30-Minute Stovetop Maple Turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts

Start your culinary adventure with these 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts. This recipe brings together the savory taste of turkey bacon, the sweetness of maple syrup, and the nutty crunch of pecans to create a delightful side dish that pairs well with a variety of meals. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this dish is sure to impress your guests with its vibrant flavors and textures.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a delicious side dish that requires minimal prep work.
• Flavorful Combination: The sweet maple syrup complements the savory turkey bacon perfectly, creating a balanced and delightful taste.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for holidays, family dinners, or casual gatherings, this dish fits any occasion.
• Nutritious Ingredients: With Brussels sprouts and pecans, you’re not only treating your taste buds but also nourishing your body.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The unique flavor profile makes it appealing to both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

For this recipe, having the right tools will make your cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. Gather your kitchen essentials before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the Brussels sprouts quickly and evenly.
• Colander: Allows for easy draining of the sprouts after boiling while keeping them intact.
• 12-inch skillet: Provides ample space to sauté the turkey bacon and vegetables without overcrowding.
• Slotted spoon: Helps you remove cooked ingredients without excess fat or liquid.

Ingredients

To make 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 Turkey Bacon Mixture

• 4 strips Turkey Bacon (diced into 1/2 lardons)
• ½ c pecans (coarsely chopped)

For Flavoring

• 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

Fill a large pot with enough water to fully submerge the Brussels sprouts and place it over high heat. Bring the water to a boil and season with kosher salt.
* Add the Brussels sprouts to boiling water and stir well.
* Boil for about 4-5 minutes until tender but still bright green in color.
* Drain in a colander, run under cold water to stop cooking, then lay them on a kitchen towel to dry.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Bacon

In a 12-inch skillet, add diced turkey bacon over medium heat.
* Sauté while stirring occasionally until crispy and fat renders, about 7-8 minutes.
* Use a slotted spoon to remove turkey bacon from the pan and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

Step 3: Sauté Brussels Sprouts and Pecans

Increase heat to medium-high in the same skillet.
* Add blanched Brussels sprouts and pecans to rendered turkey bacon fat.
* Sauté over high heat for about 4-5 minutes until crispy.

Step 4: Season with Mustard Powder

Sprinkle ground mustard over the mixture in the skillet.
* Stir constantly for about one minute.
* Pour bourbon or apple cider vinegar into the pan for deglazing; scrape up any browned bits while stirring continuously for 2-3 minutes until absorbed.

Step 5: Combine Everything Together

Return cooked turkey bacon back into the pan with vegetables.
* Pour in maple syrup and toss everything together thoroughly.
* Cook for an additional minute until syrup slightly thickens.
Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately and enjoy!

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

These savory and sweet Brussels sprouts are a versatile dish perfect for any meal. Whether served as a side or a main feature, they pair beautifully with a variety of cuisines.

As a Side Dish

• These Brussels sprouts make an excellent complement to roasted chicken or turkey, adding a delightful crunch and sweetness.

In a Salad

• Toss the cooked Brussels sprouts with mixed greens, nuts, and a light vinaigrette for a fresh salad that balances flavors.

With Grains

• Serve the sprouts over quinoa or brown rice to create a wholesome bowl that’s satisfying and nutritious.

On Charcuterie Boards

• Include them on charcuterie boards alongside cheeses, fruits, and crackers for a unique touch that guests will love.

As Leftovers

• Enjoy the leftovers cold in wraps or as part of a grain bowl for lunch the next day, as the flavors meld beautifully overnight.

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

For the best results with this recipe, consider these simple tips to enhance flavor and texture.

• Blanching is key: Properly blanching the Brussels sprouts ensures they remain bright green and tender while developing crisp edges during sautéing.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh Brussels sprouts will provide better flavor compared to frozen ones. Look for firm sprouts with no yellowing.

• Adjust seasoning: Don’t hesitate to adjust salt and pepper according to your taste preferences; every ingredient contributes to the final flavor.

• High heat for crispiness: Cooking on medium-high heat helps achieve that desirable crispy exterior without overcooking the inside.

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

Pair these delicious Brussels sprouts with complementary side dishes to create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs well with the maple syrup in the Brussels sprouts.

2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes offer comfort and balance against the crispy texture of the sprouts.

3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad provides protein and freshness, working well alongside the rich flavors of the dish.

4. Grilled Chicken Breast: A simple grilled chicken adds lean protein that complements the sweet-tart notes in your main dish.

5. Steamed Green Beans: Bright green beans add color and crunch; steam them lightly to retain their snap.

6. Cornbread Muffins: The slight sweetness from cornbread muffins enhances the overall meal experience, making it feel cozy.

7. Baked Acorn Squash: Sweet and nutty baked acorn squash makes an elegant side that pairs excellently with Thanksgiving themes.

8. Cauliflower Rice: For a lighter option, cauliflower rice can soak up flavors beautifully while adding nutritional value.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Overcooking Brussels Sprouts: Cooking the sprouts for too long can make them mushy. Aim for 4-5 minutes when blanching to maintain their crispness.
• Not Seasoning Enough: Under-seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving for the best taste.
• Skipping the Blanching Step: Blanching helps achieve tender interiors while keeping the exterior crisp. Don’t skip this step for optimal results.
• Using Low-Quality Maple Syrup: Using low-quality syrup can diminish the dish’s flavor. Choose pure maple syrup for the best sweet and rich taste.
• Ignoring Texture Variances: If the Turkey Bacon isn’t crispy enough, it won’t add the right texture. Ensure you sauté until it is well-cooked and crispy.
• Crowding the Pan: Overcrowding can steam rather than sauté your ingredients. Cook in batches if necessary to achieve that perfect sear.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Best used within 2 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes) until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Sauté on medium heat with a splash of water or broth until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about this recipe, here are some common questions answered.

Can I use other types of bacon in the 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts?

Yes! You can substitute turkey bacon with chicken or beef bacon for a different flavor while keeping it deliciously savory.

How do I ensure my Brussels sprouts stay bright green?

Blanching them immediately before sautéing helps retain their vibrant green color. Rinse them under cold water after boiling to stop cooking.

What can I use instead of maple syrup?

You could use agave nectar or honey as an alternative sweetener if you prefer something different from maple syrup.

Can I customize the nuts in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap pecans with walnuts or almonds based on your personal preference or what you have on hand.

How spicy are these 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts?

This recipe is not spicy at all, but you can add red pepper flakes during cooking for a kick if desired!

Final Thoughts

This 30-Minute Stovetop Maple Turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts recipe is not only quick but also versatile, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite nuts or adjusting seasonings to suit your taste. Give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!