Maple bacon Brussels sprouts with pecans are a deliciously sweet and savory side dish that pairs caramelized Brussels sprouts with smoky bacon, crunchy pecans, and a touch of maple syrup. This combination creates a flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or any occasion where you want to elevate your vegetable side. The crispy bacon, warm maple, and earthy pecans make these Brussels sprouts an instant crowd-pleaser.

In this guide, we’ll go over how to make maple bacon Brussels sprouts with pecans, with tips for caramelizing the sprouts, suggested flavor variations, and serving ideas.

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1. Ingredients for Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts with Pecans

Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful, sweet-savory dish:

• Brussels Sprouts – 1 lb, trimmed and halved
• Bacon – 4-5 slices, chopped
• Pecans – 1/2 cup, roughly chopped
• Maple Syrup – 2 tablespoons (pure maple syrup for the best flavor)
• Olive Oil – 1-2 tablespoons
• Salt and Black Pepper – to taste

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2. Step-by-Step Instructions for Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts with Pecans

Follow these steps to create perfectly caramelized Brussels sprouts with maple, bacon, and pecans:

Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and remove any yellow or damaged outer leaves. Slice each Brussels sprout in half.

Step 2: Prepare the Bacon and Brussels Sprouts

1. In a large mixing bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
2. Add the chopped bacon to the Brussels sprouts, tossing to combine.

Step 3: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

1. Spread the Brussels sprouts and bacon in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, with the cut sides facing down for maximum caramelization.
2. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the Brussels sprouts are tender and golden, and the bacon is crispy.

Step 4: Add Pecans and Maple Syrup

1. Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the Brussels sprouts and drizzle with maple syrup.
2. Toss gently to coat, then return the pan to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to toast the pecans and caramelize the maple syrup.

Step 5: Serve Warm

1. Transfer the Brussels sprouts to a serving dish, and add an extra drizzle of maple syrup or a sprinkle of salt and pepper, if desired.
2. Serve warm and enjoy this deliciously sweet, smoky, and crunchy side dish!

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3. Tips for Perfect Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts with Pecans

3.1 Roast with Cut Side Down

Placing the Brussels sprouts cut side down on the baking sheet helps achieve a caramelized, crispy texture.

3.2 Use Pure Maple Syrup

Pure maple syrup offers a natural sweetness that complements the smoky bacon and nutty pecans perfectly.

3.3 Don’t Skip the Last 5 Minutes

Adding the pecans and maple syrup in the final 5 minutes prevents burning and ensures the pecans stay crunchy.

3.4 Adjust Sweetness and Saltiness to Taste

Maple syrup and bacon add sweetness and saltiness, so taste before adding extra salt or syrup when serving.

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4. Flavor Variations

4.1 Spicy Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or drizzle with a bit of hot honey to balance the sweetness with a touch of heat.

4.2 Balsamic Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts

Drizzle with a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar along with the maple syrup for a tangy-sweet flavor.

4.3 Garlic and Maple Brussels Sprouts

Add 2-3 cloves of minced garlic halfway through roasting for a subtle garlic flavor that complements the maple and bacon.

4.4 Cranberry Pecan Brussels Sprouts

Add a handful of dried cranberries in the final 5 minutes for a pop of color and tart-sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with pecans and bacon.

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5. Serving Suggestions

Maple bacon Brussels sprouts with pecans pair well with a variety of main dishes. Here are some ideas for serving:

• With Roast Turkey or Ham: This sweet-savory side dish is a natural fit for holiday meals.
• With Pork Tenderloin or Chops: The flavors complement the rich, savory taste of pork.
• With Grilled Chicken: Serve alongside grilled or baked chicken for a balanced meal.
• With Mashed Potatoes: These Brussels sprouts pair well with creamy sides like mashed potatoes or cheesy scalloped potatoes.

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6. Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through, or reheat in a skillet over medium heat.

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7. Making Ahead for Holiday Gatherings

This dish can be partially prepared ahead of time to save time:

1. Prep the Brussels Sprouts and Bacon: Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts, and chop the bacon. Store them separately in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
2. Combine and Roast: Just before serving, toss the Brussels sprouts and bacon together and roast as directed. Add pecans and maple syrup in the last few minutes for the best texture and flavor.

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FAQ

1. Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

Yes, but fresh Brussels sprouts work best for caramelization. If using frozen, thaw and pat them dry to remove excess moisture before roasting.

2. Can I substitute another nut for pecans?

Yes! Walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts make great alternatives for a similar crunch and flavor.

3. Can I make this dish without bacon?

Yes, you can omit the bacon and add a pinch of smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a hint of smokiness without the meat.

4. What if I don’t have pure maple syrup?

Honey or brown sugar can work as a substitute, though the flavor will be slightly different.

5. Can I add other vegetables?

Yes! Try adding halved baby carrots or thinly sliced red onions to the baking sheet for extra flavor and color.

6. Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, substitute olive oil for the bacon and add a sprinkle of smoked salt or smoked paprika for a hint of smoky flavor.

7. Should I cover the Brussels sprouts while baking?

No, roasting uncovered helps achieve a caramelized, crispy texture.

8. How can I prevent Brussels sprouts from getting soggy?

Make sure to spread them out on the baking sheet, giving each sprout room to roast evenly and not steam.

9. Can I add cheese to this dish?

Yes, crumbled goat cheese or feta added just before serving creates a creamy, tangy contrast to the maple and bacon.

10. What should I do if the pecans start to burn?

If the pecans look like they’re browning too quickly, reduce the oven temperature slightly and keep an eye on them in the final minutes.

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Maple bacon Brussels sprouts with pecans are a deliciously sweet and savory side that’s sure to be a hit at any meal. With caramelized Brussels sprouts, crispy bacon, and crunchy pecans all glazed in maple syrup, this dish is a standout addition to any holiday table. Enjoy this cozy, flavor-packed recipe!