Brussels Sprouts Bacon Pecans: 1 Stunning Recipe

Brussels Sprouts Bacon Pecans has become a staple in my kitchen, especially during the holidays. I remember the first time I tried this combination at a friend’s potluck; the savory scent of bacon mingled with the earthy aroma of roasted Brussels sprouts, and the crunch of pecans was just divine. It was a revelation! I’ve since perfected my own version of this delectable side dish, and it’s always the first thing to disappear from the table. This particular recipe for roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon and pecans strikes the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and savory, making it an easy ground turkey dinner with Brussels sprouts if you pair it right. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Brussels Sprouts Bacon Pecans

I know what you’re thinking – Brussels sprouts? But trust me, this recipe will change your mind! Here’s why this dish, featuring Brussels Sprouts Bacon Pecans, will become your new favorite:

• The combination of savory bacon, crunchy pecans, and tender Brussels sprouts creates an explosion of flavor and texture that’s truly irresistible.
• It’s an incredibly easy Brussels sprouts bacon pecan recipe to whip up, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute potlucks.
• This dish offers a fantastic balance of nutrients, making it a surprisingly healthy Brussels sprouts with bacon and pecans option.
• You’ll love how quickly this comes together, with minimal prep and cooking time, making it an ideal side for any meal.
• It’s a budget-friendly side that uses common ingredients you likely already have or can easily find at your local grocery store.
• Even the pickiest eaters often fall in love with this flavorful side, thanks to the addition of crispy bacon and sweet pecans.
• This easy Brussels sprouts bacon pecan recipe is versatile enough for holiday feasts or a simple family dinner.

Ingredients for Brussels Sprouts Bacon Pecans

To create this incredibly flavorful Brussels sprouts with bacon and pecans recipe, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. I’ve found that using fresh, high-quality components really makes a difference in the final taste and texture of your dish.

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts – fresh, firm, and trimmed, then halved for even cooking. This ensures they get perfectly tender and caramelized.
• 4 slices bacon, diced – I prefer thick-cut bacon for extra flavor, cooked until crispy to add that irresistible savory crunch.
• ½ cup pecans, roughly chopped – these provide a wonderful nutty flavor and a satisfying texture that complements the Brussels sprouts beautifully.
• ½ cup dried cranberries – a touch of sweetness and a chewy bite that balances the savory elements in this dish.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – for roasting and helping the sprouts achieve that lovely golden-brown exterior.
• Salt, to taste – essential for enhancing all the flavors.
• Pepper, to taste – a dash of freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle kick.
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional) – if you like a touch more sweetness, this creates a lovely glaze.
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional) – adds a tangy depth that brightens the entire dish.

How to Make Brussels Sprouts Bacon Pecans

Making these delicious Brussels Sprouts Bacon Pecans is surprisingly simple, and I promise the effort is well worth the incredible flavors you’ll achieve. Follow these steps for a perfect side dish every time.

1. Step 1: First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your Brussels sprouts will roast quickly and evenly, developing that lovely caramelization. While the oven heats, give your Brussels sprouts a good rinse, trim off the tough ends, and halve them down the middle.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet, preferably cast iron, over medium heat, add your diced bacon. Cook until it’s wonderfully crispy, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. The aroma of the sizzling bacon is always the best part! Remove the crispy bacon pieces with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain, reserving the flavorful bacon fat in the skillet.
3. Step 3: Now, it’s time to add the halved Brussels sprouts to the skillet with the rendered bacon fat. Sauté them for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to brown and develop a beautiful color. This initial sauté helps create those desired crispy Brussels sprouts with bacon and pecans.
4. Step 4: Stir in the roughly chopped pecans. Continue to cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the pecans to toast lightly and release their nutty aroma. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
5. Step 5: Add the dried cranberries to the skillet, mixing everything together. Season generously with salt and pepper to your taste. If you’re using the optional maple syrup and balsamic vinegar, this is the time to stir them in, creating a subtle sweet and tangy glaze.
6. Step 6: Transfer the entire mixture from the skillet to a baking dish or a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the Brussels sprouts are fork-tender and beautifully caramelized. This roasting step is key to achieving truly tender and crispy Brussels sprouts with bacon and pecans.
7. Step 7: Once done, remove from the oven. Drizzle with any remaining bacon fat from the pan, if desired, and mix in those reserved crispy bacon pieces. Allow it to cool slightly before serving. I find that waiting just a few minutes allows the flavors to meld perfectly.

Pro Tips for the Best Brussels Sprouts Bacon Pecans

I’ve made this dish countless times, and I’ve picked up a few tricks along the way that guarantee success. These expert tips will help you achieve the most flavorful and perfectly textured Brussels Sprouts Bacon Pecans every single time.

• Always choose small, firm Brussels sprouts. They tend to be sweeter and less bitter than larger ones.
• Don’t overcrowd your pan when roasting. Give the sprouts plenty of space to caramelize, or they’ll steam instead of crisping up.
• Render the bacon slowly to get maximum crispiness and flavorful fat for sautéing the sprouts.
• Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and optional maple syrup or balsamic vinegar to your preference.
• Let the dish rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the flavors to meld and intensify beautifully.

What’s the secret to perfect Brussels Sprouts Bacon Pecans?

