These Maple Balsamic Brussels Sprouts with Bacon are a sweet and savory treat! Crispy bacon brings a tasty crunch, while the maple and balsamic glaze adds a lovely shine and flavor.
Trust me, the smell of these cooking will make your kitchen the place to be! I love serving them as a side dish—everyone always goes back for seconds. It’s hard to resist that sweet and smoky goodness! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brussels Sprouts: Fresh Brussels sprouts are essential for this recipe. If you can’t find them, frozen Brussels sprouts work too! Just be sure to thaw and dry them before cooking.
Bacon: I love using thick-cut bacon for added meaty flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, turkey bacon or pancetta are great substitutes!
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup adds wonderful sweetness. If you need a substitute, try honey or agave syrup, but adjust the amount as they may be sweeter.
Balsamic Vinegar: This ingredient gives a tangy kick! If you’re out, red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be used instead, but they’ll change the flavor slightly.
Thyme: Fresh thyme sprigs enhance the dish’s aroma. If you don’t have fresh thyme, dried thyme can work as well—just use about a third of the amount!
How Can I Ensure Perfectly Caramelized Brussels Sprouts?
Caramelization is key to bringing out the flavors in Brussels sprouts. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Use a large skillet to avoid overcrowding for even cooking.
- Begin cooking the sprouts cut side down in hot oil or bacon fat without stirring for the first few minutes. This helps them brown nicely.
- Don’t rush! If they’re not browned enough after 7 minutes, give them a few more minutes to develop that beautiful color!
- When flipping, use a spatula to ensure they stay intact for better caramelization.
Taking these steps will help you achieve that delightful crispy and caramelized texture that pairs perfectly with the maple-balsamic glaze!
Maple Balsamic Brussels Sprouts With Bacon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take you about 25 minutes to make. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing (washing, chopping, and measuring) and 15 minutes cooking. Perfect for a quick and tasty side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it becomes crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon pieces and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Keep that delicious bacon fat in the skillet for flavor.
2. Sauté the Brussels Sprouts:
If your skillet looks a bit dry from the bacon, you can add a little olive oil. Now, add the halved Brussels sprouts, placing them cut side down. Let them cook without stirring for about 5-7 minutes, until they are beautifully browned and caramelized.
3. Flip and Cook More:
Gently flip the Brussels sprouts and sauté them for another 4-5 minutes. You want them to be tender but still have a nice crunch to them.
4. Add Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about a minute until you can smell that delightful aroma!
5. Make the Maple Balsamic Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard if using. Mix until it’s all combined.
6. Coat the Sprouts:
Pour the maple balsamic mixture over the Brussels sprouts in the skillet. Give everything a good stir to coat the sprouts evenly in that luscious glaze. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to let the sauce thicken and stick to the sprouts.
7. Add the Bacon Back:
Fold the crispy bacon pieces back into the skillet. Season the whole dish with salt and pepper to your liking.
8. Serve & Enjoy:
Transfer the delicious Brussels sprouts to a serving bowl. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for a lovely touch. Serve warm and watch everyone enjoy this sweet and savory side dish!
These Maple Balsamic Brussels Sprouts with Bacon are sure to impress! Simple yet packed with flavor, they make a fantastic addition to any meal. Enjoy! 🥦🍴
Can I Use Frozen Brussels Sprouts Instead?
Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts! Be sure to thaw and drain them before cooking to avoid excess moisture. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as frozen sprouts can take a bit longer to caramelize.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep them moist if necessary.
What Can I Substitute for Bacon?
If you’re looking for a bacon alternative, try using turkey bacon or pancetta, which offer a similar flavor. For a vegetarian option, sautéed mushrooms or smoked tempeh can provide a nice savory touch!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the Brussels sprouts and cook the bacon in advance, but it’s best to combine everything shortly before serving. If you need to prepare ahead, reheat the Brussels sprouts gently on the stove, then add the bacon just before serving for the best texture and flavor.