30-Minute Stovetop Maple Turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts

With 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts, you can create a delightful side dish perfect for any occasion. This recipe blends the earthy flavors of Brussels sprouts with the sweetness of maple syrup and the savory crunch of turkey bacon. It’s a quick, flavorful dish that will impress your family and guests alike, making it a standout addition to your dinner table or holiday spread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Combination: The sweet maple syrup complements the savory turkey bacon, creating a delicious balance.
• Versatile Side Dish: Works great for casual dinners, holiday gatherings, or as an impressive side at potlucks.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutritious Brussels sprouts and healthy fats from pecans, this recipe is both satisfying and wholesome.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to swap out ingredients or adjust seasonings to match your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• 12-inch skillet
• Slotted spoon
• Kitchen towel

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for blanching the Brussels sprouts quickly without overcrowding.
• Colander: Perfect for draining water from the sprouts after boiling, ensuring they don’t get soggy.
• 12-inch skillet: Provides ample space for sautéing ingredients evenly, allowing them to crisp up nicely.

Ingredients

To make 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts, gather the following ingredients:

• 1½ lb Brussels sprouts (trimmed and halved)
• 1 tbsp kosher salt (plus more to taste)
• 4 strips Turkey Bacon (diced into ½ lardons)
• ½ c pecans (coarsely chopped)
• 1 tsp ground mustard
• 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

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

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Bacon

Next, cook your turkey bacon:
1. Place diced turkey bacon in a 12-inch skillet over medium heat.
2. Sauté until crisp and fat renders, about 7-8 minutes.
3. Use a slotted spoon to remove bacon; transfer it to a paper-towel-lined plate.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Now it’s time for the Brussels sprouts:
1. Increase heat to medium-high; add blanched Brussels sprouts and pecans into rendered turkey bacon fat.
2. Sauté while stirring frequently until sprouts are crisped up, about 4-5 minutes.

Step 4: Season and Deglaze

Add flavor with mustard:
1. Sprinkle ground mustard over the mixture; stir constantly for about 1 minute.
2. Pour in bourbon or apple cider vinegar to deglaze; scrape brown bits off the bottom of the pan until absorbed (2-3 minutes).

Step 5: Combine Everything

Finally, finish up your dish:
1. Add cooked turkey bacon back into the pan along with maple syrup.
2. Toss everything together and cook for an additional minute until syrup thickens slightly.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed before serving.

Enjoy this delicious side dish that brings warmth and flavor to any meal!

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

These delicious Brussels sprouts make a versatile side dish that pairs well with many meals. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As a Flavorful Side Dish

• Serve alongside grilled chicken for a complete meal.
• Pair with roasted turkey for a festive touch during holiday gatherings.

In a Salad

• Toss them into a mixed greens salad for added crunch and flavor.
• Combine with cranberries and feta cheese for a sweet and savory salad option.

With Grain Bowls

• Add to quinoa or rice bowls for extra nutrition and taste.
• Mix in some black beans for protein and fiber.

As an Appetizer

• Serve in small portions as an appetizer at your next gathering.
• Drizzle with extra maple syrup for an enticing presentation.

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

Perfecting this dish takes just a few simple adjustments. Follow these tips to elevate your cooking game.

• Choose Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Select firm, bright green sprouts for the best flavor and texture.
• Adjust Sweetness: Modify the amount of maple syrup based on your personal preference—less for a less sweet dish, more for a richer glaze.
• Experiment with Nuts: Substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for different flavor profiles and crunch.
• Control Crispiness: For extra crispy sprouts, sauté them longer after adding the Turkey Bacon back into the skillet.
• Enhance Flavor: Add minced garlic or shallots along with the Brussels sprouts for additional depth of flavor.
• Season Generously: Don’t hesitate to adjust salt and pepper to taste throughout the cooking process.

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

These Brussels sprouts pair beautifully with various side dishes, making them perfect for any occasion. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic complement the sweetness of the sprouts.
2. Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots balance well with savory flavors, adding color and nutrition to your plate.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness harmonizes perfectly with maple-flavored dishes like these Brussels sprouts.
4. Quinoa Pilaf: A light, nutty pilaf adds texture while remaining healthy and filling alongside your main dish.
5. Steamed Green Beans: Simple steamed green beans maintain freshness and provide a lovely contrast in color.
6. Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and acidity that cuts through the richness of the turkey bacon.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts to new heights. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Overcooking the Brussels sprouts: This can lead to mushy sprouts. Blanch them only until tender and bright green.
• Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season properly can make the dish bland. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving.
• Crowding the pan: If you add too many sprouts at once, they’ll steam instead of sauté. Cook in batches if necessary for that perfect crisp.
• Skipping the deglazing step: Not deglazing can mean missed flavor from the browned bits. Pour in your liquid gently and scrape the bottom of the pan well.
• Using low-quality maple syrup: Not all maple syrups are created equal! Opt for pure maple syrup for the best flavor enhancement.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days.

Freezing 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts

• Freezing is not recommended, as Brussels sprouts can become mushy upon thawing.
• If you must freeze, use a freezer-safe container, and aim to consume within one month.

Reheating 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat in a covered dish for about 15 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some answers to common questions about preparing 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts.

Can I substitute other vegetables?

You can definitely substitute other vegetables like green beans or asparagus for variation while maintaining similar cooking times.

What can I use instead of Turkey Bacon?

If you don’t have Turkey Bacon on hand, try using diced chicken or even tempeh for a vegetarian option.

How do I make this recipe vegan?

To make it vegan, replace Turkey Bacon with smoked tempeh and use maple syrup without any animal-derived ingredients.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can blanch the Brussels sprouts in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Finish the cooking just before serving for best results.

Final Thoughts

The 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts is not just quick; it’s also flavorful and versatile! You can customize it with different nuts or spices according to your preference. Whether as a side dish or a main attraction, give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!