Thanksgiving is that magical time of year when the air is crisp, the leaves are falling, and our kitchens become battlegrounds of culinary creativity. Imagine a dish so delightful it could make even the most hardened turkey lover weep with joy—enter Thanksgiving Side Dish Brussels Sprouts Bacon. Picture those little green gems crisping up in the oven, mingling with savory bacon, creating an aroma that lures everyone to the table like moths to a flame.
As you gather around with family and friends, these Brussels sprouts take center stage, offering a flavor explosion that will have you reminiscing about this meal for years to come. It’s not just a side dish; it’s an experience, channeling all the warmth and love of holiday gatherings. Trust me when I say your taste buds will be throwing a party while your stomach sends thank-you notes.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Thanksgiving Side Dish Brussels Sprouts Bacon is incredibly easy to prepare and requires minimal ingredients.
- The smoky flavor from the bacon perfectly complements the Brussels sprouts’ natural sweetness.
- Visually striking on any table, this dish adds a pop of color and texture.
- Versatile enough to serve alongside turkey or as part of a vegetarian spread, it fits any occasion beautifully.
Ingredients for Thanksgiving Side Dish Brussels Sprouts Bacon
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Brussels Sprouts: Choose firm, bright green sprouts for the best flavor and texture; trim off any brown ends.
Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for maximum flavor; its fat renders beautifully and adds richness to the dish.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances flavors and helps achieve perfect crispiness during roasting.
Salt & Pepper: Basic seasoning that brings out the natural flavors; feel free to add more spices if you’re feeling adventurous!
Balsamic Glaze (optional): A drizzle at the end adds a sweet-tart finish that elevates this dish to gourmet status.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Thanksgiving Side Dish Brussels Sprouts Bacon
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is crucial for getting those Brussels sprouts crispy while keeping them tender inside.
Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Trim any brown ends off your Brussels sprouts and cut them in half. Rinse them under cold water and pat dry with a kitchen towel—nobody likes soggy sprouts!
Step 3: Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook your bacon until crispy. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and place on paper towels to absorb excess grease—don’t throw away that delicious fat!
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, toss your halved Brussels sprouts with about two tablespoons of rendered bacon fat (or olive oil), salt, and pepper. Crumble in your crispy bacon; stir until everything is well-coated.
Step 5: Roast in Oven
Spread out your mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for 20-25 minutes until they’re golden brown and crispy at the edges. Give them a stir halfway through cooking for even roasting.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
Once they’re roasted to perfection, drizzle with balsamic glaze if using. Serve hot as an unforgettable side dish that pairs wonderfully with turkey or stands proudly on its own!
Transfer to plates and watch as family members fight over who gets the last sprout!
You Must Know
- This Thanksgiving Side Dish Brussels Sprouts Bacon recipe is not just about the savory goodness; it’s a celebration of flavors that transforms your holiday meal.
- The crispy bacon and caramelized Brussels sprouts create a dish that everyone will adore, making your dinner table shine.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. While it heats up, trim and halve the Brussels sprouts, then toss them with olive oil and seasonings. Cook the bacon until crispy in a skillet, then mix everything together for roasting until golden perfection.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the bacon for pancetta or add some maple syrup for a sweet twist. For extra crunch, sprinkle some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts before serving. Customize it to match your family’s tastes!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply spread them on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh Brussels sprouts for the best flavor and texture.
- If using frozen sprouts, thaw and dry them well before cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when roasting; this helps achieve that perfect crispiness!
Sharing this dish at my last Thanksgiving gathering was a game-changer; guests went back for seconds and thirds, raving about how the bacon brought everything together beautifully!
FAQs :
What are the best ways to prepare Thanksgiving Side Dish Brussels Sprouts Bacon?
To prepare a delicious Thanksgiving side dish featuring Brussels sprouts and bacon, start by trimming the Brussels sprouts and cutting them in half. Sauté them in a skillet with diced bacon until they are crispy and caramelized. You can also roast them in the oven for a slightly different flavor. Adding garlic, balsamic vinegar, or Parmesan cheese can enhance the taste even more. This dish is perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings, providing both flavor and texture.
Can I make Thanksgiving Side Dish Brussels Sprouts Bacon ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Thanksgiving side dish Brussels sprouts bacon ahead of time. Cook the Brussels sprouts and bacon mixture, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it in the oven or on the stovetop until warmed through. This makes it convenient for busy holiday cooking schedules while ensuring that your side dish remains flavorful and fresh.
What can I serve with Thanksgiving Side Dish Brussels Sprouts Bacon?
Thanksgiving side dish Brussels sprouts bacon pairs well with various main courses. It complements traditional turkey beautifully but also goes well with ham or roast chicken. You can also serve it alongside other sides like mashed potatoes, stuffing, or cranberry sauce to create a balanced meal that everyone will enjoy during the holiday feast.
Are there any variations for Thanksgiving Side Dish Brussels Sprouts Bacon?
Absolutely! There are many delicious variations of Thanksgiving side dish Brussels sprouts bacon. You can add ingredients like chopped nuts for crunch or dried cranberries for sweetness. For a spicy kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or jalapeños. Experimenting with different herbs like thyme or rosemary can also elevate this classic side dish, making it unique every time you serve it.
Conclusion for Thanksgiving Side Dish Brussels Sprouts Bacon :
Thanksgiving side dish Brussels sprouts bacon offers a delightful combination of flavors that enhances any holiday meal. Its savory profile comes from crispy bacon paired with tender Brussels sprouts, creating an irresistible treat. Preparing this dish ahead of time saves you valuable moments during holiday cooking. Whether you choose to roast or sauté them, adding personal touches ensures a memorable dining experience for family and friends alike. Enjoy this scrumptious side at your next Thanksgiving celebration!
Thanksgiving Side Dish Brussels Sprouts Bacon
Thanksgiving Side Dish Brussels Sprouts Bacon is a mouthwatering combination of roasted Brussels sprouts and crispy bacon that will elevate your holiday meal. This simple yet impressive dish features tender sprouts flavored with savory bacon, creating a delightful contrast that has everyone reaching for seconds. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any festive gathering, this side dish adds a burst of color and flavor to your table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp balsamic glaze (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy (about 5-7 minutes). Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Toss halved Brussels sprouts in a bowl with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add crumbled bacon.
- Spread mixture on a lined baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until golden brown, stirring halfway through.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: For extra crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts before serving. Substitute pancetta for bacon or drizzle maple syrup for a sweet twist. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.
