Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Crispy Bacon

Learn how to cook with brussel sprouts like a pro! These Maple-Bacon Brussels Sprouts are easy, crispy, and even sprout skeptics will love them. Get the recipe now!

Recipe Introduction

Fancy a side dish that'll blow your socks off? ever wondered how to cook with brussel sprouts and actually enjoy them? honestly, i used to be a brussel sprout hater myself, right there with everyone else.

But this recipe? this changed everything.

From Brussels Hater to Lover: The Ultimate Sprouts Revelation

This maple-glazed brussels sprouts with crispy bacon recipe isn't just a side; it's a revelation. originating from a desire to elevate humble vegetables, it takes inspiration from classic comfort food and brings it to a whole new level.

With its delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, this dish transforms ordinary sprouts into something extraordinary. the bacon adds a delightful textural contrast and smoky flavor.

Think sunday roast or thanksgiving dinner; this brussel sprouts recipes easy enough for weeknights, posh enough for special occasions. it yields 4-6 servings and only takes 40- 45 minutes.

Why These Sprouts are Seriously Special

One of the main benefits? brussels sprouts recipes are packed with vitamins! this recipe is the perfect addition to your holiday table.

Seriously, even sprout skeptics are converted. what makes them so special? that sweet and savory maple-bacon glaze, of course! but the real secret is roasting them to perfection.

We are talking about the ultimate luxury nail art here, but in food form.

Ready to get started? Here's what you'll need to transform 1.5 lbs of Brussels sprouts into something truly magical.

Alright, let's dive into the good stuff. we're talking ingredients and equipment for the best maple-glazed brussels sprouts with crispy bacon ever.

Honestly, even brussels sprout haters will be converted. get ready for some deliciousness!

Ingredients & Equipment: The Line-Up

Main Ingredients

This is where the magic happens. We need good stuff to get great results.

• Brussels Sprouts: 1.5 lbs (680g) . Look for firm, bright green sprouts. Smaller ones are sweeter.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (30 ml) . Use a good quality one, it does make a difference.
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) . Sea salt is my go-to.
• Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 ml) . Freshly ground is always better.
• Bacon: 6 slices . Thick-cut bacon is where it is at.
• Butter: 2 tablespoons (28g) . Unsalted is best so you can control the saltiness.
• Maple Syrup: 1/4 cup (60 ml) . Real maple syrup only, my friends!
• Apple Cider Vinegar: 1 tablespoon (15 ml) . Adds a little tang.
• Dijon Mustard: 1 teaspoon (5 ml) . A little kick.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Pinch (optional). For some heat!

For incredible Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts, grate 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese over the sprouts during the last 5 minutes of roasting.

Seasoning Notes

Spices make or break a dish. These add depth and flavor.

This is about more than just salt and pepper! maple and bacon are the stars of the show. a little mustard balances the sweetness.

You know? red pepper flakes add zing. if you haven't had that yet, what are you waiting for?

Vinegar and dijon mustard complement and balance the sweetness. they really do! a pinch of red pepper flakes is optional.

It depends on your heat tolerance. you might want to try a little bit, then add more as needed. you can substitute balsamic vinegar for apple cider vinegar.

This gives a more tangy flavor.

Equipment Needed

You don't need fancy gear. Just the basics to how to cook with brussel .

• Large Baking Sheet: Get one with sides! I learned that the hard way. Brussels sprout casualties.
• Large Skillet: Cast iron is amazing. Any large skillet works though.
• Mixing Bowl: For tossing the sprouts.
• Whisk: To mix the glaze.

Don't have a fancy whisk? Use a fork. Need a fancy baking sheet? Nah, you don't. A casserole dish will do just fine! And, for those who enjoy luxury nail art , remember to protect your manicure while cooking!

Okay, let's get cooking! these are the best brussel sprouts recipes easy . trust me! try these brussel sprout recipes roasted soon.

You won't regret it! these brussel sprouts recipes are definitely a winning choice among vegetable side dishes recipes . enjoy these amazing sprouts recipes !

Level Up Your Side Dish Game: Maple-Glazed Brussel Sprouts with Crispy Bacon

Honestly, for years, i thought i hated brussels sprouts. you know? like, visions of soggy, bitter green balls haunted my childhood dinner table.

But then, oh my gosh! i discovered the magic of roasting. this maple-glazed brussel sprouts recipe is a total game changer.

Prep Like a Pro: Mise en Place for the Win

First things first, mise en place , folks. this means "everything in its place." trim 1.5 lbs of brussel sprouts, halve them, and get ready to become a brussel sprout cooking master.

Dice up 6 slices of bacon. measure out 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper.

Then, for the glaze, get 2 tablespoons of butter, 1/4 cup of maple syrup, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon of dijon mustard, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if you're feeling spicy!).

Trust me, this organization saves you time and stress. safety reminder: always use a sharp knife carefully when prepping your veggies.

