When I was looking for a way to elevate my weeknight dinners, I stumbled upon the combination of savory bacon and sweet maple syrup, paired with the earthy crunch of Brussels sprouts. It was a flavor explosion that took me by surprise! The beauty of these 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts lies in their effortless preparation and their ability to transform a simple vegetable into a star dish.
Picture this: the joyous sizzle of bacon fat in the skillet, mingling with the gently sautéed sprouts, all while a hint of bourbon adds depth. This dish is not only quick to whip up but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that banishes any remnants of sad, fast-food meals. Whether it’s a rainy Tuesday or a festive holiday gathering, these Brussels sprouts will be your go-to side with a personality of their own. So, grab your apron, and let’s turn everyday ingredients into something truly delightful!
30-Minute Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts recipe worth trying?
Delightfully quick: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor explosion: The savory bacon, caramelized maple syrup, and earthy Brussels sprouts create a taste sensation that lingers on the palate.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, these sprouts are sure to impress.
One pan wonder: The easy stovetop technique means less cleanup while delivering maximum flavor.
Versatile side: Pair it with grilled meats or serve as a hearty vegetarian main by adding beans.
Looking for more soothing side dish inspirations? Check out our collection of comforting vegetable recipes.
30-Minute Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts Ingredients
For the Brussels Sprouts
• 1½ lb Brussels sprouts – Trimmed and halved to ensure even cooking and great texture.
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt – Enhances the natural flavors of the Brussels sprouts while boiling.
For the Bacon and Pecans
• 4 strips bacon – Diced into ½” lardons for that crispy, savory bite that complements the sprouts beautifully.
• ½ cup pecans – Coarsely chopped to add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
For the Flavoring
• 1 teaspoon ground mustard – This adds a subtle kick that balances the sweetness of the maple syrup.
• 2 oz bourbon (or 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar) – Provides a rich depth of flavor; use bourbon for a smoky touch or vinegar for brightness.
• 3 tablespoons maple syrup – Sweetens the dish and caramelizes beautifully with the sprouts and bacon.
• ground pepper – To taste, for a little extra warmth and zing to the overall dish.
This 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts dish is not only delicious but also quick to make, proving that comfort food can be simple too!
How to Make 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
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Boil the Brussels Sprouts: Fill a large pot with enough water to fully submerge the Brussels sprouts, and place it over high heat. Bring to a boil and season generously with kosher salt. Add the sprouts and boil for 4-5 minutes until tender but still bright green. Drain and run under cold water to stop cooking, then dry on a kitchen towel.
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Sauté the Bacon: Place the diced bacon in a 12″ skillet over medium heat. Sauté until the fat renders and the bacon turns crisp and golden brown, about 7-8 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon, letting it drain on a paper towel.
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Cook the Brussels Sprouts and Pecans: Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the blanched Brussels sprouts and chopped pecans to the rendered bacon fat. Sauté, stirring frequently, until the sprouts become crisp and slightly caramelized, which should take about 4-5 minutes.
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Add the Mustard and Deglaze: Sprinkle the ground mustard over the sautéed sprouts and pecans, stirring constantly for 1 minute. Carefully pour in the bourbon (or cider vinegar) to deglaze the pan, stirring and scraping the bottom until all the browned bits are lifted and the liquid is absorbed, around 2-3 minutes.
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Combine with Bacon and Maple Syrup: Add the bacon back to the skillet and pour in the maple syrup. Toss everything together, cooking for another minute until the syrup slightly thickens to coat the sprouts beautifully. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, then serve immediately for the best flavor.
Optional: Drizzle with additional maple syrup before serving for extra sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can blanch the Brussels sprouts and sauté the bacon, then store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just ensure the sprouts are thoroughly cooled before refrigerating to prevent sogginess. When ready to serve, simply heat the bacon fat in a skillet, add the blanched Brussels sprouts and pecans, and finish with the mustard, bourbon, and maple syrup to bring all the flavors back together. Following these steps ensures that your dish tastes just as delicious as when freshly made, saving you time during busy weeknights!
Storage Tips for 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Room Temperature: Enjoy these Brussels sprouts fresh for optimal flavor; they should not sit out for more than 2 hours after cooking.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing it to maintain quality.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked Brussels sprouts for up to 2 months. Place them in a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent dry sprouts if necessary. This way, your 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts can be enjoyed again just as deliciously!
Expert Tips for 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
- Perfectly Blanched: Boil sprouts until tender yet bright green. Overcooking can lead to mushiness, so a quick 4-5 minutes is ideal.
- Crispy Bacon: Sauté bacon until crispy; the rendered fat adds flavor. Avoid undercooking, as chewy bacon won’t provide the desired crunch.
