These Maple Bacon Brussels Sprout Skewers are a fun and tasty treat! Imagine crispy bacon paired with tender, slightly sweet Brussels sprouts, all drizzled with maple syrup.
Perfect for parties or as a side dish, they make veggies feel fancy! I love the sweet and salty combo, and honestly, who can resist bacon? It’s a win every time! 🥓🌱
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brussels Sprouts: Fresh Brussels sprouts are best for this recipe as they have a nice crunch when roasted. If you can’t find fresh ones, frozen sprouts can work in a pinch, though the texture might be a bit softer.
Bacon: I use regular sliced bacon for great flavor, but turkey or even veggie bacon can substitute for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary for different types of bacon.
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup adds a delicious sweetness. If you want a similar flavor but don’t have maple syrup, honey or agave syrup can be good alternatives. Just adjust the amount since they can be sweeter.
Thyme: Fresh thyme gives a nice touch at the end, but dried thyme will work too. If you don’t have either, feel free to skip the herb or use other herbs like rosemary or parsley for a different flavor.
How Do I Ensure the Bacon is Crispy?
Getting crispy bacon wrapped around your Brussels sprouts is key! Here are some tips to make sure you get it just right:
- Use thin-cut bacon for easier cooking and crisping. Thick-cut can take longer to cook.
- Arrange the skewers on the baking sheet so they aren’t touching. This helps them cook evenly.
- Turn the skewers halfway through baking. This ensures all sides get nice and crispy.
- For extra crispiness, you can broil the skewers for the last minute or two, but watch closely to avoid burning!
Give these tips a try for perfectly crispy Maple Bacon Brussels Sprout Skewers! Enjoy!
Maple Bacon Brussels Sprout Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed
- 8 slices of bacon, cut in half
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme sprigs (optional, for garnish)
- Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and another 25 minutes to cook, totaling around 35 minutes before you can dig in. Perfect for a quick, tasty side or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that the skewers cook evenly and the bacon gets crispy!
2. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:
In a large bowl, toss the trimmed Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure every sprout is coated so they roast nicely and get flavorful!
3. Wrap with Bacon:
Take a half slice of bacon and wrap it around each Brussels sprout. You can also group a couple of sprouts together for a more packed skewer. Just make sure the bacon hugs them tightly!
4. Thread on Skewers:
Carefully thread the bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts onto the soaked wooden skewers. You can choose to alternate with a sprout and some space in between or pack them closely, depending on your preference!
5. Roast in the Oven:
Place the skewers on your prepared baking sheet and roast in the oven for about 20-25 minutes. Remember to turn the skewers halfway through cooking so that the bacon gets crispy on all sides and the sprouts turn tender.
6. Add Maple Syrup:
In the last 5 minutes of cooking, take the skewers out and brush the maple syrup over them. This will create a lovely caramelized glaze as they finish cooking.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once done, remove the skewers from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a minute. This will make them easier to handle.
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
If you like, add fresh thyme sprigs for a pop of color and herbaceous flavor. Serve warm and enjoy these deliciously sweet and savory Maple Bacon Brussels Sprout Skewers!
These skewers are sure to be a hit at any gathering or family dinner. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Frozen Brussels Sprouts for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh Brussels sprouts for optimal flavor and texture, but if you can only find frozen, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before wrapping them with bacon. This helps avoid excess moisture during cooking.
How Can I Make This Recipe Stand Out?
Feel free to elevate the flavor by adding spices or herbs! Try incorporating garlic powder, smoked paprika, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes for a bit of zest. Adjust the seasoning to match your taste preferences!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and slightly crispy again.
Can I Grill These Skewers Instead?
Absolutely! Grilling adds a fantastic smoky flavor. Preheat your grill to medium heat and cook the skewers for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the Brussels sprouts are tender. Just keep an eye on them to avoid burning!