These Maple Balsamic Brussels Sprouts with Bacon are a tasty mix of sweet and savory. The crispy bacon pairs perfectly with the caramelized sprouts, giving a delightful crunch!
Honestly, who can resist bacon? Adding it to Brussels sprouts makes them irresistible, even for the picky eaters. I love serving these as a side dish during family dinners—they always disappear fast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brussels Sprouts: Fresh Brussels sprouts are best here, but if they’re not available, frozen ones can work in a pinch. Just adjust cooking time. Trim and halve them for a nice caramelization!
Bacon: Bacon adds a wonderful crunch and flavor. If you’re looking for alternatives, turkey bacon or even pancetta can do the trick. You can also skip it for a vegetarian version and add nuts for crunch instead.
Balsamic Vinegar: The tangy sweetness of balsamic vinegar is key. You can use apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar as substitutes, but keep in mind that they will change the flavor profile a bit.
Maple Syrup: If you don’t have maple syrup, honey or agave syrup can be used instead. Just note that they are sweeter, so you might want to use a bit less.
How Do I Get Brussels Sprouts Crispy and Tender?
The goal is to achieve a lovely balance between crispy and tender Brussels sprouts. Start by roasting them cut-side down in a hot pan—this enhances the caramelization. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat your skillet first and let the bacon fat become hot before adding the sprouts.
- Roast at a high temperature for about 20 minutes, and don’t forget to stir them halfway. This helps with even cooking.
- Look for a golden brown color on the cut sides for that perfect crispy texture!
Finishing them with the glaze allows the flavors to meld beautifully without losing that crunchy bite. Enjoy your cooking journey!
Maple Balsamic Brussels Sprouts With Bacon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 6 slices bacon, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme sprigs (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 30 minutes to cook, so plan for a total of around 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and delightful side that you can whip up in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will help the Brussels sprouts roast perfectly.
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a large oven-safe skillet or roasting pan, cook the bite-sized pieces of bacon over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the bacon is crispy and browned. When done, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the pan, leaving the drippings behind. Set the crispy bacon aside for later.
3. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:
Now, add the olive oil to the hot bacon fat. Place the halved Brussels sprouts cut side down in the skillet. Season them generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to suit your taste.
4. Roast in the Oven:
Roast the Brussels sprouts in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes. Make sure to stir them halfway through to ensure even roasting. They should be tender and caramelized with some edges crispy when they’re done.
5. Add the Bacon:
Take the skillet out of the oven and sprinkle the cooked bacon pieces back into the pan with the Brussels sprouts.
6. Mix in the Glaze:
Drizzle the balsamic vinegar and maple syrup over the Brussels sprouts and bacon, gently tossing everything to coat it evenly. This will add a delightful sweet and tangy flavor!
7. Final Roasting:
Return the skillet to the oven for an additional 5 minutes. This will help the glaze thicken slightly and fully incorporate the flavors.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, take the skillet out of the oven. If you’d like, garnish your dish with fresh thyme sprigs for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy this delicious combination of crispy bacon, sweet maple, and tangy balsamic with your meal!
Can I Use Frozen Brussels Sprouts in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts! Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking, and pat them dry to remove any excess moisture. This will help them caramelize better in the oven.
What Can I Substitute for Bacon?
If you’re looking for a meat-free alternative, consider using tempeh or smoked paprika for a savory flavor. For a crunchy texture, you can add toasted nuts like walnuts or pecans instead!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. You may also want to add a drizzle of balsamic vinegar to freshen up the flavors!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Brussels sprouts and bacon ahead of time and toss them with the glaze just before serving. Keep them in the fridge for up to a day, then reheat before adding the final glaze and cooking in the oven.