- Don’t Skip Deglazing: Deglazing with bourbon (or vinegar) lifts the tasty browned bits, enhancing flavor. Neglecting this step can make the dish taste flat.
- Maple Syrup Magic: Add maple syrup at the end for a glossy glaze—be careful not to burn it! This step brings the perfect sweetness to your Brussels sprouts.
- Adjust as Desired: Feel free to adjust seasonings to taste; start with the basics and add salt, pepper, or more mustard according to your preferences.
These tips will help you achieve the perfect 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts that everyone will love!
30-Minute Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize your Brussels sprouts dish to suit your taste!
- Vegan Option: Omit the bacon and replace with 1 tablespoon of olive oil or vegan butter for a buttery flavor.
- Nut-Free: Skip the pecans and add toasted sunflower seeds for a crunchy alternative without the allergens.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the sprouts for a delightful heat that complements the sweetness.
- Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during the last few minutes of cooking for a fragrant and flavorful twist.
- Gluten-Free: Use apple cider vinegar instead of bourbon to ensure the dish remains gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.
- Cheesy Finish: Sprinkling grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast just before serving can add a savory, cheesy layer to this dish.
- Cranberry Surprise: Stir in dried cranberries at the end for a pop of color and a sweet-tart contrast that enhances every bite.
- Citrus Zing: Drizzle fresh lemon or orange juice just before serving to brighten the flavors and add a refreshing touch.
Experiment with these variations, and let your culinary creativity shine!
What to Serve with 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts?
Looking to create a mouthwatering meal that elevates your Brussels sprouts?
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Grilled Chicken: The smoky flavor of grilled chicken contrasts beautifully with the sweet and savory notes of the sprouts. Plus, it adds protein for a well-rounded dish.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These velvety potatoes balance the crispy texture of the Brussels sprouts, making each bite a delightful mix of flavors.
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Citrusy Quinoa Salad: A refreshing collab with bright citrus flavors, this salad introduces a light and vibrant element that complements the rich maple and bacon essence.
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Stuffed Pork Chops: Juicy, savory pork chops are a hearty choice that pairs perfectly with the earthy crunch of the Brussels sprouts, providing a satisfyingly rich meal.
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Honey glazed Carrots: The natural sweetness of honey-glazed carrots creates a lovely harmony with the sweet maple syrup in the Brussels sprouts.
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Dry Rose Wine: This fruity and crisp wine enhances the flavor profile of the dish while maintaining a light and refreshing palate among the richness.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note with warm cookies. The chocolate’s richness is a comforting contrast to the savory elements of the dinner.
Embrace these pairings, and get ready for a truly memorable meal that brings joy to your table!
30-Minute Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best Brussels sprouts?
Choose Brussels sprouts that are firm, green, and compact. Avoid those with yellowing leaves or dark spots all over, as these can indicate overripeness. The sprouts should feel heavy for their size and have a fresh, earthy smell.
How should I store leftover Brussels sprouts?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Allow them to cool completely before sealing to retain the best flavor and texture.
Can I freeze cooked Brussels sprouts?
Yes, you can freeze your 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts! First, let them cool fully. Then, place the cooked sprouts in a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, reheat them in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to help them thaw and stay moist.
What if my Brussels sprouts turn mushy when cooking?
If your sprouts become mushy, it could be that they were boiled for too long. Aim for a tender but crisp texture by boiling for just 4-5 minutes until they are bright green. If you see any signs of mushiness, make a note to reduce the boiling time next time.
Are these Brussels sprouts suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes! All the ingredients in this 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts recipe are gluten-free. Just make sure to double-check your bacon and any maple syrup brand you use to ensure they haven’t been processed with gluten-containing ingredients.
Tasty 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Fill a large pot with enough water to fully submerge the Brussels sprouts. Bring to a boil, season with kosher salt, add sprouts and boil for 4-5 minutes until tender but still bright green. Drain and run under cold water, then dry on a kitchen towel.
- Place diced bacon in a 12" skillet over medium heat. Sauté until crisp and golden brown, about 7-8 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and drain on paper towel.
- Increase heat to medium-high. Add blanched Brussels sprouts and chopped pecans to bacon fat. Sauté, stirring frequently, until the sprouts are crisp and slightly caramelized, about 4-5 minutes.
- Sprinkle ground mustard over sprouts and pecans, stirring for 1 minute. Carefully pour in bourbon (or cider vinegar) to deglaze the pan, stirring and scraping the bottom until browned bits are lifted and liquid is absorbed, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add bacon back to skillet and pour in maple syrup. Toss to coat, cooking for another minute until syrup thickens. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, then serve immediately.