Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts

Last updated on January 21st, 2024 at 10:14 pm

Elevate your veggie side dish game with these irresistible maple bacon Brussels sprouts, featuring crispy bacon, sweet maple syrup and crumbly goat cheese.

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These maple bacon Brussels sprouts may convert even some of the most loyal Brussels sprouts haters. These Brussels sprouts are crispy, slightly sweet and smoky and so delicious.

I got inspiration for this recipe from Josie’s Table, a favorite local restaurant of mine from my Capital Region Restaurant Guide. The recipe features crispy Brussels sprouts, smoky bacon, sweet maple syrup, crunchy walnuts and it’s all topped off with creamy goat cheese.

These maple bacon Brussels sprouts are made all in one pan. The bacon is cooked first, and the bacon grease is used to cook the Brussels sprouts so they get extra crispy.

This Brussels sprouts recipe calls for just 5 main ingredients and is ready in under 30 minutes. It’s the perfect side dish recipe for Thanksgiving, Christmas or any other holiday gathering.

Ingredients

Brussel Sprouts: we’ll be using 1 pound of whole fresh Brussels sprouts. Do not use frozen.
Bacon: I chose a thick cut maple bacon as the flavor worked nicely for this recipe.
Walnuts: walnuts add a nice crunch and toasty nutty flavor.
Maple syrup: the maple syrup is added in the last minute of cooking. It lightly coats the Brussels sprouts and gives the whole dish a nice caramel-y sweetness.
Goat cheese: everything gets topped off with crumbly, tangy goat cheese, which melts slightly from the heat of the Brussels sprouts.
Salt & pepper 

Equipment

Cast iron pan
Cutting board and knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Rubber spatula

Instructions

1. Heat a cast iron skillet or heavy bottom pan over medium low heat. Add bacon and cook for 5-7 minutes, flip and cook an additional 5 minutes, or until crispy.
2. While the bacon is cooking, prepare the Brussels sprouts by cutting off the stems, removing the tough outer leaves and cutting in half lengthwise.
3. Remove bacon and drain on a paper towel lined plate. Drain all but 2 tablespoons of bacon grease.
4. Add the Brussels sprouts to the pan, ensure most are cut side down and cook undisturbed for 5-7 minutes, toss and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Add the walnuts, salt and pepper to the pan, toss and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the walnuts have toasted.
6. Turn off the heat and add the maple syrup and crumbled bacon. Quickly toss to coat the Brussels sprouts.
7. Transfer everything to a serving dish and top with crumbled goat cheese. Serve immediately.

What to Serve with Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts

Appetizer: Fig Panzanella Salad
Entree: Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Starch: Roasted Honeynut Squash
Dessert: Pumpkin Crisp

Tips

• Use maple bacon for extra maple flavor.
• Cook the bacon low and slow to avoid burning the bacon or the bacon fat that you will use to cook the Brussels sprouts.
• Allow Brussels sprouts to cook undisturbed for at least 5 minutes on each side in order to create a slight char.
• Add the goat cheese off the heat after plating

FAQ

How do I store maple bacon Brussels sprouts?

Store leftover maple bacon Brussels sprouts in an air tight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Can I make maple bacon Brussels sprouts ahead of time?

Because the maple syrup will make the bacon and Brussels sprouts soggy over time, I do not recommend making this recipe in advance. This recipe is best made right before serving.

How do I reheat maple bacon Brussels sprouts?

Microwave: reheat Brussels sprouts in the microwave for 45 seconds.

Oven: 425°F for 5-8 minutes, or until warmed through.

Substitutions

Bacon: turkey bacon can be used for a lighter option or omit altogether to make this recipe vegetarian.
Walnuts: pecans will work in place of walnuts.
Goat cheese: if you don’t like goat cheese, you can use feta cheese.

More Recipes You’ll Love

• Honey Roasted Carrots with Goat Cheese
• Roasted Delicata Squash and Burrata Salad
• Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes
• Whipped Goat Cheese and Squash Dip

If you make this Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts, be sure to leave a comment below and rate this recipe! If you snap a pic, be sure to tag me on Instagram @thechowdown! I love seeing your creations!