Crispy Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for a delicious way to add some veggies to your Thanksgiving dinner, you’ve landed in the right place! These Crispy Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts are not only mouthwatering but also incredibly easy to make. The combination of crispy bacon and the natural sweetness of maple syrup adds a delightful twist to the classic brussels sprouts, making them a perfect side dish for any occasion—from busy weeknights to festive family gatherings.

What I love most about this recipe is how it transforms simple ingredients into an irresistible treat. Once you try these brussels sprouts, they might just become the star of your holiday table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for those busy days when you still want something delicious.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Even those who claim they don’t like brussels sprouts will be coming back for seconds with this sweet and savory combo!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep the brussels sprouts in advance, saving time on the big day.
• Flavorful Experience: The blend of crispy bacon and maple syrup creates a mouthwatering flavor that will have everyone asking for your secret.
• Versatile Side: These brussels sprouts are great not only for Thanksgiving but also for weeknight dinners or any special occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients to whip up these Crispy Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts. You might already have some of these in your kitchen!

For the Brussels Sprouts

• 32 oz brussels sprouts
• 2 tbsp avocado oil
• 1 tsp salt

For the Bacon

• 6 strips of bacon – I like Jones Dairy Farm Cherrywood Smoked Bacon

For the Sweet Topping

• 1 tbsp pure maple syrup

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible, allowing you to customize it according to your taste or dietary needs. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch.
• Spice It Up: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes before serving if you enjoy a little heat.
• Go Vegan: Substitute bacon with vegan bacon or smoked tempeh for a plant-based twist.
• Experiment with Sweetness: Try using honey or agave syrup instead of maple syrup for a different sweet flavor.

How to Make Crispy Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step ensures that your brussels sprouts roast evenly while getting that lovely crispiness!

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Trim off the ends from the brussels sprouts and cut them in half. This helps them cook faster and allows more surface area for that delicious browning.

Step 3: Season Them Up

In a mixing bowl, toss the halved brussels sprouts with avocado oil and salt. This step is crucial because oil helps them roast beautifully while adding richness.

Step 4: Roast Away!

Arrange the seasoned brussels sprouts on your prepared baking sheet and pop them in the oven. Roast for about 35 minutes until they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Step 5: Cook Your Bacon

While those tasty greens are roasting, cook your strips of bacon on the stovetop until they’re nice and crispy. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist!

Step 6: Chop & Reserve

Once cooked, remove the bacon from the pan, chop it into pieces, and reserve any leftover fat in the pan. This fat will add incredible flavor when we sauté our brussels sprouts later.

Step 7: Strain It Out

Strain the bacon fat through a fine mesh strainer to remove any solids. This keeps things smooth and ensures a delectable finish.

Step 8: Heat Things Up

In that same pan, heat up your reserved bacon fat over medium-high heat. This step is important as it adds all that delicious flavor back into our dish!

Step 9: Sautéing Time!

Once hot, carefully add your roasted brussels sprouts into the pan with tongs and toss constantly. Cooking them here for about 3-4 minutes gives them an extra crispness that’s simply irresistible.

Step 10: Add Some Sweetness

Pour in the maple syrup along with those crispy bacon bits you chopped earlier. Toss everything together well so every sprout gets coated in that sweet goodness.

Step 11: Final Cook & Serve!

Cook everything together for one more minute before removing from heat. And just like that, you have made Crispy Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts! Serve warm and watch as they disappear from your table!

Pro Tips for Making Crispy Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts

There’s nothing quite like the crunch of a perfectly cooked brussels sprout, and with these tips, you’ll ensure your dish turns out irresistibly crispy and flavorful!

• Choose Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Selecting fresh, firm brussels sprouts will enhance both the flavor and texture. Look for bright green sprouts without any yellow or wilted leaves for the best results.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Spacing your brussels sprouts out on the baking sheet allows them to roast evenly and become crispy. If they’re too close together, they’ll steam instead of roast.
• Adjust Cooking Time as Needed: Keep an eye on your sprouts as they bake. Oven temperatures can vary, so check for doneness by piercing them with a fork—when they’re tender and caramelized, they’re ready!
• Use High-Quality Maple Syrup: Opt for pure maple syrup for the best flavor. It not only sweetens but also adds a deep, rich taste that beautifully complements the savory bacon.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add extra spices like garlic powder or black pepper before roasting. This adds layers of flavor that elevate your dish even more!

How to Serve Crispy Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts

These crispy maple bacon brussels sprouts are not just delicious; they’re also a feast for the eyes! Presenting them right can make all the difference at your dinner table.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Toasted Nuts: Adding some toasted pecans or walnuts gives a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the sprouts.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness complements the savory notes of the brussels sprouts while adding vibrant color to your plate.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of this dish.
• Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: For a creamy side that is still healthy, garlic mashed cauliflower provides a buttery texture without overpowering your main dish.
• Cranberry Sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce adds a burst of acidity that cuts through the richness of the bacon and maple syrup, creating a well-rounded meal.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in hand, you’ll be ready to impress your family and friends with a stunning Thanksgiving side dish that’s sure to be a hit! Enjoy every crispy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Crispy Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts are not only a delightful addition to your Thanksgiving table but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily store and enjoy them throughout the week, making it a great option for busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the brussels sprouts to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer them to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• For best results, freeze before tossing with maple syrup and bacon.
• Place cooled brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from the refrigerator, place in a preheated oven at 350F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• If reheating from frozen, bake at 375F for around 20-25 minutes or until heated thoroughly.
• For added crispiness, you can sauté them in a bit of olive oil over medium heat.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about preparing these delicious brussels sprouts!

Can I use other types of bacon for Crispy Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts?

Absolutely! While I recommend Cherrywood Smoked Bacon for its flavor, you can use turkey bacon or any other variety that suits your taste. Just ensure it’s cooked until crispy!

How do I make Crispy Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts vegan?

To create a vegan version, substitute bacon with plant-based bacon alternatives. You can also use olive oil instead of bacon fat while cooking the brussels sprouts.

What can I serve with Crispy Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts?

These brussels sprouts pair wonderfully with roasted meats, especially turkey or chicken. They also work well as part of a festive vegetarian spread!

Can I prepare Crispy Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the brussels sprouts and store them uncooked in the fridge. Then roast them fresh just before serving for that perfect crispy texture.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these Crispy Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts as much as I do! They bring together wonderful flavors and textures that will delight your family and friends at any gathering. Remember, good food is all about sharing joy, so gather around the table and savor every bite. Happy cooking!