Easy Sauteed Maple & Balsamic Glazed Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Try these easy sauteed maple & balsamic glazed bacon brussels sprouts and have an awesome flavor experience. Tender-sliced brussels sprouts are mixed with crispy bacon, chopped nuts, and a heavenly glaze of maple syrup and tangy balsamic vinegar. Savory and sweet flavors are combined to give these humble little vegetables a big show.
I grew up eating brussels sprouts and they just might be my favorite vegetable. There are so many different ways to prepare them and I like them all, but this is simple and fast. Only one pan is needed and they are done in 20 minutes. Sautéed brussels sprouts are my go-to method but, roasted brussels sprouts in the oven are the next best thing. Either way, you get a flavorful side dish of crispy brussels sprouts that please everyone. And that sweet balsamic glaze is my new favorite way to eat them.
How Long Do Brussel Sprouts Last?
A frequently asked question is how long brussels sprouts last. It depends on how fresh they are when you buy them.
- If they are very fresh when purchased, they will last a week to 10 days in the refrigerator. A paper bag is the best to store them in to keep them fresher for longer.
- If they are frozen, they can last 6-12 months.
- Fresh from the garden brussels sprouts will last much longer, maybe a month in a cool and dark place.
- Cooked brussels sprouts stay fresh in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Are Brussels Sprouts Good For You
Are brussels sprouts healthy for your diet? Yes, Brussels sprouts are healthy. They are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. They are also low in calories and carbohydrates. Here are some of the health benefits of Brussels sprouts:
- They are a good source of vitamin C, which is important for a healthy immune system.
- They are a good source of vitamin K, which is important for blood clotting and bone health.
- They are a good source of fiber, which can help to keep you regular and lower your cholesterol.
- They are low in calories and carbohydrates, making them a good choice for people trying to lose or maintain a healthy weight.
- They contain antioxidants, which can help to protect your cells from damage.
Overall, brussels sprouts are a healthy and nutritious vegetable that provides several health benefits. They can make you a bit gassy, but if you eat them often enough your stomach will get used to digesting them.
Ingredients For Easy Sauteed Maple & Balsamic Glazed Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Here are the ingredients to make easy sauteed maple & balsamic glazed brussels sprouts. The homemade balsamic glaze gives this delicious side dish an amazing flavor.
- 1 pound fresh brussels sprouts
- 4 strips of bacon, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons chopped almonds*
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 2-3 tablespoons of butter or extra virgin olive oil
Notes:
*I used almonds, but cashews, pecans, or walnuts would be delicious. Use whatever you have on hand.
** I always cook the entire package of bacon and use the rest for something else or freeze it to easily use later. You can also cook the bacon in the oven on a sheet pan.
-To make roasted bacon balsamic brussels sprouts- place the brussels in a single layer on a baking sheet (or sheet pan) and roast for about 15-20 minutes in a 400 degrees F oven. Then add the balsamic mixture, bacon, and nuts to the roasted brussel sprouts and roast for another 2 minutes.
Other Ingredients Suggestions
Here are some other ingredients you can add to this delicious recipe. Swap the bacon for another meat choice or omit the nuts if there are allergy concerns.
- A dash of brown sugar for added sweetness.
- Pancetta
- Diced ham
- Fresh Garlic – minced or garlic powder
- Shallots or onions
- Freshly grated ginger
- Red pepper flakes – nice heat and extra flavor
- Parmesan cheese
- Turkey bacon
- Red onion
- Sautéed onions
- Blue cheese
- Nutmeg – adds a nutty flavor
Instructions To Make Easy Sauteed Maple & Balsamic Glazed Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Here are the instructions for the best way to make these balsamic bacon brussels sprouts:
1. Cook the bacon** in a large skillet until very well done so it will crumble. About 10-15 minutes over medium-high heat. Transfer the cooked bacon to a plate lined with paper towels. Pour out most of the bacon grease into a proper container. Turn the heat to medium.
2. While the bacon is cooking – Cut the bottom off the brussels and peel the outer loose leaves off. Cut the brussels sprouts in half or into quarters for larger ones and set aside.
3. Melt the butter in the cast iron skillet over medium heat with just a little of the bacon fat remaining. Add in the halved brussels, salt, and black pepper. Saute the brussels sprouts for 8-10 minutes until they soften and begin to turn golden brown.
4. Whisk together the maple syrup and the balsamic vinegar. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the brussel sprouts and stir. Add in the crumbled bacon and chopped almonds. Cook for about a minute.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
What To Serve The Best Brussel Sprouts With
These delicious and balsamic glazed brussels sprouts are the perfect side dish for your main course. Sauteed brussels sprouts. are great for holiday dinners, luncheons, potlucks, family dinners…
Here are some favorite things I like to serve these brussels sprouts with:
- Broiled Chicken Thighs
- Hamburger Rice Casserole
- Roasted French Turkey – perfect side on the Thanksgiving menu
- Pork Roast
- Best Mascarpone Lasagna
- Pasta Bake
- Irish Vegetable Soup
- Pork Chops
- Lebanese Moussaka
- Saffron Rice
- Pasta Alfredo
- Bechamel Sauce (with or without cheese)
- Lima Bean Curry
How To Store And Reheat Easy Sauteed Maple & Balsamic Glazed Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Store any leftover brussels sprouts in an airtight container for up to 4 days. If you omit the bacon they will last a day or two longer than that. You can also freeze these brussels sprouts in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
To reheat the best brussels sprouts-
- Microwave method: this is the best and easiest method. Place the desired amount in a microwave-safe dish and reheat at 70% power at 30-second intervals until hot.
- Stovetop method: Add the desired amount to a saucepan and add a bit of water. Heat on low until warm.
Wrapping Up Easy Sauteed Maple & Balsamic Glazed Bacon Brussels Sprouts
This easy recipe is a great side dish destined to become a favorite. It is simple to make and tastes delicious. Try this same method with green beans-yum! These easy sauteed brussels sprouts and bacon with balsamic glaze are made with simple ingredients and are a delicious way to get all your vitamins.
No table during the holiday season would be complete without these next level brussels sprouts. It is one of my favorite recipes and we eat them for weeknight dinners not just special occasions.
Cheers,
Sarah
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Recipe Card For Easy Sauteed Maple & Balsamic Glazed Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Easy Sauteed Maple & Balsamic Glazed Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh brussels sprouts
- 4 strips of bacon crumbled
- 2 tablespoons chopped almonds*
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 2-3 tablespoons of butter or extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Cook the bacon** in a large skillet until very well done so it will crumble. About 10-15 minutes over medium-high heat. Transfer the cooked bacon to a plate lined with paper towels. Pour out most of the bacon grease into a proper container. Turn the heat to medium.
- While the bacon is cooking – Cut the bottom off the brussels and peel the outer loose leaves off. Cut the brussels sprouts in half or into quarters for larger ones and set aside.
- Melt the butter in the cast iron skillet over medium heat with just a little of the bacon fat remaining. Add in the halved brussels, salt, and black pepper. Saute the brussels sprouts for 8-10 minutes until they soften and begin to turn golden brown.
- Whisk together the maple syrup and the balsamic vinegar. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the brussel sprouts and stir. Add in the crumbled bacon and chopped almonds. Cook for about a minute.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
This is my least favorite vegetable but this recipe sounds delicious!!