8 minutes until it becomes crispy and golden brown. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning, stirring occasionally for even cooking. Once crispy, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon, allowing the excess fat to drain on paper towels while leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
Step 3: Sauté Sprouts
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the blanched Brussels sprouts along with chopped pecans to the remaining bacon fat in the skillet. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until the Brussels sprouts turn crispy and caramelized, stirring frequently to achieve an even browning and enhancing their nutty flavor.
Step 4: Season
Sprinkle the ground mustard over the Brussels sprouts and pecans in the skillet. Stir constantly for 1 minute to coat the vegetables with the mustard, allowing the warm mixture to bring out its tangy flavor, which will harmonize beautifully with the sweet maple glaze.
Step 5: Deglaze
Pour in the bourbon (or apple cider vinegar), using a wooden spoon to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This should take about 2-3 minutes; you’ll notice the liquid reduces and absorbs the flavors, creating a rich and savory base for your stovetop maple bacon Brussels sprouts.
Step 6: Combine
Return the crispy bacon to the skillet, then drizzle in the maple syrup, tossing everything together until well-combined. Allow it to cook for 1 additional minute to thicken slightly, which creates a luscious glaze that infuses the Brussels sprouts and bacon with sweetness and depth.
Step 7: Serve
Finally, taste and adjust the seasoning with ground pepper or additional salt if needed. Serve your Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts immediately while they are hot, delighting in the beautiful contrast of flavors and textures that will be a hit at any dinner table.
Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts Variations
Feel free to explore these tantalizing variations and make this delightful recipe your own, igniting your creativity in the kitchen!
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Vegetarian Substitute: Swap out bacon for a plant-based alternative, like smoked tempeh or coconut bacon, for a similar smoky flavor.
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Nutty Options: Choose from a variety of nuts! Almonds, walnuts, or even sunflower seeds can add a delightful crunch and new flavor profile.
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Cheesy Addition: For an indulgent twist, sprinkle some crumbled feta or grated parmesan over the Brussels sprouts at the end for a rich, creamy taste.
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Spicy Kick: If you’re craving some heat, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while sautéing for a spicy surprise.
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Herbed Delight: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate the dish; add them in right before serving for a fragrant finish.
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Bourbon Twist: Instead of bourbon, try using dark rum which will lend a unique depth and a hint of sweetness to the glaze.
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Maple Variations: Experiment with flavored maple syrup, such as bourbon barrel-aged syrup, to add another dimension to your glaze.
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Cranberry Boost: Toss in some dried cranberries or fresh pomegranate seeds before serving for a pop of color and a burst of tartness that pairs wonderfully with sweet maple.
For more scrumptious ideas, consider looking into our piece on creative holiday sides. Enjoy exploring and customizing this delightful dish!
Expert Tips for Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
• Uniform Size: Ensure Brussels sprouts are of similar size for even cooking; this prevents some being overcooked while others remain underdone.
• Bacon Preparation: Use kitchen shears for quick and easy bacon cutting; it’s faster than a knife and avoids slippery pieces.
• Blanch Ahead: Blanch the Brussels sprouts one day in advance; this allows for quick finishing and minimizes dinner prep time.
• Flavor Balancing: If using the bourbon, taste your mixture after adding; adjust sweetness or salt to achieve a balanced flavor profile in your stovetop dish.
• Versatile Crunch: Experiment with different nuts; walnuts or almonds offer unique textures and flavors, enhancing your Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts.
How to Store and Freeze Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Reheat gently on the stovetop to regain crispy texture.
Freezer: While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the unglazed Brussels sprouts for up to 1 month. Blanch them beforehand and let cool before placing in a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy your frozen sprouts, thaw them overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of maple syrup and a little bacon for best results.
Make-Ahead Tips: Consider blanching the Brussels sprouts a day in advance and storing them in a sealed container. This way, your Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts can be finished quickly when you’re ready to serve!
What to Serve with Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
These delightful sprouts will elevate any meal, bringing bright flavors and impressive crunch to your table.
