There’s something utterly magical about the aroma of Thanksgiving Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Pecans, Cranberries, and Balsamic Glaze wafting through your home. Imagine crispy bacon sizzling away, mingling with earthy Brussels sprouts and sweet cranberries, creating a symphony of flavors that dance together on your palate. perfect pairing with mashed potatoes This dish not only elevates your holiday feast but also brings everyone together at the table in a heavenly embrace of taste and texture. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Potato Bacon Chowder recipe.
Every Thanksgiving, my family gathers around to share laughs and stories, but I’ll never forget the year when my cousin mistook Brussels sprouts for some sort of alien vegetable. After a quick round of laughter, we all dove into this delicious creation, proving that even skeptics can turn into fans. explore a Southern Thanksgiving menu These Brussels sprouts are perfect for any festive occasion—thanksgiving or just a Wednesday night when you need a little fancy in your life!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Preparing these Thanksgiving Brussels Sprouts is a breeze; you can whip them up quickly, even if you’re juggling multiple dishes
- Their flavor profile combines savory bacon with sweet cranberries for a delightful contrast
- The vibrant colors make this dish visually stunning on any table setting
- Versatile enough to serve as a side dish or a stand-alone delight!
I still remember the look on my grandma’s face when she took her first bite—pure bliss mixed with slight confusion as she tried to understand why these little green wonders had never graced her holiday table before.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Brussels Sprouts: Fresh and firm sprouts are key; avoid any that look yellowed or wilted.
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Bacon: Go for thick-cut bacon for that irresistible crunch and smoky flavor.
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Pecans: Toasted pecans add richness; feel free to substitute walnuts if you’re feeling adventurous.
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Cranberries: Dried cranberries provide sweetness; opt for unsweetened if you want more control over sugar levels.
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Balsamic Glaze: Store-bought is fine for convenience, but homemade is an easy way to impress!
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Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor; it’s best drizzled over before roasting.
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Salt and Pepper: Simple seasoning is essential to allow those flavors to shine through.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep the Brussels Sprouts: Start by washing the Brussels sprouts under cold water. Trim off the ends and slice them in half for optimal roasting.
Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels but keep that glorious bacon grease in the pan—it adds extra flavor.
Sauté the Vegetables: Add halved Brussels sprouts to the skillet with bacon grease. Sauté until they begin browning and release their nutty aroma—about 5-7 minutes.
Add Pecans and Cranberries: Toss in toasted pecans and dried cranberries during the last minute of cooking to warm them through without losing their delightful crunch.
Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze: Remove from heat and drizzle balsamic glaze generously over your mixture. Stir gently to coat everything evenly for that sweet tanginess.
Serve Warm!: Transfer your beautiful creation to a serving platter while warm. Trust me; these Thanksgiving Brussels Sprouts will disappear faster than Aunt Edna’s famous pumpkin pie!
Now that you’ve made these scrumptious Thanksgiving Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Pecans, Cranberries, and Balsamic Glaze, get ready for compliments galore at your dinner table! Enjoy every crispy bite as family members reminisce about past gatherings around the festive feast. stuffing balls with cranberries finger food ideas for Thanksgiving Happy cooking!
You Must Know
- Thanksgiving Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Pecans, Cranberries, and Balsamic Glaze are a delightful mix of flavors that bring joy to your holiday table
- Crisp sprouts combined with crunchy pecans and sweet cranberries create a perfect harmony
- The balsamic glaze adds a tangy finish that elevates this dish to star status
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by roasting the Brussels sprouts until they caramelize, then add cooked bacon and other ingredients for flavor infusion. This sequence ensures every bite bursts with deliciousness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap pecans for walnuts or add a sprinkle of feta cheese for an extra zing! Personalizing this dish can make it uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven to keep them crispy and delicious.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly roasted Brussels sprouts, ensure they’re evenly spaced on the baking sheet
- Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of roasting
- Using fresh cranberries enhances the flavor significantly, while a splash of orange juice brightens everything up
Thanksgiving dinners always spark memories, like the time I forgot to add bacon until everything was done! My family’s surprised faces were priceless; now it’s a beloved running joke every year.
FAQ
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Yes, but fresh Brussels sprouts will yield better texture and flavor.
What can I substitute for bacon?
Turkey bacon or smoked tempeh works well for a lighter option.
How do I make the balsamic glaze?
Simmer balsamic vinegar until it reduces into a syrupy consistency for a rich glaze.
Thanksgiving Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Pecans, Cranberries, and Balsamic Glaze
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Thanksgiving Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Pecans, Cranberries, and Balsamic Glaze is a delightful side dish that combines crispy bacon, earthy Brussels sprouts, and sweet cranberries, all drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze. This easy-to-make recipe not only elevates your holiday feast but also impresses guests with its vibrant colors and fantastic flavors. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any festive occasion, these Brussels sprouts are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh Brussels sprouts, halved
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 1 cup pecans, toasted
- 1 cup dried cranberries (unsweetened if preferred)
- 1/2 cup balsamic glaze
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wash the Brussels sprouts under cold water, trim ends, and halve them.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy; drain on paper towels while keeping the grease in the pan.
- Add halved Brussels sprouts to the skillet with bacon grease and sauté for 5-7 minutes until browned.
- Toss in toasted pecans and cranberries during the last minute of cooking.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze over the mixture, stir gently to coat, then transfer to a serving platter.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
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