The real secret lies in the two-step cooking process: sautéing the sprouts in bacon fat first, then roasting them. This ensures they develop deep flavor and a tender interior with crispy edges. It’s truly the best way to prepare Brussels sprouts with bacon and pecans for maximum deliciousness.

Can I make Brussels Sprouts Bacon Pecans ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and cook the entire dish a day in advance. Just let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop when you’re ready to serve your delicious Brussels Sprouts Bacon Pecans.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Brussels Sprouts Bacon Pecans?

The most common mistakes are overcooking the sprouts until they’re mushy, or under-seasoning. To avoid this, monitor cooking times closely and always taste before serving. Also, ensure your oven is fully preheated for proper caramelization of your Brussels Sprouts Bacon Pecans.

Best Ways to Serve Brussels Sprouts Bacon Pecans

Once you’ve mastered this incredible dish, you’ll find yourself looking for every opportunity to serve it. This Brussels Sprouts Bacon Pecans side dish is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses.

I love serving it alongside a perfectly roasted chicken or a tender pork loin. The savory notes of the bacon and pecans complement rich meats wonderfully. It also makes an exceptional Brussels sprouts side dish with bacon and pecans for holiday feasts like Thanksgiving or Christmas, adding a pop of color and a burst of flavor to the spread.

For a lighter meal, try pairing your Brussels Sprouts Bacon Pecans with a simple grilled salmon or a hearty quinoa salad. The combination of textures and flavors elevates any plate, making it a standout accompaniment.

Nutrition Facts for Brussels Sprouts Bacon Pecans

I know many of you are curious about the nutritional breakdown of this delicious side dish. Here’s an estimate of what you can expect per serving of my Brussels Sprouts Bacon Pecans recipe, based on making 4-6 servings:

• Calories: 300-400 kcal
• Fat: 20-30 g
• Saturated Fat: 5-10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10-20 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 20-30 g
• Fiber: 5-8 g
• Sugar: 10-15 g
• Protein: 10-15 g
• Sodium: 200-300 mg
• Cholesterol: 20-40 mg

Please remember that these nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients, brands, and preparation methods used for your Brussels Sprouts Bacon Pecans.

How to Store and Reheat Brussels Sprouts Bacon Pecans

Proper storage is key to enjoying your delicious Brussels Sprouts Bacon Pecans leftovers. Once your dish has completely cooled to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container. I find glass containers work best for maintaining freshness and avoiding any lingering smells in your fridge.

You can safely store cooked Brussels Sprouts Bacon Pecans in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, this dish freezes beautifully! Place the cooled sprouts in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag, and it will keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

To reheat, I prefer gently warming the sautéed Brussels sprouts with bacon and pecans in a skillet over medium heat on the stovetop until heated through. This helps to re-crisp the sprouts and bacon. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warm. Avoid the microwave if you want to maintain the best texture!

Frequently Asked Questions About Brussels Sprouts Bacon Pecans

How do I cook Brussels sprouts with bacon and pecans to get them crispy?

The key to crispy Brussels Sprouts Bacon Pecans is a two-step cooking process. First, sauté them in rendered bacon fat until they start to brown. Then, finish them in a hot oven (400°F/200°C) without overcrowding the pan. This allows the heat to caramelize their surfaces, ensuring a delightful crispness.

Can I make this Brussels Sprouts Bacon Pecans recipe vegetarian or vegan?

Yes, absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon. For a vegan dish, replace the bacon with a plant-based alternative like smoked tempeh or coconut bacon. You can still get incredible flavor in your Brussels Sprouts Bacon Pecans without the meat.

What can I substitute for pecans in this Brussels Sprouts Bacon Pecans dish?

If pecans aren’t your favorite or you don’t have them on hand, walnuts or even sliced almonds make excellent substitutes. They will still provide that essential crunch and nutty flavor that complements the Brussels Sprouts Bacon Pecans so well.

Why should I add cranberries to my Brussels Sprouts Bacon Pecans?

The dried cranberries add a wonderful touch of sweetness and a chewy texture that beautifully balances the savory bacon and earthy Brussels sprouts. It’s a simple addition that elevates the flavor profile of your Brussels Sprouts Bacon Pecans, making each bite more complex and enjoyable.

Variations of Brussels Sprouts Bacon Pecans You Can Try

While my classic recipe for Brussels Sprouts Bacon Pecans is a guaranteed hit, I love experimenting with different twists to keep things fresh. Here are a few ideas to inspire your culinary creativity and tailor this dish to your taste or dietary needs.

• Maple-Balsamic Glaze: For a delightful sweet and tangy kick, create a maple glazed Brussels sprouts with bacon and pecans by whisking together 2 tablespoons of maple syrup and 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar. Drizzle this over the sprouts during the last 5-7 minutes of roasting.
• Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the salt and pepper. This subtle warmth beautifully complements the richness of the bacon and pecans in your Brussels Sprouts Bacon Pecans.
• Garlic Infusion: For a more aromatic flavor, mince 2-3 cloves of garlic and add them to the skillet with the Brussels sprouts and pecans during the sautéing stage. This creates delicious garlic Brussels sprouts with bacon and pecans that are incredibly fragrant.
• Cheese Please!: A sprinkle of shredded Parmesan cheese or crumbled feta cheese during the last few minutes of roasting adds a savory, salty dimension to your Brussels Sprouts Bacon Pecans. It’s a simple addition that elevates the dish.

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