30-Minute Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts is a quick and tasty dish that combines the earthy flavor of Brussels sprouts with the savory goodness of bacon and the sweetness of maple syrup. This delightful recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a side dish for special occasions. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a flavorful treat that will have everyone coming back for more!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is simple yet full of flavor, making it a great option for anyone looking to add some variety to their meals. The combination of crispy bacon, tender Brussels sprouts, and the sweet touch of maple syrup creates a delicious balance that appeals to both kids and adults. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, which means less cleanup for you!
How to Make 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients:
- 1½ lb Brussels sprouts (trimmed and halved)
- 1 tbsp kosher salt (plus more to taste)
- 4 strips bacon (diced into 1/2" lardons)
- ½ cup pecans (coarsely chopped)
- 1 tsp ground mustard
- 2 oz bourbon (or 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar)
- 3 tbsp maple syrup
- Ground pepper (to taste)
Directions:
- Fill a large pot with enough water to fully submerge the Brussels sprouts. Place it over high heat and bring the water to a boil. Add the kosher salt.
- Add the Brussels sprouts to the boiling water and stir. Boil for 4-5 minutes until tender but still bright green. Drain in a colander, rinse with cold water to stop cooking, and dry them on a kitchen towel.
- In a 12" skillet, add the diced bacon and heat over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the bacon is crisp and the fat renders, about 7-8 minutes. Remove the bacon and place it on a paper-towel lined plate.
- Increase the heat to medium-high, then add the blanched Brussels sprouts and pecans to the skillet with the rendered bacon fat. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sprouts are crisp.
- Sprinkle the mustard powder over the sprouts and pecans, stirring constantly for 1 minute. Pour in the bourbon (or cider vinegar) to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Stir until the bourbon is absorbed, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the bacon back into the pan and pour in the maple syrup. Toss everything to coat, cooking for an additional minute until the syrup thickens slightly. Taste for seasoning and adjust with salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot and enjoy!
How to Serve 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Serve these Brussels sprouts as an exciting side dish with your favorite main courses, such as grilled chicken, beef, or fish. They can also be a great addition to a holiday meal, providing a colorful and flavorful option that everyone will love.
How to Store 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
If you have leftovers, store the Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm them up in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.
Tips to Make 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
- Make sure to not overcook the Brussels sprouts, so they retain their bright green color and crunch.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of bacon or add other nuts like walnuts or almonds for a different flavor.
- For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mix while sautéing.
Variation
You can substitute the bacon with turkey bacon for a lighter version. If you’d like a vegetarian option, skip the bacon and use olive oil to sauté the sprouts and pecans, adding a bit more maple syrup for flavor.
FAQs
-
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before cooking. -
What can I use instead of bourbon?
If you prefer not to use bourbon, apple cider vinegar is a great alternative that still adds a nice depth of flavor. -
How do I make this dish vegan?
To make it vegan, simply omit the bacon and replace it with a plant-based bacon alternative or extra pecans for that savory flavor, and use maple syrup without animal products.
30-Minute Stovetop Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients
Method
- Fill a large pot with enough water to fully submerge the Brussels sprouts. Place it over high heat and bring the water to a boil. Add the kosher salt.
- Add the Brussels sprouts to the boiling water and stir. Boil for 4-5 minutes until tender but still bright green. Drain in a colander, rinse with cold water to stop cooking, and dry them on a kitchen towel.
- In a 12" skillet, add the diced bacon and heat over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the bacon is crisp and the fat renders, about 7-8 minutes. Remove the bacon and place it on a paper-towel lined plate.
- Increase the heat to medium-high, then add the blanched Brussels sprouts and pecans to the skillet with the rendered bacon fat. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sprouts are crisp.
- Sprinkle the mustard powder over the sprouts and pecans, stirring constantly for 1 minute. Pour in the bourbon (or cider vinegar) to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Stir until the bourbon is absorbed, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the bacon back into the pan and pour in the maple syrup. Toss everything to coat, cooking for an additional minute until the syrup thickens slightly. Taste for seasoning and adjust with salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot and enjoy!