Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Pecans, and Cranberries

Every time I make these Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Pecans, and Cranberries, it takes me back to a cozy autumn evening when my kids were young and the kitchen was bustling with laughter and the wonderful aroma of roasted vegetables. It’s amazing how certain dishes can transport you to cherished moments, isn’t it? I remember gathering around the dinner table, my family eagerly waiting to devour this dish, their eyes lighting up as they took that first bite. The combination of crispy bacon, sweet cranberries, and the satisfying crunch of pecans atop tender Brussels sprouts is simply unbeatable.

If you’ve never made Brussels sprouts this way, you’re in for a treat. Trust me, once you try it, you’re going to feel the warmth and comfort that comes with this delightful side dish. It’s perfect for holidays, special occasions, or just a lovely weekday dinner. I truly believe that food has a magical way of bringing people together, and I hope this recipe does just that for you and your loved ones!

How to Make Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Pecans, and Cranberries

Ingredients

IngredientAmount
Brussels sprouts1 pound
Bacon6 slices
Pecans1/2 cup, chopped
Cranberries1 cup, dried
Olive oil2 tablespoons
Salt and pepperto taste
Balsamic vinegar1 tablespoon

I love using fresh Brussels sprouts because they offer a delightful crunch, but you can also go for frozen if you prefer. As for the bacon, it adds such a rich, smoky flavor that marries perfectly with the natural sweetness of the cranberries. Feel free to experiment by adding your favorite nuts—walnuts or almonds can work beautifully, too!

Cooking Steps

1. Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F. This is an important step that ensures your Brussels sprouts turn crispy and golden while the bacon cooks beautifully.

2. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Next, wash and trim the Brussels sprouts. Cut them in half from top to bottom. If any leaves fall off during this process, don’t worry; they can add extra crispiness when roasted!

3. Cook the Bacon

In a skillet over medium heat, add the bacon slices, and cook until they are crispy. Once done, remove the bacon and set it aside on a paper towel to drain while leaving about a tablespoon of bacon grease in the skillet. Oh, the sizzle sound is music to my ears!

4. Sauté the Brussels Sprouts

In that same skillet, add the halved Brussels sprouts cut side down. Sauté them in the bacon grease for about 5-7 minutes until they’re golden brown. This step enhances their flavor immensely—I always say, nothing beats that beautiful caramelization!

5. Combine Bacon and Brussels Sprouts

Once the Brussels sprouts are browned, crumble the crispy bacon and stir it into the pan along with the pecans and dried cranberries.

6. Season Generously

Drizzle some olive oil over the mixture and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be shy with the seasoning—after all, this is where the magic happens!

7. Roast in the Oven

Transfer everything onto a baking sheet, spreading them out evenly. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through. The aroma that wafts through your kitchen will surely make your mouth water!

8. Add Balsamic Vinegar

Once the Brussels sprouts are nice and crispy, remove them from the oven and drizzle with balsamic vinegar, tossing everything gently to combine. This tangy addition elevates the flavors even more—trust me, it’s a game-changer!

9. Final Touch

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. That’s the hardest part—waiting! Give your dish a final taste check and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You might end up tasting a few pieces along the way, and I won’t tell anyone!

Why I Love Making This Dish

What I adore most about this Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Pecans, and Cranberries is how it perfectly balances sweet, savory, and nutty flavors. This dish is vibrant and colorful, which always draws everyone’s attention at the dinner table. It’s a wonderful conversation starter, and I often hear family and friends asking for seconds! Each bite reminds me of that warm and fuzzy feeling of family gatherings, which is so precious to me.

What You’ll Need

You’ll need a baking sheet for roasting and a skillet for sautéing. A sharp knife and cutting board will make prepping the veggies quick and easy. Personally, I enjoy using my favorite wooden spoon for mixing everything together—it adds a little handmade charm to my cooking process.

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F for that crispy finish.
  2. Trim and wash the Brussels sprouts, cutting them in half for even roasting.
  3. Cook bacon until crispy and savor that delicious smell.
  4. Sauté Brussels sprouts in the leftover bacon grease to deepen their flavor.
  5. Stir in bacon, pecans, and cranberries to blend those wonderful flavors.
  6. Season generously with olive oil, salt, and pepper for a delicious coating.
  7. Spread on a baking sheet and roast until crispy and beautiful.
  8. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar for that bit of zing.
  9. Enjoy the heavenly aroma while you let it cool before serving.

Tips for Perfect Results

  • Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Give them space on the baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding; they will roast better when they aren’t piled on top of each other.
  • Savor the Bacon: If you love bacon as much as I do, feel free to add an extra slice! The more, the merrier.
  • Add Fresh Herbs: Fresh rosemary or thyme added before roasting can elevate the flavor profile significantly.
  • Nuts Galore: If pecans are not your thing, try using slivered almonds or walnuts for a delightful twist.

Serving Suggestions and Sides

This dish isn’t just delicious; it’s versatile too! It pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, such as chicken or turkey, making it a fantastic choice for family gatherings or Thanksgiving dinner. I often serve it alongside my homemade mashed potatoes or creamy polenta, which provides a hearty contrast to the crispy texture of the Brussels sprouts.

Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which can be a rare occurrence around here!), you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in the oven for about 10 minutes to restore that crispy goodness. They also make for a perfect addition to a warm salad or can be tossed into a frittata for a quick lunch the next day!

FAQ Section

Can I use fresh cranberries?
Absolutely! If you can find fresh cranberries, feel free to use them. Just remember that they’re more tart than dried cranberries, so you might want to add a pinch of sugar to balance out the flavors.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep everything and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to roast. Just hold off on adding the balsamic vinegar until the end for the best flavor.

What if my Brussels sprouts are too bitter?
To reduce any bitterness, make sure to trim them well and avoid overcooking. Roasting them helps bring out their natural sweetness.

Conclusion

I can’t stress enough how much I genuinely love this dish. My family can’t get enough of it, and it’s become a staple at our dinner table. The sweet, savory, and nutty medley of flavors is sure to leave everyone craving more. I’m so excited for you to try this recipe, and I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you! So go ahead and give it a shot—you’re going to love it! Don’t forget to let me know how your family reacts. Who knows, you may just have them asking for seconds, just like mine do!

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