30-Minute Stovetop Maple Turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts

The 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts recipe is a delightful dish that combines savory and sweet flavors, making it perfect for any occasion! Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick weeknight side, this recipe serves it all. The crispy turkey bacon and the rich maple syrup offer a unique twist on traditional Brussels sprouts, ensuring everyone at the table will be asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish is ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of turkey bacon, maple syrup, and pecans creates an irresistible taste experience.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pairs perfectly with various mains, from roasted chicken to grilled steak.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients from Brussels sprouts and healthy fats from pecans.
• Simple Cooking Method: Blanching followed by sautéing ensures perfectly tender yet crisp sprouts.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools for a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• 12 skillet
• Slotted spoon
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for blanching the Brussels sprouts quickly while maintaining their bright color and crunch.
• 12 skillet: Provides ample space for sautéing ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
• Slotted spoon: Perfect for removing cooked turkey bacon without transferring excess grease to your serving plate.

Ingredients

To create these delicious 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Brussels Sprouts

• 1½ lb Brussels sprouts (trimmed and halved)
• 1 tbsp kosher salt (plus more to taste)

For the Flavor Base

• 4 strips Turkey Bacon (diced into ½ lardons)
• ½ c pecans (coarsely chopped)
• 1 tsp ground mustard

For Glazing

• 2 oz bourbon (or 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar)
• 3 tbsp maple syrup
• Ground pepper (to taste)

How to Make 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Blanch the Brussels Sprouts

1. Fill a large pot with enough water to fully submerge the Brussels sprouts. Place over high heat.
2. Bring the water to a boil and season with kosher salt.
3. Add the Brussels sprouts and stir. Boil for 4-5 minutes until tender but still bright green.
4. Drain in a colander, then run under cold water to stop cooking. Lay on a kitchen towel to dry.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Bacon

1. In a 12 skillet, heat over medium heat.
2. Add the diced turkey bacon and sauté, stirring occasionally until crisp, about 7-8 minutes.
3. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess fat.

Step 3: Sauté the Sprouts and Pecans

1. Increase heat to medium-high; add blanched Brussels sprouts and pecans to rendered turkey bacon fat in the skillet.
2. Sauté over high heat, stirring frequently until sprouts are crisp, about 4-5 minutes.

Step 4: Add Flavorings

1. Sprinkle ground mustard over the mixture; stir constantly for one minute.
2. Pour in bourbon (or apple cider vinegar) to deglaze. Stir continuously until absorbed, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

1. Add cooked turkey bacon back into the pan along with maple syrup.
2. Toss everything together; cook one more minute until syrup thickens slightly.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Serve your delightful 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts right away and enjoy!

How to Serve 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts

This delightful dish can be enjoyed in various ways, making it a versatile addition to any meal. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual dinner, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

Pair with Grains

• Quinoa – The nutty flavor of quinoa complements the sweetness of the maple syrup in the Brussels sprouts.
• Brown Rice – A hearty base that absorbs any extra sauce, adding texture and fiber to your meal.

Add Protein

• Grilled Chicken – Juicy grilled chicken pairs well with the savory and sweet notes of the dish.
• Lentils – For a plant-based protein option, lentils add an earthy flavor that balances the sweetness.

Create a Salad

• Mixed Greens – Toss Brussels sprouts with mixed greens for a fresh salad topped with your favorite vinaigrette.
• Spinach and Feta – Add sautéed spinach and crumbled feta for a Mediterranean twist that enhances flavor.

Top with Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese – Grate fresh parmesan over the top for an added layer of umami.
• Goat Cheese – Creamy goat cheese adds richness and tang that pairs beautifully with the maple glaze.

How to Perfect 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts

Perfecting this dish is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your Brussels sprouts game.

• Bold Blanching – Ensure you blanch the Brussels sprouts just until tender. This keeps their vibrant color and crisp texture.
• Crisp it Up – After sautéing, allow the Brussels sprouts to sit undisturbed for a minute before stirring. This creates extra crispiness.
• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh herbs and quality turkey bacon make a noticeable difference in flavor. Opt for high-quality maple syrup too!
• Taste as You Go – Adjust seasoning throughout cooking. A little extra salt or pepper can go a long way in enhancing flavors.
• Experiment with Nuts – While pecans are great, try walnuts or almonds for different textures and tastes.
• Garnish Wisely – Finish with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for an aromatic touch that brightens up the dish.

Best Side Dishes for 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts

These Brussels sprouts make an excellent side dish on their own, but they pair beautifully with other options too. Consider these complementary side dishes for your meal.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes seasoned with garlic provide a comforting contrast to the crispy sprouts.
2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes harmonizes perfectly with maple flavors.
3. Herb Couscous – Fluffy couscous tossed with fresh herbs offers lightness alongside rich flavors from the main dish.
4. Cauliflower Rice – A low-carb option that absorbs flavors well while providing a nutritious base.
5. Grilled Asparagus – Tender asparagus adds a nice crunch and vibrant color to your plate.
6. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn balances out savory dishes, making it an enjoyable pairing at gatherings.
7. Baked Zucchini Fries – Crispy zucchini fries add texture and are fun finger food alongside this flavorful side.
8. Coleslaw Salad – A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and acidity that cuts through the richness of maple turkey bacon.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can hinder your dish. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Overcooking the Brussels sprouts: This can lead to mushy vegetables. Make sure to blanch them until just tender and bright green.
• Ignoring seasoning during cooking: Failing to season at different stages can result in bland flavors. Season with salt and pepper after cooking for a more robust taste.
• Not drying the Brussels sprouts: If they are wet from rinsing, they won’t crisp up properly. Ensure they are thoroughly dried on a kitchen towel before sautéing.
• Using low-quality turkey bacon: Cheap turkey bacon may not render enough fat for flavor and texture. Opt for a higher-quality brand for the best results.
• Skipping the deglazing step: This helps lift flavorful bits from the pan. Always deglaze after adding the mustard powder and vinegar or juice to enhance flavor.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Brussels sprouts in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts

• Cool completely before freezing.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag; they can last up to 3 months.

Reheating 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Sauté over medium heat for about 5 minutes, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this recipe perfect for Thanksgiving?

The 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts is quick, easy, and adds a deliciously sweet and savory element to your Thanksgiving spread.

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Yes! Feel free to substitute walnuts or almonds depending on your preference or what you have on hand.

How can I customize this recipe?

You can add additional spices like garlic powder or chili flakes for extra flavor. Adding cranberries can also provide a lovely contrast!

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that any seasonings or additional ingredients used are certified gluten-free.

Can I make this dish vegan?

To make it vegan, substitute turkey bacon with a plant-based alternative and use maple syrup without any animal-derived ingredients.

Final Thoughts

This 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts recipe is not only appealing but also versatile. It’s perfect as a side dish for various meals or special occasions. You can easily customize it with different nuts, spices, or other vegetables. Give it a try and enjoy its delicious blend of flavors!