30-Minute Stovetop Maple Turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts

With 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts, you’ll discover a delightful side dish that brings together sweet and savory flavors. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with minimal effort. The combination of crispy turkey bacon, tender Brussels sprouts, and a hint of maple syrup makes it a standout dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: The blend of maple syrup and turkey bacon creates a deliciously unique flavor profile.
• Versatile Side: Great for holidays, family dinners, or casual meals—you can serve it with almost anything!
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats from the pecans, this dish is as nutritious as it is tasty.
• Crowd Pleaser: With its appealing flavors and textures, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts, gather your tools and equipment to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for blanching the Brussels sprouts quickly while ensuring they maintain their vibrant color.
• Colander: Allows for easy draining of the blanched sprouts and helps cool them down rapidly.
• 12 skillet: Provides ample space for sautéing the ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
• Slotted spoon: Perfect for removing cooked turkey bacon while keeping the grease in the pan for flavor.

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Ingredients

To make these delicious 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts, gather 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 1/2 lardons)
• ½ c pecans (coarsely chopped)

For Seasoning

• 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

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 and season with kosher salt.
3. Add the Brussels sprouts to the boiling water 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

1. Place diced turkey bacon in a 12 skillet over medium heat.
2. Sauté while stirring occasionally until crispy, about 7-8 minutes.
3. Use a slotted spoon to remove the turkey bacon and place it on a paper-towel lined plate to drain.

Step 3: Sauté Brussels Sprouts and Pecans

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

Step 4: Add Seasonings

1. Sprinkle ground mustard over the mixture; stir constantly for 1 minute.
2. Pour in bourbon (or cider vinegar) to deglaze; scrape up browned bits while stirring until absorbed—about 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Finish with Maple Syrup

1. Add turkey bacon back into the pan along with maple syrup.
2. Toss everything well; cook for an additional minute until syrup thickens slightly.
3. Taste for seasoning; adjust with salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately!

Enjoy your flavorful creation of 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts, perfect as a side dish that everyone will rave about!

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

These delicious Brussels sprouts can be served in various ways to enhance your meal. They make a fantastic side dish or even a light main course, depending on your preference.

As a Side Dish

• Pair with roasted chicken for a well-rounded meal that highlights the flavors of both dishes.
• Serve alongside beef steak, where the sweetness of the maple syrup complements the savory meat.

In a Salad

• Toss the cooked Brussels sprouts into a mixed green salad for added crunch and flavor.
• Combine with arugula and goat cheese for a delightful contrast of tastes.

On a Grain Bowl

• Add to quinoa or brown rice bowls for extra nutrition and texture.
• Drizzle with balsamic glaze for an elevated flavor experience.

As Appetizers

• Skewer individual Brussels sprouts on toothpicks for fun finger food at gatherings.
• Top with crumbled feta cheese to add creaminess and depth.

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

Enhancing your Brussels sprouts dish is easy with just a few tips. These suggestions will help you achieve perfect results every time.

• Blanching is Key: Ensure you blanch the Brussels sprouts properly to maintain their bright green color and tender texture.
• Crispiness Matters: Sauté them over high heat to get that lovely crispiness. Don’t crowd the pan to allow even cooking.
• Flavor Boost: Experiment with different nuts like walnuts or almonds for added crunch and flavor variations.
• Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to modify the amount of maple syrup based on your taste preference; less syrup will yield a more savory dish.
• Season Well: Remember to taste and adjust seasoning towards the end of cooking for optimal flavor balance.

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

These Brussels sprouts pair beautifully with several other side dishes, creating a harmonious dining experience.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes that provide comfort and richness alongside the crispy sprouts.
2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness complements the maple flavor while adding vibrant color to your plate.
3. Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice mixed with herbs enhances the meal’s aroma and adds a light, refreshing element.
4. Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears bring a touch of elegance while balancing out the dish’s richness.
5. Creamy Coleslaw: A fresh crunchy slaw can offer a cool contrast, providing textural diversity to your meal.
6. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad mixed with seasonal vegetables adds nutrition while enhancing flavor profiles.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Brussels sprouts can be tricky, especially when you want them to be flavorful and tender. Here are some common mistakes to avoid while making your 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts.

• Ignoring the blanching step: Blanching is crucial for achieving a bright color and tender texture. Skipping this step can result in tough sprouts.
• Overcooking the Turkey Bacon: Cooking the Turkey Bacon for too long can make it chewy instead of crispy. Monitor it closely and remove when it’s just right.
• Not seasoning properly: Failing to season the water or the dish can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
• Using low-quality maple syrup: The quality of maple syrup greatly impacts the dish’s flavor. Use pure maple syrup for the best results.
• Neglecting the sautéing technique: Stirring frequently during sautéing ensures even cooking and prevents burning. Don’t walk away from the stove!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Brussels sprouts in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a lid, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until warm.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed, until heated through (about 5 minutes).

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this recipe that may help you perfect your dish.

Can I use other types of bacon instead of Turkey Bacon?

Yes, you can substitute turkey bacon with chicken or beef bacon based on your preference.

What should I serve with 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts?

These Brussels sprouts make an excellent side dish for roasted chicken, grilled steak, or vegetarian entrees.

Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?

To make it vegan, substitute Turkey Bacon with plant-based bacon alternatives and use agave syrup instead of maple syrup.

How do I know when my Brussels sprouts are done cooking?

Brussels sprouts should be tender but still have a slight crunch. They should remain bright green in color.

Can I add other ingredients to enhance flavor?

Absolutely! Consider adding garlic or onions for added flavor, or toss in some dried cranberries for sweetness.

Final Thoughts

The 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts recipe is not only quick but also packed with flavor. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different nuts or seasonings based on your taste preferences. Try this delicious dish today!