Brussel Sprouts Recipes: Step-by-Step to Deliciousness

This is how to cook with brussel sprouts the right way:

1. Preheat your oven to 400° F ( 200° C) .
2. Toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Don't overcrowd! Space is key to crispy Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts .
4. Roast for 25- 30 minutes , flipping halfway. You're looking for tenderness and browning.
5. While the sprouts roast, cook the bacon until crispy. Set aside, but keep that bacon fat!
6. Melt butter in the bacon fat in the skillet. Whisk in maple syrup, vinegar, mustard, and red pepper flakes. Simmer until slightly thickened.
7. Toss the roasted Brussels sprouts with the glaze. Add the crispy bacon back in.

Serve immediately, and watch them disappear. These Brussel Sprouts Recipes Easy are a hit every time!

Pro Tips & Tricks for Next Level Brussel Sprout Recipes

Want to take your brussel sprout recipes to the next level? don't skip the bacon fat in the glaze – it's liquid gold! also, a little apple cider vinegar adds the perfect tang.

Be sure to avoid overcrowding the pan and look for the visual cues for doneness. brussel sprout recipes roasted at the right temperature will be a winner.

You can even make the glaze ahead of time and store it in the fridge. just rewarm it before tossing with the sprouts.

For those looking for sprouts recipes , remember to give those babies space on the baking sheet to ensure they get nice and crispy, and don’t be afraid to experiment with seasonings – a little garlic powder or smoked paprika can add a delicious depth of flavor.

It elevates these vegetable side dishes recipes .

Alright, let's chat more about these amazing maple-glazed brussels sprouts with crispy bacon. there are a few extra nuggets of wisdom i want to share.

Honestly, these brussel sprouts recipes are a game-changer!

Recipe Notes

Serving Suggestions: Level Up Your Plate

Okay, so you've got these amazing parmesan roasted brussels sprouts ready to go. how do you make them look chef's kiss ? for plating, think about height and contrast.

Pile the sprouts artfully on a plate, maybe with a sprig of fresh thyme or rosemary. a dollop of creamy mashed sweet potatoes or polenta makes a great base.

Want some complementary flavours? these brussel sprout recipes roasted go so well with roasted chicken or pork tenderloin. and if you're feeling fancy, a crisp white wine or a light-bodied red would be spot on.

Like seriously, you should try to make brussel sprouts recipes easy !

Storage Tips: Keepin' it Fresh

Right, so you've made a big batch. how do you store these little beauties? refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Honestly, they're best eaten fresh, but they still taste fab the next day. freezing isn't really recommended as they can get a bit mushy.

To reheat, pop them back in the oven at 350° f ( 175° c) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.

A quick zap in the microwave works too, but they won't be as crispy.

Variations: Mix It Up, Mate!

Fancy a twist? for a vegetarian version, ditch the bacon and use a drizzle of smoked paprika. for a seasonal swap, try using butternut squash instead of sprouts in the autumn.

You know, these are great vegetable side dishes recipes !

Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bite

These sprouts recipes aren't just delicious; they're good for you too! brussels sprouts are packed with fiber, vitamins c and k, and antioxidants.

It is like luxury nail art but edible. the bacon adds protein, but remember it is best in moderation. i am sure the brussel sprout recipes i shared will be helpful, after all sprouts recipe are my expertise.

Each serving is roughly 350 calories. of course, that varies based on your portion size.

So there you have it! Everything you need to know to create these amazing Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts. Have fun and remember how to cook with brussel sprouts is easier than you think! Now go forth and conquer those sprouts!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get my Brussels sprouts crispy and not mushy?

The key to crispy Brussels sprouts is high heat and not overcrowding the pan! Make sure your oven is hot (400°F/200°C works wonders) and spread the sprouts in a single layer on the baking sheet. This allows them to roast properly instead of steaming. Think of it like avoiding a packed tube on the London Underground – give them space to breathe!

I'm not a fan of Brussels sprouts. Can this recipe really change my mind?

Absolutely! This Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Crispy Bacon recipe is designed to convert even the biggest skeptics. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness, and the savory maple-bacon glaze adds a layer of flavour that masks any bitterness. It's like turning sprouts into a posh Sunday roast side dish!

Can I make this recipe vegan? What are some substitutions?

Yes, you can definitely make a vegan version! Simply omit the bacon and butter. Use plant-based butter and perhaps increase the olive oil slightly. For that added crunch and nutty flavour, consider adding toasted pecans or walnuts instead of bacon. It’s still a cracking dish!

How to cook with brussel sprouts so they aren't bitter?

Bitterness in Brussels sprouts can be minimized by choosing smaller sprouts, which tend to be sweeter. High-heat roasting, like in this recipe, also helps to mellow their flavor. The maple-bacon glaze further balances any remaining bitterness with sweetness and umami. Consider a pre-soak in cold water too.

How long will leftovers keep, and what's the best way to reheat them?

Leftover Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Crispy Bacon will keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, spread them on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but they might lose some of their crispiness – a bit like soggy fish and chips, still edible, but not the best!

What's the best way to store fresh Brussels sprouts before cooking?

The best way to store fresh Brussels sprouts is in a perforated plastic bag in the refrigerator. This helps maintain humidity and prevent them from drying out. They'll keep for up to a week this way. Try not to store them loose in the fridge draw as they will quickly wilt.

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