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Roasted Chicken: Juicy, herb-infused roasted chicken pairs perfectly, providing a savory contrast to the sweet maple glaze. It’s like a cozy hug on a plate.
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Grilled Pork Chops: The smoky, savory notes of grilled pork chops complement the sweetness of the Brussels sprouts, creating a delicious interplay of flavors.
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Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf is ideal for soaking up any leftover maple-bacon glaze, adding a delightful chew and heartiness to your meal.
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Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes balance the crispy textures of the sprouts, ensuring every bite is rich and satisfying when enjoyed together.
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Cranberry Sauce: A touch of tangy cranberry sauce enhances the holiday spirit, cutting through the savory and sweet notes, and adding a pop of color.
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White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay brings out the dish’s sweet elements, making each sip refreshing and harmonious with the meal.
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Apple Crisp: Finish your feast on a sweet note with warm apple crisp; its cinnamon-spiced sweetness will echo the maple glaze and leave a comforting memory on the palate.
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Side Salad: A fresh green salad with citrus dressing provides a light crunch and acidity, balancing the rich flavors of the sprouts and serving as a bright palate cleanser.
Make Ahead Options
These Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious side with minimal fuss during busy weeknights. You can blanch the Brussels sprouts up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cook them in salted water for 4-5 minutes, drain, and transfer to an ice bath before refrigerating. When you’re ready to serve, sauté the blanched sprouts with pecans in the bacon fat as instructed. The key tip to maintain their vibrant color and texture is to ensure they are cooled quickly; this way, they remain just as delicious when you finish cooking! Enjoy perfect Brussels sprouts with ease while impressing your family or guests!
Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts Recipe FAQs
What type of Brussels sprouts should I use?
Absolutely! Choose bright green Brussels sprouts that are uniform in size for even cooking. Look for sprouts that are firm with no dark spots; this ensures they will be tender and flavorful in your dish.
How should I store leftovers?
For sure! Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, gently reheat them on the stovetop to regain that crispy texture, so you don’t lose any of that delightful flavor.
Can I freeze the Brussels sprouts?
Yes, you can! While it’s best to enjoy them fresh, you can freeze the unglazed Brussels sprouts for up to 1 month. First, blanch them for 4-5 minutes, cool quickly in an ice bath, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a skillet with a bit of bacon fat or maple syrup to breathe life back into the dish.
What should I do if my Brussels sprouts turn mushy?
Don’t worry; it happens! To avoid mushy sprouts next time, ensure they’re not overcooked during blanching; they should only be tender yet still vibrant in color. If they do become mushy, a quick sauté in a hot skillet can help crisp them up a bit.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Very much so! This Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a fantastic choice for those with gluten sensitivities. Just be sure to double-check any substitute products (like spices or vinegar) to ensure they are also gluten-free.
Any tips for enhancing flavor or texture?
Absolutely! Feel free to explore different nuts like walnuts or almonds for an added crunch, and consider adding crumbled feta or parmesan for a rich, creamy touch. Balancing flavors is key, so taste your mixture as you go and adjust sweetness or seasoning as needed to create the perfect dish.
Savory Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts for Your Table
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the Brussels sprouts and let them cook for 4-5 minutes until they are just tender but still bright green. Drain them and immediately transfer to an ice bath to halt the cooking process.
- In a large skillet, over medium heat, add chopped bacon and cook for about 7-8 minutes until crispy and golden brown. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon, letting excess fat drain on paper towels while leaving rendered fat in the skillet.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add blanched Brussels sprouts and chopped pecans to the bacon fat in the skillet. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until crispy and caramelized, stirring frequently.
- Sprinkle ground mustard over the Brussels sprouts and pecans, stirring for 1 minute to coat the vegetables with mustard.
- Pour in the bourbon (or apple cider vinegar) and scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This should take about 2-3 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce.
- Return the crispy bacon to the skillet, then drizzle in the maple syrup, tossing everything together until well-combined. Cook for 1 additional minute to thicken slightly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with ground pepper or additional salt if needed. Serve immediately while hot.
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